Can I replace the head unit in a 2004 saab 9-3 ? I've heard you can't because to car won't accept any other radios in it . I'm looking to replace it with a touch screen head unit .

you should be just fine putting a new radio in at best buy they can do it just fine

I've had this happen before too... TRY removing the battery cable (Negative Side only)... and leave it off for ~60seconds.. then reconnect.

Try starting the card and using the A/C and see if it's restored. I had similar issue when my battery was failing, and that fixed it. I hope it does for you.

FYI, IIRC 10 or 12mm wrench will do the job.

Check for a bad switch in the door.
Water leaking from the rag top-door seal joint often drains into the switch, causing a short or bad contact eventually.

No. Unplug the radio fuse to keep it from back feeding through car. Then take radio in for repair when you have time.

The code is not on the radio, but the radio serial number is and that is what you will need to get the code for your radio. Just call the saab dealership in your area and ask for the parts department. Tell them that you need the radio code and give them the serial number of your radio. They can look up the code for your radio using that number and give it to you. I had the same problem and the parts department gave me my radio code at no charge.

Joe in San Antonio

If you have the manual for that particular radio it should have a function of one or more buttons to be pressed simultaneously in order to "re-boot" so to speak.
But, how exactly did you get it out, you just as well might have damage the player, then I suggested you go to a auto lec

yes it is in the left side qtr panel behind the qtr trim...

sit in the back seat behind the drivers seat and its right there on your left...behind the trim... kinda a ***** to get to.. but if you get it out.. you can get a replacement from
Elite foreign auto used saabs parts

Most likely is the Amp under the driver seat... they Fry and then the radio wont even turn on at all... its most likely not the radio it self...

Elite foreign auto parts has only saab parts.. tested and used,

Disconnect the negative terminal on your battery and reconnect after 10 seocnds. That should reset the radio and you can enter the code.

Do any of the system sounds in your vehicle work - e.g warning gong, direction indicator noise - if they don't then there may be a problem with the amplifier (located under front seat on left hand side of vehicle). The whole system works on fibre optic communication between the head unit and the amp. This could be an expensive job if the amp has blown (it can be vulnerable to damp under the seat - what were SAAB thinking of when positioning it here ?

If the CD doesn't play either - does it eject and load OK though ? this could point to a fuse or relay failure rather than the amp. Check the relevant fuses/ relays in the car - refer to owner's manual for the relevant locations.