61k mile auto gearbox failure on 2002 93

[Tranchet]

Hi, looks like a lively forum.

Loved Saabs for years and just under 2 years ago bought a 52 plate 93 2.0t SE Auto with 55,000 miles from Just Saab in Farnborough. FMDSH, 1 owner and did all usual checks etc & was very happy - proud even - very quick, great toys, good looking car.

At 61,000 miles suddenly lost drive in 2nd gear - 1st and reverse fine. Local garage quoted £2,000 +VAT for reconditioned gearbox. Had other quotes between £1,000 and £2,000, but have left the car on the drive for 6 months now as could manage without it so couldn't justify the expense - especially as the car is only worth about £2,000 (according to various online valuations!).

I now need to put it back on the road. Since every garage I speak to will have to take the gearbox out before assessing the problem, I will incur cost just to find out how much it will cost to fix. Does anyone have any thoughts on what the problem might be, so I can give mechanics a heads-up? Are problems common on auto boxes of this age? Can anyone recommend an independent specialist in Hampshire who knows what he's doing and won't charge the earth to at least find out what the problem is?

Woudl be very grateful for any thoughts or assistance. This experience hasn't put me of Saabs, at only 61,000 miles, they don't seem as mechanically robust as I had hoped!

Thanks in advance.

[julianm]

Have a go at a post on uksaabs or saabcentral - there is an auto gearbox guru on there sometimes, but unless it`s a simple seal job which might get solved without engine/box removal it`s an arm & a leg I`m afraid.

[Tranchet]

Thank you Julianm. Simon of Simon's Saabs near Basingstoke/Newbury is going to have a look at the car later in the week and let me know what he thinks!