Is the car worth repairing with a damaged motor?

20

Asked by Howiesaab Feb 26, 2021 at 09:15 PM about the 2001 Saab 9-3 Coupe

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The motor was making a "tappet" noise for quite a while but it suddenly got
worse. I drove it on a very cold morning thinking the noise would abate as
the car warmed up but the noise got really loud. I drove it for 10 miles when
suddenly there was a thud, the oil light came on and the motor cut out. When
I start it now the top of the motor makes a terrible clattering noise. Not sure if
a hydraulic lifter broke or whether the camshafts are damaged. I have been
told the problem may have been caused by a blocked filter in the sump
which stopped the oil supply.  I have also been told that the car is not worth
repairing despite it being in pretty good condition all round.
Is this likely to be an expensive repair?
Is it likely to involve only the head or the block as well?
Is it worth fixing?
If not, what should I do with the car? It seems a pity to trash it.
I live in NY 40 miles north of NYC.



5 Answers

41,720

Yes, it is not worth it, but if you really like it and want to be cool driving an older Saab and have the money. Why not? It sounds like you will be replacing or rebuilding the engine. Find a dedicated Saab mechanic near you for an estimate. There are a few in your area. Mind you, the engine might not be the only thing you will be replace. Maybe the transmission, mounts, exhaust, etc. Just so you are not shocked, I would estimate the work to be a min. of three thousand.

1 people found this helpful.
158,625

Personally I'd sell it on Craigslist as a project car. The vehicle is 20 years old so some young person might buy it. It's worth about $250 for scrap so anything more than that is profit. Especially if you've had the car a long time. Hope that helps! Jim

1 people found this helpful.
20

Thanks for the advice. I will probably end up doing that. I had actually resolved to do that, but then I thought I will give it one last try to see if anyone had a different idea.

1 people found this helpful.

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