heat defrost a/c
Air only blows through front vent and will not change to heat or defrost. I have Hot and cold but just can't change its function. What can this mean.
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2001 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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The Saab 9-3 returns for 2001 with three body styles, but the Base Convertible has been dropped from the lineup. OnStar and traction control are now standard on all 9-3 models. A few new color options debut this year, and the sedans get new 15-inch alloy wheels.
All 9-3 variants are equipped with the basics: power windows, power locks, air conditioning and cruise control. The Convertible is available in SE and Viggen trims, while the Coupe is offered in Base and Viggen styles. The five-door sedans comes in all three levels: Base, SE, and Viggen.
All 9-3 engines are variations of a turbocharged inline four cylinder. The Base level 9-3s, regardless of body style, are powered by a 2.0 liter version, which generates 185 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic is optional. The SE models also house the 2.0 liter mill, but the turbo is boosted here for 205 horsepower and 209 pound-feet of torque. The transmissions options are the same. The powerful Viggen is set apart by its 2.3 liter turbocharged four, which churns out 230 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Only a five-speed manual transmission is offered.
Owners of the SE and Viggen models have expressed satisfaction with the strong turbo acceleration, but expert reviewers warn of severe torque steer, which hampers the overall feeling of control. Many owners admit to buying the 9-3 for its unique styling, but a considerable number of those owners express disappointment with the car's reliability. Many report small but nagging problems, which are then complicated by expensive service and scarcity of parts.
Favorite features include OnStar, traction control, heated seats, and the interior flexibility of the five-door hatchback. The dash-mounted cup holders have been widely panned, or at least by those who dislike coffee all over their dashboard.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2001 Saab 9-3
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by George F
Sep 16, 2024
This review is for the 2001 Viggen Convertible. This car is very stylish for the early 2000s and was a fair attempt by Saab to make a competitor to the M3 and S4. Unfortunately the performance aspect of this car is hindered by its front wheel drive set up and suspension configuration. The punchy acceleration is great but the torque steer in the lower gears is a hinderance. The seats are comfortable but are very commonly worn at this point. The convertible tops are prone to water leaks and issues with the hydraulic system at this age. My recommendation would be to get a hatchback version of this car. Most of them will need restored at this point and watch out for rust holes in the floors. Overall I would recommend for a Saab enthusiasts collection but not as a budget track car. Sep 16, 2024
by Bruce K
Feb 04, 2023
Never beautiful but reasonably dependable. Expensive to fix and sometimes hard to get partsFeb 04, 2023
by Anonymous
Nov 16, 2014
Great family car that's fun to drive, haven't had any problems other than normal wear and tear on a car of this age and mileage, still going strong. Maintenance costs seem about right for a European car of this caliber, not as high as most othersNov 16, 2014
User rating:
by George F
Sep 16, 2024
This review is for the 2001 Viggen Convertible. This car is very stylish for the early 2000s and was a fair attempt by Saab to make a competitor to the M3 and S4. Unfortunately the performance aspect of this car is hindered by its front wheel drive set up and suspension configuration. The punchy acceleration is great but the torque steer in the lower gears is a hinderance. The seats are comfortable but are very commonly worn at this point. The convertible tops are prone to water leaks and issues with the hydraulic system at this age. My recommendation would be to get a hatchback version of this car. Most of them will need restored at this point and watch out for rust holes in the floors. Overall I would recommend for a Saab enthusiasts collection but not as a budget track car. Sep 16, 2024
by Bruce K
Feb 04, 2023
Never beautiful but reasonably dependable. Expensive to fix and sometimes hard to get partsFeb 04, 2023
by Anonymous
Nov 16, 2014
Great family car that's fun to drive, haven't had any problems other than normal wear and tear on a car of this age and mileage, still going strong. Maintenance costs seem about right for a European car of this caliber, not as high as most othersNov 16, 2014
by Anonymous
Sep 10, 2012
I bought a new Saab 9-3 in 2001 shortly after the GM acquisition. I never cared for the new sedan styling GM rolled out and have held out from buying a new one. Now the company is bankrupt and is no longer producing new cars.
