1999 Saab 9-5 problems
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Common 1999 Saab 9-5 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Saab 9-5 1999, several common problems have been identified:
- Electrical Problems:
- The Saab 9-5 is known for various electrical issues, including problems with the ignition switch, dashboard lights, power windows, and the car's electrical system in general. Owners have reported issues such as dead batteries, alternator problems, and other electrical malfunctions that can lead to operational challenges. Ensuring all electrical components are functioning properly is crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns and safety hazards .
- Engine Issues:
- Owners have reported engine problems in the Saab 9-5, such as oil sludge buildup, turbo failure, timing chain issues, and overheating. These engine-related issues can significantly impact the performance and longevity of the vehicle. Regular maintenance, including monitoring oil levels and addressing any warning signs promptly, is essential to prevent severe engine damage and costly repairs .
- Transmission Problems:
- The automatic transmission in the Saab 9-5 may experience issues like slipping gears, hard shifting, and problems with the torque converter. Transmission issues can affect the vehicle's drivability and overall performance. Regular transmission fluid checks and servicing can help prevent major transmission failures and ensure smooth operation of the vehicle .
- Suspension Concerns:
- The Saab 9-5 is prone to suspension problems, including worn-out shocks, struts, and bushings, leading to excessive vibrations, noise, and a rough ride. Maintaining the suspension system is crucial for driving comfort and safety. Addressing any signs of suspension wear promptly can prevent further damage and ensure a smoother driving experience .
These common problems with the Saab 9-5 1999 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and thorough inspections to address potential issues before they escalate and ensure the vehicle's reliability and longevity.
Is Saab 9-5 a good car?
Saab's 9-5 is a competent car with capable and secure handling. A major 2010 redesign produced a car that wasn't as well rounded as previous 9-5s. It handles fairly nimbly and has great fit and finish, but the 220-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine is noisy and a little weak for the class.
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.
How reliable is a Saab car?
The 9-3 is one of the most reliable and cost-efficient vehicles in the market. Some of its issues can be tedious to deal with, but most of them are preventable and repairable. If you're thinking of buying the Saab 9-3, keep in mind the importance of proper maintenance and repair.
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.
1999 Saab 9-5 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saab 9-5 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Saab 9-5
The NHTSA has received 121 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Saab 9-5. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Saab 9-5 vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-17
- VIN: YS3ED58E7X3
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE PARKED, THE PASSENGER'S SIDE IMPACT AIR BAG ERRONEOUSLY DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INVOLVED IN A CRASH OR ANY TYPE OF IMPACT. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER FOR A DIAGNOSTIC TEST HOWEVER, DEALER DID NOT PROVIDE AN EXPLANATION ON WHAT CAUSED THE AIR BAG TO INADVERTENTLY DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 103,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-10
- VIN: YS3ED48E3X3
