2001 Saab 9-5 problems
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Common 2001 Saab 9-5 problems
The Saab 9-5 2001 is known to have several common problems based on complaints from its owners. Here are some of the issues in detail:
- Blend Door Arm: The blend door arm, which controls the temperature of the car, can break or malfunction, causing the car's heating and cooling systems to not work properly.
- Engine Management System: The engine management system, which controls the engine's fuel injection and ignition, can fail, causing the car to not run properly or not run at all.
- Turbocharger: The turbocharger, which increases the engine's power, can fail, causing the car to lose power or not run at all.
- Timing Chain: The timing chain, which synchronizes the engine's valves and pistons, can stretch or break, causing the engine to run poorly or not run at all.
It's important to note that not all Saab 9-5 2001 models will have these problems, and it's always recommended to have a mechanic inspect the car before purchasing to identify any potential problems and to have a better understanding of the condition of the car
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.
How long does a Saab turbo last?
Turbos are designed to last the lifetime of the vehicle (or around 150,000 miles); however, it's possible for them to wear out over time depending on how hard you drive the car and the original build quality of the turbo.
2001 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
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Wheels problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2001 Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2001 Saab 9-5
The NHTSA has received 85 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Saab 9-5. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2001 Saab 9-5 vehicles.
2024-01-29
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-28
- 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.
2016-04-04
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-31
- VIN: YS3EF48Z713
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH, THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE BECAME DIFFICULT TO CONTROL, SLAMMED TO THE GROUND, AND CAME TO A STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW ROTOR, HUB ASSEMBLY, AND FRONT RIM. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 194,000.
2015-09-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-19
- VIN: YS3EF48Z513
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS EVENTUALLY ABLE TO RESTART. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V399000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000.
2014-06-12
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-12
- VIN: YS3ED48E313
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 2001 SAAB 9-5 HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FOR AWHILE ON AND OFF. THE VEHICLE WILL SOMETIMES STALL RANDOMLY AND NOT START UNTIL ENGINE COOLS DOWN. THE CODES FOR CEL LEAD TO DIRECT IGNITION. A PREVIOUS RECALL ON THESE VEHICLES, ONE MY VEHICLE RECEIVED. I CALLED DEALER AND THEY SAID SEEING AS IT WAS ALREADY TAKEN CARE OF ONCE NOTHING CAN BE DONE. I KNOW I WILL TO HAVE TO GET IT FIXED TO PASS EMISSIONS TESTING DUE TO FAULTY DIRECT IGNITION. NOT TO MENTION HOW UNSAFE IT IS IF IT STALLS. *TR
2013-06-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-21
- VIN: YS3ED58E113
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I JUST BOUGHT THIS CAR. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON INDICATING A SERIOUS PROBLEM. I HAD THE ERROR CODES CHECKED. THEY ARE P1312 AND P1334. THESE CODES INDICATE A PROBLEM WITH THE "DIC" (DIRECT IGNITION CONTROLLER). EARLIER MODELS WERE SUBJECT TO RECALL. THERE IS APPARENTLY STILL A PROBLEM. I KEEP CLEARING THE WARNING SIGNAL, BUT IT KEEPS RECURRING. *TR
2011-12-08
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-07
- VIN: YS3ED45EX13
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, HE NOTICED AN OVERPOWERING ODOR OF GASOLINE AND THE FUEL WAS BURNING MUCH FASTER THAN NORMAL. AFTER STOPPING THE VEHICLE, HE NOTICED A LEAK. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THEY ADVISED HIM THAT THEY WOULD HAVE TO DROP THE ENTIRE FUEL TANK TO INSPECT THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER INSPECTED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND THEY ADVISED HIM THAT HE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 07V087000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE: DELIVERY: HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 122,500. UPDATED 01/20/12*LJ UPDATED 03/05/12
2009-12-18
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-16
- VIN: YS3EF48Z513
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 2001 SAAB 9-5. I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE DIRECT IGNITION COIL TWICE IN MY CAR. I RECENTLY READ THAT THIS ITEMS HAVE BEEN RECALLED AND I WANT TO SEE IF I AM ELIGIBLE FOR A REFUND FOR THE WORK DONE. *TR
2009-06-05
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-01
- VIN: YS3ED48E513
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE WARNING LIGHT WOULD SPORADICALLY ILLUMINATE ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. SHE ALSO EXPERIENCED A NO START CONDITION. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE STALLS WITHOUT WARNING. THE IDM WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED ACCORDING TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 05V399000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE) IN 2006; THEREFORE, THEY WOULD NOT ASSUME ANY RESPONSIBILITY. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 89,074.
