9-3 model - poor handling

[elfie-gow]

I am now the proud owner of a Saab 9-3 2.0T sport. The car is 2000 model. I've had the car for about 4 months now and like it. The only thing which lets it down is the poor handling and a shudder that appears around the 55 - 70mph. Are both the above prob's generic problem with saabs of this age model. I have already changed the shocks since i bought the car to remedy this problem but to no avail. Any help greatly appreciated.
elfie

[gjdavies]

elfie-gow, you are in the wrong forum unfortunately.This forums is for Post 2003 models only.

try here:

http://saabcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=15

[Cedarvillan]

Check for a bad tire. Either separated, out of round, or out of balance.

[Nickshu]

You are on the wrong forum for your NG900/GM900 1999-2002 9-3.


But I'll give some advice since I have lots of experience with these cars.

They have lots of vibration problems b/c the front suspension is very lightweight. Most likely cause is a bent wheel or out of balance tire. Start by looking in this area. This car is very sensitive to out of balance wheels, and you may have to find a "road-force" balancer (Hunter GSP 9700) to get rid of it, or even buy new tires.

As for handling, you can REALLy improve it by installing a larger rear sway bar/antiroll bar. They are only about $100 and install is really easy.

You need to do alignment if you replaced the front struts, also.

[wtfwill]

i've had my wheels balanced and rotated twice and my car still shudders between 68 and 71 mph, any slower/faster than this and it's smooth as butter. i'm assuming i have a slightly bent wheel, but i'm getting new wheels today so.. =p good luck!

[earthworm]

Classic wheel imbalance occurs between 55 and 60 mph, yours may be the bent rim.

A good machine , such as the Hunter Roadforce will detect this. The old $3 per whhel does little.
Best, IMO, is an on the car spin balance...

[BobMcSaab]

My 2000 9-3 had the same problems you have. I installed a heavier rear sway (22mm) bar and a rack brace (http://www.genuinesaab.com/catalog/p...products_id=36) to help handling. The vibration was caused by a bent rim and crappy tires. After fixing those I am very happy with the feel and ride.