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: MY VEHICLE WAS SOLD ORIGINALLY IN CALIFORNIA AND HAS BEEN A CALIFORNIA REGISTERED VEHICLE AT ALL TIMES. IT HAS REAR FOG LIGHTS INSTALLED WITH IT'S OWN SEPARATE SWITCH ON CLUSTER DASH FOR THEM . THIS VEHICLE DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE CALIFORNIA VEHICLE CODE 24602 FOG TAIL LAMPS OR REAR FOG LIGHTS. AS THE CODE STATES: 24602.(B)(3) THE EDGE OF THE LENS OF THE LAMP SHALL BE NO CLOSER THAN FOUR INCHES FROM THE EDGE OF THE LENS OF ANY STOP LAMP OR BRAKE. THIS VEHICLES REAR FOG LIGHT LENSES AND BRAKE LIGHT LENSES ARE RIGHT UP AGAINST EACH OTHER WITH NO SPACE GIVEN BETWEEN THEM. I HAVE ASKED THE MANUFACTURER OWNER ,WHICH WAS GENERAL MOTORS AT THE TIME TO REMEDY ISSUE. THEY HAVE DECLINED ANY ASSISTANCE. I HAVE EXPLAINED THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUES WHICH WAS WRITTEN INTO CALIFORNIA LAW FOR A PURPOSE. THE PROBLEM IS WHEN USING THEM WHEN WARRANTED ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS REQUIRE AND DO TO THEIR PLACEMENT IT CAN BE CONSTRUED AS IF THE VEHICLE IS BRAKING AS COMING TO A STOP OR STOPPED. I VEHICLE BEHIND IT COULD PANIC BRAKE OR HARD STEER TO RIGHT OR LEFT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT . I HAVE ALSO WRITTEN TO THE ORIGINAL SALES DEALER FOR ASSISTANCE. I BELIEVE THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN A RECALL FOR THIS MODEL VEHICLE . YOUR ASSISTANCE AND INVESTIGATION INTO THIS APPRECIATED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-29
- VIN: YS3ED48E3X3
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY VEHICLE HAS A CRACK ABOUT 2 INCHES IN LENGTH ON THE RIGHT REAR SIDE ON ROOF TOP. I CAN PROVIDE PICTURES AND WOULD LIKE MY VEHICLE INVESTIGATED INTO ON THIS ISSUE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-15
- VIN: YS3EF48E4X3
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: VACUUM BRAKE BOOSTER FILLED WITH OIL LEAKING FROM DEFECTIVE VACUUM PUMP RESULTING IN BRAKE FAILURE. DEFECTIVE ABS MODULE CAUSES BRAKES TO SUDDENLY LOCK UP IMMOBILIZING CAR. THIS IS A DESIGN FAILURE IN THE ELECTRONIC ABS BRAKING SYSTEM IN MY OPINION. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-07
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ALL OF THESE REPAIRS IN ABOUT A TWO YEAR PERIOD: ABS MODULE, OIL COOLER, THROTTLE BODY, UPPER RADIATOR HOSE, AND BOTH DIC CASSETTES. THIS IS COMPLETELY UNACCEPTABLE FOR WHAT WAS ORIGINALLY A $40K CAR. I HAVE LOVED SAAB'S SINCE MY CHILDHOOD, BUT THIS ONE CAR HAS COMPLETELY TURNED ME OFF OF THEM. FIRST THE ABS MODULE WENT, HAD IT REBUILT ($150) AND NO IMPROVEMENT. SO I BOUGHT A NEW ONE ($350). THEN JUST AFTER THAT THE THROTTLE BODY DIED ($450). THEN JUST A FEW MONTHS LATER THE OIL COOLER ($1100) WENT OUT. IT RAN SMOOTH FOR A SHORT TIME, BUT THEN BOTH DIC'S DIED AT THE SAME TIME ($850). IT IS TIME FOR THIS CAR TO GO AWAY, AND I WILL NEVER BUY ANOTHER SAAB. WHY IS THERE A RECALL ON THE DIC FOR ALL SUBSEQUENT YEARS, BUT NO THE 1999'S? THANK SAAB!!! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-14
- VIN: YS3ED58E4X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 1999 SAAB'S DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE HAS FAILED -- A VERY COMMON OCCURRENCE IN THIS MODEL, FOR WHICH A RECALL WAS ISSUED. THAT RECALL, HOWEVER, EXCLUDED 1999 MODEL YEARS FOR REASONS UNKNOWN TO ANYONE I HAVE SPOKEN WITH. MY CAR IS ESSENTIALLY IDENTICAL TO A 2000 SAAB 9-5, WHICH IS COVERED UNDER RECALL. HAD MY PART FAILED WHILE DRIVING, I WOULD HAVE BEEN LEFT WITH NO POWER BRAKES, STEERING, ETC... THIS IS MY WIFE'S CAR, IN WHICH WE CARRY OUR NEWBORN DAUGHTER. IT'S A VERY LOW-MILEAGE CAR (83K MILES) THAT I TAKE METICULOUS CARE OF. THIS PART SHOULD NOT FAIL, AND SHOULD CERTAINLY BE RECALLED IF A PATTERN OF FAILURES EXISTS (WHICH IT DOES). THANK YOU! *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- VIN: YS3EF48Z5X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-25
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 1999 SAAB 9-5 WAGON PASSENGER SIDE (SIDE) AIRBAG DEPLOYED WHILE SITTING STILL. GM IS DRAGGING THEIR HEELS AND NOT OFFERING A RENTAL CAR AND I WAS TOLD TODAY THAT IF I NEED A CAR TO DRIVE, I CAN PICK THE CAR UP FROM DEALERSHIP BUT THEY CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT ANOTHER AIRBAG WILL NOT DEPLOY. THIS IS QUITE A SCARY PROSPECT. GM SENT AN INSPECTOR OVER A WEEK LATER AND I'M STILL WAITING ON A REPORT. MEANWHILE WE ARE STUCK WITHOUT A CAR AND NO GUARANTEE FOR PAYMENT ON A RENTAL SO NO RENTAL. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-10