I am, however, looking at 2011s bought from auction as a last time opportunity to get a Saab.Sep 10, 2012
by Nathaniel M
Mar 28, 2012
Performance
This car has a nice little turbo, that gives that extra punch when needed. The
second gear acceleration will throw you back in your seat.
Build Quality
The Swedes at Saab really payed attention to detail with the interior, lots of
satisfying creature comforts even for the passengers in the back.
Appearance
I'm biased cause it's my car but despite being 11 years old this car still looks like
to could have come off the lot last year, the styling is new and current, even
today.
Cost of Ownership
The 4 cylinder turbo puts out 185 hp while still getting 8-9L/100km very good on
gas. Though with the current situation with Saab parts are a pain to get, not
that you need them that often.
Fun Factor
The turbo, makes this little thing a hoot to drive.Mar 28, 2012
by Catie B
Feb 17, 2012
Great car. Turbo makes it a lot faster than it looks. Accelerates pretty quickly. Handling is not spectacular but not too bad. Quiet comfortable ride. Reliable. No squeaks/rattles. Gets ~20mpg. Not a lot of maintenance. Also maintenance isn't very expensive. I personally love this car. It's not really a looker. But I love to drive it, and it's great for long trips and as a daily driver.Feb 17, 2012
by Anonymous
Jun 21, 2011
I Love Saabs!! They are very safe, they are great on gas, fun to drive, super fast when you want, comfortable, and stylish. My insurance is very reasonable. My saab has never let me down. Saabs are very dependable and safe.Jun 21, 2011
by Neil H
Apr 26, 2011
Just got another one. Same as last one. Except it doesn't have a cd player. Wtf?
Really? '01 9-3 se w/o cd? It does have the harmon carson system, but no cd?
I'm confused. It is a 5sp. And in better cosmetic shape than the last one.
Apr 26, 2011
by Teddy B
Jul 27, 2010
It was pretty fast, went from 0-60 in 6.5 seconds. It was a convertible so obviously it was fun to drive especially with the top down. It was pretty good on gas got about 25 to the gallon. Overall it was a good car.Jul 27, 2010
by Karl-Johan M
Feb 18, 2010
Take her out...drive her, enjoy her...love her.
Nice apperance. No problem taking it on a 4 week roadtrip...manage cold and warm weather. And these days with a company that was on its way to be closed...and all the owners and fans all over the world who made their voice heard. We are one family...Feb 18, 2010
by Jeff Leanne B
Dec 29, 2009
Very reliable, good and unique looking, lots of space in the hatch, good oomph on the highway, first gear too low- wish I had auto trans, avg handling, avg fun to drive, 7-9 L/100 km, base stereo wimpyDec 29, 2009
by Dezmon S
Jun 11, 2009
Its foreign.. Made by aircraft company..In my SaaB Jet..Stealth power. Rarity. Everyday usability. Manual transmission. Heated seats. Seat memory. Steering wheel audio controls. Overall luxury...
Comfy interior, versatile hatchback model, torquey turbo motor, i mean business personality. More power? Aftermarket kits are available. Better handling? Again, check the aftermarket. It is a powerful FWD car, torque steer and understeer are part of the package!
