2002 SAAB 9-5 Aero review from North America
"It is the best of times, the worst of times"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Valve in A/C unit.
Air bag sensor failure.
CD player.
SID - have had repaired 4 times.
Idler pulley - took out idler arm and serpentine belt in the process.
Throttle body.
Rain sensor (wipers)
Electric window on drivers side.
Fan contacts coroded (for heating A/C)
Alarm batteries (have to replace entire alarm)
Faile motor mount (took out oil pan).
General comments?
Of all the cars I've owned over the years, and there have been many, NOTHING has given me as much pleasure as my Saab 9-5 Aero. First Saab I've ever owned. Fun to drive, most comfortable seats ever, still greatlooking after 6 years (strangers stop and look at it in parking lots). Good fuel economy (avg 30 on Hwy).
The downside is that it has encountered more problems than any car I have owned - by far. One issue after the other. But, I am told, you keep it fixed and it will run nearly forever. Generates huge amounts of brake dust, I replaced the factory pads with ceramic pads and it went away.
To my surprise, I keep putting $ in it. Tried to trade it off a couple of times, each time I drive the next "great thing" from all the competitors and each time my wife and I look at each other and say: "I like the Saab better". We both have a passion for it.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Huge disapointment! I had always liked SAABS, but never again |
| It is an overrated, overly expensive, poorly built toy |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 4/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 6000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 78000 miles |
| Previous car | Chrysler Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd. |
| Date of Entry | 24th June, 2008 |