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'96 CSE 18 months ago. I like Saabs, and maybe that makes me willing to put up with a car that isn't Toyota reliable. but then I don't like Toyotas. There is more to a car than just reliability, IMHO. Anyway....
There are a number of things that do go wrong on these cars. Some are expensive. Or maybe all are if you don't/can't/won't do at least some of your own repairs. OTOH, while some of the ailments come to all 9000s, no one seems to get hit with all of them. You probably don't have to worry about catastrophic engine failure, provided the oil has been changed and the cars hasn't been abused. Trannies are Saab weak spots, but if you go talk to a transmission shop you'll find that few cars these days have really strong, long lived trannies. Domestic GM cars, Chrysler, Ford, all have transmission problems.
Like most European cars, Saabs, not just 9000s, need to be cared for. If they are ignored, or treated like an American car (random maintenance) they will not serve you well. If maintained by the book, or even close to it, they seem to run reliably. Regular oil, coolant and brake fluid changes are very important. Replacing the serpentine belt and pulleys proactively helps ensure you don't get stranded. Listening for symptoms of a DI heading south is the same, although they can go without warning. (But then so can electronics in other cars.) Weird things are stuff like motor mounts and heater cores. But knowledge goes a long way, and forewarned (knowing what to look for and anticipate) is forearmed).
If you are considering one, many here will tell you the last three or four years of production (95 thru 98) were the most reliable. Try to find out as much about the history of the car as you can. Take it to a Saab specialist for a good look-see. And if you don't DIY, develop a relationship with a good indy who can help you. And of course come here for terrific support!
Drive a bunch of cars. There can be huge differences, all based on how a car has been cared for. If you find a good one and take care of it it will run a long while. I think that's part of the payback for doing the higher maintenance--and repairs--that are needed.
FWIW, I'm getting a second one for my daughter to use, and I wouldn't put my kid in a car I didn't think would be safe, secure and get her home at night.
Sorry to run long. I do that sometimes.
posted by 24.54.31...
, Mon, 24 Jan 2005 15:32:31
, Mon, 24 Jan 2005 13:50:52
, Mon, 24 Jan 2005 13:49:24
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