9-3 Convertible Leaking Hydraulic over Passenger Visor

[chas1025]

My wife's trusty 2004 9-3 Convertible is leaking hydraulic fluid over center locking area, but actually seeping out over passenger visor. Have any of you experienced this before. The car is in wonderful shape, this is our first big concern.

Thanks

Charles

[AVguy]

I hope that you have solved this by now but what has happened is the hydraulic cylinder that actually locks the roof to the windshield has failed. It is pretty easy to replace and a very common problem on 04+ 9-3's that are older than 6+ years. It is called the first bow cylinder.

Look at these two links:
Saab 9-3 03-11 - Top Hydraulics, Inc

http://www.tophydraulicsinc.com/2003...structions.pdf

[trailheadmike]

I just went to open my top (2005 9-3) and the fluid came pouring out at the joint where the top bends between the front and rear passenger windows. Is there a way to tell if this is a broken hydraulic line or just the leaking bow cylinder and the fluid is coming out there?? I know this is an old thread but thanks for any advice.