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 SAAB 9-5 ENGINE JUST SHUTS DOWN WHILE DRIVING OR IDLING. THERE WAS A RECALL OF THE IGNITION CONTROL UNIT ON THE 2000. DEALER SAID IT'S THE SAME PROBLEM ON THE 1999 BUT WASN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. ICM HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE AT THE DEALER, THE LAST TIME BEING 2 YEARS AGO AND NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. GM SAYS NOTHING THEY CAN DO SINCE THE 1999 WASN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. SOMEONE IS GOING TO GET HURT TAKING AN OFF RAMP ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAVING THE CAR JUST TURN OFF. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-18
- VIN: YS3ED58E6X3
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HER IGNITION CASSETTE WAS FAILING AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. WHEN SHE STARTS HER VEHICLE, IT MOVES SLUGGISHLY AND MAKES NOISE. THE CHECK ENGINE INDICATOR REMAINS ILLUMINATED AND AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FUMES EXIT THE EXHAUST. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE IGNITION CASSETTE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND WAS HARMING THE ENGINE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 135,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-30
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 SAAB 9-5. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AND THERE WAS EXCESSIVELY LOW POWER. THE VEHICLE WAS OPERATING ROUGHLY AND WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO THE IGNITION CASSETTES. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR AN IDENTICAL FAILURE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 73,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 109,000.
SUSPENSION,TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-01
- Components: SUSPENSION,TIRES
- Summary: REAR TIRES HAVE BEEN WEARING OUR PREMATURELY. INSIDE TIRE WEAR. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-25
- VIN: YS3EF48E6X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN A HILL (JACKMAN ST. AT WATER ST., APPLETON WI) WHEN MY '99 SAAB, WENT DEAD. AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL THERE IS A BLIND TURN TO THE LEFT, A STOP SIGN, AND A RAILROAD CROSSING JUST BEYOND THE INTERSECTION. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS SPOT TO HAVE YOUR CAR FAIL AND HAVE NO POWER TO THE BRAKES OR STEERING. THE REASON MY CAR STALLED WAS A FAILURE OF THE IGNITION CASSETTE. THE FIRST TIME THIS PART FAILED, IN 2002, THE SITUATION WAS NOT AS DANGEROUS, AND THEN IT WAS COVERED BY WARRANTY. I CONTACTED SAAB CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SENT A PHOTO OF THE HILL. THEY RESPONDED BY PHONE THAT THERE HAVE BEEN NO RECALLS FOR THIS PART, NOR WOULD THERE BE A RECALL. THEY REFUSED TO COVER THE COST OF THE TOW AND REPAIR. I THINK THAT LEAVES SAAB OWNERS VULNERABLE TO ACCIDENTS. I WAS LUCKY TO BE ABLE TO PULL OFF AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL WITHOUT HITTING A TRAIN OR CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY TO ANYONE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-01
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DEFECTIVE DASHBOARD SID. *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-22
- VIN: YS3ED48E4X3
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: AS REPORTED BY THE AUTO DEALERS SERVICE DEPARTMENT, A SEAM ON THE TOP OF THE NON-METALLIC FUEL TANK HAS SEPARATED AND DEVELOPED A LEAK. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-15
- VIN: YS3ED48E4X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DASH BOARD DIGITAL DISPLAY (REFERRED TO AS SID) INOPERATIVE AND UNABLE TO REPORT VITAL SAFETY RELATED INFORMATION. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-15
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. IT CAUSED THE CAR TO STALL IN AN INTERSECTION. I WAS IN A TRAFFIC LANE TURNING LEFT WITH ONCOMING TRAFFIC WHEN IT FAILED. I REPLACED IT AT THE DEALER FOR $400.00. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE SEIZED DUE TO OIL SLUDGING CAUSING THE CAR TO STOP IN TRAFFIC ON AN INCLINE AT NIGHT ON A STREET WITH OUT LIGHTING. IT SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING AND WAS PART OF A RECALL TWO YEARS AGO BUT I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED OF IT. I FOUND OUT AFTER THE INCIDENT FROM A REPAIR SHOP. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-13
