2009 Saab 9-5 problems
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Common 2009 Saab 9-5 problems
The Saab 9-5, produced from 1997 to 2009, is known for its unique design and high safety standards. However, it has also been associated with several common problems that potential buyers should be aware of.
- Blend Door Arm: The blend door arm, which controls the temperature inside the car, can break or become dislodged, causing the interior climate control to malfunction. This issue can be resolved by replacing the blend door arm.
- Interior Wear and Tear: The interior of the Saab 9-5, particularly the green-backlit LED display, can become difficult to read with age and may be expensive to replace. It is essential to check for signs of wear and tear, especially in higher-spec cars with many buttons and switches.
- Electrical Gremlins: The Saab 9-5 is a complex car with many electrical components. It is not uncommon for electrical gremlins to appear, so it is essential to check all buttons, switches, and other electrical features to ensure they are functioning properly.
- Unreliable 2.2-liter Diesel Engine: Early in its life, the Saab 9-5 developed a reputation for unreliability, particularly with its 2.2-liter diesel engine. Problems with the engine management system or turbocharger were common, and these issues could lead to terminal engine problems.
- Misfires and Rattling Timing Chains: The petrol versions of the Saab 9-5 are generally robust, but misfires at idle and rattling timing chains can occur. Additionally, white smoke from the exhaust can indicate a blown turbo, which requires a full engine-out repair.
- Leaking Power Steering Fluid and Direct Multi-Cylinder Ignition System: Problems with leaking power steering fluid and the direct multi-cylinder ignition system are not uncommon in the Saab 9-5. These issues can be expensive to repair, so it is essential to check for any signs of leaks or malfunctions.
- Suspension Components: Suspension components in the Saab 9-5 are known to be weak, particularly in the 2008-2009 models. Regular maintenance and replacement of worn-out parts can help prevent more significant issues.
- DIC (Driver Information Center): The DIC, or Driver Information Center, is known to go bad every 50-100k miles. This issue can be resolved by replacing the DIC, which is relatively inexpensive compared to other potential problems.
- Parts Availability: Parts availability for the Saab 9-5 can be a concern, particularly for exterior parts like bumpers and power folding auto-dimming mirrors. It is essential to research parts availability and cost before purchasing a Saab 9-5.
In summary, the Saab 9-5 is a unique and generally reliable car, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems. Regular maintenance, using original parts, and checking for signs of wear and tear can help prevent more significant issues and ensure a reliable daily driver.
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.
2009 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
The graph below shows statistics for all 2009 Saab 9-5 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2009 Saab 9-5 complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2009 Saab 9-5.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-03
- VIN: YS3ED49G193
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 SAA 9-5. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V063000 (AIR BAGS); HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE...UPDATED 05/22/17 *BF *CN
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-01
- VIN: YS3ED49GX93
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA RECALL. THE RECALL STATUS IS STILL INDICATING RECALL INCOMPLETE. REMEDY NOT YET AVAILABLE. WENT TO DEALERSHIP SERVICE DEP'T WAS TOLD PART NOT AVAILABLE. RECEIVED NOTICE IN MAY 2016. VERY CONCERNED THAT THE FIX FOR THIS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS CONDITION IS NOT YET AVAILABLE. NEED TO HAVE PRESSURE PUT ON THE COMPANY TO GET THIS FIXED ASAP.
2009 Saab 9-5 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2009 Saab 9-5.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2011 Saab 9-3 vehicles manufactured May 31, 2002, to February 15, 2011, 2006-2009 Saab 9-5 vehicles manufactured June 7, 2005, to May 28, 2009, and 2008-2009 Saturn Astra vehicles manufactured April 11, 2007, to July 24, 2008. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver's frontal air bag inflator on Saab 9-3 and 9-5 vehicles and will replace the driver's frontal airbag module on Saturn Astra vehicles, free of charge. The recall began on March 1, 2017. Owners may contact Saab customer service at 1-800-955-9007 or Saturn customer service at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 28810.
Negative 2009 Saab 9-5 car reviews
Positive 2009 Saab 9-5 car reviews
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It's a common mistake to compare the Saab 9-5 with luxury car brands like BMW, Audi, and Lexus. However, this comparison overlooks the fact that those cars cost at least $20-30k more when you factor in comparable extras. In its price class, the Saab 9-5 offers the best value with its sporty power and handling, great comfort (seats + interior roominess), decent gas mileage, and unique design. This car is both fun and functional, with the 2.3L turbo taking you from 0-60mph in just 6.7 seconds. What's even more impressive is how it performs in its unique power band (40-70mph), accelerating faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera. Overall, the Saab 9-5 is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality car without breaking the bank.
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I traded in my 2007 Honda Pilot for this wagon in January 2010. I have not been disappointed with my decision. Although I did lose some room, this car is much more practical and convenient. Loading my bikes onto the SUV was a pain, but the lower roof-line of this car makes it much easier. I even have a canoe, which is not something you see many Saab owners driving around with, but it is also much easier to load. The car is solid, fun to drive, and comes standard with many features. I have always owned Honda cars, including a 2007 Acura, so driving the Saab is a new experience for me. It is extremely fast, has great styling, and many of the features are a-ha moments (like the dual sunshades).
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Since 1966, I have owned 17 Saabs of all variants. In my opinion, the Aero is the fastest, safest, and most attractive of them all. It has all the useful gadgets without too much trendy clutter. The audio is outstanding. Although the 235x17 tires, P6, are a bit noisy, it is a compromise for great performance. I am thrilled to have the final version of the 9000-95 evolution. I have owned two of each: the original 86 9000T, a 91 9000T, a 01 95t Arc, and now the 98 Aero. The 2.3 turbo remains a great motor, better than most 50% above its size. The Aero joins my 07 93, 74 Sonnett, 73 96 v-4, and 68 96 v-4 in the driveway.
