1999 SAAB 9-5 Wagon review from North America
"A comfortable wagon that drives like a rocket, but in fact is a major LEMON"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
This car had several "minor" recalls within the first year that required 2 trips to the dealer.
The battery blew out within the first year, requiring a tow to service.
Within one month of replacing the battery, the car had to be towed again to service. The fuel tank leaked, and had to be fully replaced.
Within less than one week of replacing the fuel tank, the car started spewing excessive exhaust. The turbo seals had blown and the entire turbo unit had to be replaced.
Four months after replacing the turbo unit, there was a burning smell when the car was idling. The crankshaft pulley seal was leaking and had to be repaired.
One month later, the transponder receiver was replaced for "not accepting key."
Three months later, the car started failing again, and would not move more than 20MPH. It had to be towed. The vacuum pump was broken, damaging the brakes. The entire brake system was replaced. This repair took about one week, and necessitated consultations between the dealer and "Saab Tech" to fully sort out the problem.
General comments?
This car has racked up 3 to 4 major repairs per annum. It has been almost completely rebuilt, except for the transmission. I would be a fool to keep this car beyond the warranty period.
Recommended reviews
| 1999 - 9-5 SE 2.3 Ecotech turbo Awesome car, but you better get one that has a clean history |
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| Stay away from this car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | turbo Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 9 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 9 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 120 miles |
| Most recent distance | 39500 miles |
| Previous car | Volvo 740 |
| Date of Entry | 5th September, 2002 |