2009-04-20
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-13
- VIN: YS3ED48E113
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE FIRST TIME THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON WAS IN MID OCTOBER 2006, AFTER ABOUT AN HOUR OF DRIVING. THERE WAS NO OTHER INDICATION OF A PROBLEM (NOISE, VIBRATION, CHANGE IN HANDLING, ETC). THE OIL HAD RECENTLY BEEN CHANGED, BUT IT WAS RECHECKED AND TOPPED OFF ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD ANYWAY. EVERYTHING SEEMED GOOD FOR ABOUT 20 MIN WHEN THE OIL LIGHT CAME BACK ON DURING A TURN. I WAS ON MY WAY TO THE AIRPORT SO I PARKED THE CAR AND TOOK IT TO A SERVICE SHOP TWO DAYS LATER WHEN I RETURNED. IT WAS GIVEN AN OIL CHANGE AND AN OVERALL CHECK. THE OIL LIGHT DID NOT COME ON DURING THE TEST DRIVE. I DROVE IT HOME WITH NO EXPLANATION AS TO WHY THE OIL LIGHT CAME ON IN THE FIRST PLACE. IN EARLY 2007, THE SAME THING HAPPENED AGAIN. THIS TIME THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON TOO. EVERYTHING WAS CHECKED OVER AND NOTHING FOUND WRONG. EVEN THE SENSORS WERE WORKING FINE. FOR THE NEXT YEAR AND A HALF, THE OIL AND ENGINE LIGHTS WOULD GO ON AND OFF AT ODD INTERVALS ACCOMPANIED BY NO OTHER SIGNS. SOMETIMES THEY WOULD ONLY FLICKER ON AND OFF DURING A SHORT DRIVE AND OTHER TIMES THEY WOULD STAY ON FOR WEEKS AND THEN GOING OFF AGAIN FOR NO REASON. EACH TIME, THE OIL AND ENGINE WOULD BE LOOKED OVER AND NOTHING FOUND TO BE WRONG. THE LAST TIME THERE WAS AN ISSUE WAS ON JUNE 13TH 2008. I WAS DRIVING FOR ABOUT AN HOUR AND THE OIL LIGHT AND ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON, THIS TIME ACCOMPANIED BY A TICKING SOUND FROM THE ENGINE. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED OVER AT THE NEXT EXIT AND HAD THE CAR TOWED. AFTER ANOTHER CHECKOVER, WE WERE TOLD THAT THE ENGINE IS FAILING DUE TO SLUDGE BUILD UP AND THAT IT WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. IT HAS 98,300 MILES ON IT. ALL REGULAR SERVICES WERE DONE, AND OIL CHANGES WERE DONE AT MORE FREQUENT INTERVALS THAN STATED IN THE OWNERS MANUAL. WE WERE TOLD IT WOULD COST BETWEEN $5000.00 TO $9000.00 DEPENDING ON WHAT TYPE OF REPLACEMENT MOTOR WAS FOUND (NEW OR USED). THE VEHICLE IS STILL SITTING IN OUR GARAGE AND HAS NOT BEEN DRIVEN. THE SAAB COMPANY REFUSES ANY RESPONSIBILITY. *TR
2009-03-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-25
- VIN: YS3EF48Z413
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD A "DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE" FAILURE ON MY SAAB 9-5 2001. I FOUND FROM WWW.SAABSERVICES.COM THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THIS PART FOR MODEL YEARS 2000-2002. THE DEALER HAS INDICATED THAT MY VEHICLE, ALTHOUGH IN THAT CATEGORY, DID NOT QUALIFY FOR A RECALL PART REPLACEMENT. HOWEVER, I HAVE COPIED THE NOTICE BELOW AND AM FILING A COMPLAINT AS INDICATED IN THE NOTICE BELOW. TAKEN FROM THE WEBSITE: HTTP://WWW.SAABSERVICES.COM/SAAB%20DIRECT%20IGNITION%20CASSETTE%20FAILURES.HTM "SAAB DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURES UPDATE! A RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED, FOR MODEL YEARS 2000 THROUGH 2002. DI CASSETTES HAVE A SERIAL NUMBER ON THEM. THE COVERED UNITS ARE SERIAL # D000000-D336210 AND B083821-B096117 FOR 4CYL ENGINES, AND C048743-C073404 FOR 6CYL ENGINES. CONTACT YOUR SAAB DEALER FOR MORE INFO! BE AWARE THAT THE PRICE HAS DECLINED SIGNIFICANTLY, BUT WE DO NOT EXPECT THIS TO LAST VERY LONG. WE HAVE REPLACED MANY OF THESE IGNITION CASSETTES, AND FEEL THAT THEY DO HAVE A LIMITED ( LESS THAN REASONABLE) LIFE. IF YOU HAVE EXPERIENCED A FAILURE, AND YOUR VEHICLE IS OUTSIDE OF THE RECALL GROUP, YOU MAY WISH TO FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE NHTSA." *TR
