2003 Saab 9-3 Exterior lighting Problems
- Complaints
- 13about this part
- Share
- 6%of 212 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 32,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 13 complaints about the exterior lighting of the 2003 Saab 9-3, 6% of the 212 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 32,000 miles.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Directional signals have no sound. They are hooked up to the ehu unit which the manufacturer says is not covered under warranty. I feel it is a safety issue if can not hear the signal and you do not know if they are still on. They refuse to replace this part. My sound system is not working either.”
NHTSA complaint #10235782, filed 2008-07, 60,558 miles“I had my headlights changed at 65k because the beam was getting to low and it was hard to see at night. While the lights were getting changed the mechanic told me that the wires connecting the light to the car were melting. Three months later at 80k the driver side headlight low beam finally died. The sid says low beam failure, which is due to the melting of the wires.”
NHTSA complaint #10153723, filed 2006-03, 79,000 miles“Twice while stopping at a stop light my car has stalled. It has stalled once while driving in traffic at about 35 MPH. It has also gotten stuck in park twice afrter I start it. The sid says gear box malfunctioned. The lights burn out and the interior is falling apart. This car has 17,000 miles in it.”
NHTSA complaint #10059940, filed 2004-02, 17,000 miles“Can not dim lights while engine is running. Entry to some military base or other entry gates require lights to be dimmed to parking lights. There is a three way switch to tune light to parking but only work when engine is not running. This is a serious design flaw in my opinion. Yes Saab just gives you the run around on what's the fix, even suggest to remove a fuse?? I demand action!!!!”
NHTSA complaint #10039142, filed 2003-09, 60 miles“My Saab has had a litany of problems since I have owned the car. It all started with little items. Ignition wouldn't start the car. Head lights burnt out. Dash peeling, door handles discoloring, emergency brake getting stuck and being able to operate my car. Engine warning light because my gas cap wasn't on correct. Steering wheel locking while I was driving. Wheel lock light remaining on while I was driving. Brakes replaced due to factory retro fit. Seat belts being recalled. Computer constantly needing to be replaced so the car would function. …”
NHTSA complaint #10125939, filed 2005-06, 32,000 milesRelated service bulletins
- 10249011Jan 12, 2024This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10232136Feb 15, 2023This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
Exterior lighting: other model years
Other parts of the 2003 Saab 9-3
46 complaintsSuspension
42 complaintsEngine cooling
32 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
32 complaintsFuel system
20 complaintsBrakes
19 complaintsSteering
18 complaintsAir bags
15 complaintsSeat belts
12 complaintsEquipment
9 complaintsBody and structure
9 complaintsTires
9 complaints
← All problems reported for the 2003 Saab 9-3
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology