2004 Saab 9-3 1.9L Diesel · LC54 XRD

The 2004 SAAB 9-3 shows a history of recurring mechanical and safety failures that persist despite its low annual mileage. The most recent test in January 2022 at 128,102 miles resulted in a pass only after a failure just one day prior. That failure identified an inoperative engine management light, a wiper that failed to park, and an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar ball joint. While the vehicle passed the final inspection, the recurring nature of suspension and braking issues suggests that maintenance is often addressed only when testing fails rather than on a preventative schedule. With 128,102 miles over 22 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,800 miles per year. This low usage often leads to age-related degradation of rubber components and seals, which is reflected in the record. Between 2020 and 2022, the car consistently failed with issues related to the offside front anti-roll bar ball joints and fluctuating brake discs. The 2021 failure at 121,427 miles highlighted an ABS fault, a fractured rear coil spring, and thin brake pads, indicating that the vehicle's suspension and braking systems are under significant stress despite the low mileage. A buyer should focus specifically on the front suspension and braking assembly, as the anti-roll bar joints and brake fluctuations have been flagged multiple times across different years. The history of fluctuating front brakes in both 2021 and 2022 suggests potentially worn rotors or sticking calipers that require attention. Furthermore, because the last recorded MOT was over four years ago in January 2022, the current roadworthiness of the vehicle is unknown and an immediate inspection is required to check for structural corrosion or mechanical failure developed during the period of inactivity.