2004 Saab 9-5 problems
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Common 2004 Saab 9-5 problems
The Saab 9-5 2004 is known for several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include electrical problems, engine problems, transmission problems, suspension problems, and body and exterior issues
Electrical problems are a common issue with the Saab 9-5 2004. The car's electrical system can experience issues such as a dead battery or problems with the alternator. Additionally, the ignition switch, dashboard lights, and power windows may have problems. The car's electrical system is known to have issues, which can result in various problems
Engine problems are another common issue with the Saab 9-5 2004. Some owners have reported issues with the engine, including oil sludge buildup, which can cause engine damage and failure. Additionally, the engine may experience issues such as turbo failure, problems with the timing chain, and overheating. The engine's complexity and expensive spare parts make it costly to maintain
Transmission problems are also common with the Saab 9-5 2004. The automatic transmission may experience issues such as slipping gears, hard shifting, and problems with the torque converter
Suspension problems are another issue with the Saab 9-5 2004. The car's suspension may experience issues with worn-out shocks, struts, and bushings, which can cause excessive vibrations, noise, and a rough ride
Body and exterior issues are also common with the Saab 9-5 2004. The car is known to have issues with rust, especially around the wheel arches, and the car's paint may fade or peel over time. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the car's headlights, which can be expensive to replace
It is important to note that these problems may not apply to all Saab 9-5 2004 models, and it is 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. It is also essential to ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained and has undergone regular servicing to avoid any problems that may arise in the future
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 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.
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.
2004 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
- Tires problems
- Structure problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Saab 9-5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 18 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Saab 9-5.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-26
- 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.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-18
- VIN: YS3ED59A143
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: I HAVE OWNED A 2004 SAAB 9-5 SPORT COMBI WAGON SINCE 2006. TWICE, OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS (2011, 2014), MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAD AN IGNITION SWITCH INCIDENT WHERE HE WAS THE DRIVER AND I WAS THE PASSENGER. IN BOTH INCIDENTS, I TURNED AROUND TO TALK TO MY DAUGHTER (2011) AND THEN DAUGHTERS (2014) AND INADVERTENTLY BUMPED THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WITH MY KNEE. THE IGNITION SWITCH IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THE CAR BY THE CONSOLE. IT ONLY TOOK A SLIGHT TAP OF MY KNEE AND MY CAR SHUT OFF WHILE GOING AT SPEEDS OF 75-80 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. FORTUNATELY, BOTH TIMES MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND GET THE CAR OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-11
- VIN: YS3ED49A343
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SABB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OF THE FAILURE WHERE THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL FOR THE IGNITION SWITCH BUT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 10/23/2014*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE CHECK ENGINE AND NO AUTOMATIC WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE ON FREQUENTLY. UPDATED 8/10/2015*JS
