Saab 9-5 problems

Saab 9-5 years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

Social links

https://www.saab.com/

Saab 9-5 model years

Common Saab 9-5 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of Saab 9-5 cars, several common problems have been identified:

Engine Dies while Driving or Will Crank but not Start:
Owners have reported issues with the engine dying while driving or experiencing difficulty starting. This problem can be caused by various factors, including fuel system issues, ignition problems, or electrical malfunctions.
Oil Leaks caused by Excessive Crankcase Pressure:
Excessive crankcase pressure can lead to oil leaks in Saab 9-5 cars. This issue is often related to problems with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system, which can result in oil leaks from different engine components.
Flickering or Failure of the HID Headlights:
Some owners have complained about flickering or complete failure of the HID (High-Intensity Discharge) headlights in Saab 9-5 cars. This can be a safety concern, affecting visibility during night driving.
Suspension Issues:
Saab 9-5 cars may experience problems with the suspension system, including worn-out shocks, struts, and bushings. These issues can lead to a rough ride, excessive vibrations, and noise while driving.
Electrical Problems:
Electrical issues are common in Saab 9-5 cars, affecting components like the ignition switch, dashboard lights, and power windows. These problems can result in a dead battery, alternator issues, or other electrical malfunctions.
Engine Problems:
Owners have reported various engine-related issues in Saab 9-5 cars, such as oil sludge buildup, turbo failure, timing chain problems, and overheating. These engine issues can lead to significant damage and potential engine failure if not addressed promptly.
Transmission Problems:
Saab 9-5 cars may encounter transmission issues like slipping gears, hard shifting, and problems with the torque converter. These transmission problems can affect the overall performance and drivability of the vehicle.
Body and Exterior Issues:
Some Saab 9-5 owners have faced challenges with rust, particularly around the wheel arches, and issues with paint fading or peeling over time. Additionally, problems with headlights have been reported, which can be costly to replace.

By addressing these common problems promptly and ensuring regular maintenance and inspections, Saab 9-5 owners can mitigate potential issues and maintain the performance and reliability of their vehicles.

How reliable is the Saab 9-5?

Poor reliability, a nearly non-existent support network, bloated styling, terrible on-road performance, and no resale value all combine to give you the full Saab 9-5 experience. You would be better off putting your money in a bag and setting fire to it than buying a second-hand Saab.

What year of Saab is the most reliable?

The Saab 900 (1994-1998) is a mid-size luxury car produced by the Swedish automaker Saab. It is the fourth generation of the Saab 900 series. Known for its Scandinavian design, innovative features, and solid build quality, the Saab 900 (1994-1998) is considered one of the most reliable Saabs in its lineup.

Is the Saab 9-5 rare?

Many believed that this model would save Saab, but unfortunately, only 11,300 cars were produced before the company filed for bankruptcy. Today, the Saab 9-5 has become a cult car highly sought after by collectors.

Which is better Saab 9-3 or 9-5?

Saab 9-5. In comparing the Saab 9-3's and the Saab 9-5's specifications and ratings, the Saab 9-3 has the advantage in the areas of typical lower range of pricing for one- to five-year-old used cars, and fuel efficiency. The Saab 9-5 has the advantage in the areas of interior volume and base engine power.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Saab 9-5 years

We have researched Saab problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saab 9-5 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Saab 9-5 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saab 9-5 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Saab 9-5 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Saab 9-5 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Saab 9-5 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Electrical system problems
Engine and engine cooling problems
Air bags problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 9-5 model years

A total of 11 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by 9-5 model years

There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by 9-5 model years

There were a total of 12 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 525 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saab 9-5 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saab 9-5 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Saab 9-5 2001

Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
Date Complaint: 2024-01-29
VIN: YS3ED58E313
Components: TIRES
Summary: With only 670 miles on a new set of tires, an inspection for a completely unrelated reason found that there was a bulge in 3 of the 4 NEW tires. Installed in Jun, issue found in Dec; car is driven very little. Tires were purchased from Tire Rack and installed by Discount Tire. Inspection by Discount tire found the 3 defective tires. They report bulges as "impact damage". I have had one other tire ever with impact damage in 180,000 miles on this 20+ year old car. On this set of tires, there were no incidents, such as hitting a curb or pothole. I have to believe that these tires have a manufacturing defect. For all I know, they had a sidewall bulge from day one. I am replacing all four tires. I have contacted Vredestein customer service, at both domestic and international email customer service contacts. They have not answered, even with an acknowledgement of receipt.

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Saab 9-5 2007

Date Of Incident: 2023-04-13
Date Complaint: 2023-04-13
VIN: YS3ED49G573
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: My vehicle was on recall for Takata air bags. My vehicle was then installed with a new set of Takata airbags. Are not these airbags just as unsafe? Have not there been cases of the same issues happening to these airbags? Is my 2017 front passenger Airbag going to explode like a grenade and kill me? These are all questions I have, but I am told these airbags are safe. Yet I have seen lawsuits where someone died in another vehicle make but with 2017 Takata airbags as the cause of death and or injury. Should not my car have been replaced with non Takata brand airbags? Are any Takata airbags safe when compared to other brands?

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Saab 9-5 2004

Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
Date Complaint: 2022-08-05
Crash: 1
VIN: YS3EH59G543
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: 7/26/22 10:23pm on interstate 25 North of Denver mile 249 I was not able to stop and rear ended another vehicle. My air bags did not deploy there were no dash lights indicating any problem with the airbags prior to the accident. My vehicle was not drivable and was towed to H&R Towing in Johnstown, CO. The only inspection so far has been by an Amica Insurance adjuster. My set belt pretensioner held me fast but the crown of my head went forward into the visor area I was dazed. I went by ambulance to MCR hospital in Loveland diagnosed with a concussion. I had other bruises from the seatbelt and hitting my left knee on the dash. The damage to my car begins at the driver’s side headlamp area and radiates across the font of the car to the headlights on the passenger side. The hood was folded back and there is significant damage to all the components in the front part of the engine compartment. I’ve tried to contact Saab cars but no response, they stopped building cars in 2011. I tried GM as well, no response.

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Saab 9-5 2003

Date Of Incident: 2020-12-05
Date Complaint: 2020-12-12
VIN: YS3EB45E433
Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: I HAD TO REPLACE FUEL PUMP 3 TIMES IN 4 YEARS. IT SMELLED LIKE FUEL IN MY CAR.

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Saab 9-5 2008

Date Of Incident: 2020-01-06
Date Complaint: 2020-01-28
VIN: YS3EH49G583
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: I HAD MY AIRBAG REPLACED ON RECALL SEVERAL YEARS AGO. I NOW HAVE AN ERROR ALERT ON MY DASH INDICATING AN AIR BAG PROBLEM. MY SERVICE TECHNICIAN TELLS ME THERE ARE NO PARTS AVAILABLE. WHAT ALTERNATIVES ARE AVAILABLE FOR ME, BESIDES DRIVE AN UNSAFE CAR OR JUNK IT (PROBABLY ILLEGAL TO SELL )

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2017-05-15
Date Complaint: 2019-07-25
VIN: YS3ED49G063
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TAKATA RECALL.I NO LONGER HAVE THIS VEHICLE,IT WAS ACTUALLY MY DAUGHTERS CAR BUT I WAS THE CO SIGNER FOR HER LOAN.THIS VEHICLE WAS TRADED IN AT VAN HORN IN FON DU LAC ,WI AT LEAST A YEAR AND A HALF AGO.WE HAVE CALLED PEOPLE INCLUDING CONTACTING GM ONLINE SAYING WE NO LONGER HAVE THIS CAR YET WE KEEP GETTING RECALL INFO!!PLEASE CONTACT VAN HORN TO SEE WHAT THEY DID WITH THIS CAR.

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Saab 9-5 2011

Date Of Incident: 2018-10-17
Date Complaint: 2018-12-08
VIN: YS3GN4AR1B4
Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
Summary: PREMATURE WEAR (BURN-OUT) OF THE HALOGEN-STYLE LIGHT BULBS IN EACH OF THE REAR TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHTS (THE HALOGEN LIGHTS SERVE AS BOTH A TURN SIGNAL AND BRAKE LIGHT). THE HALOGEN LIGHTS APPEAR TO BURN OUT EVERY 4-6 MONTHS. THE BULBS ARE CREATING EXCESSIVE HEAT WITHIN THE LIGHT HOUSING AND MELTING/FUSING TO THE PLASTIC HOUSING. I BELIEVE THIS IS POTENTIALLY A FIRE RISK. THERE IS PREMATURE RUST FORMING ON THE TRUNK LID ASWELL.

