Saab Buyers Guide

Intro
Saab 9-5
Saab 900 1994-1998 and Saab 9-3
Saab 9000
Saab 900 1979-1993

Intro

Saabs cars are very dependable long lasting cars. But just like any other car Saabs also have their weak points. So we have compiled a list of Saab's strong and weak points. If you have any comments on this guide please e-mail us.

It is very important to get your Saab serviced with regular maintenance.

Saab 9-5

Things to watch out for
Saab may have to recall all of the 9-5s produced from 1997-1999 because of rust in the electric control box. The cost for replacing this should be picked up by Saab since it was a defect in manufacturing. The early 9-5s has also had problems with the ACC and radio displays these should also be picked up by Saab.

Strong points for the 9-5
If you do regular services on your 9-5 it has the capability to last very long, it is the best built Saab car made so far. The Saab 4 cylinder 16 valve engines has always been a long lasting engine. This Saab automobile is very high quality and with regular maintenance should last for a long time.

All Saab Parts rating - *****

Saab 900 1994-1998 and Saab 9-3

Things to watch out for
This model has had a number of problems in the early years from 94-95. Many of the problems cars from those years has been to service and been fixed. But if you want to be absolutely certain to not encounter any problems, our suggestion is to buy a 96 to 98 model. Some examples on problems that the early 900 had as suspension problems, 1995 to 1997 900 Saab convertibles could have problems with the top and could be expensive. The 9-3 convertible have a new top so the 9-3 is free from those problems. The big downfall of the Saab 900 is the automatic transmissions. They are not very durable, and are very expensive to fix and or replace. Buying a used transmission is not recommended.

Strong points
Saabs 900 4 cylinder 16 valve engines have always been long lasting engines. The Saab 900 turbo charged engines are mainly the same, but it is recommend that turbo approved oil be used. Also the oil should be changed every 3000 miles. This will help insure the turbo charger will have a longer life.

All Saab Parts rating - ****

Saab 9000

Things to watch out for
Automatic transmission before 1989. Saabs manual gearboxes could encounter problems also. Rust is a big problem especially in the doors of the older 9000, especially in states where there is a lot of salt on the road in winter time. (The CS model has galvanized steel at the bottom of the doors which should not encounter any rust problems.)

Strong points
Saabs 4 cylinder 16 valve engines have always been long lasting engines. Water pump, power steering, suspension, ABS system, Front/rear brake components, Airbag, ACC system, and the turbo charger all are very good quality parts.

All Saab Parts rating - ****

Saab 900 1979-1993

Things to watch out for
Rust could be a big problem with the oldest 900's. Especially if you live near the shore, where the salt air will speed up the rusting process. The manual and automatic transmissions are not that reliable and are very expensive to repair.

Strong points
Saabs 4 cylinder 16 valve engines have always been long lasting engines. This is probably the strongest point on a Saab car. They are also very good in the snow, being front wheel drive and having very good weight distribution.

All Saab Parts rating - ***