Saab 9-3
Reliability, running costs, and MOT data across 15 years from 71,407 real MOT tests.
Avg Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests
71,407
Best Year
2012 (85%)
Years Covered
15
About the Saab 9-3
The Saab 9-3 has been tested 71,407 times in 2026 MOT data across 15 model years (1998 to 2012), with an average pass rate of 76%. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%, so check the year-by-year data carefully before buying. Available as petrol.
Best and Worst Years
The 2012 model is the most reliable with a 85% pass rate from 287 tests. The 2006 model has the lowest at 74%. The 11 point spread between years means reliability varies somewhat, but no year is dramatically different.
Reliability Trend
The SAAB 9-3 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Mileage Across Years
The oldest model in our data (1998) averages 111,223 miles, while the newest (2012) averages 81,722 miles. Older models have covered serious mileage, so suspension and drivetrain wear are worth checking.
Estimated Running Costs
Based on 7,400 miles/year, current fuel prices, and MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
Full 2012 detailsHow reliable is the Saab 9-3?
Saab 9-3 by Year
Click any year to see detailed running costs, reliability data, and comparisons with similar cars.
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 85% | 287 | 81,722 mi | |
| 2011 | 78% | 4,053 | 114,410 mi | |
| 2010 | 78% | 6,046 | 112,032 mi | |
| 2009 | 77% | 6,910 | 112,962 mi | |
| 2008 | 76% | 11,261 | 123,944 mi | |
| 2007 | 76% | 13,261 | 119,760 mi | |
| 2006 | 74% | 10,345 | 119,528 mi | |
| 2005 | 75% | 6,757 | 116,894 mi | |
| 2004 | 74% | 4,386 | 114,319 mi | |
| 2003 | 74% | 1,723 | 114,793 mi | |
| 2002 | 74% | 1,520 | 108,993 mi | |
| 2001 | 76% | 1,286 | 105,575 mi | |
| 2000 | 76% | 1,189 | 104,512 mi | |
| 1999 | 77% | 1,486 | 107,528 mi | |
| 1998 | 75% | 897 | 111,223 mi |
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