Date: 7 Aug 2006 11:48:24 -0700 From: "Jon R. Pickens" <jonrpicknospaml.com> Subject: Re: 9000 CS vs. Aero...what's the difference?
Replies inline... > > "Then I discovered that the "check engine" light was on" > Not necessarily a big / expensive problem. The CEL on my old 9000 > 2.0LPT came on soon after I bought it, and stayed on for the next 2 > years without any problems until I got the AMM replaced and then it > went off. Well, here in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, the car must pass emissions inspections, and a check engine light is an auto-failure. If it's something like a faulty O2 sensor, then sure, it's a cheap fix. But if it's something more serious... > > "the A/C didn't work, the power locks were non-functional, the > > drivers-side rear window won't budge, the radio makes no sound despite > > appearing to have power" > All well-documented possible DIY fixes if you have the time / > inclination / patience... True... The A/C is the biggest thing. I've got no issues whatsoever with tackling the radio and power windows & locks myself. I've dealt with much worse on my truck. > > "and finally, the gear shifter moves under acceleration or > > decceleration... " > You need some engine mounts replaced. Mine also did this but I never > bothered getting it fixed.. That's pretty much what I thought it must be, so that's good news. Should be a cheap fix, provided that the motor mounts aren't ridiculously priced. > > "It was priced at $4,995. The guy offered to knock $1000 off the price > > if I'd take it as-is." > Sounds pricey for something that needs so much done to it. I just sold > our old 9000 for =A3150, and it sounds as if it was in better condition > than your one (& it had leather seats;) It's pretty much the going rate around here for that car in average condition. I agree, worth much less with all the problems. My problem is that I'm very limited financially. I don't have a great deal of cash onhand to buy a car outright from a private seller, and my credit isn't yet good enough for most car dealers to finance me. This not only is one of the few dealers that will, but they are selling the EXACT car I'm seeking. I was specifically looking for a later 9000 when I found this used car dealer. > Can you get a local Saab expert / dealer to give it the once over? > Unless they're prepared to knock a lot more off the price and you can > do a lot of the work yourself, I'd give it a miss and wait for a newer > / better one with a full service history. LPT / FPT or Aero, the 9000 > is a great car and with proper care, will last well into the 200,000 > mile mark and beyond. I talked to the dealer this morning and explained all the problems it appears to have. The sales rep *seemed* receptive. I told her that if the main issues (check engine light and A/C) were resolved, I may still be interested in getting the car. She seemed more receptive when I told her I *was* ready to put money down on this Saturday, but declined after seeing the car. > > Should I shoot for the automatic Aero? > NO! Why?! Except for the fact that it's an automatic... Remember, the car with all the issues is a black, 5-speed CS. The Aero was one I found previously, from a dealer who isn't very interested in returning phone calls. ~jp
