2003 Saab 9-3 2.0L Petrol · MU03 BOR
2003 Saab 9-3 (2.0L, petrol). First registered 01/09/2003. Recorded mileage 148,095 miles. MOT status: Expired. Currently declared SORN.
- Make & Model
- SAAB 9-3
- Year / Origin
- 2003 · Manchester & Merseyside
- MOT Status
- Valid until 14/08/2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 148,095 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 4 Petrol)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 2.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- PETROL
- Year
- 2003
- Engine
- 1998cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
MU03 BOR Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 16/08/2023
- 148,095 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 4 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (2 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
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
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MU03 BOR Mileage History
- 03/08/2022141,346 mi
- 16/08/2023148,095 mi+6,749 mi
Average of roughly 6,526 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
MU03 BOR MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 2003 Saab 9-3 (MU03 BOR) between August 2022 and August 2023.
The record contains 2 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 7 advisory notices note items to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (2 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Tyres (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 7 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
This 2003 Saab 9-3 requires careful inspection due to recurring suspension and brake issues, but could be a viable purchase for a mechanically minded buyer willing to address its maintenance needs.
Prioritise a full suspension system inspection, focusing on ball joints, bushings, and rear suspension corrosion. Check for consistent oil leaks and verify brake disc thickness to confirm no recent replacements. Review service history for repairs related to the issues listed in MOT reports. Negotiate heavily for the high mileage and consider a pre-purchase mechanical survey. Be cautious of potential hidden rust or body corrosion given the age and coastal UK climate risks.
The 1998cc petrol engine offers average fuel economy of 30-35 mpg, resulting in £800-£1,000 annual fuel costs for 10,000-mile drivers. Road tax is £140/year (2003 model, 15 years old). Insurance group 18-20 (average for this era). Major maintenance costs could exceed £1,500 for suspension repairs or brake disc replacements. Total estimated annual running cost: £2,500-£3,000.
Inspect suspension components for wear (ball joints, bushings, trailing arms) and check for rust on rear suspension brackets. Test brake discs for thickness and warping, and examine tyres for uneven wear patterns. Look for oil leaks under the engine and check exhaust system integrity. Verify body panels for corrosion, especially around wheel arches and sills. Confirm that all MOT-reported issues have been properly repaired with documented service records.
The 2003 Saab 9-3 has covered 148,095 miles (above average for its age) with consistent suspension, brake, and tyre issues recorded in MOTs from 2018 to 2023. While the vehicle has passed all inspections, repeated failures in critical areas like suspension joints and brake discs suggest potential hidden repair costs. Its 2.0L petrol engine is reliable by older Saab standards, but the high mileage and corrosion issues raise concerns.
While no aggregate data exists for the Saab 9-3, this vehicle's history aligns with common issues reported for 2000s Saab models, including suspension wear and corrosion problems in coastal regions.
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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