Model year guide

2004 Saab 9-3

Recalls, most-reported problems, crash-test ratings, fuel economy and what a 2004 Saab 9-3 is worth — from official NHTSA and EPA data. 100 on record.

2004 Saab 9-3 — representative photo
Representative photo · via Wikimedia Commons

2004 Saab 9-3 at a glance

Safety recalls6
Owner complaints207
Typical price$2,206

Included: that car's specs and build sheet, model-year recall campaigns and a fair price.

2004 Saab 9-3 recalls 6

Seat Belts:front:retractor NHTSA Campaign #14V318000 · manufacturer #14222, 15027 · 12/06/2014

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2011 Saab 9-3 Convertible vehicles manufactured July 30, 2003, to February 15, 2011. In the affected vehicles, the driver's side front seat belt retractor may break, causing the seat belt webbing not to retract.

Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's seat belt retractor, free of charge. The recall began on October 6, 2015. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007. GM's number for this recall is 14222. Note: Special Coverage 10086 will replace the passenger side seat …

Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump NHTSA Campaign #11E009000 · 28/02/2011

TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.

Fix: TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.

Seat Belts:front:retractor NHTSA Campaign #10V043000 · manufacturer #E090273 · 18/02/2010

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2004 SAAB 9-3 SEDANS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT, OVER TIME, COULD FAIL TO RETRACT.

Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE RETRACTOR FREE OF CHARGE. IF THE FRONT PASSENGER RETRACTOR WERE TO FAIL TO RETRACT, GM WILL REPLACE THE FRONT PASSENGER RETRACTOR FREE OF CHARGE UNDER A SPECIAL COVERAGE THAT WILL BE RELEASED FOR THE SAME POPULATION FOR 10 YEARS FROM NEW VEHICLE DATE OF SALE. TH…

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings NHTSA Campaign #05V236000 · manufacturer #15019 / 05057 · 19/05/2005

CERTAIN SPORT SEDAN AND CONVERTIBLE PASSENGER VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH A VACUUM PIPE CHECK VALVE FOR THE BRAKE BOOSTER THAT MAY FAIL FROM EXPOSURE TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURES. THIS COULD RESULT IN SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST, USUALLY WITH LITTLE OR NO WARNING.

Fix: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW REDESIGNED CHECK VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 17, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

Seat Belts:front:retractor NHTSA Campaign #04V226000 · manufacturer #15017 · 11/05/2004

SOME SPORT SEDANS WERE BUILT WITH SEAT BELT RETRACTORS THAT WERE DAMAGED DURING THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS. IF DAMAGED, OVER TIME, THE AUTOMATIC TENSIONING SYSTEM (ATS) CABLE IN THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR COULD BREAK CAUSING THE BELT WEBBING TO NOT RETRACT.

Fix: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLIES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 24, 2005. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

Seats:front Assembly:recliner NHTSA Campaign #03V514000 · manufacturer #15014 · 10/12/2003

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS." THE BACKREST LOCKING MECHANISM ON SOME FRONT SEATS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED INCORRECTLY.

Fix: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE'S FRONT SEATS TO DETERMINE IF THEY ARE EQUIPPED WITH THE IMPROPERLY INSTALLED COMPONENT. IF EITHER OR BOTH OF THE SEATS HAVE THIS COMPONENT, THEY WILL BE REPLACED. THE DEALER MAY NEED TO ORDER A COMPLETE NEW SEAT OR SEATS (INCLUDING MATCHING UPHOLSTERY) AND THE PART…

Source: U.S. NHTSA, checked 4 Nov 2026. A campaign covers the model year; to see whether a particular car still needs the repair, check its VIN on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer.

2004 Saab 9-3 common problems

The most-reported problem areas across all 207 owner complaints filed with NHTSA — and what to check before you buy.

Seat Belts
Check that every belt latches, retracts and locks under a sharp tug, and that none are frayed.
Suspension
Listen for clunks over bumps, check the car sits level, and look for uneven tire wear and worn shocks or struts.
Air Bags
Confirm the airbag light turns on then off at startup — if it stays lit there's a fault (costly, and a safety risk). Check for signs of prior deployment.
Electrical System
Test every electrical feature: windows, locks, infotainment, charging and all lights. Watch for flickering, dead accessories or warning lights.
Engine And Engine Cooling
Check coolant level and color, look for leaks, and confirm the engine reaches normal temperature without overheating.
Service Brakes
Brakes should feel firm and quiet — no grinding, pulsing or pulling. Check for an ABS light and uneven pad/rotor wear.

What's a 2004 Saab 9-3 worth?

Low
$600
Typical price
$2,206
High
$3,600

From 44 comparable 2004 Saab 9-3 listings.

Dimensions & weight

Length
182.7 in
Width
69.3–70.5 in
Height
56.3–57.9 in
Wheelbase
105.5 in
Curb weight
3,175–3,479 lb
Front track
59.4–59.8 in
Rear track
59.1–59.4 in

Manufacturer-reported figures for the 2004 Saab 9-3 — ranges cover the 3 body / drivetrain versions on record. Source: Transport Canada vehicle specifications via NHTSA.