2008-11-06
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-29
- VIN: YS3ED58E313
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2008 AT APPROXIMATELY 4:45 PM I EXPERIENCED A SUDDEN VEHICLE ENGINE STOP. THIS OCCURRED ON A RESIDENTIAL 4-LANE STREET WHILE TRAVELING IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE AT APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH. THE VEHICLE WAS A 2001 SAAB 95 ARC WAGON. . THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STARTED TO RUN ROUGH AND THEN THE ENGINE COMPLETELY SHUT OFF. THIS CAUSED ME TO HAVE TO GLIDE THE AUTO TO THE RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE THERE WAS A CURB. I THUS REMAINED IN A LANE OF TRAFFIC WITH A DISABLED VEHICLE. THE CAUSE WAS A DEFECTIVE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSOR. WHEN THIS BECOMES INOPERATIVE THE COMPUTER THAT CONTROLS ENGINE MANAGEMENT SHUTS DOWN AND DISABLES THE CAR. THIS REQUIRED A TOW TO THE DEALER REPAIR SHOP. AND IT REQUIRED A NEW CRANK SHAFT SENSOR PART TO BE INSTALLED. THE OLD PART IS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MAIN IRK ABOUT THIS IS THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I HAVE REPLACED THIS PART IN 15 MONTHS. THE ORIGINAL SENSOR THAT CAME WIT THE CAR WHEN I PURCHASED IT NEW LASTED 87,199 MILES AND 5.5 YEARS. THE SECOND SENSOR WAS REPLACED ON JULY 16, 2007. THE THIRD SENSOR WAS REPLACED AT 101,507 MILES...A MERE 15 MONTHS AND 13 DAYS WITH A MILEAGE USAGE OF 14,308 MILES. HAD THIS FAILURE IN OCTOBER 2008 OCCURRED JUST 5 MINUTES BEFORE WHEN I WAS TRAVELING ON A SIX-LANE INTERSTATE AT 60 MPH I WOULD HAVE HAD A SERIOUS PROBLEM DRIFTING ACROSS SEVERAL LANES OF TRAFFIC IN ORDER TO PULL OVER FOR SAFETY. I BELIEVE THAT SAAB HAS A SUPPLIER PROVIDING THEM WITH AN INFERIOR PART. *TR
2008-10-22
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-04
- VIN: YS3EF58Z313
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: RANDOM ENGINE CUTOFF WHEN DRIVING, LOOSING POWER STEERING CAPABILITY AT THE SAME TIME. MOST OFTEN HAPPENED WHEN APPROACHING INTERSECTION AT THE TIME WHEN CAR SPEED WAS LOWERED. HAPPENED ON MULTIPLE DAYS. *TR
2008-10-09
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-03
- VIN: YS3EF48ZX13
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 07V087000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS). THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED HER THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AND TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO A DEALER FOR REPAIRS. SHE DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND THEY DEVELOPED A SECURING BRACKET TO SECURE THE FUEL LINES TO THE FUEL PUMP. IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING THE REPAIRS, THE CONTACT SMELLED GASOLINE INSIDE THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT, WHICH CAUSED HER TO BECOME LIGHT HEADED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT A DIAGNOSTIC TEST WOULD BE PERFORMED IN ORDER TO FIND OUT IF THE VEHICLE WAS RELATED TO THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 139,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,500.