Jun 11, 2009
by Anonymous
Mar 27, 2009
The Viggen is a fun car to drive. Great acceleration without turbo lag. 32+ mpg highway. It is a sweet looking car that is a bit of a sleeper. Torque steer is known issue despite torque being limited in 1st & second gear. Hang on and enjoy the ride!Mar 27, 2009
by Niklas K
Mar 14, 2009
really good car. swedish quality. no problems. build whit love. performance i good. 150 hp is nice but i want more. doesnt cost much to own. The car is fun fun to drive. Love this car. its the best <3Mar 14, 2009
by Maria S
Jan 07, 2009
I absolutely adore my ride. It answers me instantly and feels solid and safe especially on longer trips. With the turbo, I can push up the speed pretty darn good.. luckily I haven't had to do that. Hope I never will. But, my Saab is a darn good car and I hope to be driving it for many years to come.Jan 07, 2009
by Taylor V
Sep 12, 2008
Amazing off the line, I find myself taking porches and holding any high end car as long as they don't have a supercharger or a turbo. With just under 15k miles when I bought it, I have just hit 30k this week, other than 2 flat tires, absolutely no repairs have been needed, the handing is alittle boaty in the back, it could really use new roll bars aswell as coilovers and dampeners. Brakes are average. Exterior is nice, very small for a 4 door, although no one can sit behind me when my seat is in its normal driving postion. Back in 2001 when I first saw the car (back when I was 10 before I could even drive) it was the first car that I had never seen with power seats on both sides aswell as heated seats, for a 2001 car it's pretty loaded. Sadly the only interior problem would be the SID (System information display) has alotta pixels that are dead which makes things look bad. Other than that, everything works. I get around 22-26mpg with me beating on it every day.Sep 12, 2008
by Erik W
Sep 08, 2008
Saab 9-3 AERO "Nordic Extreme"
Effekt / Vridmoment (kortfakta):
305 hk / 425 Nm
Motor, växellåda och avgassystem:
Helt nyrenoverad 2,0T motor (T5:ans vev, vevlager, Stakar, ramlager, kolvar, kolvringar och packningar)
3" JT från turbo med racekat.
Öppet luft filter JR
större IC har monterats klarar ca:450hk.
* Nordic Concept Extreme mjukvara
* Saab Aero/Viggen koppling
* 3,5 bars BTR
Effekt och prestanda (ingående):
Enligt papper 295Hk och 420Nm + det andra lull lullet
0-100 ???
Chassi:
Ej angivet
Fälgar, däck och bromsar:
AERO fälgar 17"
Uppgraderat bromskit för gatkörning med GreenStuff belägg
Interiör / Inredning:
Orginal
Bilstereo och multimedia:
AS3 Med baslåda 12" Lanzar med Magnat steg
Exteriör / Styling:
Slängt dimljusen och satt ditt nät i hela kjolen ;)
Kommer snart nät i grillen. Sep 08, 2008
by Mark K
Sep 08, 2008
Only 2500 of these cars made in a model year! With its 2.3 Litre turbo charged powerplant shes pretty fun to drive! Saab took the 9-3 and race tunned this car when built! Viggen is Sweedish for "thunderbolt" and was designed after the Viggen fighterjet, and it sure drives like one! Now it needs more!Sep 08, 2008
by Nathan J
Aug 14, 2008
I love this Car!! I have now owned for three years. I love the way it drives, the way it looks and they way people look at it and you can see them thinking what the hell is that. They know it's a Saab but most have no idea why it looks different and better. I also have to say it's very nice having a car that goes like a bat out of hell and corners great especially for a front wheel drive car but can still holdme, my wife and two kids comfortably on a four hour road trip.Aug 14, 2008
by Robert D
Jul 19, 2008
This is my current daily driver. It is unbelievably fun to drive on the highway where you can get the turbo spooling and providing instant accelleration. It gets ok mileage (20-22mpg city). During the winter, this car shines. It drives better in the snow than many 4WD cars that I have driven and handles all bad weather with confidence. In the winter, I will take my saab over a subaru any day of the week.
I often move small furnature, and haul drapery rods in the car. It can fit a 113" rod inside with the trunk closed. I recently put a fully assembled weber grill inside the car standing up and closed the hatch.
Maintanence costs are a bit frustrating. It seems you have to take the car to the dealor for everything. Even getting lightbulbs must be done through Saab in order for the dash computer to staop saying "rear light failure" everytime you start the car. I am a believer in the fact that my mechanic is just as good if not better than the guys at the dealor but sometimes, the parts availability or special procedures that you need to know in order to work on this quirky car make me have to go to the dealor.
As far as safety goes, I am proof of the fact that these cars are amazingly safe. I was in an accident where i was hit on the drivers side front of the car by someone pulling into the street from a parking lot at 30+mph. (it was a tremendous act of stupidity on their part) I walked away from the accident and am convinced that in many other cars, I would not have been so fortunate. above all, they fixed my car instead of tataling it because it was still structurally sound.
