Saab 9-3 recalls
Recalls to 31 Oct 2026, from DVSA's file. Each recall shows its own launch date.
DVSA lists 7 safety recalls naming the Saab 9-3, launched from 2002 to 2010. Most recalls cover only cars built in certain dates or chassis number ranges, so check a specific car on GOV.UK's recall check.
Saab 9-3 recalls at a glance
- Recalls
- 7
- 2002 to 2010
- Latest recall
- 3 December 2010
- R/2010/213
Source: DVSA RecallsFile.csv, recalls launched from 1992 to October 2026, downloaded 31 October 2026. Open Government Licence v3.0.
Every Saab 9-3 recall
Newest first. The concern is the part or system affected, the defect is what can go wrong, and the remedy is what the manufacturer does to put it right.
RIGHT HAND FRONT SEAT MAY NOT LOCK CORRECTLY
R/2010/213, launched 3 December 2010, 121 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: It has been established that due to a process problem at a sub supplier the right hand side front seat recliner mechanism may fail. This will result in that the back-rest can't be moved back into the locking position. The condition is very obvious but if ignored and the vehicle is involved in a crash the seat belt which is integral to the seat structure will not restrain the occupant as designed.
Remedy: The seat should be inspected and if necessary replaced.
HANDBRAKE MAY FAIL
R/2007/170, launched 17 December 2007, 320 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: It has been identified that due to a manufacturing deviation the handbrake cables on certain 9-3s may deform under load. Should this occur a reduced or non-existent handbrake force will ensue.
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the handbrake cables replaced with quality assured items.
REDUCED BRAKING PERFORMANCE
R/2006/047, launched 17 May 2006, 21,613 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: It has been identified that under certain conditions a valve within the brake servo may have a shortened service life due to high ambient and engine bay temperatures. This could affect the functioning of the servo resulting in reduced braking performance
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the subject valve checked and replaced if necessary.
REAR AXLE HUB MAY NOT BE TO SPECIFICATION
R/2005/167, launched 3 January 2006, 571 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The hardening process applied to the rear wheel bearing inner ring may be incorrect. There is a possibility that a rumbling noise may become apparent which if not checked could in extreme circumstances result in the detachment of the hub and severely impaired road holding/handling.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check the date stamp on the rear wheel hubs. Where necessary replace the hub bearing assembly.
FUEL PUMP MOUNTED PIPE RETAINING TABS MAY FAIL
R/2005/021, launched 4 May 2005, 7,124 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The fuel pipe plastic retaining tabs mounted on the fuel pump may fail and possibly result in a fuel leak.
Remedy: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and install a new securing bracket made of steel to hold the fuel pipes in place.
SEAT BELT MAY NOT RETRACT
R/2004/186, launched 4 February 2005, 9,322 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: The front seat belt retractors may malfunction with the effect that the spooled out portion of the webbing will not retract.
Remedy: Recalled vehicles will have the seat front seat belts replaced.
POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF BRAKE FLUID
R/2002/058, launched 25 June 2002, 405 vehicles affected across the models it covers
Defect: As a result of a production process concern a specific batch of brake calliper pistons may release hot hydrogen gas into the braking system fluid.
Remedy: Affected vehicles are being recalled for a check on the brake calliper batch numbers. Vehicles equipped with calliper units from the affected batch will have these replaced with quality assured examples.
Source: DVSA RecallsFile.csv, recalls launched from 1992 to October 2026, downloaded 31 October 2026. Open Government Licence v3.0.
What to do next
If you own a Saab 9-3, check its registration on GOV.UK and ask a Saab dealer whether any recall work is outstanding. If you are buying one, ask the seller for proof the work was done, and run a Motoring Insider history check for finance, write-offs and the MOT history.