Some additional cosmetics for the Saab 9-3 Aero
It overwinters in a dry hall from November to early April. During this time, the withdrawal symptoms increase, and the closer April gets, the more often I visit him. There wasn't much to do last winter; since we upgraded our 2001 Saab 9-3 Aero with a Steering Rack Clamp and subframe, it drives like we've come to expect from a Saab Turbo.
So there was time for cosmetic little things that are not absolutely necessary, but which are fun and make the handling of the 9-3 more pleasant.
The Saab door handle problem
Have you noticed that the door handle thing runs through the Saab model history? The pull handle in the interior was often a problem and did not match the price range and quality of the vehicles. It started with the Saab 900, which was originally a Saab 99. The door handle was designed in the 60s and then survived 25 years in high-end, high-performance automobiles into the 90s - although in the end it would have fit better in a Lada. Saab took this as a model in the 900 NG and 9-3 OG. Poor fit, under-deburred, mismatched with the rest of the vehicle which has real leather door panels on the aero versions - but a cheap door handle.
Things didn't get any better in the Saab 9-3 NG. It stayed cheap and unloving. But you could do it differently. In the Saab 9000, in the 9-5, with the exception of the chrome glasses. Since Saab reactivated a supplier in the former CIS countries and was able to fall back on proven Soviet quality.
Why was that? Incomprehensible, because normally one had a knack for good design. The handles are a constant nuisance that can come loose. In winter, the upper shells of the door handles of the Saab 9-3 Aero were made by my upholsterer (Link) reupholstered. The result is perfect, the handles are now comfortable in the hand. Apart from the tolerances that still exist, the 9-3 finally has the handles it deserves. It only took 15 years...
And because the result is so convincing, we're considering whether it wouldn't be possible to have a small edition of leather door handles produced for the 900 NG and 9-3 OG. In cooperation with a partner who would take over the distribution, because the blog is just a blog. No parts dealer. Updates on this topic will follow.
Saab door sills for the 9-3 OG
Orio AB has parts in stock that we don't know about; the sill protection for the Saab 900 NG and 9-3 OG is one of them. The sill of our Eros had an unsightly quirk on the driver's side, which was professionally repaired in winter. In order to protect the sheet metal in the future, we have resorted to protective strips from the range of accessories.
The plastic strips are still available and although they have been in stock in Nyköping for many years, they are still adhesive. Astonishing! The result is pleasing, the strips look good, the rocker panel has its protection for years to come.
The Saab item number 400 105 532 always comes with a set consisting of 4 parts. It is suitable for coupe, sedan and cabriolet, adhesive instructions are included. The pricing on the market is very different, the Saab partner names the current price.
Update: The door sills for the Saab 9-3 OG and 900 NG are no longer available.
Of course I meant: A dream of a Saab 9-3 Aero !!!
So on leather door handles, I would be very interested. If possible, they should also be available in beige. The original wooden insert on my 9-3 I Limited Edition Convertible has suffered a bit over the years. I think the dark wood does not really fit well with the light leather interior. Has anyone ever tried to swap the wood for a light leather from the saddler?
Great idea with the leather door handle! I'm looking for quite some time the leather door panels of the Aero (believe in 93 SE from 2002 they were also series) to retrofit my 93 SE 2001 convertible. I could not find these with the usual offerers. Does anyone have a tip?
A beautiful SAAB, timeless and elegant. Nice that he is in such good hands!
I think I am asking about the chassis measures in Bamberg. I've wanted to try that for years ... Definitely a beautiful car, the silver one!
Cool. Did you come across it by chance (protective strip)? I also often ask myself what other original accessories are available in Sweden for the 9-5. Would be great if there were such an accessory campaign again ...
Pure coincidence. I suppose there are a lot more delicious things in Nyköping. You should be able to walk through the corridors ...
Yes…. unless they have the items stored according to the Amazon system 😉 Direct online access to the inventory in Nyköping for every Saab driver, that's it ...
A dream of a Saab 9-3 I Aero. He is in good hands with you !!! All the better, if such parts are still available at Orio AB and hopefully for quite a long time.
Please don't forget the “chrome glasses” on the door handles! I would be happy if I didn't have to worry about the lousy feel and look of my door handle anymore ...
Interesting, thanks Tom.
It's really good that you mention the possibilities of using “unimagined” accessories and spare parts, sometimes for little money, effectively and increasing value and joy.
Did you describe the measures for your 9-3 somewhere? I have also on the youngtimer side only a short article and model description, but no real details (what you can do, such as in your article here, found.
Thank you
There have been several articles about 9-3 Aero, he has been 4 years with us. The stories are on our Youngtimer blog, which we still keep online, but currently do not feed with new articles.
Here is an article about Hirsch LLK.
The "Steering - Rack - Clamp"
New glasses for the headlights.
Again cosmetics for the 9-3.
The subframe.
Work on the body and rust protection.
The engine overhaul.