2003 Saab 9-3 - READ ONLY

185 messages, Last post on Nov 04, 2002 at 6:21 AM

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What is this discussion about? Saab 9-3, BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Sedan

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#150 of 185 saab by harlequin1971 Oct 17, 2002 (2:44 pm)
I owned a Saab that had some unfortunate build quality issues...and it just kept running me between the mechanic and the cash machine. Are new models getting any better regarding repair costs? I know Saabs are still Saabs, but is the GM influence helping to reduce prices for parts and repair? Would love a new 9-3 (little high price for me ATM) but not sure if I would feel comfortable about the possible reliability/repair issues. Personally, I loved the last generation design, and this one looks cool too. I will miss the hatch though...that was one of the most unique and polarizingly beautiful cars on the roads. I just think at the price, it would be hard to overlook an S60, or 325, or A4.
#151 of 185 Town Hall Chat last night by rghessel Oct 18, 2002 (3:22 am)
I missed most of the townhall chat about the 2003 9-3 last night. Anyone able to summarize the interesting tidbits/info that was revealed?
#152 of 185 by kirstie_h HOST Oct 18, 2002 (7:59 am)
Well, I was there for the whole she-bang, and we got a lot of questions answered. The transcript of the chat should be up in a couple of days, and I'll be sure to post the link to it. kirstie_h Roving Host & Future Vehicles Host
#153 of 185 by logic1 Oct 18, 2002 (8:03 am)
Thanks Kristie. I rushed out of work to get home for the chat, ran right into a traffic jam and got home just in time for the wrap up.
#154 of 185 harlequin by logic1 Oct 18, 2002 (8:08 am)
Of the three cars you mention, one, the 325, will base for more than 2k above the 9-3 for 03. The S60 and A4 base around the same as the 9-3. The base S60 does not give you near as much as the base 9-3. The A4 is a pretty good alternative. The A4 and the 9-3 are pretty close. It will all come down to driver preference with the two.
#155 of 185 CHAT LAST NIGHT by gsxr150 Oct 18, 2002 (8:50 am)
I can't wait to see the transcripts, but I have to ask... Did they say when navigation and/or Bluetooth is going to be in the car? I'm hoping for March when the vector gets here!!
#156 of 185 RE: CHAT LAST NIGHT by gsxr150 by rghessel Oct 18, 2002 (9:06 am)
The one question I wanted answered was about when Navigation will be available. The official word: for the 2004 model year (which I assume will mean the fall of 2003...). It's available in the European market...I can't believe we have to wait for Navigation! (I didn't hear the whole chat, but I didn't see that BlueTooth was mentioned).
#157 of 185 Warranty service for Saabs in Chicago? by rghessel Oct 18, 2002 (10:54 am)
I'm planning on getting a 2003 9-3 (waiting for the Arc next spring). Unfortunately, where I live in Chicago the only dealer that is remotely convenient to me is Perillo. Perillo has a lousy reputation (amongst my friends anyway) for customer service. Moreover, their Saab "dealership" is crammed into their Lincoln showroom, in a building that looks like it should be demolished. My question: is warranty service for Saab only available at dealerships? Just curious if I'm obligated to bring the car to the dealer for warranty work (not to mention the free oil changes for the first 36 months...) Thanks!
#158 of 185 rghessel by logic1 Oct 18, 2002 (11:00 am)
The Illinois Consumer Protection law prevents dealerships from requiring warranty service be done at the dealership. I know there are some very good Saab specialists in Highland Park and Libertyville. I imagine there are some good people in Chicago itself, but I am not personally aware of them. One other plus: The new Malibu will share some basic components with the 9-3. While I would not necessarily want a Mr. Goodwrench looking at the turbo, I am sure they will be pretty well versed on the suspension, steering, and the like.
#159 of 185 Saab dealership/specialist in the Chicago area by r34 Oct 19, 2002 (6:30 pm)
logic1: Can you tell me the name of the good Saab specialist in Highland Park ? rghessel: I got my 01 9-3 from the Highland park dealer. The service dept is quiet good. There are also a list of Saab specialists in www.saabnet.com. I think I may bring my car to KG AutoWerks in Westmond or SaabTech in Chicago. I got a 9-5 Linear as a loaner car. Its power seems to be more linear. It may be a nice sedan but I prefer the 9-3. It has more fun factors. I hope the new 9-3 is more like that.