IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1998 Saab 9-3 (OG)

Revised car is renamed the 9-3, with a stiffer shell, a new dashboard, revised styling, and the 2.0 turbo, 2.3 turbo and Viggen 2.3 high-output engines plus a 2.2 TiD diesel.

What changed for 1998

  • •Renamed 9-3 with revised nose, taillights and a newly styled interior
  • •Added the 2.2 TiD diesel and the 2.3 Viggen with up to 225bhp

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Rusting rear subframe mounts and wheel arch seams
  • !Suspension bushes, ball joints and the DI cassette-related misfires affecting emissions
3
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Engine Oil Sludge (B205/B235)

SeriousEngine

Poor PCV design and long service intervals lead to oil breaking down and blocking the oil pickup strainer.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£2,500
Warning Signs:

Oil pressure light (too late!), Turbo smoke, Engine rattle

What to Inspect:
  • Ask if the sump has been dropped and cleaned
  • Check for the latest PCV breather update
  • Pull the valve cover to inspect for carbon buildup
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Bulkhead Cracking

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

The firewall where the steering rack is mounted can crack, leading to dangerous steering flex.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£800
Warning Signs:

Creaking when steering at low speed, Vague handling, Visible movement of the rack

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the area behind the brake booster for cracks
  • Test steering weight while stationary
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Direct Ignition (DI) Cassette Failure

ModerateEngine

The all-in-one ignition module fails due to heat and internal component aging.

Est. Repair Cost: £250–£350
Warning Signs:

Non-start, Misfiring under load, Acrid burning smell

What to Inspect:
  • Look for "SEM" branding on the cassette
  • Avoid cars with cheap unbranded modules
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 1998 Saab 9-3 (OG)

  • Test Viggen and Aero cars for engine health with a sensible rolling road or boost check
  • Check convertible hoods, rear screens and hydraulic hood pumps for slow operation and leaks
1995–19971999–2000
Check a 1998 Saab 9-3 (OG) by Registration