2002 SAAB 9-5 Aero review from North America
"More jet than wagon"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Several dash bulbs, thermostat, mid exhaust pipe, ignition switch sometimes won't turn headlights off (I disconnected the daytime running lights to solve the problem), display pixels, driver's heated seat broke, driver's seat leather isn't wearing well, suspension is creaky and a little unsettled over bumps, shift linkage is terrible... worst of the many standard cars I've driven (including a VW van). Hard to get into 1st and reverse at times and a hitch going into 3rd. Long, sloppy throws. Can be fixed with an expensive aftermarket short shift kit retrofit. Knock somewhere in the undercarriage when I let the clutch out aggressively (exhaust banging on something?) Hard to work on yourself (difficult access too many parts). Expensive parts, few mechanics.
General comments?
This car is a highway rocket. Not much to write home about until the high pressure turbo kicks in in 3rd gear, then you are thrust forward very quickly. The 9-5 is solid as a rock on the highway at high speeds, however, the steering is slow and doesn't transmit a great deal of road feel. The suspension won't get upset at high speeds but feels a little loose and sloppy over choppy pavement. Overall still lots of fun on straight multi-lane or winding country highways.
Like all Saabs, the 9-5 is very safe and comfortable. It has been a very practical car for our young family... lots of passenger and cargo room. Great stereo. Much better driving dynamics and economy than an SUV or minivan without losing much space. One of few wagons available with a stick shift. Horrible depreciation is your gain when buying used (best used European performance car bargain).
Very good winter car. Starts, clears windows and heats up fast. Not as good in the snow as other Saab models I've driven, but is still better than average.
Ideally, to own one of these, you should be an automotive enthusiast who is willing to work on the car yourself, locate affordable parts and deal with the one (typically) place in town that knows how to fix Saabs. Non enthusiasts will get taken to the cleaners for repairs.
The jury is still out on the long term reliability of this car, but I really like it.
Recommended reviews
| Not particularly thrilled with my Aero |
|
| This is one of the best put together vehicles I've owned when it's working properly |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2002 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 126000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 131000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Landcruiser |
| Date of Entry | 5th July, 2008 |