2008-09-08
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-01
- VIN: YS3EF48Z013
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
- Summary: BOSCH ABS MODULE ON 2001 SAAB 9-5 SE V6 WITH 88,000 MILES FAILED WITH ABS, TCS, BRAKE, AND /!\ FAILURE LIGHTS DISPLAYED ON DASH. ABS NO LONGER OPERABLE. TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM NO LONGER OPERABLE. ENGINE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM NO LONGER OPERABLE. SPEEDOMETER NO LONGER OPERABLE. FROM READING MANY (OVER EIGHT!) MESSAGE BOARDS, THIS AN ENDEMIC PROBLEM WITH THE BOSCH ABS SYSTEMS IN MANY BMW, SAAB, CADILLAC CATERA, VW CARS. WHY CAN'T THE GOVERNMENT RECOGNIZE THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE? ABS IS BRAKES AND BRAKES ARE A SAFETY SYSTEM. PLEASE LOOK INTO THIS. CONTACT BBA-REMAN IN TAUNTON, MA, THEY HANDLE FIXING THESE SYSTEMS AND THEIR LOAD IS VERY HEAVY. *TR
2008-08-25
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-05
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3EF58Z313
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: ON TWO OCCASIONS OUR 2001SAAB,9.5 6 CYLINDER TRANSMISSION CASSETTE FAILED. LEAVING MY HUSBAND AND MY SELF STRANDED WITH A SMOLDERING CAR. ON OCT 19TH 05 WE WERE ABLE TO GET OFF THE HWY IN THE NICK OF TIME, HEAVY SMOKE HAD BEGUN TO POUR OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE FIRE WAS CONTAINED BUT THE IGNITION CASSETTE,THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE, THE WIRE HARNESS, BATTERY AND,SPARK PLUGS WERE DESTROYED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED. AT THE TIME OF THIS INCIDENCE WE WERE DRIVING IN THE SOUTHERN SIERRAS IN A SEASONAL DRY FOREST AREA. IT WAS FORTUNATE THAT A WE WERE ABLE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD IN A SAFE SPOT. ON AUG.15TH, 08. THE REPLACEMENT PART FAILED AGAIN AND AS BEFORE THE SPARK PLUGS, INSTALLED SEVERAL MONTHS PREVIOUSLY HAD TO BE REPLACED THE CONTINUED FAILURE OF THIS PART IN AN INTRINSIC MANUFACTURING DEFECT. SPECIFIC VIN NUMBERS OF THIS PART HAS BEEN RECALLED, BUT SAAB/ G.M NEEDS TO BE MADE TO RECALL ALL OF THESE AUTO'S AND REPLACE THE FLAWED IGNITION CASSETTE. NEITHER OF THE TWO IGNITION CASSETTES INSTALLED IN OUR CAR HAVE HAD THE VIN NUMBERS RECALLED. *TR
2008-07-10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-27
- VIN: YS3EF48Z413
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 2001 SAAB 9-5 V6. DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. RECALL WAS ISSUED, (RECALL 05V399000: IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE OVERHEATING) FOR THIS CAR YEAR AND TYPE. MINE FAILED AND THEY WILL NOT REPLACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PART # MATCHES THE RECALLED PART #. ALL I WANTED WAS THE PART REPLACED. THANK YOU *TR
2008-06-11
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-07
- VIN: YS3ED58EX13
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAG WARNING LIGHT COMES ON WITHOUT NOTICE, AND HORN STOPS WORKING, TOOK TO DEALER WHO SAID IT WAS THE CLOCK SPRING AND THIS IS A TYPICAL PROBLEM. IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE AS THE AIRBAG IS NEEDED TO PREVENT INJURIES. I HAVE HEARD OF OTHER PEOPLE BEING INJURED BY THIS. *TR
2008-06-10
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-05
- VIN: YS3ED58EX13
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: AFTER BRINGING MY CAR INTO THE DEALER FOR RECALL SERVICE I FOUND THAT THE DEALER HAD NOT PERFORMED SOME OF THE WORK. THE DEALER DID NOT ADDRESS NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER : 03V006000, WHICH IS ABOUT THE WHEEL BOLTS. THE DEALER SAID THAT SINCE I HAD MOVED TO FLORIDA THE RECALL WAS NOT VALID EVEN THOUGH IT IS NATIONWIDE. THE VEHICLE CAME FROM OHIO AND HAD STEEL WHEELS IN OHIO DURING THE WINTER. THE DEALER SHOULD REPLACE THE BOLTS BUT HAVE PUT ME IN DANGER INSTEAD. *TR
