2008 Saab 9-3 1.9L Diesel · PL08 FEV

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 15 September 2025, but the overall maintenance trend shows signs of degradation. While the car has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the recent emergence of fluid leak advisories in both 2024 and 2025 indicates a developing issue with the hydraulic or fluid systems. This shift from a clean record to recurring advisories suggests that components such as seals, hoses, or connections are beginning to fail, which requires immediate attention to prevent a future failure or a more significant mechanical breakdown. With 128,259 miles recorded over approximately 18 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,126 miles per year. This represents typical, moderate usage for a car of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to extreme high-mileage motorway transit nor has it suffered from the excessive perishing associated with long periods of inactivity. From a mechanical perspective, the drivetrain and suspension components should be in a state of wear that is consistent with this mileage, though the age of the vehicle means that rubber-based components and seals are likely reaching the end of their serviceable life regardless of the relatively modest annual distance covered. During a test drive, you must pay close attention to the steering and suspension response. Given the 2023 failure regarding worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and the recent hydraulic leak advisories, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate further suspension wear. Inspect the offside front area for any visible signs of weeping or wetness around hydraulic lines or steering components. It is vital to verify whether the reported leaks involve power steering fluid or brake fluid, as the latter poses a significant safety risk. Check the underside of the engine bay and the wheel arches for oily residue or staining. Beyond the recorded defects, you should perform a thorough physical inspection of age-related wear. Check the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even if tread depth is sufficient. Examine the brake discs for heavy corrosion or scoring, and ensure the calipers are not binding, which can happen if the vehicle has been parked for extended periods. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, particularly for the hydraulic systems mentioned in the MOT, have been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule, as neglected fluids can accelerate the degradation of seals and contribute to the leaks noted in the recent inspections.