2002 9-3 Aero Towbar

[Colinski2]

I've just returned from the Saab dealership on the hunt for a Saab towbar, I couldn't believe that there isn't one available that doesn't require the lower edge of the bumper to be cut out, I think it's very poor. My mission should I accept it, is to make my own, Watch this space.

[Colinski2]

Whoops!, should have said that my Saab is a 2002 9-3 Aero Converible.

[Prof Beard]

Why would you want to tow things with an Aero?

[Piglet]

Yep, my 2.2 TDI SE had to have a chunk taken out of the bumper.

On the upside if you have a towbar it does protect the back of the car when someone runs in the back of you! Result - one undamaged Saab, one bent Honda Jazz

[Colinski2]

The main reson for the towbar is to mount a bike rack, the family all miss going out somewhere nice to cycle.

[Piglet]

Doesn't solve your tow bar problem but I'd recommend these folk http://www.maxxraxx.co.uk/

Very strong, robust and easy to use - does what it says on the tin with good customer care.

[Rocket Pepper]

I'm not sure where the 9-3 is concerned, but I've a suspicion your Saab dealer has told you wrong.

I had a 99 9-5 Aero estate in yesterday, with tow bar fitted, and it did not have a cut out in the bumper cover. Tow bar went underneath it. Can't imagine Saab would go to all that trouble for the 9-5 but not the 9-3.

[BIG DUNC]

When I fiited a tow bar to my 9-3 I did have to cut the rear bumper. However, you only need to take a small amount of ( 20-30mm from memory ), and you hardly notice it.
The only time it would be noticed is if you then removed the tow bar.

[Rocket Pepper]

I was referring to gen Saab. Not aftermarket, which I believe would not go to all the trouble of making a special fit for Aero style bumper covers. They'd supply/fit a standard tow bar for the model and cut the bumper cover accordingly. You pays your price!

[BIG DUNC]

I got mine from someone on here who was breaking a car. No idea whether Saab or aftermarket.

Like you say, you get what you pay for.