1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
I have 206k miles on mine, with very few problems. Chances are, any premature warranty issues on your vehicle are already take care of. However, do you know its history? Is it a 1 owner vehicle? Private sale or reputable dealer?? (You might be able to access the dealer repair history through the dealer database.)
A lot depends on how this vehicle was treated. Ridden hard, put away wet, and never kissed is the death knell of any car, much less a Saab. That is, driven hard, not "listened to" and not maintained....
Things to expect-- leaky AC components. Trust me--- you'll have them eventually, and might even have them now. DO have the ac- especially the very expensive evaporator core- checked for leaks at the dealer. A recent recharge can mask a leak for weeks. Then it's too late to complain.
Also ignition problems-- the direct ignition cassette needs replacing every now and again. This $285 aftermarket part($350 dealer), plus labor and all the other stuff that ends up being done will happen every 60k or so. The symptoms are rough running and a dead miss-fire.
Idler pullies and the serpentine belt will wear. These are normal wear and tear items, but have them checked beforehand.
Also check for oil/trans leaks-- is this vehicle a 5 spd or automatic? Rear engine seals and trans input/output shaft seal leaks are frequently mentioned on this board. Drive the car for 15 minutes, park it, put a large sheet of corrugated boxboard or paper underneath the front, pull it out 10 minutes later, and check for drips.
I would have the vehicle checked beforehand by an independent mechanic who does lots of work on Saabs. Have him pay special attention also to suspension wear, and coolant hoses, brakes and all the other regular stuff.
Like I said, I've had few problems, though the preceding sounds like a horror story. But remember, the car is 7 years old. Any vehicle with that age is bound to have a few probs. Mine has never left me stranded, and runs as well today as the first day I drove it. It's been a stellar performer. Quite honestly, besides ac problems, everything else has just been expected wear and tear. Do have it checked out though.
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