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-03-14
- VIN: YS3EB55EX43
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSOR, FUEL PUMP, AND THE TWICE UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,108.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE WAS TRAVELING 55 MPH WITH HER PURSE ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT. THE CONTACT PROCEEDED TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE WATER BOTTLE THAT WAS IN HER PURSE TOPPLED OVER AND STRUCK THE IGNITION SWITCH, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 95,000. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-27
- VIN: YS3EH49G443
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: KUMHO ECSTA LX PLATINUM 225/45ZR17 TIRE ON LEFT FRONT OF SAAB 9-5 WITH APPROXIMATELY 25,000 MILES USE BLEW OUT SUDDENLY (RAPID LOSS OF AIR) AND WITHOUT WARNING AT 35 MPH. APPEARS TO HAVE SEVERAL CRACKS IN SIDEWALL NEAR TREAD. PRIOR TO BLOWOUT, SLIGHT LEFT PULL IN CAR STEERING WAS NOTED DURING INTERSTATE DRIVING, BUT ASSUMED TO BE ALIGNMENT ISSUE SINCE ALL TIRES MAINTAINED NORMAL PRESSURE. TIRE WAS REPLACED; DEALER DETERMINED TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE (POSSIBLE INTERNAL BELT SLIP). FAILED TIRE IS AVAILABLE FROM OWNER. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-26
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A RECALL WAS PREVIOUSLY ISSUED FOR SAAB DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURES FOR MODEL YEARS 2000 THROUGH 2002. MY 2004 SAAB 9-5 ARC, WHICH HAS 46,180 MILES ON IT, HAD TO HAVE THE DI CASSETTE REPLACED TODAY DUE TO FAILURE. MY MODEL YEAR SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL DUE TO THE LIMITED (LESS THAN REASONABLE) LIFE OF THE PART. *TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-22
- VIN: YS3EB55E043
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY. THE ENGINE AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WOULD TURN OFF COMPLETELY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE IMMEDIATELY RESTARTED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS MOST LIKELY THE CAUSE FOR FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 74,00. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000. UPDATED 12/30/10 *BF UPDATED 01/10/11*JB UPDATED 3/31/14*CN
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-20
- VIN: YS3EB59E543
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: 2004 SAAB 95 LINEAR WAGON LIFTGATE HINGE FAILURE HINGE MAY OR MAY NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE AT THE OPEN POSITION. IF ONE IS REACHING DEEP INTO THE TRUNK, LIFTGATE CAN CLOSE BY ITSELF, AND HIT ON THE BACK WITH SUBSTANTIAL FORCE. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-15
- VIN: YS3EH49G643
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: PURCHASED THE CAR USED 5/23/08 WITH 42,700 MILES FROM SAAB DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A MONTH THE HEADLIGHTS WORKED RANDOMLY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULDN'T HURT ANYTHING AND SHOULD IT BECOME MORE FREQUENT, BRING THE CAR IN. 8/18 TOOK THE CAR IN TO DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT WAS COMING ON MORE FREQUENTLY. HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED, ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO A DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. SAAB DEALERSHIP ORDERED THE PART WHICH WAS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER, PART CAME IN 10/9. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN 10/6 DUE TO STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER MOVED ABOVE THE MIDDLE. BYPASS VALVE REPLACED ($450 PARTS/LABOR). VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 48,500 MILES AND IS OUT OF MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER DEALERSHIPS LIMITED WARRANTY. AFTER AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO THE DI CASSETTE FAILURE I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2000-2002 MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS A 2004 SAAB 9.5 AERO SEDAN. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-30
