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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After driving several fleet Saab 9-5s in Norway, we decided to buy one when we moved to Canada. It's a really spacious car, with great pace on the highway and (from our experience in Norway) good dynamics on hard pack snow, despite not being 4WD. The car comes with lots of great gadgets (for the price) which fortunately do not lead to a profusion of switches and clutter. Our only gripe is that the interior plastic surfaces are easily marked.
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Hi there! I recently purchased a 2007 Saab 9-5 after my 300K Mercedes E300D was unfortunately lost due to a flooded street. It was a tough decision to choose a car other than another Mercedes, but I realized that if I wanted a M-B diesel, the minimum price would be $60K! So, I decided to go with something else unusual, and the Saab fit the bill perfectly. I must say, it's a great car! The acceleration is thrilling, the build seems great, the interior is comfortable and well thought out, and I absolutely LOVE the fact that the parchment seats are combined with black interior colors. It gives it a very modern look. The car did have one warranty claim already, which is why I rated it 9 instead of 10, but it was just a simple squeak in the wood trim that the dealer fixed in just 10 minutes.
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After owning four Saab 900 through 9-3 convertibles, I thought it was time for a change, mainly because of the lack of rear legroom. However, I am thrilled to say that my new 9-5 is a rare gem, equipped with a smooth shifting five-speed manual transmission and a powerful 2.3L turbo. I absolutely love driving this vehicle! When I test drove a BMW 5 series, I was disappointed with the feel of the manual transmission and the amount of room inside. For the price I paid, I couldn't have done better. Every time I open the door, I can't help but smile. If you're considering a near-luxury vehicle, I highly recommend test driving the Saab 9-5 sedan or wagon.
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It's unfortunate to witness so many people upset about Saab's bankruptcy, especially considering the circumstances that led to it. I personally acquired mine second-hand with 40k miles on it, and it has been an absolute joy to drive. While it does have a few quirks, it is incredibly reliable and a blast to take on winding roads at high speeds. Additionally, it has a sleek and attractive appearance. Overall, I would highly recommend it over a troublesome spouse any day!
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Great fuel mileage, smooth ride, lots of power, great stereo, comfortable seats, nice HVAC system, superb in the snow, sunroof, handles great, looks great, excellent warranty, low insurance rates, 5-star crash rating, and very affordable.
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?
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.