- VIN: YS3ED48E0X3
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SHIFTER STUCK IN PARK. SECOND TIME IN A WEEK. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-12
- VIN: YS3ED58E5X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A SAAB 9-5 1999 WAGON. MY DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE IS OVERHEATING CAUSING THE CAR TO MISS. I CHECKED ONLINE AND FOUND A RECALL ON THESE CASSETTES. THE RECALL THOUGH ONLY COVERS YEARS 2000-2002. MY CAR IS A FEW MONTHS BEFORE THE RECALL AND IS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3EF48Z6X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY SON JUST PASSED HIS DRIVERS TEST AND WE WERE GOING HOME WHEN THE CAR STARTED MAKING NOISES AND THEN STALLED. SMOKE WAS COMING OUT OF THE CAR AND SMELLED LIKE BURNT RUBBER. MY SON LUCKILY WAS ABLE TO GET THE CAR TO THE SIDE (AVOIDED AN ACCIDENT). LIFTED HOOD THOUGHT CAR OVERHEATED. I TRIED STARTING THE CAR AND IT SPARKED AND STARTED SMOKING AGAIN. FOUND OUT IT WAS THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE. MY CAR IS A 1999 9-5 SAAB. I FOUND THAT THE 2000'S HAD A RECALL DUE TO THIS OVERHEATING AND COULD CAUSE A CRASH. THIS COULD OF CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-07-12
- VIN: YS3EF48Z7X3
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1999 SAAB 9-5 V6 (127,000 MILES). NO PRIOR RELATED PROBLEM BEFORE THIS INCIDENT. UPON START UP, VEHICLE RAN ROUGH AT IDLE. LOW POWER WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. PARKED VEHICLE AND RAISED HOOD. NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM IGNITION MODULE ON FRONT SIDE OF ENGINE, STRONG SMELL OF BURNING PLASTIC. ALSO SMELLED RAW GAS COMING FROM EXHAUST. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. ENGINE STALLED AND WOULD NOT RUN AGAIN. THIS ALL TOOK PLACE IN LESS THAN 5 MINUTES. VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK HOME. REPLACEMENT IGNITION CASSETTE CURRENTLY ON ORDER.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-17
- VIN: YS3EF48E2X3
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I RECENTLY PURCHASED A USED 1999 SAAB 9-5 SE SEDAN WITH A 2.3 LITRE ECOPOWER ENGINE WITH TURBO. BARELY 5 DAYS AFTER MY PURCHASE OF THIS VEHICLE THERE WAS A VERY SUDDEN ONSET OF A LOUD KNOCKING COMING FROM THE ENGINE. I IMMEDIATELY HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A DEALERSHIP THE SERVICE MANAGER AT WHICH INFORMED ME THAT THERE WAS A DAMAGED BALANCING SHAFT AND THAT MY ENGINE WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS DUE TO THE PRESENCE OF ENGINE SLUDGE. WHAT I WAS NOT TOLD, HOWEVER I DID FIND OUT WAS THAT ENGINE SLUDGE IS A PROBLEM KNOWN TO SAAB ON THIS CAR. HOWEVER IN ORDER FOR SAAB TO COVER THE COST OF REPAIR, I WOULD HAVE THE UNREASONABLE TASK OF PROVIDING SAAB WITH ALL MAINTENENCE RECORDS FOR A CAR THAT I'VE OWNED FOR 5 DAYS. AFTER MUCH TRACKING I WAS ABLE TO FIND A SATISFACTORY NUMBER OF RECEIPTS, HOWEVER SAAB STILL REFUSED TO COVER THE WARRANTY BECAUSE OF A DATE DISCREPANCY ON ONE OF THE RECEIPTS THAT IS COMPLETELY OUT OF MY CONTROL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-04
- VIN: YS3ED45E9X3
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1999 SAAB 9-5 4-CYLINDER SEDAN THREW ROD AT 53,000 ON BUSY I-85 IN ATLANTA WITH NO PREVIOUS WARNING WHATSOEVER (NO OIL LEAKS ON GARAGE FLOOR, NO ENGINE OR OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHTS, STRANGE NOISES, NOTHING). WAS ABLE TO GET TO SHOULDER WITHOUT INCIDENT. CAR HAD BEEN MAINTAINED REGULARLY. CONTACTED SAAB ASKING FOR REPAIR UNDER EXTENDED 8-YEAR WARRANTY ISSUED IN 2005 DUE TO PROBLEMS WITH THIS ENGINE RELATED TO OIL SLUDGE. SENT ALL REQUESTED RECORDS BECAUSE LOCAL DEALERSHIP SAID THEY DIDN'T HAVE ON FILE. REQUEST WAS DENIED. SENT FOLLOW-UP LETTER TO SAAB G.M. REQUESTING REPAIR. DENIED WITH NO EXPLANATION. PHONED ON 3/1/07 REQUESTING A WRITTEN EXPLANATION BE EMAILED. STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED ALTHOUGH WAS TOLD IT WAS BEING SENT IMMEDIATELY. WAS TOLD BY PERSON I SPOKE WITH THAT THE CAR WAS OUTSIDE THE 8 YR. EXTENDED WARRANTY. SAAB WILL DO NOTHING EXCEPT OFFER A CUSTOMER LOYALTY DISCOUNT TOWARD A NEW VEHICLE. MINE IS PRACTICALLY NEW AT 53,000 MILES. LOW MILEAGE DUE TO SHORT TRIPS OF 3 MILES EACH WAY TO WORK. THIS DRIVING CONDITION WAS ONE SPECIFICALLY LISTED AS CONTRIBUTING TO SLUDGE. I DON'T WANT OR EXPECT A NEW CAR. I JUST WANT MINE REPAIRED. *NM