2008-03-24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-14
- VIN: YS3EF58Z013
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: COMPLAINT IS THAT SAAB USA HAS DECLINED TO REPLACE/REIMBURSE THE COST OF THE IDM/DIC WHICH FAILED ON OUR 2001 SAAB 9-5 V-6 VIN # . THIS WAS A RECALL BY NHTSA IN 2006. (NHTSA CAMPAIGN # IS 05V399000) SAAB USA DENIED THIS REPAIR AS THEIR DATA BASE DID NOT INCLUDE THIS VIN #. (THIS SERVICE REQUEST # TO SAAB USA IS 17613448567) THE FINAL DECISION ON THIS FROM SAAB USA CAME FROM AN UN-NAMED SUPERVISOR AT 1-866-790-5600 EXT # 31078. THE COST FOR THIS REPAIR WAS $677.50, INCLUDING $70.00 FOR TOWING TO A NEARBY FOREIGN AUTO REPAIR FACILITY. FROM EXHAUSTIVELY SEARCHING THE INTERNET AND ALSO PROVIDED TO ME BY THE REPAIR FACILITY, THE SERIAL NUMBERS OF THE DEFECTIVE IDM/DIC WERE FOUND. THE FAULTY UNITS FOR A V-6 ENGINE ARE C048743 THROUGH C073404. THE SERIAL # FROM THIS VEHICLE THAT FAILED IS C061858. THIS INFORMATION WAS ALSO GIVEN TO THE SUPERVISOR AT SAAB USA (MESSAGE-RECORDING), BUT HAS NEVER RESPONDED TO THIS ADDITIONAL FINDING AND CONTINUED CLAIM FOR COST REIMBURSEMENT. YOUR ASSISTANCE IS REQUESTED ON THIS MATTER. FROM INTERNET INFO, OTHERS HAVE BEEN SIMILARLY "STONEWALLED" BY SAAB USA COMPLIANCE TO YOUR ORDER. *TR
2008-03-10
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-09
- VIN: YS3EF48Z813
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WE BEGAN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH THE ENGINE STALLING AND UPON RECOMMENDATION OF OUR MECHANIC WE LOOKED TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL OR ANY INFORMATION OUT THERE FOR THIS VEHICLE. I CONTACTED SAAB USA AND THERE WAS A VALID OPEN RECALL NOTICE FOR THIS VEHICLE. WE ARRAIGNED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO HERITAGE SAAB IN MORROW, GA AND ACCORDING TO THEIR TECH'S THEY COMPLETED THE REPLACEMENT OF THE IDM IN ACCORDANCE TO THE RECALL NOTICE, BUT IN A MATTER OF A COUPLE OF WEEKS THE PROBLEM RETURNED. NOW WE CAN'T EVEN CRANK THE VEHICLE DUE TO IT CUTTING OFF AS SOON AS YOU CRANK IT. IT WILL APPEAR TO BE RUNNING, BUT THE ENGINE HAS STALLED AND IT SOMETIMES WILL NOT RECRANK UNTIL AFTER A FEW MINUTES HAS GONE BY. *TR
2008-02-15
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-25
- VIN: YS3EH48GX13
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE'S FUEL LINE DETACHED FROM FUEL PUMP DUE TO BROKEN RETAINING CLIP. FUEL SPILLED ON THE GROUND CREATING A HAZARDOUS SITUATION. *TR
2008-02-05
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-23
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: THE CAR STALLED AND CAME TO A STOP WHILE TRAVELING AT 50 MPH, THOUGHT IT WAS BATTERY. GOT RIDE TO PARTS STORE REPLACED THE BATTERY SINCE IT WAS COLD WEATHER AND DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE VEHICLE ON SIDE OF ROAD. HOWEVER, THIS WAS NOT THE CASE. CAR TOWED TO LOCAL SHOP AT A COST OF $100. THEY HOOKED IT UP AND SAID THAT IT WAS THE FUEL PUMP AND NEEDED REPLACED COSTING $414.54. JUST RECEIVED A LETTER COUPLE WEEKS PRIOR ON RECALL OF FUEL PUMP RETAINING TABS THAT HOLD FUEL LINES TO FUEL PUMP. LOOKED UP OTHER COMPLAINTS AND FIND THAT STALLING SEEM TO BE AN ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL, COULD IT HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE FUEL PUMP? *TR
2007-12-28
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-16