- VIN: YS3EB59E943
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I OWN A 2004 SAAB 9-5 WAGON, WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN NOV 2004. THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY 31,800 MILES ON THE CAR AT THE TIME OF THIS FAILURE, WHICH OCCURRED IN LATE JULY 2008. (IRONICALLY, LESS THAN 2 WEEKS AFTER HAVING TAKEN THE CAR FOR ROUTINE SERVICE/OIL CHANGE/TIRE ROTATION.) AFTER HAVING RUN 2 ERRANDS (I.E. TWO STOPS & STARTS), I WAS DRIVING TO WORK ON A RELATIVELY BUSY 4-LANE ROAD. JUST AFTER HAVING COME DOWN A HILL & ROUNDING A CORNER, WITH ESTIMATED SPEED 35MPH, THE CAR'S ENGINE CUT OUT, THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT, & THE BRAKES SEEMED NOT TO WORK APPROPRIATELY. I WAS FORTUNATE TO BE IN THE RIGHT LANE, AND WOUND UP COASTING TO A STOP IN THE LANE OF TRAFFIC, AS I HAD SO LITTLE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE THAT I WAS NOT EVEN ABLE TO MOVE TO WHAT LITTLE SHOULDER WAS AVAILABLE (THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED WHILE ON A BRIDGE). THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART. FORTUNATELY, TRAFFIC BEHIND ME BECAME AWARE THAT THE CAR HAD DIED, AND NO ACCIDENTS OCCURRED. HAD THIS FAILURE OCCURRED EVEN 5 OR 10 SECONDS EARLIER, HOWEVER, IT WOULD ALMOST UNDOUBTEDLY HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AS I WOULD HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY UNABLE TO NAVIGATE THE TURN COMING DOWNHILL. AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE SAAB DEALERSHIP, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE "CRANK SENSOR FAILED ELECTRICALLY." FORTUNATELY, IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY & WAS REPLACED. I WOULD NOT HAVE EVEN THOUGHT TO REPORT THIS HAD I NOT SEEN REPORTS OF SIMILAR FAILURES IN OTHER SAAB MODELS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-22
- VIN: YS3ED45A743
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9.5 THAT I BOUGHT NEW ON APRIL 1, 2004. I DISCOVERED TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME THAT MY BACKUP LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING. YESTERDAY, I FILED A COMPLAINT #10166145. THIS BACK UP LIGHT PROBLEM IS RELATED. THE HARD PLASTIC MOLDED ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE TRUNK LID THAT IS SUPPOSED TO PROTECT THE WIRING HARNESS FROM DAMAGE IS ACTUALLY DAMAGING AND EVENTUALLY CUTTING THROUGH ALL OF THE WIRES THAT PASS THROUGH THE ASSEMBLY. WIRES IN MY CAR BEGAN GETTING CUT WITHIN 2 MONTHS OF PURCHASE AND HAVE CONTINUED. THIS ASSEMBLY APPEARS TO BE ABLE TO CUT THROUGH ABOUT 8 WIRES LEAVING EXPOSED WIRE IN CONTACT WITH EACH OTHER AND THEREBY DISABLING THE CRUISE CONTROL, BRAKE LIGHTS, REVERSE LIGHTS AND ELECTRIC TRUNK LOCK. THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR - ITS A DESIGN FAULT. THE WIRES SEEM TO CATCH ON THE SHARP EDGE OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR (!) THAT FITS INTO THE LID. THEY RUB AGAINST THIS AS THE LID IS OPEN AND CLOSED. I BELIEVE THIS SITUATION PRESENTS A POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL FIRE HAZARD AND SAFETY HAZARD AND THAT THE NHTSA SHOULD IMMEDIATELY ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ITEM. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-21
- VIN: YS3ED45A743
