I don't have an owners manual and my 2000 saab 9-3 tries to start but won't. Trying to save a tow bill.where's the starter. someone said u can tap on it.

Ok, those systems might still work because the not require as much energy as the starter. Check the Battery Voltage with a good Voltmeter. If below 12, there might be your problem!

The click you are hearing is most likely the start slenoid making contact, however you should short the large wires @ the solenoid to make certain the starter still doesn't run, if so try tapping the starter with a hammer to shift the comutator a litle and try to start. Even if it now starts the starter will continue to give you problems so the proper fix is change the starter

Sort of sounds like the timing belt broke-- if you have one

The valves may have hit the pistons & that is why it won't turn over

I don't know any of that is true & won't wish it on anyone,but
it is a place to start

check your starter make sure its good take all spark plugs off and turn engine by hand if it turns easy go to starter

This is a common sympton of a starter motor going bad. The "clicking" will progressively get worse and eventually it will not start at all. Save yourself the expense of a tow by addressing
problem now while the car still starts. Before you try this quick tip, locate the starter and make sure it's safe and easily accessable. Then next time it's just "clicking", have someone tap on the starter lightly with a small bar or wrench while you hold the key in the "start" position. If it starts when they tap on it, that would confirm a failing starter. Make sure to tap on the metal body of the starter, not the plastic solonoid parts. Depending on your engine, the starter should be located on the lower
right hand side of the engine near the firewall. Hope this helps you.

Sounds like your starter motor is bad. Is the starter motor spinning?

check solenoid and or key switch... try jumping out key switch and solenoid by bypassing with a remote starter button, can buy a cheap one at kragens or autozone... tap with prybar or hammer handle on starter as someone else operates key switch...

Poor connection, bad cable & or faulty starter. Remove battery cables at battery & check for tight, good connection at starter, & tighten if necessary, or replace cable if worn out or damaged, then reconnect battery & try it. Spray penetrating lube on nuts before trying to loosen or tighten. Is there a heat shield missing that should be protecting that area by chance?

clarify me(my home languege is not english),starter is not turning(work)!?and you have a good battery so the TWICE(imobiliser) is the problem!
But if the starter turns,can be crankshaft sensor,fuel pump,fuel pump relay.
Connecting the TECH2 is the best to start diagnostic

I have a 2002 Saab 9-5 Aero and the owner's manual states it should be done at the 60,000 check up.