Date: 2008-08-28
General Motors
, LLC
NHTSA Action Number: PE08051
Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
Subject:
FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURE
Opened From: 2008-08-28 - 2008-12-23
Summary
ON AUGUST 28, 2008, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE08-051) TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED FRONT SUSPENSION COIL SPRING FRACTURES IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003-2004 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES SOLD OR REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES.(NOTE: FOR PURPOSES OF THIS INVESTIGATION, THE SALT BELT INCLUDES CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA AND WISCONSIN).SUBSEQUENT ANALYSIS OF DATA PROVIDED BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP. (GM) HAS LED THE AGENCY TO EXPAND THE SCOPE OF THIS INVESTIGATION TO INCLUDE ALL MY 2003-2006 SAAB 9-3 VEHICLES SOLD OR REGISTERED IN SALT BELT STATES. TO DATE, ODI IS AWARE OF 53 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS AND/OR FIELD REPORTS THAT ALLEGE COIL SPRING FRACTURE IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES, INCLUDING 23 ALLEGING THE FRACTURED SPRING DAMAGED A TIRE, WITH 16 OF THOSE INVOLVING A TIRE PUNCTURE.ANALYSIS OF WARRANTY DATA PROVIDED BY GM IDENTIFIED 1,218 CLAIMS PAID TO REPAIR SUBJECT VEHICLES THAT EXPERIENCED THE ALLEGED DEFECT, OF WHICH 138 VEHICLES ALSO SUFFERED DAMAGE TO THE ADJACENT TIRE AND OF THOSE, 79 VEHICLES EXPERIENCED A TIRE PUNCTURE.ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY CRASHES OR INJURIES RELATED TO THE ALLEGED DEFECT. GM MADE SEVERAL DESIGN CHANGES TO THE COIL SPRINGS AND/OR MCPHERSON STRUT ASSEMBLIES USED IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES IN AN APPARENT EFFORT TO ADDRESS THE ALLEGED DEFECT CONDITION.HOWEVER, GM MAINTAINS THAT THE SUBJECT VEHICLES REMAIN WELL CONTROLLED IN THE EVENT OF TIRE PUNCTURE, THAT THE RATE OF TIRE PUNCTURE INCIDENTS RELATED TO COIL SPRING FRACTURES IS LOW, AND THAT THE ALLEGED DEFECT DOES NOT POSE AN UNREASONABLE RISK TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA08-026) TO FURTHER STUDY THE SAFETY CONSEQUENCES OF THE ALLEGED DEFECT.
Investigation Documents
For Latest Documents related to this Investigation, visit the NHTSA Website.
Click the (+) Plus Sign
Then click Associated Document(s).
- 【Perfect Emergency Repair Solution】This kit includes...
- 【Premium Materials for Safe Repairs】Our tire screw plugs...
- 【2 Sizes for Every Puncture】Choose the right size for...
- 【5-Minute DIY Repair】Skip the auto shop and fix flats...
- 【Emergency-Ready Design】Compact & ready for...
Last update on 2026-06-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Search NHTSA Database for Recalls
Search NHTSA Database for (TSB's) Technical Service Bulletins
Technical Service Bulletins TSB's List
Previous Investigation | Next Investigation |
- [2026 Top-Tier Hardware and Software Upgrade]: Topdon ArtiDiag900 Lite scanner has enhanced hardware and latest features, including Android 11.0, 5x faster CPU, 10000mAh battery for 12 hours of continuous operation, stable wireless diagnosis with Bluetooth 5.0, 8-inch touchscreen. Added bi-directional control, wireless diagnosis, battery testing (optional), and DTC repair guide
- [TOPDON Bidirectional Scan Tool]: This bidirectional obd2 scanner sends commands to the vehicle's ECU for active testing, enabling users to accurately and quickly locate faulty components such as injectors, coolant pumps, windows, wipers, headlights, mirrors, etc. The bidirectional control scanner is the ideal choice for workshops/automotive repair shops as it significantly reduces mechanic's diagnostic time.
