Alternator/generator/regulator Problems of SAAB 9-3

SAAB 9-3 owners have reported 5 problems related to alternator/generator/regulator (under the electrical system category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of SAAB 9-3 based on all problems reported for the 9-3.

1 Alternator/generator/regulator problem of the 2003 SAAB 9-3

Failure Date: 04/30/2010

The contact owns a 2003 SAAB 9-3. While driving at 55 mph, the brake and air bag warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. Seconds later, the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership where the alternator and battery were replaced. The current and failure mileages were approximately 118,000.

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2 Alternator/generator/regulator problem of the 2003 SAAB 9-3

Failure Date: 10/03/2008

Was on my way to repair shop for an onstar malfunction which knocked out my entire sound system, including warning buzzers, etc. . . . While on the freeway I thought I had been invaded by aliens the car could barley drive then all the warning lights and malfunction lights started flashing on my computer screen im lucky it didn't cause an accident I could not control the car I could not roll down the window, could not get the car from drive to park, could not steer, shut it off and it wouldn't start again without a jump. Battery had been replaced no more then 6 months prior. It apparently was the alternator. It is a hazard when it malfunctions due to no control of the car. I have had more problems with this car for 62,000 it shouldn't have so many breakdowns and malfunctions I have owned it for a little over a year and have had many different malfunctions ie. Gear box malfunction, transmission malfunction, temp malfunction, airbag malfunction and the latest onstar malfunction which has affected my entire sound system, the cd player had to be replaced the amp went bad had to have a new thermostat the window arm had to be replaced (driving and the window just fell into the door I am surprised it didn't shatter, the SAAB logo on the trunk lost all the color, the door handles are peeling and fading as well as the interior parts. Battery died, ashtray broke had to have replaced broke again but no warranty and too much to replace. The brake caliper had to be replaced brake pads worn out too soon, tire tread worn before its time. Everytime part was needed it had to be ordered way overpriced took over a week to get parts on top of that shipping and handling charges apply. This car is unreliable deeming it unsafe as far as I am concerned still owe 9,000 but with all problems not worth a dime. I have disabled people in car alot can't be sure about their safety not good and now no onstar not upgradeable, even still onstar malfunction light is on no sound system.

3 Alternator/generator/regulator problem of the 2001 SAAB 9-3

Failure Date: 06/02/2008

After doing some research, I have found that I have spent $494. 97 on what was a recall previously, I have a SAAB 93 convertible and was driving on the freeway when the engine light came on and started losing power. Took to the dealership and need the di-cassette replaced. On this vehicle I have also had the alternator replaced 3 times in 2 years.

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4 Alternator/generator/regulator problem of the 2003 SAAB 9-3

Failure Date: 06/17/2005

My SAAB has had a litany of problems since I have owned the car. It all started with little items. Ignition wouldn't start the car. Head lights burnt out. Dash peeling, door handles discoloring, emergency brake getting stuck and being able to operate my car. Engine warning light because my gas cap wasn't on correct. Steering wheel locking while I was driving. Wheel lock light remaining on while I was driving. Brakes replaced due to factory retro fit. Seat belts being recalled. Computer constantly needing to be replaced so the car would function. Electronic key failing so I couldn't start my car. My car is a 5 speed and the shifter handle has an continues to come off in my hand. A minimum of 3 fuses needing to be replaced. The dash board goes blank at times showing no functions of the car. Window wouldn't go up or down and required the regulator to be replaced. Erractic idle. Service engine light comes on but, dealer doesn't know why. Brakes needed to be replaced at 30,000 miles and rotors too.

5 Alternator/generator/regulator problem of the 2002 SAAB 9-3

Failure Date: 02/02/2004

2002 SAAB 9-3 convertible, about 13,000 miles caught on fire. Drove to office, turned off engine, & parked car. Got out of car & noted unusual smell despite that guages indicated "checking ok"ay. Went into my office & called zee SAAB of milford where new car was originally leased from & where all services had been performed. No problems had ever been noted with the car. Told to call SAAB roadside assistance, which I did. Went back outside to where car was parked to wait for roadside and noticed smoke coming from the hood area. Then saw fire & flames coming from the top of the hood and underneath the front of the car. Immediately called witon CT fire department and within 15 minutes fire was extinguished. In that very short amount of time, the entire front of the car was significantly damaged from the fire. A newspaper reporter was with the fire dept. & took about 30 photos of the fire & the resulting damage. SAAB roadside arrived & I requested that the car be taken to SAAB of milford. I notified allstate, my insurer. Allstate claims rep & engineeer examined the car (although requested,to date, I have not received a copy of the allstate engineer's repiort). Allstate engineer informed SAAB of milford that the fire was from "undetermined causes" & car was "totalled". Dealer informed me that despite the fact that car had only about 13,000 miles, the dealer performed all services & there were no warning lights or indicators of a problem, the damages were not covered by SAAB dealer or manufacturer warranty. Clearly, fires don't just start and there was some type of failure(s) with the car.

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Other Common Electrical System related problems of SAAB 9-3



Safety Ratings of 9-3 Cars
Fuel Economy of 9-3 Vehicles
9-3 Service Bulletins
9-3 Safety Recalls
9-3 Defect Investigations