Investigations & service bulletins

NHTSA defect investigations 3

SEAT BELT RETRACTOR Closed

ODI HAS RECEIVED EIGHT COMPLAINTS OF FRONT SEAT BELT RETRACTORS BREAKING ON MODEL YEAR 2004 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES. A COMMON FAILURE SCENARIO INVOLVES THE DRIVER HEARING A NOISE AND THE BELT SUDDENLY LOSING TENSION. A NON-FUNCTIONING SEAT BELT INCREASES THE RISK AND SEVERITY OF INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. GENERAL MOTORS INITIATED A RECALL IN MAY 2004 (04V226) TO REPLACE BOTH FRONT SEAT BELTS BECAUSE OF A SIMILAR PROBL…

NHTSA #PE09048 · Seat Belts · opened Sep 2009 · closed Feb 2010

Front Suspension Coil Spring Fracture Closed

To date, ODI is aware of 142 non-duplicative complaints related to the alleged defect. In addition, ODI is aware of 2,626 subject vehicles with one or more warranty claims related to the alleged defect. In total, ODI is aware of 2,714 unique subject vehicles that have experienced one or more front suspension coil spring fractures. ODI is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to the alleged defect. The engineer…

NHTSA #EA08026 · Suspension · opened Dec 2008 · closed Jun 2010

FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURE Closed

ON AUGUST 28, 2008, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE08-051) TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURES IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003-2004 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES SOLD OR REGISTERED IN "SALT BELT" STATES. (NOTE: FOR PURPOSES OF THIS INVESTIGATION, THE "SALT BELT" INCLUDES CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAN…

NHTSA #PE08051 · Suspension · opened Aug 2008 · closed Dec 2008

An investigation means NHTSA is examining a possible defect — it is not a recall, and many close without one.

Manufacturer service bulletins 82

Technical notes the manufacturer sent to dealers about known issues and fixes. Useful to mention to a mechanic — they are not recalls and repairs may not be covered. Showing the 10 most recent of 82.

This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.

Bulletin PIP5601C · Jul 2025

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in que…

Bulletin PIT3271P · Sep 2024

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exc…

Bulletin General Communication · Electrical System · Aug 2024

This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.

Bulletin 18-NA-099 · Jun 2024

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.

Bulletin 24-NA-098 · Electrical System · Jun 2024

This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.

Bulletin 09-00-89-008G · May 2024

This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.

Bulletin 10-08-45-001H · Electrical System · Mar 2024

This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce…

Bulletin 16-NA-383 · Engine And Engine Cooling · Mar 2024

This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.

Bulletin 22-NA-074 · Engine And Engine Cooling · Feb 2024

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.

Bulletin 02-08-42-001J · Exterior Lighting · Jan 2024

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, listed for the 9-3. Model-year data, not specific to one car.

Canadian recalls 3

Transport Canada recall campaigns for the 2004 Saab 9-3. Relevant if the car was first sold in, or imported from, Canada.

Seats And Restraints

On certain convertible model vehicles, the tensioning cable in the driver's seat belt retractor may break, causing the belt to fail to retract. If a crash were to occur with a seat belt in this condition, it could increase the risk of injury to the driver. Correction: Dealers will replace seat belt retractor assemblies.

Transport Canada #2014228 · Jun 2014

Seats And Restraints

On certain vehicles, the Automatic Tensioning System (ATS) cable of the seatbelt retractors could fail. Should this occur, the webbing spooled out by the user would not retract. If the spool cable were to break while the belt is being worn, the belt would function normally in a crash. It would then be obvious to the occupant that the belt needs repair as soon as possible. Corre…

Transport Canada #2010039 · Feb 2010

Seats And Restraints

On certain vehicles, the Automatic Tensioning System (ATS) cable in the seatbelt retractor could break, causing webbing spooled out by the user to not retract. With this condition in the event of a vehicle crash, a front seat occupant may receive more severe injuries. Correction: Dealers will replace the seatbelt retractor assemblies.

Transport Canada #2004160 · May 2004

Source: Transport Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Recalls Database.

About the Saab 9-3

The Saab 9-3 is a compact executive car initially developed and manufactured by the Swedish automaker Saab.

From Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Describes the model line in general, not this model year specifically.

2004 Saab 9-3 trims & engines on record

Trims
Arc · Linear · Aero
Engines
2.0L

2004 Saab 9-3 vehicles on record

2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y046007039 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 AeroYS3FH49Y941010070 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y446003382 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S941027173 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y646002962 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD75Y446011570 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y446013328 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y246013134 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y246006880 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S541005218 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 AeroYS3FH79Y746005518 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S541058243 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD49Y141034018 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S241050701 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 AeroYS3FH79Y046009166 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD49Y541002057 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y446004158 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S441015707 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S141024543 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S241052464 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S341014418 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 LinearYS3FB49S741037958 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD79Y346008752 2004 Saab 9-3 2004 Saab 9-3 ArcYS3FD49Y541007369

Other Saab 9-3 model years

2014 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998

2004 Saab 9-3 — frequently asked questions

Does the 2004 Saab 9-3 have any safety recalls?

NHTSA lists 6 recall campaigns for the 2004 Saab 9-3. Whether an individual car still needs a recall repair depends on its VIN — check it on NHTSA.gov or ask a franchised dealer. Recall repairs are done at no charge.

What are the most common problems with the 2004 Saab 9-3?

Across all 207 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are seat belts, suspension, air bags.

How much is a 2004 Saab 9-3 worth?

Comparable 2004 Saab 9-3 listings run roughly $600–$3,600, typically around $2,206 (from 44 vehicles).

Sources: NHTSA (recalls, complaints, crash tests), U.S. EPA (fuel economy). Vehicle data only — CarLogs never shows owner information.