- [Wireless Bluetooth Diagnostic Experience]: The AD900 Lite scan tool comes with a Bluetooth 5.0 VCI, supporting a wireless diagnostic range of up to 33 feet (10 meters), allowing you to diagnose without being confined to cables or tight spaces. Stable and fast wireless diagnosis provides a comfortable repair environment. It also offers VCI cables to increase connectivity options.
- [DTC Repair Guide Function]: Easily diagnose issues with your vehicle and receive guidance on repairs with the topdon scan tool's fault code definitions for all systems,maximize your diagnostic capabilities. This function is compatible with Chrysler
/Dodge/Jeep/Fiat 2010-2014 and expanding with continual updates,the AritDiag 900 Lite car diagnostic scanner is the must-have tool for any technician or DIY enthusiast. - [OE-Level Full System Diagnostics]:AritDiag900 Lite full system diagnostic scanner can scan ALL available modules(Engine, Transmission, Airbag, ABS, ESP, TPMS, Gateway, Steering, Radio, Air conditioning, ect.) to✔read ECU info, ✔read/clear codes, ✔view live data stream, ✔retrieves freeze-frame, ✔perform active tests, and more. With just a simple click, it provides you with accurate and in-depth diagnostics.
- Bi-Directional Control, Quickly Locate Problems: Turn your phone into a professional diagnostic tool. You can send commands from your phone to the ECU to test injectors, cooling fans, headlights, A/C clutch, windows, wipers, and more. See which one doesn't respond. Helps you quickly locate the problem and save time. No need to tear things apart, avoid blind disassembly.
- Flexible Subscription, Choose Advanced Features as Needed: TopScan Lite provides free-for-life access to core diagnostics, including full system scan, code reading, performance tests, and repair information. After purchase, advanced features (bi-directional control, service operations, live data, code clearing, and AI functions) are free-for-the-first-year. After the first year, if you want to use advanced features, you need to subscribe on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis. As new models and reset functions are updated, the tool will also be continuously upgraded.
- Full System Diagnostics, No Fault Hides: Unlike basic diagnostic tools that only cover 4 systems, TopScan can scan all systems. Read and clear trouble codes, view live data streams, and generate a complete vehicle health report – all issues are clear at a glance. Covers 10,000+ vehicle models and is compatible with 99.99% of vehicles.
- AI Assistant - TopFix: Think of TopFix as your personal AI mechanic. It leverages a repair database and OEM data to deliver clear, step-by-step repair solutions. Features include AI Q&A, one-click translation, and a full repair log, making your diagnostic process simpler and more efficient.
- 8+ Hot Resets, Keep Your Car in Top Shape: One-tap resets for oil, throttle, EPB, steering angle, DPF, ABS, BMS, and airbag. It enables car owners to easily perform essential maintenance, ensuring the vehicle stays in optimal condition and extends its service life.
- Dual WiFi & 10.1" Touchscreen: Provides a stable, high-speed wireless link 3x faster than bluetooth, and a responsive, professional interface. Topdon ONE obd2 scanner diagnostic tool ensures smooth, non-lagging diagnostic scan, boosting mechanic efficiency
- J2534 Pass-Thru Support: The included ONE VCI supports the J2534 standard, allowing it to function as a pass-thru device when paired with OEM diagnostic software.Through TOPDON’s RLink platform, technicians can perform dealer-level coding, expanding in-house capabilities without investing in multiple factory automotive scan tools
- OE Topology Mapping: Visualize the vehicle’s ECU network exactly as it’s built.Zoom, pan, and highlight specific modules to pinpoint component issues with precision.Topology mapping displays real-time communication between modules
- 50 Plus Service Functions: Covers high-demand services like ADAS calibration, DPF regen, TPMS reset, ABS bleed, and throttle adaptation.Expands your service menu, allows you to charge premium rates, and turns away zero jobs due to lack of tooling. Vehicle-specific functionality may vary
- Advaned ECU Coding: 10 of the most serviced brands in North America, including full ECU coding and flash hidden support for BMW, VW, Au-di, Benz, Porsche, Toyota, Ni ssan and more. Enables module replacement, feature customization, and personal settings with automatic backup or restore.Lets your shop safely offer high-margin customization services, attracting more customers and boosting profit
Last update on 2026-06-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.