1999-2009 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Hey Johnny-
I had the EXACT same thing happen to me. Mine was an early '99 9-5 (about number 4000 on the last digits of the VIN number). I ultimately went through FIVE gas tanks. Apparently, in mid-'99, Saab redesigned the gas tank, giving the newer cars the "thump" when stopping with 1/2 a tank. The earlier gas tanks, like mine and probably yours, tended to rub on some part on the bottom of the car. This would eventually put a small hole in the tank, and the computer would assume that you didn't put the gas cap on tight enough.
After the third tank was installed, I called Saab USA and started telling them about my problem. They were sympathetic, but didn't do anything. The customer service reps don't have a lot of power. I kept them appraised of the situation after my fourth tank as well. By the fifth tank, I started talking "lemon law". That is apparently the magic phrase to get your case escalated to the legal department. I went back in forth with a woman named Sanita Britt in the legal department (I think she was a lawyer, but I'm not sure). Ultimately, we worked out a deal between Saab USA, the dealership and me where Saab USA would give me a coupon for $3000 off my next Saab, the dealership would give me a good deal on my trade and sell me another Saab at dealer invoice.
Although it took a while, everybody at Saab USA was very nice and helpful. My dealership, on the other hand, just flat out lied, and I had to fight very hard to get them to give me the deal they promised. I ultimately prevailed, but I won't be buying my next car at Kachina Cadillac/Saab in Scottsdale, AZ.
Your car is a bit older, and out of both warranty and lemon law range. Since each repair is warrantied for 12 months, as long as the same thing keeps breaking, you should be able to get them to fix it for free until you resolve the problem permanently. Through some detective work, I discovered that Saab does know about this problem. Just be persistent when talking to the dealership service department.
Every time you contact Saab USA, write a letter to them summarizing your conversaion. Be persistent, but be polite. The wheels at Saab turn slowly, but call every time the check engine light comes on. Tell them that you know other people have had this problem, and that they sold you a car with a dangerous defect. Tell them that you are afraid of your car exploding in an accident, and that your wife won't ride in your car anymore. Be persistent.
It sounds from your post that you bought the car used. If you just bought it recently, talk to Saab USA and the dealership about swapping for another one, or just reversing the deal.
I have been in your shoes, and I know it's frustrating. If there is anything I can do to help, let me know.
-Chris Mause
posted by 63.255.9...
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