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I've had the car for 2 months now and I must say, it's been a pleasure to drive in my snowy area. While rear-wheel drive BMWs are sliding all around, my Saab handles the snow with ease. What I love about this car is that it's not just a driver's car, but also a passenger's car. It's a blast to drive, yet my passengers don't get headaches like they would in cars with really stiff suspensions.
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I really like this wagon! It offers so much space for trips to the recycling center, the boat, or even just a fun drive around town, back roads, and the highway. If you're in the market for a mid-size wagon and you prefer European brands, you'll find a huge price variance between this and a BMW, MB, or Audi wagon. My wife has a 2.5T V70, which is very similar but a bit of a bore to drive. She loves driving the Aero and even wants to swap cars with me! The engine is plenty powerful and it corners flat, just like my buddy's 2001 530 Bimmer. I would definitely recommend this car to anyone needing a combination sport sedan/SUV. I also tried the 9.3 Combi, but it was too small for my needs, although it was a nice wagon too.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2009 Saab 9-5 problems:
9-5 Aero, 2006-2009, buying advice
Mar 24, 2011 ... 9-5 Aero, 2006-2009, buying advice ... No other known problems to lool out for? mt ... Did you see the http://saabworld.net/f9/saab-9-5-buyers-guide ...
2002 9-5 Linear Sedan - Reliability? | SaabCentral Forums
Mar 13, 2009 ... Saab 9-5 Mk.I, 1998-2009 · 9-5 Workshop ... Help tab, 9-5, for common problems. Since ... Join our discussions on the Saab 9-3, Saab 9-5, Saab ...
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 ...
NG 9-5 Aero Reliability | SaabCentral Forums
Oct 8, 2021 ... I'm aware of the 'typical' issues with NG's like the brake lights, heated seats, etc, but how is the actual drivetrain? Anything else to look ...
SAAB 9-5 Aero Estate 2.3 2006 Idle Stall issues when Hot DIC Coil ...
Oct 3, 2020 ... sorry for long explanation. SAAB 9-5 Aero S-A Estate Petrol 2290 CC/ 240 G/KM Chassis YS3EH59G173503470 RJ56 WBL Variant E5G version EURO4A501
Other years of Saab 9-5
Are you having problems with your 2009 Saab 9-5?
Tyree Pollich 2025-10-12
We bought the car used with 85,000 miles on it. The car facts showed only one previous owner and all maintenance was up to date. We thought it was a good value for the price of $8999 before taxes. The dealer was upfront with us about SAAB going under and that new parts would have to be purchased out of the country. However, he also informed us of a couple of SAAB dealerships still operating in our area. We test drove the car and fell in love with the luxury of the seats, sunroof, and the super awesome Boise surround sound system. The Turbo pick up and go was also impressive. After our purchase, we experienced some issues with the car. The headlights started going out and the circuit to the headlights started separating from the circuit board, which had to be re-soldered on. By 98,000 miles, the car started idling rough and eventually died while my husband was driving on the freeway. Fortunately, he was able to get the car to start again and drive off of the freeway, only to have it die again on the street. We called AAA and by the time the tow truck arrived, the battery had completely died out. We got it to a mechanic who recommended a new transmission. Our dealer was able to locate a refurbished transmission with a 6-month warranty, and $1600 later, the car's check engine light pops back on. The loaner car that our dealer let us borrow during the transmission fix was a 2007 Saab 9-5 which also had check lights flashing on its display.
Hermann Hoppe 2025-06-27
I have a 2007 Saab 9-5 Aero with Automatic Transmission. It has 93,000km. While this car can be a joy to drive, it's important to be aware of some common issues. Unfortunately, this model is known for having problems with ignition coils and fuel pumps, among other things. While replacement parts can be readily available, they can be quite expensive, and only OEM parts will work. In my experience, I had to replace the ignition coils ($500), the MAF sensor ($250), and the fuel pump ($500). It's important to keep these potential costs in mind before making a purchase.
Lenny Renner 2024-11-24
I have owned many cars, including most types. However, this 39th new car has been a huge disappointment, comparable to my experience with GM's and Fords in the 80s. Unfortunately, within just two days of owning it, the side 'memory seat' lower seat wrap around and buttons broke off the driver's seat and are now hanging. Although parts are on order, the low gas mileage for such a tiny engine is also a concern. If this 2.3L engine were in a Honda, it would get 45 MPG, not 18. In light of these issues, I cannot recommend purchasing a SAAB. Other cars offer greater value and quality at lower costs.
Dalton Bednar 2024-06-19
Our SAAB has lost a significant amount of its value in just 4 years, which is disappointing. Unfortunately, due to the company going bankrupt, there are no authorized service dealerships in the USA anymore and it's difficult to find replacement parts. We're currently upside down on the loan and struggling to find a buyer who is willing to pay a reasonable price. Despite these challenges, the car still drives fine and has some great features. However, compared to newer models, it may be considered outdated. It's amazing how quickly technology advances, with new cars now featuring touchscreens, Bluetooth, and backup cameras.
Dereck Rowe 2024-01-10
Nice car! It's great to hear that it runs better on Super fuel. The front seat seems very cozy, and while the back seats are nice, they don't have as much room as older models. It's also pretty sweet to look at in black.