2003 Saab 9-3 Aero 210 BHP Auto 2.0L Petrol · FX53 BGF

The 2025-10-25 MOT at 136,065 miles resulted in a pass, but the record shows a series of recurring advisories that indicate the vehicle is not in a stable condition. Persistent suspension dust‑cover deterioration, a parking brake that only just meets efficiency, a minor rear exhaust leak and general under‑body corrosion recur across the 2024, 2023 and 2022 tests, suggesting a trend of worsening rather than improving maintenance. The mileage history reveals a low annual average of about 5,900 miles for a 23‑year‑old car, yet the recorded increments are uneven. Between 2020-10-31 95,802 miles and 2021-10-29 102,667 miles the vehicle accumulated 6,865 miles in a year, then surged to 9,907 miles by 2023-11-04 and 9,228 miles by 2024-11-01, before dropping to 7,464 miles in the most recent 2025 test. These fluctuations point to periods of heavy use followed by extended standing, rather than a consistently low‑usage pattern. A buyer should therefore inspect the front and rear suspension arms, especially the ball‑joint dust covers and the condition of the rear coil springs, which have shown severe deterioration and corrosion in multiple tests. The parking brake mechanism must be tested for proper adjustment, and the rear exhaust system examined for leaks and silencer looseness. Front oil leaks, brake pad and disc wear, and the condition of the sub‑frames and under‑body rust should also be verified, as should the horn and any supplementary restraint system warning lamp, which have appeared as recurring faults. Overall, the vehicle passes the latest MOT but exhibits a pattern of neglect in critical mechanical components, making a thorough in‑person inspection essential before purchase.