1986 Saab 9000 problems

General information about Saab-9000
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Saab 9000 is a car produced by the Swedish company Saab from 1984 to 1998. Representing the company's foray into the executive car scene, it was developed as a result of the successes of the turbocharged 99 and 900 models. The 9000 remained in production until May 1998 and it was replaced by the Saab 9-5 in late 1997, although some final cars were produced into 1998. The Saab 9000 was only available with petrol engines, in two different 5-door hatchback designs or as a 4-door notchback.

Saab designed the 9000 as part of the Type Four platform in conjunction with the Italian automaker Fiat Automobiles. Fiat retailed similar derivative versions as the more basic Fiat Croma, the luxury-themed Lancia Thema, and the sports-oriented Alfa Romeo 164. Unlike the 164, which shares only the chassis, the Croma and Thema are outwardly similar to the 9000. As such, much of the bodywork appeared interchangeable between the 9000, Croma and Thema; for example, the doors. However, because Saab fitted heavier side impact protection they will not fit. Fiat had designed the Croma with no consideration of American crash test requirements, which forced Saab to strengthen the body by fitting various reinforcements. Thus, the front of the Saab is radically different from the Italian siblings due to the much improved crash protection. Only seven parts are actually interchangeable. The 9000's body was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and Saab designer Björn Envall.

Despite being shorter overall than the 900 which was still produced in parallel, the 9000 has a longer wheelbase and greater interior space with 3.5 cubic metres (120 cu ft) of interior space 0.67 cubic feet (0.019 m3) in the boot, 1.6 cubic metres (57 cu ft) with rear seats folded), qualifying as an EPA-rated large car, a distinction shared only with the contemporary Rolls-Royce in America. This was achieved by installing the engine transversely to the direction of travel in the Saab 9000 (instead longitudinally as in the Saab 900). Unlike the 900 the 9000 kept the ignition switch in the more conventional steering column position rather than between the front seats. The inspiration for the seats was taken by Björn Envall from The Muppet Show's Pigs in Space, a sketch by the late puppeteer Jim Henson.

In total, 503,087 Saab 9000s were manufactured. These are divided into: 216,385 Saab 9000 CC (MY 1985–1991), 174,525 Saab 9000 CS (MY 1992–1998), 112,177 Saab 9000 CD (MY 1988–1997).

Social links

https://www.saab.com/

Common 1986 Saab 9000 problems

The Saab 9000, introduced in 1986, was a significant car for the Swedish automaker, marking its entry into the luxury segment. However, like any vehicle, it had its share of common problems that owners have reported over the years.

One of the most frequently mentioned issues with the Saab 9000 is electrical gremlins. These can manifest in various ways, such as the ABS being off, the SRS blinking, the alarm being sensitive to loud noises, and even the door mirror falling off while closing the door. These electrical problems can be challenging to diagnose and fix, often requiring a skilled mechanic.

Another common problem area for the Saab 9000 is the engine. Some owners have reported issues with head gasket failure, which can be a significant repair.

The Saab 9000's engine and electrical issues can be particularly frustrating for owners because they can be difficult to diagnose and fix. These problems can also be expensive to repair, especially if they are not caught early. Regular maintenance and careful driving can help prevent some of these issues, but they are still relatively common in the Saab 9000.

In summary, the Saab 9000 has several common problems that owners have reported over the years. These include electrical gremlins, engine issues, and problems with the car's cooling system. While these problems can be frustrating and expensive to fix, regular maintenance and careful driving can help prevent some of them. Overall, the Saab 9000 is a unique and innovative car that has left a lasting legacy in the automotive world.

How good was the Saab 9000?

Good, old-fashioned 4-speed automatic does what you want and doesn't 'hunt'. Full-on 2.3 turbo Carlsson and Aero puts out 225bhp, which is very nearly too much. The more powerful turbos grip and handle best on Goodyear F1's or Toyo Proxes tyres. Ride quality a bit firm, but made up for by the excellent seats.

How safe is a Saab 9000?

Saab's 9000 and 900 models were given top ratings in both of the surveys, consolidating their reputation as two of the safest cars on the road.