Despite maintanence costs. The combination of performance and practicality makes me a saab believer. Jul 19, 2008
by Kenny M
Jun 16, 2008
I love the car, great miles to the gallon, I get 500-550 miles to the tank, about 32MPG. Awesome acceleration, you have to fight the torque steer in second gear though. Rides and handles great, sticks to the road like glue. The most comfortable seats I've ever sat in. Over all a great sunday cruising car, or dailey driver.Jun 16, 2008
by Langley S
Jun 09, 2008
the saab 9-3 is a solid, dependable car. The interior finish is good but the handling and accelertion are not that great. For the money, I'd rather buy an audi a4. If you live in the snow countries - front wheel drive is ok but not great.Jun 09, 2008
by Wendy C
Apr 28, 2008
Handling wasn't very good, but looked meatyApr 28, 2008
by Anonymous
Apr 15, 2008
Great little car for commuting to school , handles well with good gas mileage.Apr 15, 2008
by Andrew C
Mar 31, 2008
Super Duper FandabadoozyMar 31, 2008
by Nicolas S
Mar 21, 2008
For the price of the piece, forget the swedishMar 21, 2008
by Philip S
Feb 17, 2008
This car has very good accelaration and good mid range, fuel consuption is 22 mpg,hood comes down in less than 10 seconds has full climate control,full leather heated seatsFeb 17, 2008
by Zitis D
Feb 14, 2008
fast, comfortable,strong nice to drive in bad weatherFeb 14, 2008
by Sham R
Jan 12, 2008
The 2.2 TiD did over 45mpg, it was quick and had all the toys a mercedes has, good spec, huge boot, but chassis could not cope with the power of the turbo engine, handling not brilliant.Jan 12, 2008
by Matt S
Dec 27, 2007
Was a great car, shame about the engine drinking oil!
I would still have it now if the tdi engine hadn't started to play up.
Amazing seats, very good for motorway cruising.Dec 27, 2007
by Ariel R
Dec 23, 2007
Looks really unique, sporty, yet practical. 4 cylindar 2.0 litre, and light body so good fuel economy, at the same time, has a turbo charger, so it's got great acceleration, and the aerodynamics are incredible! Front wheel drive allows for better fuel economy as well, and makes the car great in the winter. Also very safe and secure which Saab has always been recognized for. Had since 2001, and it runs like new at 167,000 km. Cornering is a bit tricky, which could be due to the wheel base, but not as bad as you might think.
Pros: efficient, safe, secure, reliable, sporty and practical.
Cons: handling is a bit low in sensitivity, car feels bigger than it actually is when you drive it.Dec 23, 2007
by Daniel C
Nov 19, 2007
Subtle,fast, lots of torque steer but a blast to driveNov 19, 2007
What users have asked
The high beam switch does not stay on , it works when you hold it in only ?
Is this an easy fix ? Thank You csinagra@aol.com
21335 views
Is the car worth repairing with a damaged motor?
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.
63 views
A/C problems
please help me. i have a 2001 SAAB 9-3 SE. whenever i want it to blow cold air it just blows out air that feels warm, like it will blow out just a little bit cold air when im on the interstate. i had the problem last year in the summer time and my dad which is a mechanic and works on foregin cars including SAAB, he said it was the compressor, so i got a new compressor and filter for it and did everyhting needed for the compressor, and nothing changed! it still blows out room temperature! and sometimes when im at a stop light. i turn off the ac and then when i start driving again it will blow cold air for like 2 minutes. like i dont know what is going on! i love my car so much! and i want to fix this problem! please keep in touch with me
5071 views
2001 saab radomly won't start or even turn over
My 2001 saab won't start sometimes or even turn over. All the gauges and the radio come on but that's it and now my buttons on my key won't even work and there is a dinging sound that won't go off while the door is open and the light doesn't dim ON when you pull the key out of the ignition ( it used to do this) Any ideas of what is going on?
27525 views
Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2001 Saab 9-3?Compare this car
2001 Saab 9-3 Pricing
Original MSRP
$27,070 to $45,570Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: power · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: split-bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Seats
Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent