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

Walter Turner 2025-11-08

Vehicle year: 2002

I purchased this car in mint condition last spring and have driven about 20K miles on it. While driving on the highway is great, especially here in Europe, I have noticed a few things that are starting to drive me nuts. For instance, there is only one cup holder and no armrests, and there are way too many buttons for the heater. I would prefer dials so that I can concentrate on driving and not have to search for a button and almost wreck. Additionally, I think the key should be on the steering column, where I keep my cell phone, wallet, etc. I would also appreciate wipers that I can set to my preferred speed, rather than relying on an electronic sensor that is always too fast or too slow for me. The display is constantly missing pixels, and the reverse help never seems to work. Finally, the key batteries die very quickly. Despite these issues, I have had no problems with the engine or transmission.
Orval Cremin 2025-11-08

Vehicle year: 2005

Hey there! I just saw the price list for the dealership's services and I wanted to share my thoughts. After the free service, they charge close to $1000.00 for a major service and $480 for a minor service. I know it seems steep, especially for just changing oil and fluids during a minor service, and that doesn't even include pads on brakes or belts and timing chains. It can feel like you're paying for all the free service you received before. Just wanted to give you a heads up in case you were considering getting your car serviced there. Take care!
Candido Greenfelder 2025-11-01

Vehicle year: 2000

The car has experienced several issues such as rust on wheels, dead direct ignition bank, and failure to start. Additionally, the interior has started to fall apart with the carpet disintegrating and the rear brake light housing falling off. The shocks blew at 45K and there was an antifreeze leak from an unknown location at 17K. Furthermore, the trunk release, data display, and seat heaters have been inoperative since 50K.
Thaddeus Schimmel 2025-10-14

Vehicle year: 2000

I am the second owner of this vehicle and have always had it regularly serviced. Although I love this car, it has been quite a challenge to maintain. When it runs, it runs well, but when it doesn't, it can really leave you stuck! I have tow truck drivers on speed-dial, no joke. It all started with the timing belt and unfortunately went downhill from there. The oil sludge blew the engine, and I had to replace the ABS modulator which was causing issues with the braking system. I have also had to replace 2 alternators, the computer systems, crank sensor, alarm system, and LED display, to name a few. As a result, my dashboard is a constant display of warning lights, and the costs of my repairs have been well over $6200, which is more than what the car is worth now. Despite all of this, I still have a soft spot for this car, but it has definitely been a financial burden.
Tyree Pollich 2025-10-12

Vehicle year: 2009

We bought the car used with 85,000 miles on it. The car facts showed only one previous owner and all maintenance was up to date. We thought it was a good value for the price of $8999 before taxes. The dealer was upfront with us about SAAB going under and that new parts would have to be purchased out of the country. However, he also informed us of a couple of SAAB dealerships still operating in our area. We test drove the car and fell in love with the luxury of the seats, sunroof, and the super awesome Boise surround sound system. The Turbo pick up and go was also impressive. After our purchase, we experienced some issues with the car. The headlights started going out and the circuit to the headlights started separating from the circuit board, which had to be re-soldered on. By 98,000 miles, the car started idling rough and eventually died while my husband was driving on the freeway. Fortunately, he was able to get the car to start again and drive off of the freeway, only to have it die again on the street. We called AAA and by the time the tow truck arrived, the battery had completely died out. We got it to a mechanic who recommended a new transmission. Our dealer was able to locate a refurbished transmission with a 6-month warranty, and $1600 later, the car's check engine light pops back on. The loaner car that our dealer let us borrow during the transmission fix was a 2007 Saab 9-5 which also had check lights flashing on its display.

Latest positive Saab 9-5 car reviews

Coy Mayert 2025-11-12

Vehicle year: 2007

I've had this car for almost a year and I absolutely love it! It's powerful, comfortable, and gets excellent gas mileage. The car is loaded with features and designed with safety in mind. It offers so much value for the dollar. I traded in a Jaguar XK8 for this Aero and I have never regretted the decision. It's great in the snow and comfortably hauls five passengers. The trunk is very spacious and the interior is well laid out. This is definitely my favorite car I've ever owned.
Raheem Homenick 2025-11-11

Vehicle year: 2009

It's a common mistake to compare the Saab 9-5 with luxury car brands like BMW, Audi, and Lexus. However, this comparison overlooks the fact that those cars cost at least $20-30k more when you factor in comparable extras. In its price class, the Saab 9-5 offers the best value with its sporty power and handling, great comfort (seats + interior roominess), decent gas mileage, and unique design. This car is both fun and functional, with the 2.3L turbo taking you from 0-60mph in just 6.7 seconds. What's even more impressive is how it performs in its unique power band (40-70mph), accelerating faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera. Overall, the Saab 9-5 is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality car without breaking the bank.
Oswaldo Skiles 2025-11-11

Vehicle year: 2001

This Aero 5 speed can run with the best of them. It can easily get 30 mpg on road trips. It's different from the run-of-the-mill sport sedan. The safety features are excellent, as good as they get.
Wyatt Cremin 2025-11-11

Vehicle year: 2001

I've been the proud owner of my 2001 Saab 9-5 wagon for many years now, and I still love driving it in 2016. Despite having 90k miles on the original suspension, it still handles incredibly well. The power plant and suspension are both fantastic on this car. However, I have experienced some issues with the center digital instrument display, which has always had problems with dead pixels. I had it replaced, but unfortunately, the same problem persisted. Over the years, I've only had to replace the alternator once, and the HVAC controls can sometimes act up and throw out heat on the driver's side when the AC is blowing from other ducts. Despite these minor issues, I still find that it drives smoother than my 2015 Honda CRV, which can be quite bumpy and full of air leaks.
Karson Greenfelder 2025-11-09

Vehicle year: 2009

I traded in my 2007 Honda Pilot for this wagon in January 2010. I have not been disappointed with my decision. Although I did lose some room, this car is much more practical and convenient. Loading my bikes onto the SUV was a pain, but the lower roof-line of this car makes it much easier. I even have a canoe, which is not something you see many Saab owners driving around with, but it is also much easier to load. The car is solid, fun to drive, and comes standard with many features. I have always owned Honda cars, including a 2007 Acura, so driving the Saab is a new experience for me. It is extremely fast, has great styling, and many of the features are a-ha moments (like the dual sunshades).