1989 Saab 9000 problems
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).
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Common 1989 Saab 9000 problems
Based on complaints from owners of the Saab 9000 1989, common problems with this car include:
- HVAC System Malfunction: Owners have experienced problems with the HVAC system, particularly in the Saab 9000 CD model. This could lead to issues like malfunctioning air conditioning and heating, often caused by a faulty blower motor or a failed cabin temperature sensor.
- Brake System Concerns: The brake system in the Saab 9000 CD model has been prone to problems such as squeaking brakes or a soft brake pedal. These issues could stem from worn-out brake pads, damaged brake rotors, or failed brake calipers.
- Turbocharger Failure: Turbocharger failure has been a common issue in the Saab 9000 Aero, especially in the 2.3-liter engine. This problem could be attributed to a damaged turbocharger, worn-out turbo bearings, or clogged oil passages.
- Cooling System Troubles: The cooling system in the Saab 9000 Aero, particularly in the 2.3-liter engine, has been reported to have issues. This could be due to a damaged radiator, worn-out hoses, or a failed water pump.
- Suspension Problems: Owners have faced suspension problems in the Saab 9000 Aero, particularly in the rear suspension. This could be caused by worn-out bushings, damaged shocks, or a failed strut mount.
- Timing Belt Failure: A common issue in the Saab 9000 equipped with a 2.0-liter engine has been timing belt failure. This could result from a worn-out timing belt or a failed timing belt tensioner.
- Oil Sludge Buildup: Another common problem in the Saab 9000 equipped with a 2.0-liter engine is oil sludge buildup. This issue could be due to inadequate maintenance practices like infrequent oil changes or the use of low-quality oil.
- Coolant Leaks: Owners of the Saab 9000 equipped with a 2.0-liter engine have reported coolant leaks. This could be caused by a damaged coolant hose, a failed radiator, or a damaged water pump.
These issues highlight some of the common problems faced by owners of the Saab 9000 1989 model, ranging from HVAC system malfunctions to brake system concerns, turbocharger failures, and various other mechanical issues.
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.
What is a Saab 9000 worth?
A: The average price of a Saab 9000 is $10,197.
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.
1989 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Saab 9000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Saab 9000 complaints
The NHTSA has received 21 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Saab 9000.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-05-01
- VIN: YS3CW48L6K1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SAAB CUSTOMER ASSIST CTR DECLINED ALL FORM OF ASSISTANCE. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED IN THE SUMMARY. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-27
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3CK48D4K1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE, AS SOON AS THE CAR WAS PUT IN DRIVE, THE VEHICLE TOOK OFF. THE VEHICLE HIT OTHER CARS. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-08-20
- VIN: YS3CS58D1K1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLING FAN RELAY BURNED OUT MELTING THE RELAY FUSE BOX LOCATED UNDER THE HOOD.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-10
- VIN: YS3CL48L3K1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: ACCORDING TO MANUFACTURERS STANDARD EQUIPMENT, DRIVER SIDE AIG BAG SHOULD HAVE BEEN INSTALLED, HOWEVER IT'S NOT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: YS3CT48LOK1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE SHUTS DOWN WITHOUT WARNING AND CAN SOMETIME BE RESTARTED WITH A BATTERY BOOST.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1989-06-05
- VIN: 4S3CT58L6K2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE ENGINE OVERHEATS AND THE STARTER WILL NOT START. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: SAW SMOKE, POPPED HOOD ENGINE WAS ON FIRE. PLEASE GIVE MORE DETAILS. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-28
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3CT48L1K1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE BURNED AND WAS TOTALLED. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-07-12
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION CAUSED THE IGNITION TO ALMOST GO OUT. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: THROTTLE CABLE REPAIRED PRIOR TO RECALL. *SD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LEFT SIDE OF MOTOR MOUNT REPLACED DUE TO NOISE. *SD
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: BACK UP LIGHT SWITCH OVERHEATED/REPAIRED PRIOR TO RECALL.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: NOISE WHEN OPENING LEFT FRONT DOOR. *SD
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILED 3 TIMES. *SD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STARTER WILL NOT START WHEN VEHICLE IS HOT. *SD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-07-05
- VIN: YS3CT5826K2
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLING DUE TO BATTERY DISTRIBUTOR BLOCK. *SD
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-05
- Fire: 1
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: AFTER DRIVEN/PARKED 30 MINS., VEHICLE BEGAN TO SMOKE AND FIRE STARTED IN AREA OF TAIL LIGHTS. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-17
- VIN: YS36T4817K1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION FAILS TO GO INTO GEAR, PREVENTING VEHICLE FROM STARTING. *AW
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-17
- VIN: YS36T4817K1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INTERMITTENT STALLING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-11-23
- VIN: YS3CL45L0K1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUSE BOX IN THE GLOVE COMPARTMENT MELT THE CANDY THAT WAS IN THE BOX SMELL THE SMOKE IN CAR. TT
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-09-05
- VIN: YS3CS58D8K2
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS: BRAKES HAVE GONE OUT 2 TIMES WITHOUT WARNING; PEDAL GOES TO FLOOR WITH NO BRAKING EFFECT; NO WARNING; EXTENDED STOPPING; 45 MPH. TT
1989 Saab 9000 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 Saab 9000.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: THE ROUTING OF THE THROTTLE KICKDOWN CABLE COULD ALLOW CHAFING TO OCCUR BETWEEN THE CABLE AND ANY ONE OF THREE STEEL BRAKE FLUID LINES NEAR THE VALVE BLOCK OF THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE UNIT.
- Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE; THUS, THE BRAKECIRCUIT SUPPLIED BY THAT LINE WOULD BECOME INOPERATIVE AND RESULT IN DECREASEDBRAKING EFFECTIVENESS AND AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy: CHANGE CABLE ROUTING AND INSTALL NEW ATTACHMENT BRACKET TO PREVENT CHAFING.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: FUEL FILTER MAY NOT MEET THE SPECIFICATION CONCERNING LEAKAGE CRITERIA DUE TO LOW TEMPERATURE DURING THE GLUING PROCESS.
- Consequence: FUEL FILTER MAY LEAK CREATING A POTENTIAL FIRE HAZARD.
- Remedy: REPLACE FUEL FILTER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Saab 9000 problems:
New to the 9000 -- what are the weak points | SaabCentral Forums
Sep 11, 2012 ... 9000 totally different from the 900. Cooling system issues are the most common 9000 problem, usually thermostat or hoses but electrical issues ...
driver power seat not working | Saab Link Forums
Jul 9, 2008 ... not sure whats wrong, the fuse is good, what else should i check? is this a common problem for a 95 saab 9000 cse turbo? Save Share. Like ...
'95 9000 CS Hazard Lights no longer working | SaabCentral Forums
Feb 12, 2004 ... ... common problem with all the SAAB cars from 9000 on. ... Project 1989 Saab 9000 "Aero" · More Photos ... I have a 1995 9000 CSE that seems to have ...
What are some common issues with the Saab 9-3, regardless of ...
Aug 21, 2015 ... All SAABs are a little quirky. In the convertibles, it's common to have some issues with the tonneau cover mechanism. Engine: Some of the ...
Cars Of A Lifetime: 1989 Saab 9000 Turbo - What Kind Of Story ...
Jan 29, 2012 ... Turns out it had a few issues (surprised?). Firstly, the ABS motor was dead. In a regular (as in not Saab) car this would simply mean that the ...
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