1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
My early production 99 9-3 SE hit 30,000 miles today. So far, it's been a great car.
I had some early problems, power steering pump went out, Automatic transmission would lock in park and one rear door was hard to open.
All of these problems were fixed quickly by the dealer.
The car developed a horrible rear end rattle at about 20,000 miles, but another trip to the dealer discovered that the rear suspension bolts had another couple of turns in them and again the problem was solved.
My brake light started coming on around 25,000 miles, but as suggested on the BB, it was just that the car was low on brake fluid. Finally, it's been shuddering on initial startup, but again on BB advice I added some fuel injector cleaner and will have the plugs changed and battery checked at the 30,000 mile service next week.
Having said all of that, this has been a GREAT car. I still look forward to driving the 9-3, even if just to the store. The car handles very well in bad weather (I drive to Wyoming on business frequently) is very comfortable, fast, (one stretch in Wyo saw 128mph and the car had more) has great seats, a good stereo, strong acceleraton (love "sport" mode) I can fit loads of stuff in the hatch, and the car has been very solid. Except for the suspension noise mentioned above, I have not had the rattles I've read about on the BB.
I have added the side skirts and front and rear spoilers from the 00 SE, put on the wood shift handle, tinted the windows and put on the sun roof deflector. With the existing Viking wheels, the car looks sharp.
I had previosly owned a V-6 Honda Accord SE. Even though the Saab has spent some time in the shop, I would take it any day over the Honda. The Honda just wasn't any fun.
Any way, thanks to all of you who have answered my questions with solid advice. It always makes it eaiser to go in to the dealer and get what I want accomplished.
I'm looking forward to at least another 30,000 miles with my 9-3!
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