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Saab 9-5 2011

Date Of Incident: 2018-09-03
Date Complaint: 2018-09-05
VIN: YS3GN4AR9B4
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: MY 2011 SAAB 9-5 IS CURRENTLY IN THE SAAB REPAIR SHOP TO HAVE THE BRAKE PEDAL REPLACED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WOULD NOT RETURN TO ITS PROPER POSITION AND WAS LOCKING THE BRAKES ON AND ALSO LOCKING THE BRAKE LIGHTS ON. IT FEELS LIKE YOU HAVE A FLAT TIRE AND THE CAR FEELS LIKE SOMETHING IS HOLDING IT BACK. IN MY CASE I RUINED THE BRAKE ROTORS AND DISCS AS THE BRAKES WERE LOCKED. THIS COULD HAVE STARTED A FIRE AND MADE THE CAR HARD TO HANDLE AND OF COURSE REDUCED THE PROPER BRAKING ABILITY. GM SHOULD PUT OUT AN IMMEDIATE SAFETY RECALL ON THIS ISSUE. THE REPAIR SHOP SAYS THEY HAVE SEEN SEVERAL CASES LIKE MINE. IT TOOK A LONG TIME FOR ME TO BE AWARE OF WHAT WAS HAPPENING. I HAVE HAD THE CAR FOR LESS THAN A YEAR AND IT DOES NOT HAPPEN ALL THE TIME. MOSTLY IN HOT AND HUMID WEATHER. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE FIXED RIGHT AWAY. GM SAFETY RECALL NEEDED NOW! CONTACT SAAB IM AUTOHAUS, 551 N WASHINGTON ST, FALLS CHURCH, VA 22046, AT (703) 534-0770, FOR MORE INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION.

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Saab 9-5 1999

Date Of Incident: 2018-09-05
Date Complaint: 2018-09-05
VIN: YS3ED58E2X3
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: DRIVER SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE DRIVING IN A SMOOTH STRAIGHTAWAY COUNTRY ROAD AT ABOUT 30-35 MPH. NO OTHER CAS WERE AROUND AT THE TIME AND NOBODY GOT SERIOUSLY HURT, ONLY A MINOR BRUISE ON THE ARM.

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2018-01-01
Date Complaint: 2018-05-22
VIN: YS3ED49G463
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: 2006 SAAB. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DRIVER AIRBAG INFLATOR SAFETY RECALL. *LD *JS

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2017-09-18
Date Complaint: 2017-09-18
VIN: YS3ED49G063
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT RECIEVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART FOR THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED THE PUTNAM BUICK PONTIAC GMC DEALER (198 CALIFORNIA DRIVE, BURLINGAME, CA 94010; 650-342-9500) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE AND THAT THERE WAS AN EXTENSIVE BACKORDER ON THE PARTS NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2016-05-11
Date Complaint: 2017-09-06
VIN: YS3ED59G563
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO GET THE REPAIR COMPLETED DUE TO LACK OF AVAILABLE DEALERS TO SERVICE THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT TO SHIP THE VEHICLE TO CALIFORNIA OR TAKES THE VEHICLE TO THE LOCAL CADILLAC DEALER. HONOLULU BUICK GMC CADILLAC LOCATED AT 2945 N NIMITIZ HWY, HONOLULU, HI WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THEY DID NOT PERFORM THAT TYPE OF SERVICE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2017-05-26
Date Complaint: 2017-08-29
VIN: YS3EH49G463
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TAKATA RECALL - AIRBAG ON ABOVE CAR WAS REPLACED UNDER RECALL ON 5/25/2017. NOW, THE AIRBAG LIGHT KEEPS TURNING ON SPORADICALLY. THE GARAGE - JUST SAAB (513) 527-4300 - WHO REPLACED THE AIRBAG CLAIMED THE FIRST TIME WHEN I TOOK THE CAR BACK TO THEM THAT IT WAS "RESISTANCE" THAT CAUSED THE LIGHT TO COME ON AND THEY FIXED THIS PROBLEM. THE AIRBAG LIGHT IS STILL COMING ON SPORADICALLY AND I BELIEVE THAT THE AIRBAG I RECEIVED AS A REPLACEMENT IS DEFECTIVE. THE GARAGE INSISTS I DRIVE THE CAR BACK TO THEM, AGAIN, SO THEY CAN CHECK THE AIRBAG AGAIN. HERE IS WHAT IS HAPPENING: WHEN THE CAR IS BACKED OUT OF THE GARAGE, THE AIRBAG LIGHT AND CHIME COME ON AND STAY ON FOR A FEW SECONDS THEN THE AIRBAG LIGHT TURNS OFF. THEN, THE CAR IS DRIVING FORWARD, AGAIN, THE AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN TURNS OFF. THE CAR IS DRIVEN FOR MANY MILES AND THE LIGHT STAYS OFF. THE AIRBAG LIGHT DOESN'T COME WHEN THE CAR DRIVES OVER A BUMP. THE CAR CAN BE DRIVEN FOR MANY MILES AND THE LIGHT DOESN'T COME ON. THE RANDOMNESS OF THE AIRBAG LIGHT TURNING ON AND OFF MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO DETERMINE THE REASON FOR THE OCCURRENCE OTHER THAN ASSUMING THAT THE REPLACED TAKATA AIRBAG IS DEFECTIVE - STILL - SINCE THE CAR NEVER HAD THIS PROBLEM UNTIL THE AIRBAG WAS REPLACED BY JUST SAAB IN CINCINNATI

