2005 Saab 9-5 problems
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Common 2005 Saab 9-5 problems
The Saab 9-5, produced between 1997 and 2009, is known for its body strength and safety features, but it has faced some common problems that owners have reported
. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Sludge: The first generation of the B235 2.3-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine suffered from major oil-related problems, particularly in model years 1999-2003. The PCV system inadequately vented the engine, leading to sludgy buildup and potential engine failure. To avoid this issue, it's recommended to use full synthetic oil and replace the PCV system every few years, depending on mileage.
- Blend Door Actuator: The Blend Door Actuator, which controls the temperature of the air inside the car, is prone to failure. This can result in the car's HVAC system not being able to maintain the desired temperature.
- Dashboard Buttons and Switches: Higher-spec cars have a lot of buttons and switches, which can develop problems over time. It's essential to check that all of these functions work properly before purchasing a used Saab 9-5.
- Diesel Engine Issues: Early 9-5s with diesel engines, specifically the 2.2-liter diesel, were known for developing terminal problems, often associated with the engine management system or the turbocharger.
- Timing Chain Rattling: The petrol versions of the Saab 9-5 have reasonably robust engines, but rattling timing chains can be an issue.
- Leaking Power Steering Fluid: Problems with leaking power steering fluid aren't uncommon in the Saab 9-5, which can lead to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
- Direct Multi-Cylinder Ignition System: Issues with the direct multi-cylinder ignition system can arise, causing problems in the car's electrical system.
- Rear Shocks: Rear shocks usually need replacement sooner than front shocks and can start to leak at even lower mileage.
- SID Display: On model years 1998-2003, the SID (Saab Information Display) above the audio unit can have missing pixels, making it difficult to read the information on the display.
When considering purchasing a used Saab 9-5, it's crucial to be aware of these common problems and thoroughly inspect the vehicle before making a decision. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent or address some of these issues.
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 safe is a Saab 9-5?
Saab also introduced Active Head Restraints which softened the blow of collisions. The 2003 Saab 9-5 scored a 5-star occupant safety rating, pretty damn good. Even in the crash test photos, the crash test dummies seem unharmed.
Which is better Saab 9-3 or 9-5?
When we compare 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.
2005 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:
- Air bags problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Equipment problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2005 Saab 9-5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Saab 9-5.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-12-14
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3ED49A953
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I WAS INVOLVED WITH IN AN ACCIDENT ON FRIDAY DECEMBER 14TH, 2012. I WAS RETURNING TO WORK ON MY LUNCH BREAK AND A LADY RAN A RED LIGHT, PULLING OUT INFRONT OF ME, AND I ENDED UP T-BONING HER GOING ROUGHLY 45MPH. I WAS EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED THAT NO AIR BAGS WERE DEPLOYED IN SUCH A SEVERE HEAD ON COLLISION. THE CAR HAS BEEN SEEN BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY AND THEY DECIDED TO TOTAL THE VEHICLE. IN SUCH A VIOLENT ACCIDENT I WOULD EXPECT THE AIR BAGS TO BE DEPLOYED, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE ACCIDENT WAS A FRONT ON COLLISION THAT TOTALED MY SAAB. I WAS TAKEN TO THE ER BECAUSE I HIT MY HEAD ON THE A FRAME AND HAD MAJOR BACK AND NECK PAIN. THIS PROBLEM ABOUT THE AIR BAGS NOT GOING OFF NEEDS TO BE KNOWN, AND I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT THIS VEHICLE DID NOT MEET THE BASIC STANDARDS FOR SAFETY IN A HEAD ON COLLISION. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-09-16
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 9-5 SAAB. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING 70 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED REPEATEDLY AS THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SPUTTER AND JERK. THE CONTACT THEN MERGED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHERE THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND WAS LATER TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE FUEL LINE FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 122,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-14