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9.5 THAT I BOUGHT NEW ON APRIL 1, 2004. FROM DAY 1 THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS WORKING ERRATICALLY. DEALER SAID HE COULD NOT REPLICATE PROBLEM. THEN CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING. THEN THE ELECTRIC TRUNK LOCK STOPPED WORKING. I CONTACTED THE DEALER TELLING IT THAT EVEN THOUGH I WAS NOW BEYOND THE 50,000 MILE PORTION OF THE 4 YEAR WARRANTY (OF WHICH ONLY 28 MONTHS HAD ELAPSED) I WANTED THE TRUNK AND CRUISE ISSUES FIXED ALONG WITH A LAUNDRY LIST OF ITEMS THAT WERE NOT ADDRESSED PREVIOUSLY THE LAST TIME I BROUGHT THE CAR IN UNDER WARRANTY. THEY HAVE REFUSED TO ADDRESS ANY OF THE ISSUES. I FOUND A SITE ON THE INTERNET CALLED SAABNET. A PARTICULAR POST HIT THE PROBLEM ON THE HEAD. HTTP://WWW.SAABNET.COM/TSN/BB/9-5/INDEX.HTML?BID=125557 IT SAID: TURNS OUT TO BE A BADLY WORN WIRING LOOM WERE THE CABLES RUN FROM THE CAR TRUNK INTO THE TRUNK LID. 6 WIRES HAD BROKEN THROUGH THE INSULATION AND TWO HAD COMPLETELY SNAPPED. THIS CAR IS LESS THAN 3 YEARS OLD!!!! THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR - ITS A DESIGN FAULT. THE WIRES SEEM TO CATCH ON THE SHARP EDGE OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR (!) THAT FITS INTO THE LID. THEY RUB AGAINST THIS AS THE LID IS OPEN AND CLOSED. YOU CAN CHECK TO SEE IF YOURS IS OK SIMPLY BY PULLING OFF THE PROTECTIVE RUBBER BOOT THAT ATTACHES TO THE END OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR. I DID THE VERY SIMPLE CHECK THE POSTER RECOMMENDED ABOVE BY PULLING THE RUBBER COVER BACK AND WAS SOMEWHAT AMAZED TO SEE 4 WIRES COMPLETELY CUT AND THE OTHER 3 WITH BROKEN INSULATORS. AS THE POSTER ON SAABNET INDICATED, THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AND APPEARS AS IF IT COULD LEAD TO FIRE. LOOKING FURTHER ON SAABNET, I SEE THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM AS IT IS DISCUSSED QUITE FREQUENTLY. I BELIEVE THIS SITUATION PRESENTS A POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL AND FIRE HAZARD AND THAT THE NHTSA SHOULD IMMEDIATELY ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ITEM. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-14
- VIN: YS3EB59E243
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY WIFE WAS DRIVING OUR 2004 SAAB 9-5 WAGON AT OR AROUND 35 MPH WHEN THE CAR, SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING, LOST ITS ELECTRICAL POWER. SHE WAS UNABLE TO STEER, BRAKE OR CONTROL THE VEHICLE IN ANYWAY. ALL OF THE LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED ON THE DRIVER'S PANEL. LUCKILY, THERE WAS NO ON-COMING TRAFFIC OR ANY VEHICLE FOLLOWING BEHIND HER BECAUSE SHE WAS APPROACHING A CURVE IN THE ROAD AT THE TIME THE CAR FAILED. SHE COASTED STRAIGHT AHEAD, THROUGH THE CURVE, TO A STOP. SHE TURNED THE CAR OFF, THEN RESTARTED THE CAR. WE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP THE NEXT DAY, AND RETURNED THE CAR A COUPLE OF DAYS LATER. WE NOTIFIED SAAB USA THAT WE NO LONGER FELT SAFE IN OUR VEHICLE AND HAVE LOST FAITH IN THE LINE AS A WHOLE. THIS INCIDENT WAS NOT THE FIRST ONE. WE EXPERIENCED THIS SAME ELECTRICAL POWER LOSS TWICE PREVIOUSLY IN OUR 2001 SAAB 9-5 WAGON. WE HAD THOUGHT IT WAS A PROBLEM UNIQUE TO OUR SPECIFIC CAR, BUT WE NOW BELIEVE THAT THE SAAB 9-5 WAGON PRESENTS A SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC, IN OUR OPINION. WE REGRET THAT WE DID NOT THINK TO REPORT THE PREVIOUS INCIDENTS IN THE 2001 MODEL TO NHTSA. WE DID, HOWEVER, ALERT THE DEALERSHIP, WHO COULD NOT FIND ANY EXPLANATION FOR THE POWER LOSS. WE DECIDED NOT TO KEEP THE 2001 MODEL WHEN OUR LEASE WAS UP, FOR THAT VERY REASON. WE FELT COMFORTABLE DRIVING A NEW 2004 SAAB, BECAUSE SURELY THIS PROBLEM ONLY EXISTED IN OUR ONE CAR, RIGHT? THE "WHAT-IF'S" FOR THESE ELECTRICAL POWER FAILURES ARE SCARY AND UNTHINKABLE. WHAT IF WE HAD BEEN TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED? WHAT IF THERE WERE PEDESTRIANS IN OUR LINE OF STEERING AT THE TIME? WHAT IF WE WERE TURNING LEFT AT A MAJOR INTERSECTION? WE'VE HAD THIS FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE THREE TIMES IN TWO DIFFERENT MODEL YEARS OF THE SAME CAR. WE WILL NO LONGER BE SAAB CUSTOMERS. SAAB SHOULD RECALL ALL 9-5 WAGONS BEFORE A FATAL ACCIDENT OCCURS AS A RESULT OF THIS POWER FAILURE. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-18
- VIN: YS3ED49A043
