SAAB 9-3 (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 287 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Total Tests (2024)
287
Avg Mileage
81,722 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2012 SAAB 9-3 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the SAAB brand average of 75%.
At 12 years old, 85% of SAAB 9-3s from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 287 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 81,722 miles.
How does the 2012 SAAB 9-3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 SAAB 9-3 has 81,722 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
How much does a 2012 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?
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About the 2012 SAAB 9-3
The 2012 SAAB 9-3 is a family car with a 1998cc petrol engine. 287 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2012, the average MOT pass rate is 78%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 81,722 miles at 12 years old, SAAB 9-3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 SAAB 9-3 Fuel Costs
The 1998cc 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 2012 SAAB 9-3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% 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 2012 SAAB 9-3
At 12 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.
Alternatives to the 2012 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 FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (-7%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-13%) from 84,989 tests
- MERCEDES C (2012) 79% pass rate (-6%) from 59,235 tests
- MINI MINI (2010) 80% pass rate (-5%) from 59,218 tests