1999 Saab 900 problems

General information about Saab-900
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints 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 The middle and rear parts of the body were identical to the 99 Combi Coupé (which was withdrawn from the lineup at the same time).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 1999 Saab 900 problems

The Saab 900, produced in 1999, has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:

Clogged Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Over time, debris can accumulate in the fuel tank and clog the fuel filter, which can lead to engine performance issues.

Rust Problems: Early models of the Saab 900, particularly those from the first generation (1978-1993), were prone to rust problems. The areas around the wheel arches, rocker panels, and doors were particularly susceptible to rust.

Ignition Switch Failure: Some years of the Saab 900, particularly those from the first generation, experienced ignition switch failure. This could lead to difficulty starting the car or the car stalling while driving.

Clutch Cable Issues: Some years of the Saab 900, particularly those from the first generation, experienced issues with the clutch cable. This could lead to difficulty shifting gears or the clutch pedal sinking to the floor.

Electrical Problems: Some years of the Saab 900, particularly those from the second generation (1994-1998), experienced electrical problems. These could include issues with the dashboard lights, gauges, and other electrical components.

Power Steering Issues: Some years of the Saab 900, particularly those from the second generation, experienced issues with the power steering. This could lead to difficulty turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.

Engine Misfires: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 S, experienced engine misfires. This could lead to poor engine performance, decreased fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.

Fuel System Issues: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 S, experienced issues with the fuel system. This could lead to difficulty starting the car, poor engine performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Transmission Problems: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 SE, experienced transmission problems. This could lead to difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and jerky or rough shifting.

Air Conditioning Issues: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 SE, experienced air conditioning issues. This could lead to decreased cooling performance, strange noises, and leaks.

Turbocharger Failure: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 Turbo, experienced turbocharger failure. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Exhaust System Problems: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly the Saab 900 Turbo, experienced exhaust system problems. This could lead to strange noises, decreased engine performance, and increased emissions.

Oil Sludge Buildup: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B202 engine, experienced oil sludge buildup. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Timing Chain Problems: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B202 engine, experienced timing chain problems. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Oil Leaks: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B212 engine, experienced oil leaks. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Turbocharger Problems: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B212 engine, experienced turbocharger problems. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Piston Slap Issues: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B234 engine, experienced piston slap issues. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Camshaft Position Sensor Failure: Some models of the Saab 900, particularly those with the B234 engine, experienced camshaft position sensor failure. This could lead to decreased engine performance, increased emissions, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Alternator Failure: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced alternator failure. This could lead to difficulty starting the car, decreased electrical performance, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Dash Lights and Gauges Issues: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced issues with the dash lights and gauges. This could lead to decreased visibility, decreased electrical performance, and decreased safety.

Worn Shock Absorbers: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced worn shock absorbers. This could lead to decreased ride comfort, decreased handling performance, and decreased safety.

Broken Springs: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced broken springs. This could lead to decreased ride comfort, decreased handling performance, and decreased safety.

Brake Disc Warping: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced brake disc warping. This could lead to decreased braking performance, increased stopping distances, and decreased safety.

Brake Caliper Seizing: Some models of the Saab 900 experienced brake caliper seizing. This could lead to decreased braking performance, increased stopping distances, and decreased safety.

It is important to note that not all models of the Saab 900 will experience these issues, and some may experience different issues altogether. However, these are some of the most commonly reported problems based on complaints from owners. If you are considering purchasing a Saab 900, it is recommended that you have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential issues before making a purchase.

1999 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:

Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Suspension problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Saab 900 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1999 Saab 900 complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Saab 900.

2000-01-23

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2000-01-16
VIN: YS3DD58N6X2
Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: ENGINE SHUT OFF WHILE CAR WAS RUNNING THREE TIMES. FIRST TWO TIMES CAR WAS IDLING, THIRD TIME CAR WAS BEING DRIVEN AT 60 MPH. ENGINE SHUT OFF WITH NO WARNING AND WOULD NOT RESTART. SAAB DEALER CLAIMED IN THE FIRST TWO INSTANCES THAT THIS COULD NOT POSSIBLY HAPPEN WITH CAR RUNNING. IN FIRST INSTANCE, DEALER REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH. IN SECOND INSTANCE, DEALER REPLACED GEAR POSITION SWITCH. IN THIRD INSTANCE, DEALER REPLACED CHAFED WIRING HARNESS TO PASSENGER SEAT. WE ARE NOT CONVINCED THAT SAAB HAS FIXED THIS MAJOR SAFETY PROBLEM, AND ARE EVEN MORE WORRIED THAT A CHAFED WIRE FOR THE HEATED SEAT CAN CAUSE AN IMMEDIATE ENGINE SHUTDOWN ON ANY SAAB 9-3.

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1999-11-29

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-09-23
VIN: YS3DF58N4X2
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: FRONT END DRIFTS ACROSS THE ROAD, STRANGE NOISES IN FRONT END, RIMS AND TIRES WEAK, GLASS ROOF NOISE, PAINT DEFECTS( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 205,65, 16 )

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