Thinking of buying a Saab 9-3

[carbonfiber1]

I'm thinking of buying a 2001 Saab 9-3 that has 140k miles and for around $2000. This a good deal?

[nordwulf]

It all depends what condition it is in, how it drives and if there are any maintenance records. If it all looks ok, $2000 for any 14-year old car with 140K miles doesn't seem too bad. But you may be looking at expensive future repairs if you have to take it to a garage and can't do service/repairs yourself.

[carbonfiber1]

The current condition looks pretty good. How reliable are these cars? Do they tend to have a lot of problems? I've read a lot of mixed emotions about this.

[nordwulf]

I don't have experience with the first gen 9-3 but did have a 2001 9-5. It seems it can be a hit or miss with these older Saabs. Sometimes the small issues can add up and some can be difficult to troubleshoot.

[carbonfiber1]

How was the experience with the 9-5?

[nordwulf]

I liked the 2001 9-5 but seeing the oil sump on the inside was a sign the engine was probably dirty inside. I used to change cars quite often so sold it again before I had any problems with it. It still may be running just fine.