1999 Saab 9-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1999 Saab 9-5.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: WHEELS:HUB
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, IF AN OWNER CHANGES THEIR WHEELS/TIRES BETWEEN SUMMER AND WINTER USING A STEEL WHEEL IN THE WINTER AND AN ALLOY WHEEL IN THE SUMMER, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR RUST AND CONTAMINATION TO BUILD UP ON THE WHEEL HUB DURING THE STEEL WHEEL USAGE. IF THIS OCCURS AND THE CONTAMINATION IS NOT REMOVED, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT AFTER THE TIRE CHANGE SERVICE, SOME OF THIS CONTAMINATION COULD FLAKE OR GRIND AWAY RESULTING IN REDUCED CLAMPING FORCE OF THE WHEEL TO THE HUB. OVER SEVERAL SEASONS, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THIS REDUCED FORCE COULD RESULT IN FRACTURES DEVELOPING IN THE WHEEL BOLTS DUE TO WHEEL TO HUB MOVEMENT.
- Consequence: THESE FRACTURES WOULD RESULT IN WHEEL BOLT BREAKAGE, ALLOWING THE WHEEL TO DETACH FROM THE WHEEL HUB, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE CONTACTED BY MAIL AND ASKED WHETHER THEY CHANGE BETWEEN STEEL AND ALLOY WHEELS. IF THEY DO ENGAGE IN THIS PRACTICE, THEY WILL BE INSTRUCTED TO BRING THEIR CARS TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE DEALER WILL REMOVE THE WHEELS, CLEAN ANY CONTAMINATION FROM THE WHEEL AND WHEEL HUB, AND REPLACE THE WHEELS USING NEW IMPROVED BOLTS WITH ATTACHED WASHERS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN MARCH 31, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE AIR BAG ALERT LABEL ON THE DRIVER SIDE VISOR WAS OMITTED. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE OCCUPANT MAY NOT PROPERLY UNDERSTAND THE OPERATION OF THE AIR BAG SYSTEM AND THE NEED TO USE SEAT BELTS.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ALERT LABEL TO BE INSTALLED ON THE VISIBLE SIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SUN VISOR. IF AN OWNER SO DESIRES, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM.
Negative 1999 Saab 9-5 car reviews
Positive 1999 Saab 9-5 car reviews
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I recently purchased my second SAAB! My first was a 1995 900s, which I loved so much that I decided to buy another. The 1999 95 is an amazing machine - it's fast, comfortable, safe, and quiet, with plenty of storage space. It looks great sitting in my garage, although it doesn't get out much. Unfortunately, I've had some issues with it before hitting 100,000 miles, including problems with the turbos, water pump, alternator, crank sensor, battery, engine temp sensor, and transmission safety switch. The check engine and transmission lights keep turning on and off, and despite researching online and taking it to repair centers, I still haven't been able to figure out why. As a certified mechanic, I've spent over $3000 in the last 20,000 miles trying to fix it, but it's still broken. Despite these issues, I still love my SAAB and hope to get it running smoothly again soon!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with the Saab 9-5. Back in 1998, I was lucky enough to purchase the very first one sold by the dealer. I compared it to other brands like BMW, Audi, Lexus, and Volvo, and I found that the Saab offered more value for my money. I've had it for 7 years now, and while there's been some normal wear and tear, I haven't had any major problems. The only issue I've noticed is that the center display is starting to become unreadable. But overall, the car still drives great, especially in sports mode. It's such a smooth ride! If I could afford it, I would definitely purchase another 9-5. Thanks for listening!
