2000 Saab 9-3 2.0L Petrol · W7 DOS

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the mechanical history shows a clear worsening trend in the steering and suspension components. The most recent test in June 2025 at 42,512 miles identified new play in the offside front steering rack inner joints alongside persistent play in the offside front track rod end. These issues represent a direct progression from the June 2024 test at 41,179 miles, indicating that previous steering-end faults have not been rectified despite being flagged as advisories year prior. The recorded mileage of 42,512 miles over 26 years is exceptionally low, averaging out to only approximately 1,635 miles per annum. This low usage pattern explains the presence of degradation in rubber-based components rather than mechanical wear. There is a significant gap in the records between October 2020 and January 2022, during which the car covered only 872 miles. Such intermittent use often suggests the vehicle sits for long periods, which frequently correlates with the tyre perishing and sidew cracking noted in the 2022 inspection. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the front end to assess the extent of the steering rack wear. The recurring failure of the inner joints and track rod ends across two consecutive years suggests the steering assembly is nearing the end of its functional life. Additionally, the corrosionded corrosion on the rear exhaust box skin identified in 2025 needs close monitoring to ensure the structural integrity of the exhaust system remains sufficient to withstand road vibrations. Given the age and low mileage, the buyer should also check for dry rot in the tyres and perished bushings, as the history shows the vehicle is susceptible to age-related degradation rather than mileage-related fatigue.