1998 SAAB 9-5 V6 review from North America
"More costly than it's worth"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This list does not capture even half of what I've done to the car - just the things I can think of off the top of my head.
Head gasket blew at 98000 miles
Transmission failed at 97000 miles
Some sensor - I can't remember the name, but the car stopped working altogether because this sensor went out and it cost almost $1000 to fix everything at the dealer
Battery failed at 80,000 miles
SID doesn't work
Tie rods replaced.
General comments?
I love this car and I hate it. I feel like I've been slowly replacing every singly component of the car since I got it. I spend at least $1500/year on the car on repairs, except for when the transmission blew - that cost me an additional $3500 (and I got a fantastic deal from a transmission repair shop - the dealer was going to charge me $6000).
I've dreamt of selling it many times, though I haven't because I'm still paying off the car loan. I only have 2 more years though and then I can sell it if I want to.
When it runs well it is a pleasure to own and a luxury to drive, especially long distances. The only downside is that it so often needs such costly repairs.
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? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 67000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 99000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 31st October, 2007 |