SAAB 9-3 Aero. Stalls at speed. Stalls randomly.

ANTONYE

MEMBER
2003 SAAB 9-3
130,000 MILES

The car stalls at speed randomly. Speed can be anything from crawling to 80mph. In addition sometimes it won't start after being left for a while whilst doing something.
On stalling all electrics - lights, speedo, rev counter, radio, lights work fine. Power steering is lost.
Currently I get out and disconnect and then reconnect the battery and it starts again and works OK until it stalls again which could be within a few yards or 20 miles.
The car will also start if left for an hour or so without disconnecting the battery.
On stalling the engine warning light (sometimes comes on. The light goes off when the battery has been disconnected/reconnected. Sometimes the engine warning light shows on starting but the car runs fine.
The error code is 0601, but my feeling is that these codes can be spurious.
Having surfed for days it appears that this is quite a common problem but I've not seen a verified fix. It appears that people are changing the "crank position sensor", the direct ignition thingy (lol), the ignition module, the ignition system, the fuel pump, the fuel tank, the ECM and just about anything at random.
I can't afford to change parts at random and have little faith in my local Saab dealer who wants a pound of flesh before they'll even book it in.
I'm thinking (only thinking) of installing an ignition button, or a battery disconnect/reconnect switch so I don't have to get out and disconnect the battery, but would love to know if there is a proper fix for this.
I love my car and want to make her better, LOL, please help.
Thanks
Ant

2 Replies

RIVERMIKERAT

MECHANIC
6,110 POSTS

9-3 or 9-5? My reference shows a 9-5 Aero and a 9-3 Arc. I don't see that code number anywhere. For either model. Take it to a shop that scans codes for free and see what sort of live data it gives.

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Saturday, October 8th, 2011 AT 1:19 AM

MNTHNY4

MECHANIC
612 POSTS

As per your code p0601, you need to replace the engine ECM module [engine control module] [computer], this module as a internal fault, which is non repairable, u can only replace with a good used module & a new unit, for used check [GOLDWING SAAB. COM ]CALL THEM, give them all the vehicle info & there will send u correct one for your vehicle, note u will need to take to dealer to have it programmed, good luck.