I have a 2008 9-3 Aero will not turn over far enough to start?
We replaced the battery a year ago and now my car does not have enough juice to do anything other than put up the windows. I tries to turn it over but just clicks.
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2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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Drivers attracted to Saab's clean, Scandinavian design sense, but seeking the functionality and space of a family wagon, can opt for the Saab 9-3 SportCombi, which receives a design refresh for 2008. Drawing inspiration from the Aero X concept car, which debuted in 2006, Saab gave the 2008 9-3 SportCombi a more streamlined, aerodynamic appearance, which is especially noticeable in the vehicle's nose.
Exterior enhancements for 2008 include a deeper, more prominent grille that dips further down into the SportCombi's bumper, Nordic iceblock-inspired taillights, and a sleeker overwrap (raised) hood. Saab has also redesigned the SportCombi's front lower fascia, as well as the housings for the foglights, to give the car a more aggressive appearance.
Saab also added a number of new standard features to the 9-3 SportCombi package for 2008, including a tire-pressure monitoring system, rain-sensing windshield wipers, XM satellite radio, a year of OnStar, and 16-inch, 14-spoke alloy wheels.
In addition, Saab debuts an electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system, called XWD, or cross-wheel drive, which will be available as an option starting in early 2008. The XWD system, which can send full power to either the front or rear axle, or a combination of both, greatly improves the SportCombi's handling and traction, according to reviewers and test drivers.
The 2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi is available in two trims. The 2.0T comes equipped with a fuel-efficient, 207-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the Aero features a 252-horsepower, 2.8-liter turbocharged V6.
The SportCombi's leather-appointed seats are especially comfortable, reviewers have noted, and luxury interior amenities are extensive. In addition, the SportCombi provides 30 cubic feet of cargo space with the back seat upright, and up to 72 cubic feet of space with the back seat folded flat.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi
Write a reviewUser rating:
by Anonymous
Jun 11, 2024
Car had major issues: under the car, the engine was covered with oil and leaking oil with a steady drip; A/C did not work; tires were supposed to be new, but were worn down; no cargo cover in back; and more...Jun 11, 2024
by Jeremy M
Mar 18, 2020
These Saab 9-3 SportCombi wagons are an incredible value. I bought the 4 cylinder which has really good gas mileage, plenty of space in the back (which works great for a small family), handles really well, and is fun to drive for me. I am super excited about this purchase and will enjoy this Saab for many many years!Mar 18, 2020
by Rick B
Mar 08, 2015
This particular Saab is a fairly rare bird - a sport version of the wagon with a 6sp manual. It provides a great combo of decent fuel economy (25-26 on average), zippy acceleration, and decent space for hauling. On the flip side, since Saab is defunct, parts can be more expensive and not everyone works on them.Mar 08, 2015
User rating:
by Anonymous
Jun 11, 2024
Car had major issues: under the car, the engine was covered with oil and leaking oil with a steady drip; A/C did not work; tires were supposed to be new, but were worn down; no cargo cover in back; and more...Jun 11, 2024
by Jeremy M
Mar 18, 2020
These Saab 9-3 SportCombi wagons are an incredible value. I bought the 4 cylinder which has really good gas mileage, plenty of space in the back (which works great for a small family), handles really well, and is fun to drive for me. I am super excited about this purchase and will enjoy this Saab for many many years!Mar 18, 2020
by Rick B
Mar 08, 2015
This particular Saab is a fairly rare bird - a sport version of the wagon with a 6sp manual. It provides a great combo of decent fuel economy (25-26 on average), zippy acceleration, and decent space for hauling. On the flip side, since Saab is defunct, parts can be more expensive and not everyone works on them.Mar 08, 2015
by Lou T
Mar 01, 2012
This is just a really good car overall and if I weren't such an enviro-geek, it would be perfect. I just worry about $5 a gallon gas although getting 29 mpg on the highway isn't bad. I have averaged over 24 mpg. The newer Saab 9-3 Aero SportCombis come with the 4 cylinder turbo which is what I would have preferred.Mar 01, 2012
by Roger K
Oct 19, 2011
The engine is quick and the steering response is very good, especially nice when running on ethanol instead of petrol, since that adds another 30hp. Not many other stationwagons can outrun this car when accelerating from 50 - 120.
Outside appearence is nice, and the interior is solid black, but there are still some room for improvements in build quality (compared with Audi).Oct 19, 2011
by Anonymous
Jan 21, 2010
Bought the car Jan. 2009 before we were aware GM was going to drop the line. However we like the car and got a great deal on it. Enjoy driving it and plan on using the car for 10 years plus. Have not had any problems with it. Great gas mileage 25 average with 30 on Hwy.Jan 21, 2010
by Kjelle J
Feb 28, 2009
It looks really good, handles good and got amazing seats. Unfortunately, performance is weak considering its a turbo. LOTS of small bugs, it actually feels like a "pre-production" car more than a serial produced. GM crappy quality... the interior squeaks and moves, seats make awful sounds, it consumes LOTS of fuel (without delivering performance), makes spontaneous stops (engine just dies), runs better with cold engine than warm...
Stay away if you want to avoid problems!
The autoshop loves this on the second hand market - it will guarantee their revenue for many years to come.
