2007 Saab 9-3 1.9L Diesel · S117 AAB

Recurring suspension and braking issues define the recent mechanical profile of this vehicle, characterized by a failure in January 2026 due to fractured coil springs and a pattern of persistent advisories regarding shock absorber oil misting and brake disc deterioration. While the most recent test on 03 February 2026 resulted in a pass, the record shows a trend of component wear that requires close attention, particularly as the shock absorbers have been flagged for light oil misting since at least January 2025 and the rear brake discs were noted as pitted or scored in the latest inspection. The vehicle has covered 173,172 miles over its 19-year lifespan, averaging approximately 9,114 miles per year. This represents a typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent road use rather than long periods of stationary storage. Mechanically, this level of annual accumulation implies that wear on consumables such as suspension bushes, brake components, and drivetrain seals is expected, and the MOT history confirms this through repeated advisories regarding CV boots, brake pads, and tyre condition. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the suspension and steering assembly during a test drive. Given the recent failure of both offside front and offside rear coil springs, as well as the ongoing advisories for misting shock absorbers, you should listen for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Additionally, the repeated mentions of deteriorating CV boots and anti-roll bar ball joint wear suggest that the drivetrain and steering linkages should be checked for any excessive play or rhythmic clicking sounds during low-speed manoeuvres. Braking performance and tyre integrity also warrant scrutiny. The most recent advisory regarding pitted and scored rear brake discs, combined with previous notes on thinning pads, means you should check for any pedal judder or unusual vibrations when applying the brakes. Furthermore, the history of structural tyre issues, including a dangerous failure for sidewall separation in 2023 and various nails and sidewall damage advisories, necessitates a thorough visual inspection of all four tyres for bulges, cracks, or uneven wear patterns that could indicate underlying suspension geometry issues.