Official DVLA Record
MOT Valid
Road Tax Paid

2002 Saab 9-3 2.0L Petrol · FG02 BCE

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
MOT Status
Valid
Valid until 13/04/2027
Tax Status
Taxed
Tax due 01/04/2027
Fuel Type
Petrol
Year
2002
Engine
1985cc
Mechanical Assessment

AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding mechanical seals and braking system integrity. While the most recent test in April 2026 at 76,367 miles passed, it revealed a deteriorated nearside outer CV boot and a worn nearside drive shaft/gearbox bearing. This follows a progression from the April 2025 test where the boot was merely damp and the bearing was already flagged. Although the car passes tests, the recurring nature of these faults suggests a reactive rather than preventative maintenance approach. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 76,367 miles is exceptionally low, averaging only just over 3,000 miles per year. This low usage is evident in the significant gaps between tests, such as the 2,696-mile increase between April 2024 and April 2025. However, low mileage on a vehicle of this age often correlates with age-related degradation, such as the persistent corrosion of the brake pipes which has been noted in almost every annual test record since at least 2018. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the braking system and drivetrain. The constant corrosion on the brake pipes from front to rear, often masked by grease, represents a long-term risk of failure if not replaced. The nearside drive shaft and gearbox bearing require immediate attention as they have moved from advisory to noted faults over the last two years. Additionally, the history of worn suspension arm bushes and fluctuating front brake discs indicates that the rubber and metal components are reaching the end of their functional life despite the low odometer reading.

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.

Updating live data
MOT Roadworthiness Analysis
85
/ 100 · Good
DVSA Test Records Evaluated

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.

✓ Valid MOT
✓ Taxed
✓ Good MOT pass rate (80%)
! Older vehicle
Experian Provenance Check

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Full History Report

Official provenance and safety check for FG02BCE

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Stolen
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Finance
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Write-off
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Salvage
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Imported
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Exported
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Scrapped
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Destruction
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V5C Logbook
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FG02 BCE Mileage History

  1. 13/04/202374,940 mi
  2. 02/04/202475,604 mi+664 mi
  3. 14/04/202575,948 mi+344 mi
  4. 14/04/202575,948 mi
  5. 02/04/202676,367 mi+419 mi

Average of roughly 480 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.

FG02 BCE MOT History

Vehicle record last updated: 31 Jul 2026, 16:29
MOT Analysis

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.

PASS
FAIL
ADVISORY

Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory

Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.

Buying Score
45/100
Risk Level
High
High
Est. Annual Cost
£1,400-£1,800
Mileage
The current mileage of 76,367 is well be...

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