Is the Saab 9000 Aero faster than a Ferrari?

The Aero's in-gear acceleration was strongly emphasised, and period advertising boasted, “The 5-speed Saab 9000 Aero will streak from 50 to 75 mph faster than a Ferrari Testarossa or a Porsche Carrera 4.” The Aero was discontinued after model year 1997, so in the last MY 1998 the 225 PS engine was available for all ...

How many Saab 9000 are left?

There are 33,613,513 cars & other vehicles with valid MOTs. There are 582 SAAB 9000 left in the UK with an MOT. 0.0017% of all UK vehicles are SAAB 9000.

1986 Saab 9000 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Saab 9000 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Seats problems
Equipment problems
Fuel system problems
Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Saab 9000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Saab 9000 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Saab 9000.

1998-10-10

SEATS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: YS3CD68U3T1
Components: SEATS
Summary: FRONT SEAT BACKS HAVE ALMOST AN INCH OF FREE-PLAY FRONT TO REAR. THIS FREE PLAY IS FELT ON STOPS, FLOPPING BACK TO FRONT, PARTICULARLY ON DOWNHILL STOPS. MAY CAUSE BACK INJURY AND ROAD DISTRACTION.

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1996-03-14

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1996-03-04
Fire: 1
VIN: YS3CD55L8G1
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: WHEN PUTTING A MATCH IN THE ASHTRAY THE MATCH CONTINUED TO BURN AND THE WHOLE DASH WENT UP IN FLAMES. PLEASE DESCRIBE.

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1995-08-14

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1994-08-03
Fire: 1
VIN: YS3CD55L7G1
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED AND INOPERATIVE.THE FIRE BEGAN UNDER THE HOOD IT CAUSED AN EXPLOSION.THE CAR WAS STARTED BY ITSELF.(EA95-020). TT

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1986 Saab 9000 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Saab 9000.

1990-11-02

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Summary: ABRASION ON THE PRINTED CIRCUIT CARD IN THE COMBINATION NEUTRAL SAFETY/BACKUP LAMP SWITCH OPERATED BY THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION GEAR SELECTOR MAY CAUSE RESIDUE TO COLLECT IN ELECTRICAL AREA ON THE CIRCUIT CARD.
Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING OF THE SWITCH ASSEMBLY WITHSMOKE AND POSSIBLY A FIRE IN THE CENTER CONSOLE AREA.
Remedy: ADD AN ELECTRICAL CIRCUIT, INCLUDING A RELAY, TO THE BACKUP LAMP CIRCUIT TO REDUCE THE CURRENT THAT CAN FLOW THROUGH THE COMBINATION SWITCH.

1986-10-27

Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Summary: THE WIRING HARNESS MAY CHAFE AGAINST THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR BRACKET. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: IF A SHORT CIRCUIT DEVELOPS, IT COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
Remedy: AFFIX TWO RUBBER STRIPS TO THE VERTICAL EDGES OF THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR BRACKET.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 1986 Saab 9000 problems:

Saab 900 Transmission Problems | SaabCentral Forums

https://www.saabcentral.com/threads/saab-900-transmission-problems.248658/

Feb 23, 2013 ... I was trained on the 'new' post '94 900, and the 9000 when it came out in 1986. Their transmissions fail first at the pinion bearings, just ...

headlights not working. | Saab Link Forums

https://www.saablink.net/threads/headlights-not-working.33503/

Sep 30, 2008 ... Its probably the big relay in box under the hood. Pretty common problem. 95 9000 Aero 96 900 SE 06 9-5.

2006 Saab aero common problem | SaabCentral Forums

https://www.saabcentral.com/threads/2006-saab-aero-common-problem.206592/

Mar 19, 2011 ... 2006 Saab aero common problem ... 1986 900S,1978 99T,1975 99 Hatch,1973 99 . ... Saab 900, Saab 9000 and all other Saab models, choose your forum.

Saab 9000 Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/saab/9000

Top Saab 9000 Problems · Oil Leaks from the Valve Cover Gasket · Noise From Water Pump Failure · Head Gasket Failure · Engine Dies while Driving Or Will Crank but ...