SAAB 9-3 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 6,910 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
77%
Total Tests (2024)
6,910
Avg Mileage
112,962 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,397
Is the 2009 SAAB 9-3 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 15 years old, 77% of SAAB 9-3s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 6,910 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 112,962 miles.
How does the 2009 SAAB 9-3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 SAAB 9-3 has 112,962 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-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 2009 sits between the two at 77%.
How much does a 2009 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 2009 SAAB 9-3
The 2009 SAAB 9-3 is a large car with a 2792cc petrol engine. 6,910 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 112,962 miles at 15 years old, SAAB 9-3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 SAAB 9-3 Fuel Costs
The 2792cc petrol engine is on the larger side, so fuel won't be this car's strong point. Expect around 30 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,592 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2009 SAAB 9-3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,397 (£200/month), broken down as £1592 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 77% 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 2009 SAAB 9-3
At 15 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 6,910 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2009 SAAB 9-3
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL INSIGNIA (2011) 77% pass rate (same) from 42,781 tests
- LAND ROVER FREELANDER (2007) 75% pass rate (-2%) from 28,740 tests
- AUDI TT (2007) 80% pass rate (+3%) from 17,399 tests
- BMW X1 (2011) 81% pass rate (+4%) from 12,207 tests