Saab 9-4x problems
The Saab 9-4X is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that was introduced at the 2010 LA Auto Show. It is based on the all-wheel-drive GM Theta Premium platform, which also forms the basis for the Cadillac SRX. Production of the 9-4X began in 2011, at General Motors' Ramos Arizpe Assembly in Mexico, but halted before the end of that year as a result of the bankruptcy of Saab, leaving a total of 814 assembled.
Design
The 9-4X took shape once the Saab 9-6X project was canceled, after the divestment by General Motors of its holding in Subaru. The 9-4X replaced the larger Chevrolet TrailBlazer–based Saab 9-7X built in the U.S. that was discontinued in December 2008. The concept of the 9-4X made its debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show.
The production car is almost identical to the concept of 2008 on the exterior and similar to the second generation Saab 9-5 on the inside. The mechanical parts such as the engine, transmission, and other mechanical systems are all GM with exterior trim and lighting specific to the 9-4X.
As such, a review noted specific Saab identity and "charm" as well as its flaws that included excess weight and lackluster fuel economy, but "it is easily as compelling as the Cadillac SRX on which it is based." The car began selling as a 2011 model year in June in the United States and in August elsewhere. A 2012 Aero version was reviewed by Road & Track in April 2011.
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Saab 9-4x model years
Common Saab 9-4x problems
Based on the information provided in the sources, here are some common problems reported by owners of the Saab 9-4X:
- Expensive Ownership: The satisfaction of owning a Saab 9-4X comes at a high cost, as reported by owners. The unique nature of the car, coupled with the need for independent DIY work, contributes to the overall expensive ownership experience.
- DIY Work Requirement: Owners have expressed that owning a Saab 9-4X often involves a significant amount of independent DIY work. This indicates that owners may need to be hands-on with maintenance and repairs, adding to the overall ownership experience.
- Limited Availability of Parts: The scarcity of parts for the Saab 9-4X has been a notable issue for owners. The unique and unobtainium parts in this vehicle can make it challenging to source necessary components for maintenance and repairs, potentially leading to delays and higher costs.
- Costly Repairs: The Saab 9-4X has been associated with high repair costs, as reported by owners. This aspect, combined with the rarity of parts, can make maintaining the vehicle financially burdensome for owners.
- Unique Design Challenges: The unique design and construction of the Saab 9-4X, which includes many rare parts, can pose challenges for owners when it comes to repairs and replacements. The distinctiveness of the vehicle contributes to its appeal but also adds complexity to its maintenance.
These common problems highlight the unique ownership experience associated with the Saab 9-4X, emphasizing the challenges and costs that owners may face when maintaining and repairing this rare and distinctive vehicle.
How many Saab 9-4X were built?
814 9-4X units
According to information at the Saab Museum in Trollhättan, Sweden, 814 9-4X units were produced.
How much horsepower does a Saab 9-4X have?
Base 9-4X 3.0i and 3.0i Premium models get a 3.0-liter V6 engine that makes 265 horsepower routed to the front wheels.
Is Saab 9-3 reliable?
Saab 9-3 owners are generally a very satisfied bunch, and the car usually does well in customer reports, such as the JD Power survey.
What is the most common problem with the Saab 9-3?
Many owners have complained about engine failure caused by a faulty direct ignition cassette (DIC). Saab vehicles primarily use a DIC system, with ignition coils that directly go on top of the spark plugs. If there's a problem with the DIC, the engine may crank but not start.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saab 9-4x years
We have researched Saab problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saab 9-4x cars and compiled the top 1 most problematic Saab 9-4x model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saab 9-4x model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saab 9-4x years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saab 9-4x car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saab 9-4x , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Power train problems
- Unknown or other problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saab 9-4x vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saab 9-4x . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saab 9-4x vehicles.
List of Saab 9-4x complaints
Saab 9-4x 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2021-10-06
- VIN: 3G0FNREY6BS
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Saab 9-4X. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V473000 (Suspension) however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated that the "Check Rear Axle" warning light was illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the recall and informed the contact after speaking with the manufacturer that parts were not yet available. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 35,000.
Saab 9-4x 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-09
- Date Complaint: 2017-04-19
- VIN: 3GOFNSEY2BS
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG SENSOR IS ON INTERMITTANT . IF FRONT PASSENGER SEAT IS EMPTY, BACK SEAT SIDE RAIL AIRBAG WILL NOT INFLATE. NEEDS SOFTWARE UPGRADE. (JUST LIKE 2011 CADILLAC SRX). WHILE MOTOR ON.
Saab 9-4x 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2016-09-28
- VIN: 3G0FNUE6XBS
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 SAAB 9-4X. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT INTO PARK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 11V595000 (POWER TRAIN). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
Saab 9-4x 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-23
- Date Complaint: 2014-07-23
- VIN: 3G0FNSEY3BS
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WOULD LIKE TO KNOW IF ANY RECALLS. YOUR WEBSITE DOES NOT LIST THE CAR. *TR
Recalls Saab 9-4x
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Saab 9-4x.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saab 9-4x 2011
- Report Received Date: 2021-06-24
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park It: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2016 Cadillac SRX and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles. The rear suspension toe link adjuster may not have been tightened properly, which could result in a loose toe link.
- Consequence: A loose toe link can separate and cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to not drive their vehicle if they experience certain Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) warnings or other issues, such as unusual steering behavior, while driving. Please see the Part 573 report for the full list of warnings. Dealers will replace the adjustable toe link with a non-adjustable one, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters were mailed August 6, 2021. Owner notification letters were mailed on October 25, 2021. Cadillac and Saab customers may direct questions to Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N212340980.
- Model: Saab 9-4x 2011
- Report Received Date: 2014-09-19
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2010-2015 Cadillac SRX vehicles manufactured April 14, 2009, to September 1, 2014, and 2011-2012 Saab 9-4X vehicles manufactured February 1, 2011, to September 13, 2011. On the affected vehicles, the jam nut in the rear suspension toe adjuster link may not be torqued to the proper specification. A loose toe adjuster link can cause the vehicle to sway or wander at highway speeds. A loose toe adjuster link may lead to thread damage and eventual failure. Failure of the toe adjuster link will cause an abrupt change in the vehicle's alignment.
- Consequence: Failure of the toe adjuster link could cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the torque of the left and right rear toe link adjuster lock nuts, and replace the parts if there is evidence of damage or a loose link, free of charge. The The recall began November 11, 2014. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007. GM's number for this recall is 14457.
Latest positive Saab 9-4x car reviews
Are you having problems with your Saab 9-4x?
Ben Jaskolski 2024-03-09
Vehicle year: 2011
Hi there! I noticed you mentioned 'Super Car'. That sounds really cool! Is there anything specific you'd like to know about it?
Jace Schulist 2024-01-13
Vehicle year: 2011
I've owned my 9-4X for a year now and it's one of the best vehicles I've ever had. Although it can be a bit slow at times, it handles well and gets you where you need to go without any problems. It has great features and decent gas mileage. If you're looking for peace of mind, I would recommend getting a reliable extended service contract through a Saab dealer (Hendrick AutoGaurd works well for me).