2002 Saab 9-3 2.0L Petrol · FG02 BCE
2002 Saab 9-3 (2.0L, petrol). First registered 28/03/2002. Recorded mileage 76,367 miles. MOT valid until 13/04/2027. Taxed until 01/04/2027.
- Make & Model
- SAAB 9-3
- Year / Origin
- 2002 · Nottingham
- MOT Status
- Valid until 13/04/2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/04/2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 76,367 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Check Required (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2002
- Engine
- 1985cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
FG02 BCE Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 02/04/2026
- 76,367 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (7 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
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
Generate an instant valuation benchmark based on live market listings, vehicle mileage, and recent dealer auction figures.
FG02 BCE Mileage History
- 13/04/202374,940 mi
- 02/04/202475,604 mi+664 mi
- 14/04/202575,948 mi+344 mi
- 14/04/202575,948 mi
- 02/04/202676,367 mi+419 mi
Average of roughly 480 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
FG02 BCE 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 2002 Saab 9-3 (FG02 BCE) between April 2023 and April 2026.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 02 April 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (7 issues), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 20 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.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with extreme caution. While the mileage is relatively low for a 2002 model, the vehicle has a persistent history of recurring mechanical advisories that suggest deferred maintenance.
If you are considering this Saab, your priority should be a thorough inspection of the underside. The MOT history shows that brake pipe corrosion has been noted as an advisory consistently since at least 2018. You should ask the seller if the brake lines have been replaced or if they are simply being 'greased' to hide the corrosion, as this is a significant safety concern.
Furthermore, negotiate the price based on the impending need for drivetrain repairs. The most recent MOT notes a worn nearside drive shaft/gearbox bearing and a severely deteriorated CV boot. These are not just 'advisories' to be ignored; they are precursors to mechanical failure. Ensure you check the full service history to see if the oil leak mentioned in 2025 and 2026 has been addressed, as persistent leaks can lead to larger engine issues.
As a 2.0L petrol vehicle from the early 2000s, running costs will be higher than a modern equivalent. You should expect moderate fuel economy, likely in the range of 28-35 mpg depending on driving style.
Tax and insurance will depend on the specific insurance group, but for a 2002 Saab, expect mid-range premiums. Maintenance costs are likely to be elevated in the short term due to the documented issues with the brakes, drive shaft, and potential oil leaks. Estimated annual running costs, including fuel, tax, insurance, and a contingency for repairs, sit around £1,400-£1,800.
First, inspect the brake system thoroughly. The MOT history shows a recurring advisory for corroded brake pipes from front to rear dating back many years. Check for any signs of fluid weeping or heavy surface rust on the lines.
Second, focus on the nearside front area. The MOT history specifically highlights a 'severely deteriorated' CV boot and a worn gearbox bearing. A test drive is essential here; listen for clicking sounds when turning the wheel or a humming/vibrating sensation from the gearbox area.
Finally, check for oil leaks. The most recent MOT tests in 2025 and 2026 both flagged an oil leak. Look under the engine bay for fresh oil droplets and check the engine's cleanliness to see if it has been 'cleaned' recently to mask a significant leak.
This 2002 blue Saab 9-3 with the 1985cc petrol engine has covered 76,367 miles, which is quite low for its age. However, the MOT history reveals a worrying pattern of long-term issues, specifically regarding brake pipe corrosion and drive shaft deterioration. Although it has passed its recent tests, the accumulation of multiple advisories indicates a vehicle that may require significant immediate investment to remain roadworthy long-term.
While specific aggregate data for this exact 2002 9-3 variant is unavailable, the MOT history for this specific unit suggests common aging issues with rubber components and corrosion.
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
Similar Vehicles
Similar Vehicles Checked Recently
Plate Neighbors
Batch Registration Neighbors (FG02 Series)
Vehicles registered in the same regional DVLA batch as FG02BCE.
BMW
635
KAWASAKI
ZX1200-C1H
SUZUKI
AY50
SUZUKI
GSX750
HONDA
XR650R
KAWASAKI
ZZR600
KAWASAKI
ER5
KAWASAKI
ER5
SUZUKI
GSXR1000
GILERA
RUNNER
GILERA
RUNNER
PIAGGIO
PX 125 (VESPA)