2005 Saab 9-3 Aero Radio doesn’t work
Change Amp 1 under seat in my Saab which didn’t fix the problem, Checked all fuses installed new radio. Nothing. Anyone have an idea of what to look at next?
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2005 Saab 9-3 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Saab has continued to make adjustments to the 9-3 lineup for 2005, but this year's changes are a bit less significant. The lineup expands from five to six variations, due to the addition of a entry-level convertible. A DVD-based navigation system has also been added to the options roster.
Both the sedan and convertible are now available in all three 9-3 trims: Linear, Arc and Aero. All styles come well-equipped, with items like full power accessories, leather seats, heated mirrors, cruise control, anti-theft and steering wheel audio controls. Safety features include stability control, traction control, ABS and front side airbags.
There are two powerplant options for the 9-3. Both are turbocharged variations of a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder. The Linear sedan and convertibles are powered by a more modest version, with 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed manual transmission is paired with this engine, while a 5-speed automatic is optional. Fuel economy is estimated at 23/34 mpg. The Arc and Aero both upgrade a to more powerful turbo, good for 210 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque. The Arc comes with a 5-speed manual, while the Aero gets a 6-speed.
Owners and reviewers have commented that the 9-3 handles adequately, and the ride quality is better than many other cars in its class. The 9-3's front-wheel drivetrain is a factor in overall performance, but these entry-level Saabs do handle quite well for FWD cars. According to reviewers, the overall driving experience is also hampered by rather unresponsive steering. Owners have commented that the 9-3's interior lacks an upscale feel that one might expect, even in an entry-level luxury car. The dash, console and doors are laden with plastic, and even the upgraded stereo is not very powerful. Although the 9-3 comes with most of the necessary luxury features, reviewers suggest that the Japanese and German competitors will offer better interior ambiance. Favorite features include styling, trunk space and fuel economy.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2005 Saab 9-3
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by Gale W
Nov 19, 2022
I love everything about a Saab..its my personal preference, and its not missing a thing. I kinda compare it with a BMW. I dont know what else this would help, but when you like something nothing else really matters. Nov 19, 2022
by Barton M
Mar 17, 2021
It is not as good as the 2003 93 convertible which has leather all around.Mar 17, 2021
by Michael D
Mar 15, 2021
If youre looking for a Saab 9-3 with the 2.0 turbo, this in the model range to buy!
From 2007 & on there were problems with the intake valve seats prematurely wearing resulting in hard starting & low compression, a very costly repair.
Find yourself a cared for unit & dont shy away from higher mileage ones...Saabs are a lot of car for the money!Mar 15, 2021
User rating:
by Gale W
Nov 19, 2022
I love everything about a Saab..its my personal preference, and its not missing a thing. I kinda compare it with a BMW. I dont know what else this would help, but when you like something nothing else really matters. Nov 19, 2022
by Barton M
Mar 17, 2021
It is not as good as the 2003 93 convertible which has leather all around.Mar 17, 2021
by Michael D
Mar 15, 2021
If youre looking for a Saab 9-3 with the 2.0 turbo, this in the model range to buy!
From 2007 & on there were problems with the intake valve seats prematurely wearing resulting in hard starting & low compression, a very costly repair.
Find yourself a cared for unit & dont shy away from higher mileage ones...Saabs are a lot of car for the money!Mar 15, 2021
by Jeff B
Jun 10, 2014
Car is running smooth and perfect at 113-k miles. with no issues to deal with. Everything works like its supposed to and yes the Ac even blows cold This is a nice ,clean , safe and reliable car. Very clean inside and out. shows overall inJun 10, 2014
by Jeff B
Jun 05, 2014
Love the look and the way it drives. Parts can get expensive. It is my second Saab and would defiantly buy another one. With top down its one of the nicest vehicles on the road. Handles great very good acceleration. Extremely safe and fun to driveJun 05, 2014
by Anonymous
Mar 10, 2014
Great car for the city fits anywhere and sips gas two weeks on full tank of gas. Handles corners like a BMW with half the maintenance cost. If you are in the market for a used 3 series BMW try a Saab just as good 1/2 the price great sport sedanMar 10, 2014
by koso k
Sep 18, 2013
Great car! awesome handling with instant response! This is easily one of the best affordable cars Ive ever drove! Excellent turbo!
