Faults:

Front pads and rotors.

Belt tensioner.

Rear and main muffler.

DI cassette, radiator.

A/C compressor.

One warped rim.

General Comments:

Outstanding; comfort, power and handling are all great.

Service can be simple, most I did myself. As a nearly 10 yr. old car - it still impresses me. I feel safe and not overwhelmed by gadgets.

This is the most intelligent car of its era. I loved it, as I do all my SAABs, since the 1964 Monte Carlo. I still drive a 68, 73, 74 Sonnett as well as a new 9-3. The 9-5 is great, and I will get a new 9-5 as soon as they are here!

Faults:

Catalytic converter replaced.

Timing belt replaced.

Windows come out of frames, can't roll them up/down.

Headlights every few months.

Brake or tail lights every few months.

Ignition.

Front seat frame broken.

Digital screen for radio/temperature/time etc; can't read messages.

There is very little that has not gone wrong with this car. I paid it off in the first year, but have been paying a fortune to maintain it ever since.

General Comments:

Do not buy one!!!

Faults:

I have read all of the complaints about the SID. After the second one failed, shortly after the warranty expired, SAAB agreed to replace it at no cost. They have finally figured out what was wrong with the part. Its been three years and no problems with the SID.

Ignition failed, but that was a recall.

Headlamps burn out too frequently, but it's an inexpensive and easy fix.

I have no engine sludge problems (yet) but change the oil every 3000 miles and now use synthetic.

Faults:

* Control arm bushings which were the most expensive bushing I have ever heard of. Most people are floored when I tell them how much they were $200 for one of two per side and $80 for the second of a side. This kind of pricing is the exception and not the rule... most other parts pricing are inline with other makes.

General Comments:

Car is silly powerful and quick. My particular sample will not blink as it spins both front tires (in sport mode) in poor conditions, despite traction control. Will out accelerate a Porsche 911 Carrera S4 (1998-2004) from 40mph to 80mph every time.

Few cars of any size afford this kind of comfort for any passenger anywhere inside.

Vehicle's handling is best described as unflappable. It simply cannot be upset. The car will slightly (relatively speaking) under-steer when pushed, but never does the back end try to come around. Very confidence inspiring, if not the sportiest feeling. I have the feeling for those seeking more excitement will probably end up in a 5 series or comparable benz.

The used pricing on these cars do not do the quality of the package or every one of its components justice. These things are just ridiculously cheap used.

Insurance is cheap.

All 9-5 models have side airbags. A rarity for 1997 year model cars.

Faults:

Replaced left-front wheel bearing at no cost at 46,500 miles; sunroof repaired at 61,000 miles at no cost.

General Comments:

A very solid car; smooth and powerful.

This car is the most maneuverable car I've owned (it'll turn on a dime and give you nine cents change). Fantastic!

Engine is smooth and powerful, but not overly so. It's a nice balance.

The "odd" window lift switches and the ignition are in the center console. When you think about it, this is quite sensible!

The seats are very comfortable.

The back can carry much more than you'd think.