1988 SAAB 900 S 2.0 ltr 4 cyl from North America

Summary:

Fast, sporty, family fun!

Faults:

The headliner is coming apart. Doesn't idle smooth. Lacking the power it used to have. A/C doesn't work. Problem with motor mounts. Shifting is kind of rough. Dash lights do not work all the time.

General Comments:

Overall I am very happy with this car when it is running properly. I have owned the car for about 4 months and have had to put over $1,500 into it. Other than having to put a good amount of money into it it is very fun to drive. It is practical for my family and sporty at the same time. One thing you must do if you own this car is get Bosch 4-way plugs for it. It makes all the difference in the world!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 5th July, 2000

1988 SAAB 900 S 2.0L from North America

Faults:

Air conditioning broken, replaced radiator, transmission leaks, replaced oil pan, valve cover gaskets, brakes and brake yoke replacement, broken springs and falling head liner.

General Comments:

Great dependable car. Have had for three years and pampered but car is very prone to rust. Have spent over $2,000 in rust removal. Car has 110k miles and am told by dealer you can expect at least 200k.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th July, 1999

1988 SAAB 900 2.0i from Netherlands

Faults:

Since September 1998:

The dashboard lighting goes on and off. Not during driving but when you start the engine the light won't turn on. Using a pair of pliers and some force applied it will work for a day or two. Then the whole thing starts again. Pretty annoying at times but very expensive to repair.

I once lost the belt for the power steering somewhere on the highway and did not notice it before I had to make sharp turn. You can imagine the surprise. Next day it was fixed for free!

The car gets its service every 20000 kms which costs about 750 NlG (375 USd).

General Comments:

You just gotta love 'em those 900's. This one's grown on me in time and the next car will certainly be a SAAB 900 again although the last time I drove the new model 900 I thought it didn't feel as good as the old ones.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th February, 1999

1988 SAAB 900 S 2L from North America

Faults:

Water pump.

Warped cylinder head.

Transmission.

Falling headliner.

Brake caliper.

Emission control components (poor running, loss of power, check engine light problems, irregular idle, stalls out).

Poor design of driver seat-seat hinges worn through padding at about 50k.

General Comments:

Have had more problems than the average SAAB owner. Problems began at about 80k. Instrument panel lights frequently go out. Body construction excellent. Still looks like new. To date have invested about $8k in repairs over two years. Technicians have not been able to yet find cause of current poor performance problems.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th June, 1998