The contact owns a 2001 Saab 9-3 convertible. In 2006, the contact received a recall notice for NHTSA campaign id number 103-7-22538. There were no failures at the time; however, the contact took the vehicle in for service to prevent the recall consequence. In 2007, the vehicle failed to start intermittently. The contact did not feel the need to file a complaint at that time. Since the beginning of 2009, the vehicle has frequently been stalling and is a major inconvenience. On June 10, 2009, the vehicle was serviced for the stalling issue and the contact was informed that the crank sensor needed to be replaced. He feels that he should not have to pay for services that were performed in 2006, which were supposed to remedy the failures in the first place. The failure mileage was 165,000.

- Bel Mawr, NJ, USA

2001 Saab 9-3 with oil light illuminated. Consumer states that the vehicle would not restart when pulled to the side of the road. Consumer stated that there were a lot of reports of oil sludge on this make and model. The consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer and was informed the vehicle needed a new engine, due to sludge build-up in the oil pan.

- Fairfield, CT, USA

Dec. 10, 2005 while driving on the pa turnpike oil light came on then went off. Oil light came on again car lost all power. Saab towing left us on busy turnpike for 2 1/2 hours in freezing cold. Towed to purchase dealer was told needs new engine it through a rod. After 2 months of no help form dealer or Saab took to independent Saab mechanic. Was told bent rod or crank shaft from sludge build up need small block engine. 7 months and Saab wants to only give $500 towards repair dealer charging $6,000. Saab is aware of sludge problem in these engines (see web on consumer reports and center for auto safety) yet, won't stand by their word to extend warranty 8 years unlimited miles. We have complained to dealer since purchase about engine light being on and stalling. No issues found by them. Idm was replaced 2 months prior to this with engine light remaining on. No call back from dealer. Have received no help from Saab or dealer, without it resulting in them making money off of us.

- Perkasie, PA, USA

While driving 45 mph vehicle shut off. Dealer stated engine need to be cleaned of sludge.

- Silver Spring, MD, USA

While traveling on the highway and without prior warning tvehicle shutdown, and would not restart.

- Miami Beach, FL, USA