Saab 9-3 SE: Ticking noise
 

I have a 2002 9-3 with 52,500 original miles. The car always ran great and I never had an issue with oil leakage or burning until about 2,000 miles ago. On a 30 minute commute to work the engine started ticking and when I got to a service station it was almost 2 quarts low on oil.

A local (non Saab) repair shop flushed the engine, added an oil additive and checked the timing chain tensioner. They also pulled the head gasket and and there was no evidence of sludge. This did not correct the problem and I still have a loud ticking noise at idle and while driving. They believe it is a scored wrist pin and want to replace the engine at a cost of $4,500. The engine still has good power and I have not noticed any oil leakage or burning since.

Is this a common problem? Can anyone recommend a good Saab repair shop in Connecticut?