1999 SAAB 9-5 SE review from North America
"Fun car - nightmare repairs"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
It's been a journey...let's see - information display conked out at 50K, two batteries died without warning, relay switch failed - drained battery, driver's seat heater failed (important in Alaska, where I live!), "mystery" problem kept switching the car off even at highway speeds - eventually found out it was a faulty overheating sensor, sunroof leaked, and now I had to have it towed into the shop this morning for what has been diagnosed as a failed throttle body - another $2500 repair.
General comments?
The car is a joy to drive, when everything is working properly. I love the acceleration, handling, and all of the interior creature comforts.
It handles the Alaska cold weather well, and is very surefooted on snow and icy roads. The car heats up quickly inside, and the seat heaters are wonderful. Seats are really comfortable, and I like the "cockpit" feel of the driver's area.
Hate to think I may have to break down and buy a Subaru like everyone else up here, but I simply can't continue to pay for repairs or -worse- have a car that threatens to strand me in the cold.
Recommended reviews
| Stay away from this car |
|
| A comfortable wagon that drives like a rocket, but in fact is a major LEMON |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.4 turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 3 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 12 miles |
| Most recent distance | 163000 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 740 |
| Date of Entry | 15th August, 2007 |