Timing belt slipped at 94000 - should have been changed by used car dealer.
Was not covered by dealer cost over $3500 to repair. Saab USA did partial reimbursement.
Runs good for 2 to 3 months then has another costly problem.
In last Yr needed new coil $ 125+ - New Ignition wires $ 200+ - New Oxygen Sensors $ 150+ - Needs fuel filter.
A/C holds charge for avg. 2 months.
Body is very sturdy - handles exceptionally well for FWD.
Except for seemingly constant engine trouble I would call it an very well made car. Mechanic was not Saab dealer so I cannot say it was Saabs fault. Did a very poor job on top end rebuild.
Interior and all small parts of dash and knobs show very little wear.
Handles better than SUV's in wet, icy, snowy weather.
The timing belt failing was a result of poor maintenance... it should have been changed sooner, like you said. $125-$200 is very cheap for car repairs, especially on a foreign car, so consider yourself lucky. Pretty much any vehicle with over 100k miles is going to have problems.
It is very true that Saab handles very well in the snow. I live in Maine on a very steep hill. I put a pair of snow tires on it, and I never once was stuck walking up that hill. I have a 95 900s and it made it up even when my neighbors truck wouldn't.
I haven't had my timing belt changed ever, and it has over 130000 miles on it.
Fuel filters are a normal maintenance thing; just replaced mine, but didn't get it from the dealer, try finding it elsewhere, it's a lot cheaper.
You are pushing your luck by not having your timing belt changed and 130,000 miles on the car.
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