Two problems related to check engine light on have been reported for the 2004 SAAB 9-3. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2004 SAAB 9-3 based on all problems reported for the 2004 9-3.
Approximately 5 minutes after starting, the car stalled on a busy, 6 lane road. The engine was not able to start again, or even attempt to ignite. The check engine light was on. The car spent 2 days in the mechanic, who was able to source a p1605 error code. However, he told us only a licensed SAAB technician could extract details from the code. While at the shop, the car was also started by the mechanics and appeared to be working normally, upon which they deleted the error code. Two days after the initial incident, we drove it back approximately 12 miles back home without any issues. Later that same day, the car stalled a second time on the expressway after 10-15 minutes of driving; fortunately I was driving in the right-hand lane and was easily able to pull over on the shoulder. After the car was towed to a specialized SAAB mechanic, they were able to conclude that the issues were stemming from a defective ecu (engine control unit). We exchanged the ecu with a brand new part, at the cost of $1400. While clearing up the finances, I spoke with a service representative at the mechanic/dealer who informed me that while my car was in the shop, there were 2 more cars that had came in with the same problem. Also, customer service from an online SAAB parts retailer informed me that this has been a known problem to him, based off other customers' experiences. Their cars would stall, be fine after cooling down, but would stall again later.
Owner was driving at approximately 65 mph the check engine light came on and the vehicle stalled. Vehicle "b" rear ended owner's vehicle while being driven at 70 mph. Upon impact, the frontal air bags failed to deploy. Owner sustained injuries, was taken to the emergency room and released.