[EdT]

I've looked back quite a few pages here, and there isn't much talk of top failure.

However at least three local 9-3 convertibles have some kind of soft top issue. How often do these typically go wrong? Is it use, or misuse, or just being complicated devices?

This one's problem is a "solenoid"?
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks...le/1449486526?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

This one has "soft top obstructed", maybe a sensor or something?
https://www.kijiji.ca/v-cars-trucks...le/1455197414?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true

I'm gong to have a look at both of these, though neither is 100% my cup of tea. But for sure, a convertible needs to have a working top, otherwise what's the point?

 

[Jim B]

I can't say for sure, but I think the most common problem(s) would be the cylinders leaking, resulting in a loss of fluid. I'd definitely go have a look at the one for $2,500. I think the most common cylinders to leak are the one that latches the front of the roof to the windshield frame and the rearmost cylinders on the left and right. There are seven cylinders total, one at the very front/top, three in the left rear and three in the right rear. I wonder if topping off the fluid and clearing the error codes with a Tech 2 might solve the problem. FYI, you need a Candi module when hooking up the Tech 2. If you're trying to open the top manually, be VERY gentle when pushing the metal rods forward (the rods that are just forward of the tail lights).

 

[EdT]

The one I checked out on Wednesday (that didn't say in the ad that the top didn't work :evil had dangling bits at the front header so that was what was wrong there. Car was pretty beat up otherwise, so I'm not interested.


I have Tech II and CANdi. ;ol;


The $2500 car has someone going to look at it this afternoon. We'll see if it's still available this evening when I have the time to go look at it. Not the end of the world if it sells, anyway. Six speed manual sounds fun, though.

 

[Mimmi]

Obstacles issue could be just bad (or loosen) sensor in roof bag hinge.
I have met 1 convertible with this issue.

You can run sensor test with TECH2.

 

[EdT]

According to Tech II, problem is with switches in sixth bow. Short B+ to ground and some other things. I guess I should have taken a picture of the Tech II screen.



I purchased the car anyway.

 

[Mimmi]

6th bow sensor change requires canvas removal. It is NOT hard job, but you need to follow WIS. Use nose pliers and spray bottle filled with soap water. Rubber seals will go much easily when lubricated with soap water.

You need extra pair of hands or suitable support for 6 th bow.

You will need 2-3 hours for first time (last time I changed sensor in 28 mins).

 

[Mimmi]

If you come here, I will change sensor for free. You just need to buy new sensor(s).:lol:

 

[EdT]

You just want all Canadian convertibles in Finland.


I think shop might do it. I have to get the car safety certified anyway. That should be easy, it all looked pretty good. The outside is a bit rough, as the previous owner seemed to have some problems hitting things (or being hit). And hood was flipped open while driving, putting a bend around the wiper arms. It also seemed that the brake pedal moved a bit when I let out the clutch.



But, good thing, interior is nice, no buttons rubbed off. No warning lights, all ODB II sensors passed, and while doing all DTCs (F4) got about 18, I'm not sure how many are current, and they're for things like side marker light, headlight bulb.


Oh, car is a 2004 Aero six speed in steel grey. ;ol;

 

[Mimmi]

Yep. If you know 2007 lime, buy it for me.;oops:

If your local repair shop really can do change without making more damage, go ahead. Otherwise do it yourself.
Here in Finland we have only 2 places who can repair convertible top. One is KK-Autoteam and other...

Erase all DTCs and read them again, you will now see only current DTCs.

 

[Jim B]

...and while doing all DTCs (F4) got about 18, I'm not sure how many are current, and they're for things like side marker light...

Oh, car is a 2004 Aero six speed in steel grey. ;ol;

Mine is constantly telling me the circuit for the front right sidemarker light is open. There's nothing wrong with it that I can tell; the light works just fine. Stupid SAAB electrical systems....:nono; :roll:

Let's see some pictures! Gotta get that top working before the snow starts flying! ;ol;

 

[EdT]

Well, I heard some interesting stories I wish I'd heard earlier.

According to another local Saab specialist, 2004 convertibles have had recalls, and also the first bow cylinder seems to inevitably leak. He had one on his desk going back for a rebuild.

So the shop that I'm using determined that the first bow cylinder was leaking and the system was out of fluid, which may be the root cause of the problem with the top not working. Furthermore, I have seen at least one other 2004 convertible with a non-working top due to that cylinder.

Moral seems to be, approach 2004 convertibles with caution, and check for proper hydraulic level if the top is working. If it's not working, prepare to run away.

 

[EdT]

In fact, there was a customer satisfaction program N050078, "Updating the roof system (Saab 15440)". On my car's record it's marked "Closed Expired" which I guess means that the work wasn't done.

But there's a bunch of warranty work related to the top, including "Replace Hydraulic Lines" (I assume for the roof?), STC reprogramming, folding top cover replacement, fourth bow hinge trim, and RH centre roof weatherstrip.