QuestionHello, I am having issues with my Saab and due to job loss I can't afford to take it in to the shop yet. My car months back wouldn't go into gear sometimes so I have to use that button next to park in order to get it to go into gear sometimes. Now, sometimes the key will turn, you can move the gear shift from park but it will not crank, turn over etc. radio, lights etc all work so there are not electrical power issues. Then after turning a few times or waiting and tying again..you can start it up just fine and it runs great!....My panic is what if it is a time bomb and I am going to get stuck or is it something simple? I will say that I have spilled MANY cups of coffee right down that console..so is it that? Or have you seen/hear of this before? any help is very much appreciated.
AnswerKathey:
It sounds like you have a failing "neutral safety switch/gearlever position sensor". I guessed your 9-3 as a 2000, and determined that although the installation is straightforward, the part is pricey ($377 from www. rockauto.com, Airtex p/n 1S7023).
If, in fact, the problem is due to "coffee contamination", if you had a thoughtful and clever mechanic to depend on, perhaps it could be cleaned out and thus restored. Also, if $$ is a big consideration, consider going to a local automobile recycling yard and getting a used one. It is NOT something that usually "wears out" so a used one could be reliable.
Since, as noted in my profile, since I've not actual hands-on experience with your vehicle, the above is only a general answer, but I hope it is hopeful.
Jerry