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Saab 9-5 2006

Date Of Incident: 2016-05-03
Date Complaint: 2017-04-12
VIN: YS3ED55G063
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

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Saab 9-5 2008

Date Of Incident: 2016-05-11
Date Complaint: 2017-03-22
VIN: YS3ED49G483
Components: AIR BAGS
Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. PARTS DISTRIBUTION DISCONNECT.

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Latest 5 recalls Saab 9-5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 30 recalls for different components of the Saab 9-5.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Saab 9-5 2009
Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.

Model: Saab 9-5 2008
Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.

Model: Saab 9-5 2006
Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.

Model: Saab 9-5 2007
Report Received Date: 2016-02-03
Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.

Model: Saab 9-5 2002
Report Received Date: 2008-04-09
Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Summary: SAAB IS RECALLING 57,389 MY 2002-2008 9-5 SERIES VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." DURING COMPLIANCE TESTING, ONE OF THE UPPER INTERIOR OCCUPANT PROTECTION TEST POINTS EXCEEDED THE STANDARD'S REQUIREMENTS.
Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, PERSONAL INJURY TO OCCUPANTS MAY OCCUR.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A-PILLAR TRIM WITH IMPROVED ENERGY-ABSORBING CAPABILITY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 25, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.

Latest negative Saab 9-5 car reviews

Lenny Renner 2024-11-24

Vehicle year: 2009

I have owned many cars, including most types. However, this 39th new car has been a huge disappointment, comparable to my experience with GM's and Fords in the 80s. Unfortunately, within just two days of owning it, the side 'memory seat' lower seat wrap around and buttons broke off the driver's seat and are now hanging. Although parts are on order, the low gas mileage for such a tiny engine is also a concern. If this 2.3L engine were in a Honda, it would get 45 MPG, not 18. In light of these issues, I cannot recommend purchasing a SAAB. Other cars offer greater value and quality at lower costs.
Foster Goyette 2024-11-22

Vehicle year: 1999

When I first purchased this car, I really enjoyed driving it. Despite the fact that I bought it used with only 11,000 miles, I have already invested a significant amount of money into it since reaching the 50,000 mile mark. Although it is a pleasure to drive when it is running, it has a tendency to break down frequently. This is my initial experience with a Saab, and it will be my last. If you are looking for a superior vehicle, I would recommend considering Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, or Audi. The Saab may not be the best option.
Alejandrin Wisoky 2024-11-19

Vehicle year: 2003

I recently purchased a 95 Linear on 05/03 with only 23 miles. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the car. At 3k miles, the back passenger door latch jammed, and at 7k miles, the sunroof jammed. At 14k miles, there was some noise coming from the front wheel, but the bearing was replaced. At 35k miles, the trunk would not open, and there was a recall to replace the clamp on the fuel system. At 41k miles, the engine light came on, and the O2 sensor was replaced. At 44k miles, there was a front axle leak and a broken belt protector. At 56k miles, there was a heater valve leak. At 58k miles, the O2 sensor and fuel pump were replaced, and the car just died in the middle of the road. Now, at 61k miles, I am stranded again as the car is choking, jerking, and not getting into gear. I am very dissatisfied with these issues, despite following the maintenance schedule.
Broderick Crooks 2024-11-01

