Date: Sun, 10 Sep 2006 14:31:46 GMT From: - Bob - <uctraingnospamanet.com> Subject: Re: 2000-2002 Saab 9-3 5-Door Reliability
On 9 Sep 2006 19:27:02 -0700, bry.andrew.pikenospamast.net wrote: > The J.D. Power and Associates ratings on the JD Liars only applies to "initial build quality" - which translates to "how did you like your car in the first month you had it". Totally invalid statistically and otherwise. Consumer Reports is marginally better but still statistical nonsense. >As Saabs in general seem to have a poor reputation for reliablity Among the uninitiated. Most people just plain don't know much about Saabs. >1. Are they really as unreliable as they're made out to be? No. >2. Do you think that one would make for a good first car? No. See below. >3. Is it possible to get a good warranty on a used one? Saabs carry a 4 year 50K bumper to bumper warranty in the USA so look for one that was first sold about 3 years ago and has 38K miles if you want a year's worth of outstanding warranty coverage. >4. What would be the most comprable model in another brand? Quick rundown: you mentioned a hatchback - there are not many made. Saabs also have a huge cargo capacity. European cars (vs. Japanese) have a certain refinement. You can feel it when you drive them. Saabs are exceedingly safe and well engineered. However, they are not as reliable as Japanese cars in my experience. They are also generally a little more costly to repair due to being less common (fewer mechanics, fewer parts sources - less competition means higher prices). If you are young and buying a "first" car, I would buy something Japanese. First time buyers have enough to be concerned about and I would go with the most reliable car at the expense of some refinement that you won't care about at your age. MHO,