1999 SAAB 9-5 Reviews - Page 7 of 9

This is the most unreliable piece of junk. So far seat heater has broken (1500), fuel pump replaced (800), modulator replaced (800), oil pressure switch replaced (600), light bulbs always need replacing and the headlights go in and out of power, Yes, there is the stutter when accelerating. Horrible reliability. Thank God for AAA.

It was a better car before GM made it a piece of junk when they bought the company.

Climate control display numbers spotty.

Air conditioning smells for first ten minutes every use.

Seat adjustment buttons stick.

Brakes rotors require replacement every other pad replacement.

Number four cylinder blown at 82k.

Suspect turbo ceased to function around 82k.

Car feels and drives well.

Comfortable and civilized overall.

Relatively serious rear end collision at 76k miles did not affect straightness or function of overall chassis.

Excellent looking vehicle.

Purchased used from dealer and seemed like a lot of car for the money.

Engine replacement required at 82k miles seems premature. Dealer states that oil sludging not an issue, but would not specify cause of catastrophic engine failure. Have been hearing rumors that this is not an uncommon problem with this model. Is there any class action/legal activity associated with these failures?

Turbo blew at 68,000 miles. They suspect an oil sludge problem.

Have to replace the front & rear bulbs and relays constantly.

This car handles well, but it has been a nightmare in the past 2 years. In the past six months alone I have spent $4,000 to replace everything you can think of including a turbo.

After doing some research, I discovered that this model may have oil sludge problems, but I am not the first owner, so have heard Saab will not help out. If they would make due, I would probably remain loyal and purchase another Saab.

The electrical systems are awful with lights burning out nonstop or not working properly.

All within the last 12000 miles:

Air Conditioning intake seal failed - sucking water into the car, cooling it and spraying it out via the cabin vents onto me and my passengers!! Quick fix @ Saab dealer - £100.

V Poly belt seized, taking several pulleys with it. £300.

SID info panel very hard to read - I'm told a common problem.

Constant overheating in traffic - have to put the heat on full to ensure it doesn't boil over.

Turbo gasket blew.

Turbo charger is about to blow

Drive chains are about to break

...time to get rid!!

Considering the size of the car, it is remarkably quick - but fuel consumption is horrendous - 17mpg on a good day!

Even though I have had the above faults, I am not "annoyed" at saab nor the car- it is nearly 7 years old - what do you expect?!

Nice car to be seen in - paintwork is great, leather seats are very comfortable. I will miss it when it has gone.