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS, OUR 2004 SAAB 95 WOULD NOT START. LATER IT WOULD START. SAAB REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE THERE IS A PROBLEM. NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE. THERE HAVE BEEN 5 INSTANCES BEGINNING IN MAY OF 2004.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-01
- VIN: YS3EB59E443
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING OUR 2004 SAAB 9-5 ON THE HIGHWAY, AT OVER 60 MPH, THE IGNITION HAS BEEN ACCIDENTALLY TURNED OFF. THIS CAUSES AN IMMEDIATE LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES, MAKING THE CAR VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP. LUCKILY I WAS IN THE FAR RIGHT LANE DURING BOTH INCIDENTS AND COULD PULL OVER AND STOP WITHOUT CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. IF I HAD BEEN IN ANOTHER LANE, THE RESULTANT LOSS OF SPEED AND AN ATTEMPT TO CHANGE LANES COULD HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT. HE IGNITION KEY IS LOCATED ON THE CONSOLE BETWEEN THE TWO FRONT SEATS AND IS NOT PROTECTED NOR LOCKED IN ANY WAY TO SAFEGARD BUMPING THE KEY AND TURNING OFF THE IGNITION. MY LOCAL DEALER HAS NO PARTS OR REPAIR TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM AND SAAB USA DOES NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THAT A PROBLEM EXISTS.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-07
- VIN: YS3ED49AX43
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: AFTER SIGNIFICANT VIBRATION UNDER FRONT END AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS APPEARING AT LESS THAN 10,000 MILES, CAR UNDERWENT ALIGNMENT AND 3 HIGH SPEED BALANCES. ACCORDING TO DEALERSHIP, "ALL 4 TIRES WERE WORN ON INSIDES AND COULD ONLY BE CAUSED BY DEFECT." DEALER STATED THAT "ROAD FORCING WILL NOT ALLOW TIRES TO BE WITHIN THE LIMIT. TIRES NEED TO BE REPLACED. SENT TIRES TO MANUFACTURER FOR WARRANTY." SERVICE COMPLETED ON 10.29.04, WITH PIRELLIS REPLACED BY SAME SIZE MICHELINS. WORK ORDER WAS COMPLETED ON 1.7.05, WHICH WAS THE FIRST TIME I SAW DETAILS AND CHARGES, DESPITE REPEATED REQUESTS SINCE 10.29.04. MY UNDERSTANDING, AND AUTHORIZATION AT THE TIME, WAS FOR THE PIRELLIS TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE OF THE DEFECTS, BUT WITH MICHELINS, TO AVOID POSSIBILITY OF DEFECTS WITH THE REPLACEMENT PIRELLIS, AT A COST OF UP TO $50 PER TIRE BECAUSE OF THE CHANGE. DEALER MAINTAINS I OWE $915. 82 FOR THE MICHELINS, LESS THE $212.80 CREDIT PIRELLI ISSUED ON 1.7.05. IRONICALLY, THE VIBRATION IN THE CAR CONTINUES WITH THE NEW MICHELINS. I DO NOT BELIEVE IT WAS THE INTENT OF THE DEALER TO MISLEAD ME, BUT THAT WAS THE RESULT. A WORK ORDER PROVIDED AT THE TIMES REQUESTED INSTEAD OF OVER TWO MONTHS LATER WOULD HAVE DEFINED THE AGREEMENT AND RESULTED IN A DIFFERENT COURSE OF ACTION. *NM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-27
- VIN: YS3EB59EX43
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: BACK TAILGATE MOTOR BURNED OUT, AND THE TRUNK WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE SPARE TIRE AND OTHER ITEMS WERE IN THE TRUNK.*AK
2004 Saab 9-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2004 Saab 9-5.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 2004 Saab 9-5 car reviews
Positive 2004 Saab 9-5 car reviews
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I'm not usually one to keep a car for too long, but this Saab has been an exception. It's the first car I've owned that I've kept beyond the warranty period. I traded in my Toyota Highlander for it, as I found the Highlander to be quite boring to drive. The Saab, on the other hand, has never failed to impress me. I have been considering trading it in, but I haven't been able to find anything better for the money. I might even run this one for 300,000 miles! While cup holders aren't a priority for me when choosing a vehicle, I do appreciate the Saab's spaciousness, safety, reliability, and fun driving experience. And, as they say, the Michelin tires are definitely worth it. I'm not a fan of open cup holders that get dirty easily, so I'm glad this car doesn't have that issue.