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I've owned four other SAAB models and I must say, they just keep getting better. The General (GM) has added some really nice touches and improvements to this model, such as a better climate control system, braking, and a quieter interior. The Harmon Kardon sound system is superb, and the sport car handling, room, comfort and nearly 30 mpg make it the best Saab model to date!
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I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your car! It sounds like you're having a unique and exciting experience. It's great to hear that you find it extremely comfortable, especially with those fantastic seats and ventilation system. I'm also excited to see what Saab has in store for their next 9-5 model!
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The 9-5 is a great sedan, especially if you're looking for a family car. While it may not be the most exciting car to drive, it certainly gets the job done. The turbo doesn't provide much power, but it's still a reliable car that can fit a family of five and all their belongings for a trip to the beach. It has a nice appearance and is sure to receive compliments from the family crowd. Overall, it's a solid choice for a family sedan.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Saab 9-5 problems:
2002 Saab 9-5 Strong Gas smell | SaabCentral Forums
Mar 3, 2007 ... ... problems apear. Car mods: Saab 2.0 lpt ... This seems to be a common problem with used 9-5's. ... $7,900 1999 Saab 9-5 "ecopower" with no turbo ...
Saab 9-5 Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Our list of 17 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your Saab 9-5 ... Find the most common issues based on car owner complaints ... 1999 Saab 9-5 ...
Saab 9-5 Throttle Body Issues: Symptoms, Reset, and Limp Mode ...
Oct 12, 2009 ... What causes reduced power in my 1999 Saab 9-5? - Answered by a verified Auto Mechanic.
1999 Saab 9-5 start problems (especially when warm??!)
Dec 7, 2016 ... ... common occurance for some time now is that it always starts perfectly when the engine is cold. However if it is warm, and I try to start it ...
3.0 V6 Any opinions? | Saabscene Saab Forum - Saab Technical ...
Dec 4, 2005 ... Classic Saab 9-5 (1997 - 2009). JavaScript is ... Common problems? What to look out for? Many ... I bought a 9-5 Griffin 1999 about a year ago ...
Other years of Saab 9-5
Are you having problems with your 1999 Saab 9-5?
Foster Goyette 2024-11-22
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.
Eusebio Sporer 2024-09-03
The car is such a blast to drive when it's up and running! Unfortunately, we've only been able to enjoy it for about half of the year we've owned it. It seems like it's always in the shop for repairs. Our friends have even started calling it the Saab story. It's a shame because it's such a fun and sporty little car, but the cost of repairs is just too much for us to keep up with.
Clinton Cronin 2024-07-16
Although the car was initially comfortable and stylish, it has unfortunately required a significant amount of repairs over the past 2.5 years, including a DI unit replacement, transmission repair at 80k miles, and other costly issues. The ABS has now failed, and the repair cost is estimated to be around a thousand dollars, assuming a used part can be found. Despite these challenges, it is important to note that the car still has value and can be repaired. It is important to weigh the cost of repairs against the value of the car and consider all options before making a decision.
Angel Braun 2024-05-14
Although I initially enjoyed my car when I first purchased it, my 45k miles of ownership have been quite challenging. Unfortunately, I experienced some first model year build quality issues such as a poor fit, AC drain leakage onto my foot, and a musty smell from the AC. Despite these issues, I tried to remain optimistic until it broke down on the highway. Thankfully, the dealer was able to replace the electronic module. However, I then encountered additional problems such as oil leakage and issues with the rear suspension. While all of these issues were covered under warranty, it was still a frustrating experience. Overall, I would have preferred a smoother ownership experience with my new car.
Jonathon Ernser 2024-05-10
My friend and I were both looking for cars back in '99. I ended up with a Saab, but unfortunately, it has had a lot of issues. On the other hand, my friend bought a Volvo S80 T6 (twin turbo) and it has been great! His car has been virtually trouble-free, even with over 80,000 miles on it. I have had to deal with engine leaks, transmission problems, electrical issues, and a terrible A/C system. Needless to say, I have been disappointed with my Saab and I regret my purchase. I have learned my lesson and will not be buying a Saab again.