1981 Saab 900 problems

General information about Saab-900
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Saab 900 is a mid-sized automobile which was produced by Saab from 1978 until 1998 in two generations; the first from 1978 to 1993, and the second from 1994 to 1998.

The first-generation car was based on the Saab 99 chassis, though with a longer front end to meet U.S. frontal crash regulations and to make room for the turbo-charged engines, air conditioning and other equipment that was not available in the early days of the 99 model. The 900 was produced in 2- and 4-door sedan, and 3- and 5-door hatchback configurations and, from 1986, as a cabriolet (convertible) model. There were single- and twin-Zenith carburettor; fuel injected, and turbocharged engines, including both Full Pressure Turbo (FPT), and, in European models during the early 1990s, Low Pressure Turbos (LPT).

Saab 900 "Classic"

Overview

The Saab 900 is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive mid-size car with a longitudinally mounted, 45-degree canted, inline four-cylinder engine, double wishbone front suspension and beam-axle rear suspension. It was originally introduced on 12 May 1978, for the 1979 model year. Sales commenced in the fall of 1978.

Like its predecessor the 99, the 900 contained a number of unusual design features that distinguish it from most other cars. First, the B-engine, that was installed "backwards", with power delivered from the crank at the front of the car. Second, the transmission, technically a transaxle, bolted directly to the bottom of the engine to form the oil pan (albeit with separate oil lubrication). Thus, power from the crank would be delivered out of the engine at the front, then transferred down and back to the transmission below, via a set of chain-driven primary gears. In similar fashion, Minis also had their gearbox mounted directly below the engine; however, the Mini gearbox and engine shared the same oil, whereas the Saab 900 (and 99) gearboxes contained a separate sump for engine oil.

The 900 body was developed from the older 99 model, keeping the basic layout but with a new longer front part. This allowed for more space in the engine room and better crash protection for passengers. The middle and rear parts of the body were identical to the 99 Combi Coupé (which was withdrawn from the lineup at the same time). Later a new rear end was designed for the 2- and 4-door sedans.

Refined over several decades of two-digit Saab models, the 900's double wishbone suspension design provided excellent handling and road feel. The rear suspension comprised a typical beam axle design, stabilized with a Panhard rod. However, the attachment points between the axle and chassis made up an unusual configuration that, in essence, consists of two Watt's linkages at either end of the axle: A lower control arm attaches the axle to the bottom of the vehicle, while an upper link attaches at the top but faces towards the rear, unlike a typical four-link design with both lower and upper links facing forward. The design-principle being similar with the rear suspension presented in Alfa Romeo Alfasud already in 1971, except in the Alfasud, the beam axle itself functioned as a sway-bar, hence separate sway-bars in the rear suspension was not needed.

Early models did not have sway bars; they began appearing on certain models in 1985, and, in U.S. and possibly other markets, became standard on all trim levels by the late 1980s. The sway bars decreased body roll, but at the expense of some ride comfort and when driven aggressively, increased inside wheel spin. The front and rear bars' diameters were unchanged throughout the model's run.

The 900 has a deeply curved windshield, providing the best driver visibility. The dashboard was curved to enable easy reach of all controls, and featured gauges lit up from the front. Saab engineers placed all controls and gauges in the dashboard according to their frequency of use and/or importance so that the driver need only divert their gaze from the road for the shortest possible time and by the smallest angle. This is why, for example, the oft-used radio is placed so high in the dashboard. In keeping with the paradigm of its predecessor, the 99 model, the 900 employed a door design unique in automotive manufacturing, with an undercutting sweep to meet the undercarriage, forming a tight, solid unit when the door was closed. This feature also eliminated the stoop in the cabin at the footing of the door, as seen in automobiles of other manufacturers, thereby preventing water and debris from collecting and possibly entering the cabin or initiating corrosion, as well as enabling passengers to enter and exit the cabin without need to step over several inches of ledge.