- VIN: YS3EF48Z913
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 2001 SAAB 9-5 WITH ENGINE STALLING PROBLEMS. CONSUMER STATES THAT SHE HAS HAD THE ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING AND THE FUEL PUMP REPLACED TWICE. SHE FEELS THAT HER VEHICLE IS A LEMON. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED THE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE MECHANIC STATED THE BRAKE BOOSTER WAS FAULTY WHICH CAUSED THE ENGINE LIGHT TO COME ON. THERE WAS A LOUD ROARING NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE UPON BRAKING. THE DEALER REPLACED THE BRAKES. *JB
2007-10-23
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-22
- VIN: YS3ED48E013
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE DI CASSETTE WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE, WHICH IS THE SAME AS THE IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE. CURRENTLY, THE VEHICLE IS AT THE DEALER WAITING TO BE REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS INVALID. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 55,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED FOR THIS VEHICLE, HOWEVER THE MANUFACTURER STATED THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. UPDATED 12/12/07 *TR
2007-07-23
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: DIGITAL INSTRUMENTATION PANEL FAILED IN THE FIRST 20,000 MILES AND NOW AGAIN BEFORE 50,000 MILES. OTHERS I HAVE SPOKEN TO WITH THE SAME MODEL HAVE EXPERIENCED THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
2001 Saab 9-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2001 Saab 9-5.
2007-03-07
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE FUEL PUMP RETAINING TABS HOLDING THE FUEL LINES WERE DAMAGED DURING PRODUCTION.
- Consequence: OVER TIME, THIS COULD CAUSE THE FUEL LINES TO LOOSEN FROM THE PUMP RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, THE FUEL MAY IGNITE RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL DEVELOP A SECURING BRACKET THAT WILL SECURE THE FUEL LINES TO THE FUEL PUMP EVEN IF THE PLASTIC RETAINING TABS SHOULD BREAK. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 13, 2007. THIS IS AN EXPANSION OF PREVIOUS RECALL CAMPAIGNS - SEE 04V557 AND 06V126. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
2005-09-14
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH B205/B235 4-CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES AND B308 6-CYLINDER GASOLINE ENGINES MAY EXPERIENCE OVERHEATING AND BURNOUT OF THE ISOLATED GATED BIPOLAR TRANSISTOR (IGBT) WITHIN THE IGNITION DISCHARGE MODULE (IDM) DUE TO INCREASED SUSCEPTIBILITY TO ELECTRICAL LOADS.
- Consequence: OVERHEATING OF THE IGBT OCCURS MOST OFTEN AT ENGINE START-UP, BUT IT MAY ALSO OCCUR WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING. ENGINE STALLING MAY OCCUR, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT TO SEE WHAT VERSION IDM IS IN THE VEHICLE AND REPLACE THE IDM IF IT IS A VERSION BUILT PRIOR TO THE INTRODUCTION OF QP3. AN INTERIM LETTER WILL BE MAILED TO OWNERS IN OCTOBER 2005, INFORMING THEM OF THE CONDITION. PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE AND OWNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED TO BRING THEIR VEHICLES IN TO THE DEALERS TO HAVE THE IDM REPLACED BY LETTER DATED MARCH 13, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007.
2003-01-13
- 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.
2001-05-18
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE AIR BAG ALERT LABELS MAY NOT BE PERMANENTLY AFFIXED AS REQUIRED BY THIS STANDARD.
