Date: 20 Aug 2003 12:37:27 -0700 From: onerpmnopsamo.com (Rob) Subject: Re: Buying 1997 Saab 900 Coupe
"Andrew K" <kmitanopsammus.com.au> wrote in message news:<3f4205ee_1nopsam.iprimus.com.au>... > Hi > > I'm considering purchasing 1995-1997 900s three door with either 2.0L, 2.3L, > or 2.0L turbo petrol engines. > > I haven't done much research yet, but from what I've heard reliability my be > an issue with these cars. > > The used car values for 900 series are very competitive. Basically you need > to pay the same amount of money for a 1997 Corolla as you do for a 900s. > Corolla would have cost $20,000 new and 900s $40,000. These prices are in > AUD$ - Melbourne Australia. > > What I'm really trying to find out is are there any common problems with > these cars i.e. blown head gasket at 100000km or ECU blowing up after five > years etc. > > Any help from your newsgroup would be greatly appreciated. > > Kind Regards > Andrew 1997 900SE turbo convert., bought 2/00 w/25,000 miles: 1. numerous times in for repairs (under warranty) to a/c system, which made funny, loud groaning noises but otherwise functioned ok. They replaced compressors, other stuff, then the whole system one time. It was fine for a year or more. It's now back to making that same noise, but not as loudly as before. No more warranty, so we ignore it. 2. numerous times in for repairs (under warranty) to stereo: cd changer wouldn't work. (There is a recent thread on this NG to the effect that simply unplugging changer (in trunk) and replugging it in later fixes this!) My dealer replaced the head unit and the whole mess at least once or twice. Has now worked fine for quite awhile. 3. Ignition cassette failed at about 50,000 miles. $350. I hear this is pretty common every 50k miles or so. 4. Blown head gasket at about 52,000 miles. $850, including replacement of belts, valve cover gasket, etc. 5. Blown clutch at 56,000 miles...just picked it up last night. $850. However, my 16-year old son probably contributed to #4 and #5. Andrew, I'd say go for it...the basic drivelines are solid...the problems are usually the ancillary systems which won't leave you stuck or cost TOO much to fix...As you've figured out, depreciation was on your side...you're getting an awesome car for little money. Just put a few bucks away for repairs. And I agree with other poster(s), get the turbo. Good mileage when you don't need it, and a kick in the butt when you do! Rob
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