- VIN: YS3ED59A153
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS SPORADICALLY ON FOR ABOUT TWO WEEKS. ON 7/14 COOLANT LEVEL LOW INDICATION CAME ON. COOLANT RESERVOIR WAS EMPTY. FILLED, STARTED ENGINE, COOLANT LEAKED IN A STEADY STREAM FROM THE CAR. TOWED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED IGNITION CASSETTE AS FAULTY AND WATER VALVE (PART SERVICING HEATER CORE) AS FAULTY AND THE SOURCE OF THE LEAK. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO IGNITION CASSETTE. GOOD THERE IS A WARNING, BUT IT COULD BE MORE SPECIFIC, AS FAILURE OF THIS PART SHUTS DOWN THE ENGINE. WATER VALVE LEAK COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING. BOTH PARTS ARE CRITICAL AND FAILURE IN A CAR WITH SO LITTLE MILEAGE IS UNACCEPTABLE. THE IGNITION CASSETTE FOR MODEL YEARS 1999-2002 WAS RECALLED DUE TO OVERHEATING. THIS WAS REPORTEDLY FIXED. NOW THE PART THAT HAS FAILED IN A FAIRLY YOUNG CAR IS NOT AVAILABLE THROUGH NORMAL CHANNELS (SAAB PARTS USA) AND SHOPS ARE CHARGING INFLATED PRICES FOR THE PART (IN MY CASE $850 AS OPPOSED TO $465 LIST PRICE; AND MY DEALERSHIP CLAIMS THEY ARE NOT ABLE TO SELL IT FOR LESS. MY EXTENDED WARRANTY WILL NOT PAY MORE THAN LIST AND I AM BEING ASKED TO MAKE UP THE DIFFERENCE). THERE IS CLEARLY A PROBLEM WHEN A PART STANDARD TO OVER A MILLION VEHICLES IS NOT AVAILABLE EXCEPT FROM SHOPS WHO HAVE COLLECTED THE PARTS IN INVENTORY AND ARE NOW SELLING THEM ON SOMETHING NOT UNLIKE A BLACK MARKET. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-14
- VIN: YS3ED45E613
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: RUNNING LIGHTS WILL NOT TURN OFF, EVEN AFTER THE CAR IS STOPPED AND THE KEY IS OUT OF THE IGNITION, CAUSING THE BATTERY TO RUN DOWN. *JS
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-02
- VIN: YS3ED49A453
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE IGNITION CASSETTE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-01-04
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE IGNITION CASSETTE CRACKS CAUSING IGNITION PROBLEMS, STALLING, ACCELERATION PROBLEMS. IT MAKES IT UNPREDICTABLE. THIS IS THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE PREVIOUS RECALL PASTED BELOW. WHY DOES IT NOT COVER THESE OTHER MODEL YEARS? NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 06V410000 WWW.NHTSA.DOT.GOV MANUFACTURER SAAB CARS USA, INC. RECALL DATE: OCT 23, 2006 POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 5078 DESCRIPTION ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE SUMMARY CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 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 JANUARY 2003. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING DECEMBER 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SAAB AT 1-800-955-9007. NOTE: THIS RECALL IS AN EXPANSION OF A PREVIOUS CAMPAIGN (PLEASE SEE 05V399). *TR
POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-01
- VIN: YS3EH45G953
- Components: POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: BECAUSE OF IMPROPER DESIGN, REAR WIRE HARNESS FOR REVERSE LIGHTS ARE BEING SEVERED CAUSING THE REVERSING LIGHTS NOT TO WORK. THIS SAME DESIGN FLAW CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE FAILURE OF BRAKE LIGHTS AND ELECTRONIC TRUNK RELEASE/LOCK. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3ED49A753
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 9-5 SAAB. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE MAKING A TURN SHE CRASHED INTO A PARKED VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID DEPLOY AFTER THE CRASH OCCURRED AND THE DRIVER RECEIVED INJURIES TO HER FACE AND MOUTH. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. SHE WAS NOT TRANSPORTED TO THE HOSPITAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ADVISED HER THAT THE WAY THE SHE CRASHED INTO THE VEHICLE, THE AIR BAGS WOULD NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 46,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. UPDATED 07/18/11 *BF UPDATED 3/6/12 *CN
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-02
- VIN: YS3EH59G153
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: NOTICED ABNORMAL / EARLY REAR TIRE WEAR. NOTICED ABNORMAL (OUT OF MANUFACTURERS SPEC.) REAR CAMBER. NOTICED REAR SUSPENSION BOTTOM OUT WITH MODERATE LOADS (APPROX 1/2 OF MAX LOAD). OEM REAR TIRES CUPPED AND REQUIRED REPLACEMENT PREMATURELY DUE TO ABNORMAL REAR CAMBER. NEW TIRES INSTALLED. REAR AFTERMARKET CAMBER SHIMS INSTALLED. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-16