- Consequence: THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL CLEAN THE SUNVISOR SURFACE AND APPLY A NEW AIR BAG ALERT LABEL ON BOTH SUNVISORS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 30, 2001. 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.
Negative 2001 Saab 9-5 car reviews
Positive 2001 Saab 9-5 car reviews
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I previously owned a Saab 9000 Aero and was looking for a large hatchback to replace it. Unfortunately, no one is manufacturing one now. I looked at wagons from Audi, BMW, MB, and Saab, but finding one with a stick shift is very difficult here in the US. Luckily, my wife and I both prefer manual transmissions. The Saab Aero wagon is the most fun to drive of all the wagons in this category. Most of the time, I don't even notice that I'm driving a wagon, and the rear visibility is better than on sedans.
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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.
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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.
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The Sport Mode is the way to go when driving this car - without it, it's just a regular car. Unfortunately, the body integrity is less than expected for this price range, resulting in some squeaks and rattles. Additionally, the car's electronics could be stronger as the Check Engine light has come on and I've already had to replace the Oxygen sensors.
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I replaced my Toyota Camry wagon with the smaller Saab last year. It's been a blast to drive and incredibly comfortable. I spend a lot of time in my car, commuting 35 miles each way to/from work and driving my two hockey-playing kids all over New England. The best part is that I haven't had any mechanical problems and the car gets great mileage - over 27 mpg with a combination of highway and city driving.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2001 Saab 9-5 problems:
8 Common Saab 9-5 Problems (B235) - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VJiZ5tvDqw
Jun 30, 2018 ... Today I discuss 8 common Saab 9-5 problems, specifically focusing on the B235R motor. If you have any additions to my list, ...
2001 9-5 Aero TWICE issues (I think?) | SaabCentral Forums
https://www.saabcentral.com/threads/2001-9-5-aero-twice-issues-i-think.720606/
Nov 20, 2018 ... good suggestion on the battery, these cars behave weird if the voltage gets low. The TWICE going bad is unusual unless it got wet due to a leak, ...
Fixing Saab 9-5 Security System Problems -EricTheCarGuy - YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLgGyRSxOaQ
Mar 25, 2013 ... Visit me at: http://www.ericthecarguy.com/ As I said in the video the owner brought me this car along with the supposed fix.
2.3L Vs. the 3.0L six | SaabCentral Forums
https://www.saabcentral.com/threads/2-3l-vs-the-3-0l-six.186385/
Jun 11, 2010 ... But this is all just MY experience with the V6, but there could be other common problems. 2003 Saab 9-5 Arc: Polar White on Black "STRMTRÜPR"
Solving 2001 Saab 9-5 ABS/TCS/CEL Problem -EricTheCarGuy ...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfLUtLaiV4g
Apr 26, 2013 ... ... common problem with these Bosch ABS units. Rather than purchasing a new unit however I decided to send the existing ABS unit off to BBA ...
Other years of Saab 9-5
Are you having problems with your 2001 Saab 9-5?
Broderick Crooks 2024-11-01
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!
Chris Bernier 2024-06-14
I have experienced several service problems with my car, including issues with the headlights, wipers, and turbo. While I have three more repairs pending, I am confident that these issues will be resolved. While my experience has been challenging, I believe that this car has the potential to be a reliable and enjoyable vehicle with proper maintenance and care.
Horace Raynor 2024-03-05
The car is definitely fun to drive, handles well and is very comfortable. It has also been very reliable, with no major problems within a year of ownership. However, I do have a couple of concerns. Like another commenter mentioned, I experienced an occasional sulfur smell from the catalytic converter. Additionally, when in closed spaces like a parking garage, the noise from the exhaust manifold was quite loud and sounded like the muffler had fallen off. Lastly, I found that the resale value was not great. Despite these issues, I can say that overall, it was a lot better than my 96 Volvo 850.
Alfonso Treutel 2024-01-08
I leased my Saab new in Nov. 2000. Unfortunately, ever since I brought the car home, it has emitted a sulfur smell from the catalytic converter. Despite following the Saab service department's advice to change gas brand and octanes, the problem persists. The smell of sulfur is quite unpleasant and makes it difficult to even open the windows. However, I am hopeful that we can find a solution to this issue. I would appreciate it if the dealership could take a closer look at the problem and help me resolve it. Thank you for your understanding.