The Saab accelerates like a jet, handles beautifully and is a pleasure to drive! It is by far the most reliable car I have ownedSep 18, 2013
by Jarrad K
Jun 16, 2013
If your buying a used car (which is very likely since SAAB went out of business because GM sucks at managing itself) then SAAB is a great car to invest in.
The 9-3 is a sporty car that handles well in all conditions and costs very little when compared to its Audi, BMW and VW counter parts. It has as much power if not MORE than its counter parts for MUCH LESS $$$.
Maint. is minimal. The hardest part about this vehicle is finding one that wasnt driven into the ground by a terrible owned. My best advice is to find one with 30,000-100,000 miles on it for the best deal. Check the engine for any oil explosions, get underneath the car to see if the transmission is leaking (after your test drive) and check the head lamps for looseness, excessive fading on the head lamps. Most Saabs that are used from 2003-2006 are beaten to hell in one way or another because owners dont take care of their cars. Ive owned an 2003 9-3 Linear, and a 2005 9-3 Arc. Loved em both, and plan on buying newer models up untl the final 2012 model.
They are very cheap to come by, and very cheap to fix when compared to their counter parts! Drive one, love one, and you'll be hooked :)
Keep in mind, Ive driven a Charger RT, Challenger RT, Camaro SS, Shelby Cobra, etc. I know what power feels like and even tho this car doesnt have 300-600 HP, it runs VERY well. I actually put my 2005 ARC vs my 06 Charger RT, my wife was in the charger... and the 05 ARC beat the Charger off the line, and all the way up until I hit 3rd gear. Hope this all helped!
Also just went from WV - Ohio to find a Saab for my friend. Jun 16, 2013
by Sylvain D
Nov 04, 2011
Je n'ai jamais été blessé dans mes 3 accidents sérieux à bord d'une Saab ! Je n'ai pas eu 3 accidents avec cette voiture-là, mais plutôt avec 3 Saab différentes ! Ma première Saab qui m'a accroché était une modèle 9000S 1992 et que j'adorais tant... lollNov 04, 2011
by David J
Jul 29, 2011
I purchased this car primarily for its excellent safety record, and its distinctive looks. It turned out also to be fun to drive and a pleasure on long trips. The 175 hp turbocharged 4 coupled with manual transmission gives plenty of power and excellent economy (36 mpg highway on long trips is common). I regularly take it into the mountains to ski; with winter tires on it is extremely predictable on snow-covered roads. My only negative experience in 8 years was a broken right front suspension spring, which Saab/GM agreed to repair at their expense despite expired warranty. Other maintenance items have been nominal, most notably two separate rear suspension parts that needed replacing, a new radiator at 100k miles, and 4 (count 'em) driver's side window mechanisms. My Saab just crossed the 125,000 mile barrier; I'm fully expecting it to make at least another 100k. I enjoy driving this car whether around the block or across the country and would definitely buy another Saab.Jul 29, 2011
by Anonymous
Jan 14, 2011
This car is a smooth ride. It gets good gas mileage. So far only the oxygen sensor has needed fixing. It is a small turbo engine but accelerates well. The only complaint is the cabin noise as to it is a soft top convertible. Overall very fun to drive and love it.Jan 14, 2011
by Ben G
Nov 20, 2010
Love it, quick, comfortable, heated seats are the best! and it looks great while doing it.
Love everything about this car.
Its expensive upkeep but well worth the cost!. The turbo hauls ass! Just need a tune and a 3" turbo back and i'll be sitting pretty :)Nov 20, 2010
by Martín A
Mar 18, 2010
Car is very comfortable, very smooth and quiet. Even though is a four cylinder, the turbo helps get the boost when you need it. Inside is much more elegant than appears to be on the exterior. Decent space in the cabin and big trunk...good car! Mar 18, 2010
by Anonymous
Dec 15, 2009
I love this car. Solid as a rock; quiet; fast. Great gray leather
interior still looks new. Even the cupholder rocks. Has never
given a moment's trouble (I take it in for every single
maintenance check, religiously, but no problems). Dec 15, 2009
by Andy P
Oct 21, 2009
There simply is not another car I know of that gives such power for so long an yet asks for so little in return. The seats are the most comfortable I have ever sat in. Looks fantastic. Top fun. Servicing a litte expensive!Oct 21, 2009
by Alex S
Sep 21, 2009
I love this car! Class and balls at the same time! I can beat
those stupid rice kids in there civics any day of the week!