- VIN: YS3FD45Y051
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY 2005 SAAB 9-5 ARC RIGHT FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE CAUSING EXTENSIVE TIRE DAMAGE. THE VEHICLE IS BEING REPAIRED REQUIRING THE REPLACEMENT OF BOTH COIL SPRINGS ALONG WITH THE CV BOOT. THE TOTAL COST FOR REPAIRS IS APPROXIMATELY $1200.00 ALONG WITH THE ABOVE REPAIRS THE TIRE WAS ALSO REPLACED AT A COST OF $100.00. *TR
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-07
- VIN: YS3ED59A453
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE FACTORY FLOOR MAT SLIPPED FORWARD AND WAS WEDGED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL SO THAT THE PEDAL STUCK AT ALMOST FULL THROTTLE. AVOIDED A COLLISION BY SHIFTING INTO NEUTRAL, STOPPING, AND REALIZING THE MAT WAS JAMMED INTO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. I EXTRICATED THE MAT FROM THE PEDAL AND RESTORED THE FUNCTION TO NORMAL. THE CAR HAS RESTRAINING PINS DESIGNED TO HOLD THE MAT IN PLACE BUT THE DESIGN IS FLAWED, ESPECIALLY IF THE MAT CURLS IN THAT AREA. *TR
2005 Saab 9-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2005 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.
Positive 2005 Saab 9-5 car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 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, ...
Saab 9-5 Problems and Complaints - 17 Issues
Top Saab 9-5 Problems · Engine Dies while Driving Or Will Crank but not Start · Oil Leaks caused by Excessive Crankcase Pressure · Flickering or Failure of the HID ...
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 ...
2005 Saab 9-5 2.3t reliability : r/saab
Feb 19, 2024 ... It's lovely. Decently reliable when comparing to other 20 year old cars. Finding replacement parts can be a pain rarely though. Get the aero, ...
think of a 2005 9-5..issues and engine hard to work on? - Saab Central
Jul 3, 2015 ... I have owned and worked on both extensively. The 9-3 has a heap more space around the engine, whereas the 9-5 is really tight at the serpentine ...
Other years of Saab 9-5
Are you having problems with your 2005 Saab 9-5?
Dave Sporer 2025-01-09
Congratulations on your new 9-5 Aero! I can understand why you would miss the cornering of your BMW 525i, but it's great to hear that you find the 9-5 more fun to drive. It's amazing how much more expensive a comparably equipped 5 series is! I agree with you that the 9-5 is still one of the best looking cars on the road and it's great to hear that it turns more heads than your BMW ever did. While there may be a few quirky features on the 9-5, I think it adds to the overall coolness factor of the car. Thank you for sharing your opinion and insights on both cars!
Nicklaus Champlin 2025-01-05
This is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It handles well, especially in corners. The impressive braking and all the Alphabits in it (ESP & ABS....) do work! The quality of the car is impressive so far. But the only problem I faced is replacing the battery four times in two and a half years!
Jayden Morissette 2025-01-05
It's great to hear that you find the car fun to drive! Additionally, the unique exterior styling really sets it apart from other sedans.
Jerad Wisozk 2024-11-23
This is a really great driving machine that is both safe and fun to drive. The sport mode raises the shift point rpms, giving it some extra punch. Although the outside design is understated and pedestrian, the driving experience is exceptional. It also has all of the most advanced computer driving system enhancements. Additionally, Saab is currently facing economic troubles, so these cars can be purchased at a large discount from the sticker price, making it an even better value.
Darrel Kshlerin 2024-11-19
I drive over 65,000 miles per year, mostly on the highway, and I must say that this is the best road car ever made. The handling is superb, the braking is excellent, and the acceleration (turbo) is amazing. The gas mileage is also impressive, at 31+. The comfortable heated seats, auto climate control, and the best sound system I've ever heard make this car a joy to drive. Additionally, the air bags in the side doors as well as the front provide an extra layer of safety. I have two other Saabs (900S) with over 400,000 miles, as well as a 1999 Saab 9-5 with 168,000 miles, and I can attest that these cars are made to last. The 4-cylinder engine is the best ever made, and the body and paint are very durable. What more could one want?