2006 Saab 9-3 2.0L Petrol · SP56 APY
2006 Saab 9-3 (2.0L, petrol). First registered 21 Sept 2006. Recorded mileage 92,353 miles. MOT valid until 15 Aug 2027. Taxed until 01 Feb 2027.
- Make & Model
- SAAB 9-3
- Year / Origin
- 2006 · Dundee
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 15 Aug 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Feb 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 92,353 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
SP56 APY Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 05/08/2026
- 92,353 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 5 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring suspension items (8 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
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SP56 APY Mileage History
- 07/08/202478,254 mi
- 17/08/202478,254 mi
- 04/08/202587,748 mi+9,494 mi
- 09/08/202587,748 mi
- 05/08/202692,353 mi+4,605 mi
Average of roughly 7,071 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
SP56 APY MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2006 Saab 9-3 (SP56 APY) between August 2024 and August 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 05 August 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Suspension (8 issues), Brakes (7 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Tyres (1 issue), Steering (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 21 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural stren”; “Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural stre”; “Nearside Front Brake pipe excessively corroded (1.1.11 (c))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Avoid this vehicle due to repeated corrosion issues, suspension problems, and recent MOT failures indicating potential structural and safety concerns.
This vehicle requires careful scrutiny. Insist on a full mechanical inspection focusing on corrosion, suspension components, and brake systems. Negotiate heavily due to repeated failures and high mileage. Check service records for evidence of rust protection treatments or repairs. Be wary of hidden structural damage from the 2025 corrosion findings. Consider alternative models with better reliability histories.
A 2.0L petrol engine like this typically achieves 30-35 mpg, placing it in a mid-range tax band (likely £140-£160 annually for 2026/27). Insurance group 18-20 is probable, costing £600-£800/year. Maintenance costs will be high due to corrosion-related repairs (e.g., brake pipes, suspension arms). Annual running costs could reach £1,200-£1,500, excluding major repairs.
Focus on corrosion in the 2025 MOT report: check brake pipes (especially nearside front), suspension mounting points, and sub-frames for further deterioration. Inspect the steering rack for free play and the suspension arms for wear. Look for rust under the car, particularly around the floorpan and chassis. Verify that all corrosion issues from MOTs have been properly repaired. Check for fluid leaks (oil, brake fluid) and ensure the steering column universal joint is secure.
This 2006 Saab 9-3 has 87,748 miles, exceeding average mileage for its age. The MOT history shows recurring corrosion (brake pipes, suspension components, sub-frames) and suspension wear, with two recent failures in 2025. While some issues were minor (e.g., oil leaks), the 2025 failed MOT highlighted severe corrosion reducing structural strength. No aggregate model data available, but this vehicle’s history suggests poor long-term reliability.
No aggregate data available for SAAB 9-3, but this vehicle’s history suggests vulnerability to corrosion and suspension wear, common issues for older Saabs in the UK’s damp climate.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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