2.0L turbo. 210 HP but does it with class! It's a Saab it has
everything you want, performance, quality, looks great!
Cost is the norm for a Saab. Fun car to drive! May need
some stiffer springs to control the body roll but other then
that the 16" rims take you where you where you want to go!Sep 21, 2009
by Anonymous
Aug 22, 2009
I love this car. i owned over 15 cars and this is the best. great handling, acceleration...I love how the car looks. Every car says something about the owner, saab 9-3 says i am classy but i dont need to show off. :) Aug 22, 2009
by Andrew F
Jun 10, 2009
Pretty good all round sports saloon. Pretty soft suspension
as standard though, which was not to my liking. The best
looking Saab 93 in my opinion. Leather interior was very
comfortable as well. Diesel engine was fantastic for fuel
economy, while still delivery pretty decent performance.Jun 10, 2009
by Rodrigo C
Apr 26, 2009
The computer in the car tends to do "funny things". The car is really close to the ground, so if you live in a bumpy area, you should think about it twice.
Nevertheless, once you feel it's performance you will forget everything else...Apr 26, 2009
by Robert P
Apr 12, 2009
Good Performance – acceleration, braking, handling are great,
Build Quality –no reparations needed, were born perfekt
The Aero modell is styled from factory as a sport car
-Cost of Ownership – gas mileage, is a little bit "hungry! but I manage and maintenance is really ok.
This car is realy fun to drive it!
Apr 12, 2009
by Mikael W
Mar 16, 2009
Feel the power on this 150 hp turbo diesel engine and you will be sold! A lots of torque. What a great chasie and it's even not a sport one. Handels like a real sports car in the corners! I just say what good leather seats they are.You just can ride and ride whithout feeling tired on your ASS! Must be the best on the market.Mar 16, 2009
by Charlie E
Dec 15, 2008
How sad am I to be babbling about my car hehe.
But i'm such a saab fan. What i love most is the
controls. The saab's have slight different knobs and
buttons as it's a company that make airplanes to,
which also comes through in a saab design. The air
vents are similar to that found on planes, and love
the cool finger buttons on the indicator and wiper
sticks.
The handling is fantastic, and so smooth. The gear
box is flawless! and love how it has six gears :)
Seats are so comfy. Has nice big thick wheels, with
lovely alloys :)
The car looks great to! very sleek. It does 45 miles
to the gallon, so very economical, the sixth gear
comes in handy for that. Wheels cost a lot though,
with them being so thick.
It's fun to drive to, taking corners really well. It also
has duel control, so when i'm going at a constant
speed on the motor way i can just flick the button
on, and it will keep me at the speed i'm going
without having to keep my foot on the gas.
Ok so on to the down points .....
There seems to be a lack of cup holders! the saab
really fell flat when it came to designing the
storage in the car. The glove box is nice and big,
and the storage in the doors is great. But would be
nice if there were some cup holders.
Sorry but thats the only bad point i can think of :pDec 15, 2008
by David F
Sep 29, 2008
Perfomance is fine. Again not the fastest off the line but overtaking is a breeze with that turbo giving a big shove in the back. I'm not sure what the 70 to 100 is, but I'm willing to bet it would give some of those German and Japanese sports sedans a pretty good run for their money. Of course with a Saab you also don't run the risk of being branded a certain type of person by Top Gear presenters. Handling is very good. The only car I have driven recently (I've test driven a ton over the last few weeks) that beats it is the Beemer 3 series. However the 3 series may be little stiff for our pot holes. I think there has to be some trade of for ride comfort even if you are a total petrol head like myself. So I actually prefer the Saab.
