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

Dion Hahn 2025-06-04

Vehicle year: 2001

When purchasing a car, it is important to thoroughly research the vehicle and its potential maintenance costs. In the case of this car with a V6 engine, the cost for replacing the timing belt every 80k miles can be over $1k at a repair shop. Failure to replace the timing belt can result in the destruction of the entire engine. It is not recommended to purchase this car with a V6 engine. In my personal experience, I have spent an average of $2.5k each year on repairs to keep my car on the road. While I bought my car used and have had it for almost 6 years and 100k miles, I have had to replace several parts including the radiator, radiator hoses, ignition coils and spark plugs, idler pulley, water pump, alternator, turbo, front and rear shocks/strut dampers, power steering hoses and reservoir, speakers, and air conditioner controller motors. It is important to be aware of the potential maintenance costs when considering purchasing a car.I have experienced some issues with this car, such as the headlight wipers failing and the sunroof leaking when parked facing down-slope in the rain. However, I have been able to handle these issues without much trouble. Additionally, I have noticed that some of the normal maintenance items, such as tires and brakes, need to be replaced more frequently than I would like. The car also requires Euro spec synthetic motor oil, which can be expensive. Despite these challenges, I have been able to keep the car running smoothly with regular maintenance. I have also made some minor repairs myself, such as replacing the shifter linkage connection bushing at the transmission. Overall, I am confident in my ability to maintain this car and keep it in good condition.The Key Controller Module was replaced due to water damage caused by the sunroof, which caused the key to only unlock the driver's door. However, turning the key in the ignition only turned on accessory power, as the module is responsible for validating the key. The rear door speakers are no longer functional, leaving only the dashboard speakers and the rear subwoofer. The battery died, which was expected due to its age. The turbo that was previously replaced is now smoking heavily on startup, indicating a possible oil leak. Although the alternator also needs to be replaced, it will not be done at this time. It is time to cut losses.
Victor Larkin 2025-06-04

Vehicle year: 2001

I have owned several Saabs in the past, including two 9-5s. However, my most recent 9-5 has been quite disappointing. Despite having to replace several parts, including the turbo, ACC control module, trip computer, and entire dash facia, all of which were covered under warranty, I am still experiencing issues. Currently, there is a short in the no. 8 fuse circuit that has been difficult to locate, causing the battery to die unless I drive with the fuse out. Additionally, there are intermittent engine and oil lights due to a faulty coil pack and oil pump, respectively. Although I have replaced the left side ACC air dist. stepping motor and both fog lights, the car still needs a left side ball joint and the sunroof rattles. Despite these challenges, I remain confident in my ability to find a solution and get my 9-5 back to its optimal condition.
Conner Pfannerstill 2025-06-01

Vehicle year: 2000

You got a great deal on it used. At first, it was really fun to drive, especially with the turbo. The ventilated seats and neat dash controls were also great features. However, it did start to fall apart over time. Unfortunately, the car alarm would go off randomly in the night when temperatures dropped and it burned oil, which was expensive to fix. Despite your best efforts, the oil bled into the brake lines and it would emit blue smoke every time you started it. In the end, you had to pawn it off to a dealer as a trade-in. Although it was a bit of a lemon, you still miss certain things about it. It had some great features, but it was just unreliable and downright embarrassing with the clouds of blue smoke it left in parking lots.
Scot Kuvalis 2025-05-23

Vehicle year: 2001

The car experienced several mechanical issues, including problems with the ignition modules, SIDs display, and heater controls. Additionally, the placement of the catalytic converter next to the oil pan caused the oil to cook and required frequent oil changes. Despite following the recommended 10K oil changes religiously, the engine failed at 60,000 miles. It is worth noting that Saab was aware of this issue, but did not publicize it in the States. However, after a lawsuit, a new engine was provided. It is possible that the system does not save fault codes on many failures.
Demarcus Boehm 2025-05-19

Vehicle year: 2001

I purchased my Saab 2001 used with 20k miles in 2004, and it has been a reliable dog mobile and triathlon equipment car. Although I have a love/hate relationship with the Turbo, I have had to replace it once, along with the battery, brakes, cup holder, lights (frequently), electric panel, and A/C. I have spent over $10k in repairs, but I still appreciate the car's nice interior. Unfortunately, the ignition is in a terrible place, and the car has turned off when a larger person passenger accidentally bumped the ignition. After reading other reviews, I realized that this is typical of this model. Although I had hoped to drive it forever, I don't think it will last that long. I have decided not to buy a performance vehicle again.

Latest positive Saab 9-5 car reviews

Gardner Kulas 2025-06-04

Vehicle year: 1999

This car is really fast and exciting to drive! The sport button was always on for me, and you can really feel the turbo kick in, giving you a rush of adrenaline. The interior is so comfortable and creamy, and it's definitely the best looking wagon on the road. Plus, it's the safest car out there - I got hit at 60mph on the driver's side and nobody was even scratched! The only issue I had was with the turbo not being cooled enough and breaking at around 70kmi.
Reyes Koelpin 2025-06-01

Vehicle year: 2009

Great fuel mileage, smooth ride, lots of power, great stereo, comfortable seats, nice HVAC system, superb in the snow, sunroof, handles great, looks great, excellent warranty, low insurance rates, 5-star crash rating, and very affordable.
Leonard Kub 2025-05-26

Vehicle year: 2005

I'm so happy with my Saab! This is actually my 4th Saab, and my second 9-5. I specifically ordered the car with a manual transmission, air-conditioned seats, and satellite navigation. I do a lot of highway driving, and this Saab just eats up all the miles. On long road trips, I average 32-35 miles per gallon, and for everyday driving, I average 28-30. The car is so much fun to drive, and I absolutely love the turbo! It's comfortable to drive in all weather conditions and on all roads. I do use snow tires in the winter, and the car becomes unstoppable. I visit my dealer every 5,000 miles for scheduled maintenance, and the car has never failed me. From weather of -20 to +115 degrees Fahrenheit, the car always handles it with composure. I really appreciate the car's understated design, which doesn't call attention to itself in traffic.
Deion Shields 2025-05-25

Vehicle year: 2008

This is my 5th Saab. It's a really comfortable car and fun to drive. I just completed a 300 mile trip and got an honest 32 mpg, which is great. The only issue I've had are some rattles and chirps which come and go, but unfortunately the dealer hasn't been able to fix them. If you're someone who is bothered by little rattles, then this might not be the car for you. However, if you're looking for a lot of car for your money, then this is definitely worth considering.
Arnaldo Prosacco 2025-05-25

Vehicle year: 2000

I inherited the last two years of this lease and although I wouldn't have chosen this car myself, I have come to really appreciate it. It has been completely reliable and has not had a single mechanical problem. It is also quite fast, although there is a little torque steer when accelerating, but that has never bothered me. At high speeds, it is very smooth. During the cold spell we had last winter here in Chicago, it did begin to creak a bit, which makes me wonder how it will hold up in the next few years. Overall, I would definitely recommend this car for a lease, although I am not sure about its long-term durability.