1996 SAAB 9000 Aero 2.3 turbo

Summary:

Amazing vehicle

Faults:

Engine mounts - common problem - easily replaced.

A/C compressor making noise - disabled using a shorter belt.

Rear brake pads.

General Comments:

This car was well taken care of by previous owners and has proved to be a great, reliable daily driver. I've taken on several long trips - Erie to Chicago, etc. with no issues.

Averages 28 MPG on my daily drive of mixed driving, which usually includes several incursions into the upper RPM range. The car is fun to drive. The biggest complaint I have with the car is the weak transmission - it prevents fully exercising that great engine / turbo combination. The trans in my car is in great shape, but I rarely horse it.

It is a great car, but am considering updating to something newer - however I may regret that choice if I make it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th April, 2013

1996 SAAB 9000 CSE 2.3 turbo

Summary:

The best blend of performance, reliability and practicality

Faults:

The only things to go wrong with the car have been: fuel pump (replaced twice due to defective parts), water pump, turbo vacuum valve, and two tires.

General Comments:

This car is extremely easy to work on if you are mechanically inclined. I have done all the repairs myself. Being that the car is now 13 years old, parts are readily available in junk yards for next to nothing.

This car is quite comfortable and handles nicely. It offers good fuel economy (26.2 average mpg over all).

The turbo is responsive and allows you to overtake people when passing with ease. I was never a fan of Saabs until I bought this one as a back-up. I have since sold my 2000 Volkswagen Jetta and use the Saab full-time. I also just recently purchased a 1997 Saab 9000 Aero with a 5-speed manual.

This car completely changed my perception of Saab! I would highly recommend this car to any one.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 20th September, 2009

1996 SAAB 9000 CSE 2.3

Summary:

This is an extraordinary piece of machinery - a technological masterpiece

Faults:

Power door locks are inconsistent.

General Comments:

The car is seriously quick and handles like it's on rails (truly exactly what I wanted to express)

Reliability and comfort are outstanding.

Winter handling with all weather tires has been great.

Climate control system works flawlessly.

Wonderful sound system - Harmon Kardon.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd January, 2009

1996 SAAB 9000 CSE 2.3 turbo

Summary:

A HUGE disappointment!

Faults:

The engine seized up with no warning.

There were numerous problems with the cooling system which went without any warning.

I meticulously took care of the car, continuing to return the car to the dealer for its service intervals.

In addition there have been several other problems with the transmission and drivetrain.

In the past 6 months it has cost me over $4000 to repair and it is still having problems.

General Comments:

After having owned a Saab 900 for ten years with almost 200,000 miles, the 9000 has been disappointing to say the least. After 60,000 miles it has gone into self-distruct mode. I am now in the process of trading it in for an Audi A6. Goodbye Saab.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 30th August, 2000

2nd Jan 2001, 11:50

Agree with your review. I purchased my 9000 less than two months ago and it only has only 25,000 miles on it.

HOWEVER, I have replaced the battery, all four tires, several blown fuses, and now I have found out that the fuel injector wiring harness must be replaced to a tune of $1000 PLUS labor!!!

1996 SAAB 9000 CSE 2.3 turbo

Summary:

A pleasure to own and drive, my favorite car on the road

Faults:

Power seat failure, crankshaft pulley, ECS computer, direct ignition system, head gasket, and a few bulbs, switches etc.

General Comments:

I fell in love with the 9000 when I drove a friends 9000 Aero. So I had to get one for myself before they were all gone!! The car has been wonderful. It's the kind of vehicle that is rewarding to the driver. The best decision I made was to purchase a 3yr 36000 mile bumper to bumper warranty on this car, it has easily paid for itself. I just am not sure if I will keep the car once the warranty is up. SAABs are extreeeeeeeemmmlyy expensive to operate. It's not as much the sticker price, as it is the intangible costs, especially the service interval$$$. If you are looking for a excellent automobile, one that you will never mistake for anything else you have driven, then a SAAB may be the perfect car for you.. but you must be prepared to maintain this highly sensitive automobile.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th June, 2000

1996 SAAB 9000 CS 2.3 LPT

Faults:

Power windows, strut bearings, computer management systems (engine), alternator, harmonic balancer, belt tensioner, motor mounts.

General Comments:

Distinctive car with a very nice & large interior. Handles well & has great seats as well as a large hatch for huge cargo capabilities. This car is one of the safest on the road & the engine is a real gem.

Bottom line: finicky car that needs a lot of TLC.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 25th November, 1999