2000 Saab 900 problems
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 The middle and rear parts of the body were identical to the 99 Combi Coupé (which was withdrawn from the lineup at the same time).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.
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Common 2000 Saab 900 problems
The Saab 900, produced from 1993 to 1998, is known for its well-built, smartly styled design and commendable reliability. However, as with any vehicle, the Saab 900 has its common problems. This article will explore some of the most frequently reported issues with the Saab 900, focusing on the Coupe and Cabriolet versions.
- Convertible roof problems: The Saab 900 convertible is known for having issues with the roof hesitating when going up or down. This problem is caused by a faulty motor bracket that twists and binds over time, leading to eventual motor failure. The solution involves replacing the motor and installing a cross member over the motor arm to prevent future twisting and damage to the new motor.
- Heater control valve leaks: Another common issue with the Saab 900 convertible is leaking heater control valves, which can cause dampness in the front left footwell. The solution is to replace the heater control valves and dry out the carpets to prevent dampness from setting in.
- LED display failure: The LED display on the Saab 900 is known for failing, causing the display to fragment. If this issue occurs, the entire display unit needs to be replaced to resolve the problem.
- Suspension issues: The Saab 900 may experience suspension problems, such as excessive springiness caused by faulty suspension bushes or shock absorbers. To check for faulty suspension bushes, place your hand on the rubber mounting at the top of the front wing and press heavily on this area. If you feel side movement, the bushes have likely failed and need to be replaced. Additionally, check for leaking shock absorbers, which will need to be replaced if found.
- Engine issues: While generally reliable, the Saab 900's engine can experience problems, especially as the vehicle ages and accumulates mileage. Some common engine issues include coolant loss, ignition problems, and oil leaks. These problems can be more prevalent in certain model years and should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
- Recalls: The Saab 900 Coupe/Cabriolet has been subject to various recalls, primarily due to manufacturing faults. These recalls include front airbag deployment problems, tow ball issues, and passenger airbag deployment problems. It is essential to ensure that any required recalls have been addressed on your vehicle to maintain its safety and reliability.
- High brake wear: The Saab 900's brake system tends to experience high wear, requiring regular replacement of pads and rotors. This is especially true for front-wheel drive models, which may suffer from torque steer on takeoff, particularly in turbocharged versions.
- Rust issues: Although generally resistant to rust, the Saab 900 can still experience rust problems, especially in certain areas. It is essential to inspect the vehicle for signs of rust, particularly in high-risk areas, and address any issues promptly to maintain the vehicle's structural integrity and longevity.
In summary, the Saab 900, while generally reliable, can experience various common problems, particularly in the convertible version. These issues range from convertible roof and heater control valve leaks to LED display failure, suspension problems, engine issues, recalls, high brake wear, and rust. Regular maintenance, inspections, and prompt addressing of any issues can help ensure the longevity and reliability of your Saab 900.
2000 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:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2000 Saab 900 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2000 Saab 900 complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2000 Saab 900.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-20
- VIN: YS3EH48G3Y3
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: SEAM TEAR 2" ALONG INNER SIDE WALL( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 225/45R 17 )
Other years of Saab 900
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