Vehicle year: 2001

Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to reach out because I've been having some trouble with my car lately. Specifically, the sunroof has been making a lot of noise and I've had to bring it in for repairs multiple times. Additionally, there's a noise in the dash area that sounds like styrofoam rubbing together, which is really frustrating for a luxury vehicle. On top of that, the lights are changing automatically when they're not supposed to, and the tires are wearing out earlier than expected. Finally, there's a major issue with the coolant sensor that still hasn't been fixed, even after two previous repairs. As you can imagine, I'm feeling pretty frustrated with all of these issues, especially since I'm leasing the car. Do you have any suggestions for what I can do next? Thank you so much for your help!
Nicolas Pagac 2024-10-24

Vehicle year: 2007

I have owned many cars, including most types. However, this 39th new car has been a huge disappointment, comparable to my experience with GM's and Fords in the 80s. Unfortunately, within just two days of owning it, the side 'memory seat' lower seat wrap around and buttons broke off the driver's seat and are now hanging. Although parts are on order, the low gas mileage for such a tiny engine is also a concern. If a 2.3L engine were in a Honda, it would get 45 MPG, not 18. In light of these issues, I cannot recommend purchasing a SAAB. Other cars offer greater value and quality at lower costs.

Latest positive Saab 9-5 car reviews

Everardo Jakubowski 2024-11-27

Vehicle year: 2001

I used to own a '99 9-5 lpt wagon, but I sold it to buy a '97 Volvo 850 (NA) wagon. However, I couldn't resist getting another 9-5 wagon as it is a much stronger car overall and even has better gas mileage. Although my wife still prefers our '00 Volvo V70 XC wagon, I find it inferior to the 9-5 in all respects, from economy to acceleration. Additionally, the 9-5 has a WB radio and gets better reception on the AM band. I must admit that I have snow tires (Gislaved Nordfrosts) on the 9-5, and it performs equally well as the AWD V70, even on our hilly and curvy 1/3-mile-long driveway during winters.
Richie Hayes 2024-11-25

Vehicle year: 2007

Hi there! I haven't had the car for very long, but I'm already so impressed with it! I'm really tired of the heavy feeling that many vehicles have, so I love how this car combines power with a light feeling. It's not like you need a long runway to get it going! It's so hard to find a vehicle that's fun to drive around town but also makes for a great touring sedan, but this car seems to be good at both. I'll have a better idea when I take a 1600 mile road trip in a couple of weeks, but I'm already feeling pretty optimistic!
Johnathan Kertzmann 2024-11-24

Vehicle year: 2001

Having driven the Saab 95 Aero for 27 months now, I can say that it has been an outstanding performer. It gets 26 MPG and has all the power you need in any situation on the highway and in city traffic. It is easy to park and looks very nice. We still get looks in parking lots and at the store because of the car's appearance.
Jerad Wisozk 2024-11-23

Vehicle year: 2005

This is a really great driving machine that is both safe and fun to drive. The sport mode raises the shift point rpms, giving it some extra punch. Although the outside design is understated and pedestrian, the driving experience is exceptional. It also has all of the most advanced computer driving system enhancements. Additionally, Saab is currently facing economic troubles, so these cars can be purchased at a large discount from the sticker price, making it an even better value.
Darrel Kshlerin 2024-11-19

Vehicle year: 2005

I drive over 65,000 miles per year, mostly on the highway, and I must say that this is the best road car ever made. The handling is superb, the braking is excellent, and the acceleration (turbo) is amazing. The gas mileage is also impressive, at 31+. The comfortable heated seats, auto climate control, and the best sound system I've ever heard make this car a joy to drive. Additionally, the air bags in the side doors as well as the front provide an extra layer of safety. I have two other Saabs (900S) with over 400,000 miles, as well as a 1999 Saab 9-5 with 168,000 miles, and I can attest that these cars are made to last. The 4-cylinder engine is the best ever made, and the body and paint are very durable. What more could one want?