Sad. It got so many promising ideas - if they just would deliver what it promise it would have been a great car and amazingla competitive. Today its being passed by all other European brands. Feb 28, 2009
by Jean-François G
Feb 14, 2009
La voiture parfaite pour papa. Ultra-performante,
sécuritaire et assez logeable pour ses 3 enfants et un
stock de gardien de but. ;-)
C'est la seule familiale qui fait du 0-100 en moins de
six secondes et qui donne autant de plaisir à conduire
!Feb 14, 2009
by Konsta K
Nov 23, 2008
Absolutely the best-looking sw in it´s class. No matter what the weather is like, it is just great to drive.
Performance: The engine is powerful and frugal. Brakes just ooze confidence. Handling is sharp, the steering bit light but well balanced.
Build quality: Nothing to complain about.
Appearance: Looks just gorgeous.
Cost of ownership: You get a load more for your money than you would with Audi or BMW. Running costs are quite low.
Fun factor: A great-looking car that´s a hoot to drive = Loads of fun.Nov 23, 2008
by Faisal A
Aug 24, 2008
Saab 9-3 is sold in three body styles: sedan, SportCombi wagon and convertible. Sedan and SportCombi models feel spacious, with low floors, upright windows and seating for five, though three in the rear seat can be tight. Legroom in particular is a sore spot. Convertible models have a rear seat for two adults of small-to-average size. Cargo room in all models is generous.Aug 24, 2008
by Nicole L
Jul 09, 2008
Best 4 seat convertible with amazing ride and handling! The Aero package is the only way to go from interior color combination, premium sound system and performance. The standard model paled in comparison when taking a test drive. 6 speed manual is the only way to go for true driving enthuiest (sp). Jul 09, 2008
by Rickard J
May 25, 2008
Drove an auto which kind of sucked, but the automatic gearboxes seems to have come some way, the manual gearshifting was pretty fast.
About the handling, I don't know if it was because It was a combi, but it seemed very off, I didn't feel that confident in higher speeds on the windy road I usually test cars on.May 25, 2008
by Kent L
Apr 17, 2008
Great handling, smoth gear box and good balanced turbo engineApr 17, 2008
What users have asked
I have a 2008 saab 9-3 aero. It did not start so I called AAA and got a jump and they said my battery was fine.
A couple of days later after no use, the car started but it wasn't turning over right away. This continued for the next week. Today the car wouldn't start even when I tried to jump it again. I hear a clicking noise and the lights come on but the engine won't turn over
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Top Comparisons
Have you driven a 2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi?Compare this car
2008 Saab 9-3 SportCombi Pricing
Original MSRP
$29,250 to $42,565Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · Auxiliary audio input: jack · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 7 · 150 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.1 · Front brake width: 0.98 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.9 · Rear brake width: 0.47 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: simulated wood · Door trim: simulated wood · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: wood · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: front seatback · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Engine
Alternator: 140 amps
Exterior Features
Door handle color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: Xenon
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated driver mirror
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 4 · Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0 · Turns lock-to-lock: 3.0
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system · Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing · Power windows: remote opening of front windows and moonroof · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 11 · 260 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.8 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.4 · Rear brake width: .98 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: alloy · Door trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: alloy
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: driver seat · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: front · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo net · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Engine
Alternator: 155 amps
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: cornering
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated driver mirror
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: premium leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0 · Turns lock-to-lock: 3.0
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system · Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Wheels
Wheel spokes: 10
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 11 · 260 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 11.8 · Front brake width: 1.1 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.4 · Rear brake width: .98 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: alloy · Door trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: cargo tie-down anchors and hooks · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.55
Engine
Alternator: 155 amps
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated driver mirror
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: one-touch open/close
Safety
Active head restraints: driver
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0 · Turns lock-to-lock: 3.0
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires
Type: all season
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Rear wiper: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Automatic climate control front air conditioning · Dual front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Antenna Type: element · 6 disc in-dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · Premium Brand: Bose · AM/FM radio · Satellite Radio: SiriusXM · 1 subwoofer · Total Number of Speakers: 11 · 260 watts
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 13.6 · Front brake width: 1.18 · Front brakes: ventilated disc · Rear brake diameter: 11.5 · Rear brake width: 0.8 · Rear brakes: ventilated disc
Comfort Features
Armrests: rear center folding with pass-thru · Center console trim: alloy · Door trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Shift knob trim: alloy · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Cargo area power outlet: 12V · Center console: front console with storage · Cupholders: rear · Dimming rearview mirror: auto-dimming · Memorized settings: 3 driver · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V front · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: front seatback · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Drivetrain
4WD Type: full time · Axle ratio: 3.55
Engine
Alternator: 155 amps
Exterior Features
Exhaust: dual exhaust tips · Exhaust tip color: chrome · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Front headrests: adjustable · Number of front headrests: 2 · Number of rear headrests: 2
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Exterior entry lights: security approach lamps · Headlights: auto delay off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: heated driver mirror
Passenger Seat
Power adjustments: 8
Rear Seats
Type: bench
Roof
Moonroof: power glass
Safety
Active head restraints: driver · Parking sensors: rear
Seatbelts
Rear center seatbelt: 3-point · Seatbelt force limiters: front · Seatbelt pretensioners: front
Seats
Driver seat power adjustments: height · Front seat type: sport bucket · Heated: front seats · Passenger seat power adjustments: height · Rear headrests: adjustable · Rear seat folding: split · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Mount Location: inside · Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Steering
Steering ratio: 16.0 · Turns lock-to-lock: 3.0
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: independent · Rear Suspension Type: multi-link · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Telematics
Navigation system: DVD navigation system · Satellite communications: OnStar
Tires
Type: all season
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent · Rear wiper: intermittent