Build quality is not as good as the 9-5 probably due to a little too much use of the GM parts bin. The engine and chassis are fine, it's the interior that lets it down. Vibrating window switches especially with bass tones. Cracked tone buttons on the stereo. The odd buzz and creak from the air vents.
This iteration of the 9-3 has cleaner lines than the new model and I feel it is better looking because of it. The new one has tried to be more muscular and has a more in your face nose. Not very Saab quite frankly. I do wish that this car was any other colour than grey. I had to take a car off the lot to get a deal, if you know what I mean? Why do Ontario car dealers stock 95 %sliver and grey cars? It drives me insane. Grey is a non-colour, I am not a grey person.
Cost of ownership is in the same realm as any other car or maybe even better. No dealer telling you to change the oil at insanely small intervals.
The car is a blast to drive and rewards you for pushing on. For a front wheel drive car the understeer is quite minimal. Tihs maybe something to do with the passive rear wheel steer system. A little extra throttle through the apex brings everything into line quite nicely.Sep 29, 2008
by Steve K
Aug 27, 2008
Power is great but until you get used to driving a car with turbo you may not like the off the line performance. The SAAB is wonderful on long trips, the heated seats are great and the AC will put icicles on your nose.
The body of the car was always a favorite, I had an unusual colour, it is sort of a Mt. Dew green. People either love it or hate it.
If you are considering a European make car do yourself a favor and check out the SAABS. Aug 27, 2008
by Peter L
Aug 22, 2008
The car is amazingly fast for my first car... So far I have hit 138 but ran out of straight away. The shifting of the Saab is so smooth and super easy... Love manuals... Great handling around corners and no squealing of the tires unless I try hahaha... Turbo rulesAug 22, 2008
by Jacob C
Jun 12, 2008
Very good acceleration. 45-75 mph range acceleration is faster than a porsche. Very comfortable leather racing seats. Electrical system is amazing. As soon as vehicle starts up it does an analasys on ever engine component. looks good, performs good.Jun 12, 2008
by Trey N
May 31, 2008
Here we have a 2005 Saab 9-3 Sedan.Saab was originally a airplane that turned there inventory of planes into car's. i personal love this car.like many cars the Saab as seen gets great gas mileage 26 to be exact. the car takes off like a jet no joke. i drove it on the highway over the summer with the sunroof open then went from o=60 as fast as i could i kick you not it sounded like a jet taking off. Saab are also know to be really great when i comes to snow. because there made in Sweden there made for snow rain and all of they above which comes to be handy i really bad weather. May 31, 2008
by Jayson G
Apr 28, 2008
I've always wanted a Saab since I was a kid and my mom got a 9000 turbo. I got my car certified pre-owned with 4k miles and it's exactly what I've always wanted. Lots of small features that make it a fun drive. Performance is great and love the small maintenance schedule.Apr 28, 2008
by Darryn C
Apr 24, 2008
overall a sweet ass carApr 24, 2008
by Simon C
Apr 18, 2008
Great car to drive, have the 150bhp 1.9tdi. Low service cost and 40ish mpg.Apr 18, 2008
by Mike B
Apr 13, 2008
Not as good as BMW or Audi, but good value for car price in compariosnApr 13, 2008
by Tyler J
Feb 12, 2008
great car just not in the winterFeb 12, 2008
by Jon S
Feb 08, 2008
Great car. Nice and fast. 125mph top speed.Feb 08, 2008
by Jeff B
Nov 13, 2007
This is a safe and awesome car!Nov 13, 2007
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2005 Saab 9-3?Compare this car
2005 Saab 9-3 Pricing
Original MSRP
$27,570 to $43,320Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Center console trim: alloy · Door trim: alloy · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Multi-function remote: trunk release · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Front side airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel
Comfort Features
Center console trim: alloy · Door trim: alloy · Shift knob trim: leather · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Center console: front console with storage · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio
Lights
Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: power · Inside rearview mirror: electrochromic
Rear Seats
Type: bucket
Roof
Convertible roof: power
Safety
Parking sensors: rear
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Tires and Rims
Wheel type: aluminum alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent