SAAB 9-3 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 11,261 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
11,261
Avg Mileage
123,944 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2008 SAAB 9-3 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%.
At 16 years old, 76% of SAAB 9-3s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 11,261 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 123,944 miles.
How does the 2008 SAAB 9-3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 SAAB 9-3 has 123,944 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SAAB 9-3?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 85% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 74%. The 2008 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2008 SAAB 9-3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SAAB 9-3 by Year
| 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 |
Checking a specific SAAB 9-3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2008 SAAB 9-3
The 2008 SAAB 9-3 is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 11,261 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 123,944 miles at 16 years old, SAAB 9-3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 SAAB 9-3 Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2008 SAAB 9-3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SAAB 9-3 Reliability Trend
The SAAB 9-3 has maintained consistent MOT pass rates across model years, varying by only 2 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2008 SAAB 9-3
At 16 years old, the SAAB 9-3 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 85%. With 11,261 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2008 SAAB 9-3
The SAAB 9-3 is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2009) 74% pass rate (-2%) from 105,193 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2010) 74% pass rate (-2%) from 99,909 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2010) 67% pass rate (-9%) from 60,994 tests