2007 9-3 Convertible 1.9 TID Vector front coil spring

[Peterhf]

Hi,

Am trying to identify what springs I need for the front of my 93 convertible. First part of bottom line of Vin is 52-5-4-1-66. DOes anyone know how to translate these into a part number?

Many thanks

[sgould]

Welcome!

Yes.  There is a Saab EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue).  It can be downloaded from various sites on the web including www.saabcentral.com  You can also get the Saab WIS (workshop information system) the workshop manual

But the info you have given shows...

Front spring - Code 52 - Pt No. 93190624  Saab kit includes 2 springs because springs should be replaced in pairs.
Rear spring - Code 5 - Pt No. 12790054
Front anti-roll bar - Code 4 - Pt No. 13204074
Rear anti-roll bar - Code 1 - Pt No. 24457382
Front strut - Code 66 - Pt No. 93190622
Rear damper - Code???


You could also consider replacing all the springs with a set of Eibach pro-Kit ones.  A bit lower, but much nicer.

[Peterhf]

Thanks for the recommendation I've only just bought the car (with broken springs!),  is there anything else that you think I could/should be changing to make the car ride/handle better whilst  I'm changing the springs?

[sgould]

It's normal to replace the front drop links. The ball joints become worn and rattle on bumps.  I think most people replace with heavy duty ones like this

https://www.partsforsaabs.com/product_info.php?cPath=2_359&products_id=5325


There has been a bit of discussion about Eibach springs for a convertible.  I'm not sure that they are listed for the convertible, that car is heavier at the back than a standard saloon, many people find that the rear springs from the 5 door estate work well.  They go best with Bilstein B8 shock absorbers.

Try Martin at www.jamsaab.co.uk for a Bilstein "B12" kit which is the B8 struts and dampers and the Eibach springs, all as a set.

[Peterhf]

If I fit lowering springs, do I have to change the dampers as well, or can I continue to use the existing ones?

Also - and forgive me if this offends! - but whats the difference between expensive springs and the sort of thing I see for £25 a pair on ebay (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Saab-9-3-YS3F-1-9-2-0-2002-2015-Front-Coil-Springs-Pair-OE-93190614/372222398934?hash=item56aa2f11d6:g:1bUAAOSwFMdaewlN:rk:1:pf:0)?

[sgould]

I fitted Eibach springs to the 9-3 Vector saloon.  But that came with the sport suspension and the springs were sold by the Saab official tuning house, Hirsch, for use with sport suspension.  Later, that restriction was removed, but you may find that, especially on a higher mileage car, that the dampers are a bit worn and need replacing anyway.

I can't comment on cheap springs, I think it could be pot luck.  With modern springs on all cars having a reputation for breaking, I would go for the Eibach.  The ones from the German version of eBay are often cheaper.  www.ebay.de