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This Aero is really fun to drive! I can't seem to keep it under 100 mph. I looked at the Audi A6 and the Volvo S60R, test drove them both extensively, but the fun factor and interior room in the 9-5 sold me. I wanted a car that could handle winter weather and front wheel drive is just as useful as AWD for most practical highway purposes. Plus, the 9-5 gets great gas mileage. Just watch out for tickets!
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The combination of fuel economy and performance is unmatched by its competitors. Saab's turbocharged engine delivers smooth performance throughout the power band. With rising fuel costs, I am grateful to have a four-cylinder engine!
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This is a fantastic car and an amazing ride, especially considering the price of $32,400 that I paid for it. I needed ample room in the back seat for my three kids, and this car delivered. The ride and handling are both excellent, and I did not experience any of the turbo lag that other reviews have mentioned. I highly recommend this car!
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This car is great for its size and I was able to get an average of 22.5 mpg on my last 8K. The mileage is comparable to some smaller cars, which is impressive. To maximize fuel efficiency, I highly recommend using cruise control. The Aero option is definitely the way to go on a Saab. With bigger tires and the added spoiler, the car transforms from a plain Jane to the car every bad boy wants. The power is there when you need to pass and the car is more agile than my previous 96 model. The cabin updates for rear passengers were much needed and the seats are comfortable, although not quite as comfortable as the 9000 Aero. As long as Saab continues to make cars, I will remain a loyal owner.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Saab 9-5 problems:
8 Common Saab 9-5 Problems (B235) - YouTube
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, ...
Opinions on a 2004 9-5? : r/saab
Oct 28, 2021 ... I purchased a well maintained 2004 9-5 manual and have put 10,000 miles on it, no major issues that you wouldn't expect from a 172k mile car ( ...
The Most Common Issue on the Saab 9-5 - YouTube
Sep 5, 2020 ... Check out my new shirts here: https://teespring.com/saab-900-spg-apparel https://teespring.com/shop/auto-autopsy-saab-9-3-turbo-x ...
NG 9-5 Aero Reliability | SaabCentral Forums
Oct 8, 2021 ... Anything else to look out for? I remember chatting with an old friend a few years ago who was a former Saab tech and he said GM made some subtle ...
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero Review - The Best 9-5 You Can Buy! - YouTube
Mar 30, 2019 ... Check out my new shirt here: https://teespring.com/shop/auto-autopsy-saab-9-3-turbo-x Today I do a full review of our 2004 Saab 9-5 Aero!
Other years of Saab 9-5
Are you having problems with your 2004 Saab 9-5?
Tyler Jones 2024-10-07
This is a great car and I love it to death! It's amazing that even though it's a 2004 model, it only had 84k miles when I purchased it. I had it checked by my Saab mechanic and got the all-clear. However, I have had to replace every control module in the car, which has cost me an average of 1500 dollars each, for a total of about 6000. It's just like the technology we have at home - when it goes, it goes, and there's no way to detect when it will go bad. Your mechanic can check the mechanics, but the modules are another story. So, if you're thinking of buying one, just be prepared to spend some money and enjoy the ride!
Sebastian Renner 2024-04-07
After owning this car for almost a year, I have unfortunately experienced several brake-related issues that have required me to make multiple trips to the dealership. Despite these inconveniences, I still believe that this car has a lot of potential. I would recommend purchasing this car only if you live near a dealership that provides loaners and extended warranty. With the right support, this car can be a great investment.