The 900 underwent minor cosmetic design changes for 1987, including restyled front end and bumpers that went from a vertical to a more sloped design. To save money, Saab kept the basic undercarriage more or less unchanged throughout the 900's production run.

The Saab 900 could be ordered with different options, including a high performance option called the Aero or, as it was known in the U.S. "Special Performance Group" (SPG). The Aero/SPG incorporated (depending on the market and model year) a body skirt; a sport-suspension (1987+) that included shorter, stiffer springs, stiffer shocks, and sway bars; leather seats; premium stereo; and air conditioning. Each of these features could also be ordered independently from Saab's Accessories Catalog for fitment to standard models.

Another desirable UK option at this time was the fitment of very distinctive Minilite alloy wheels. Initially these had the words 'Minilite' and 'Saab' cast in raised lettering; later Saabs had a similar wheel made by Ronal.

Power output varied by model year and market, but 900S and 900 Turbo models produced from 1985 and onward were fitted with a 16-valve engine, while the basic 900 kept the earlier 8-valve engine.

A 1989 Saab 900 SPG, owned by Peter Gilbert of Wisconsin, was driven over a million miles before being donated to The Wisconsin Automotive Museum. Peter Gilbert claimed a million miles out of the turbocharging unit in addition to the engine itself. Saab gave Mr Gilbert a Saab 9-5 Aero.

Social links

https://www.saab.com/

Common 1981 Saab 900 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Saab 900 1981, several common problems have been identified:

Convertible Top Malfunctions: Another common problem involves the convertible top. Owners have experienced issues with raising and lowering the top smoothly. Ensuring the proper functioning of the convertible top is crucial for convertible models to maintain their usability and aesthetic appeal.

Rust: Rust is a prevalent issue in older Saab 900 models, including the 1981 version. Owners have reported rust problems on various parts of the car's body, which can affect the structural integrity and overall appearance of the vehicle. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to prevent rust from spreading and causing further damage.

Suspension and Steering Components: The Saab 900's independent front suspension and rear axle design have been known to experience wear and tear over time. Components like dampers, springs, and steering mechanisms may require attention, especially in higher-mileage vehicles. Checking for leaks, worn-out parts, and proper alignment is crucial to ensure the car's safety and performance.

Power Steering Leaks: Some owners have reported issues with power steering leaks. Detecting and addressing leaks promptly is essential to prevent steering problems, maintain steering responsiveness, and avoid potential safety hazards on the road.

By addressing these common problems proactively and conducting thorough inspections before purchasing a used Saab 900 1981, buyers can make informed decisions and potentially avoid costly repairs down the line. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and attention to these specific issues can help owners enjoy their Saab 900 for many years to come.

1981 Saab 900 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saab 900 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Saab 900 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1981 Saab 900 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Saab 900.

1996-11-19

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-10-21
Fire: 1
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE DUE TO OIL LEAK.(OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)

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1981 Saab 900 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1981 Saab 900.

1984-02-29

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: POOR ELECTRICAL CONNECTION AT THE FUEL GAUGE TRANSMITTER MAY RESULT IN A STOPPAGE OF THE FUEL PUMP AND ENGINE STALLING. IN EXTREME CASES, FUEL VAPOR MAY LEAK FROM THE FUEL TANK.
Remedy: THE FUEL GAUGE TRANSMITTER WILL BE INSPECTED AND REPLACED, IF DAMAGED.

1981-12-08

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Summary: THERE MAY BE AN INSUFFICIENT PERMANENT LUBRICATION IN THE BUCKLE/RELEASE MECHANISM OF THE TYPE 2 SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES. THIS MAY CAUSE FRONT SEAT OCCUPANTS TO HAVE DIFFICULTY IN FULLY FASTENING SEAT BELTS, ALTHOUGH THEY MAY SEEM TO BE FULLY FASTENED.
Remedy: A SPECIAL WAX LUBRICANT WILL BE SPRAYED INTO THE BUCKLE RECEPTACLE SLOT TO REMEDY DEFECT AND PREVENT REOCCURANCE. THIS WILL BE DONE WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.