1990 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 1990 Saab 9000 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Saab 9000 1990 model, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Electrical Problems:
- Electrical issues have been a common concern among Saab 9000 owners. These problems can manifest in various ways, such as malfunctioning lights, issues with the dashboard instruments, or electrical system failures. Addressing electrical problems promptly is crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
- Damaged Turbo Compressor Units:
- Another reported issue with the Saab 9000 is damaged turbo compressor units. Problems with the turbocharger can lead to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage. Owners have highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and timely repairs to prevent turbocharger issues.
- Worn Front Tires on Turbo Versions:
- Owners of turbo versions of the Saab 9000 have reported concerns about worn front tires. This issue can be attributed to various factors, including alignment problems, suspension issues, or driving habits. Regularly checking and maintaining tire condition and alignment is essential to ensure safe driving and optimal performance.
These common problems reported by owners of the Saab 9000 1990 model emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, prompt repairs, and attentive care to address issues promptly and maintain the vehicle's performance and longevity.
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.
1990 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:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Saab 9000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Saab 9000 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Saab 9000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-01
- VIN: YS3CL55L4L2
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE WILL OCCASIONALLY BE HARD TO START, WHEN DOES START IT MISSES UNTIL REVVED TO CLEAR UP. TUNE UPS ARE PERFORMED AT RECOMMENDED MILEAGE. MY CAR IS A 1990, FIRST YEAR FOR SAAB DIRECT IGNITION. REPLACED IGNITION CASSETTE LESS THAN 30,000 MILES AGO, STARTING TO GO OUT AGAIN. DURING MY OWNERSHIP I HAVE REPLACED THE DIRECT IGNITION TWICE, I HAVE OWNED THE CAR APPROX 8 YEARS. I FEEL ALL OWNERS OF VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THIS PART SHOULD BE REIMBURSED. I USED TO BE SAAB TECH AND THESE MODULES GO OUT WAY TOO OFTEN AND ARE EXPENSIVE TO REPLACE . *TR
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-10
- VIN: YS3CK55BXL2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: NO SUMMARY
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YS3CL48L5L1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED, INDICATING MALFUNCTION WITHIN THE SYSTEM. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-19
- VIN: YS3CL55L2L1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE ABS BRAKES THE BRAKE PEDAL BECOMES HARD AND THE LIGHT COMES ON, BUT IT HAS NOT AFFECTED THE BRAKING OF THE VEHICLE JUST YET. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-17
- VIN: \
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE ABS LIGHT CONTINUES TO COME ON, AND THE BRAKE PEDAL GETS REALLY HARD WHEN IT DOES AND THE BRAKES DO OPERATE. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: YS3CL48L3L1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED TWO TIMES PURCHASE CAR NEW ONLY CAN DRIVE IN REVERSE . TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-12-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3CK48D4L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE GARAGE FROM UNDER THE HOOD FROM THE WIRING HARNESS. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1992-12-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: YS3CK48D4L1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE GARAGE FROM UNDER THE HOOD FROM THE WIRING HARNESS. PLEASE DESCRIBE. TT
1990 Saab 9000 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1990 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.
Negative 1990 Saab 9000 car reviews
Positive 1990 Saab 9000 car reviews
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Hello! I have a 1989 Turbo Saab, and I must say, I really love this car! However, I have had some issues with it, and I think it's important to be honest about them. If you're not a weekend mechanic yourself, or don't have close ties to a reliable and inexpensive mechanic you trust, it might be a bit of a challenge. For example, my 2nd gear synchro has been cooked ever since I picked it up at 105,000 miles, and the speedo quit for 2 years before fixing itself this past year. I am about to have my 3rd clutch slave cylinder replaced, which is a bit frustrating. The headliner is sagging now, and I hear another cv joint clicking (even though I already replaced this one). The engine mounts need redoing now too. But don't worry, there are plenty of great options out there! Have you considered a Toyota?
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Hi there! Thanks for sharing your experience with this car. It's great to hear that you haven't had any major issues with the drivetrain. However, it seems like the airbag and SRS system have been a bit problematic. Also, it's good to know that the engine mounts will need to be replaced every 30k miles. I appreciate the advice about avoiding the automatic transmission - it sounds like the manual is the way to go! Thanks again for sharing your insights.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Saab 9000 problems:
Saab 9000 Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
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 ...
Saab 900 Transmission Problems | SaabCentral Forums
Feb 23, 2013 ... My mechanic, who is known as the best Saab guy in New England, told me I should just sell the car because the early Saab 900's had a design flaw ...
Direct Ignition Cassette, how do I know it's faulty? | Saab Link Forums
Jul 23, 2008 ... ... problem with the DI cassette, which is apparently a common problem. So how do I know that is the problem? Any help is appreciated. Save ...
Idle hunting problem fixed | SaabCentral Forums
Apr 15, 2005 ... Hunting--where the idle speed cycles up and down repeatedly--is one of the most common of these. ... On our 1990 900S automatic, the idle has ...
Front jack point/floor rust repair. | Saab Link Forums
Apr 4, 2011 ... very common 9000 problem. I seem to remember I was going to do this repair to someones car here. Save Share. Like.
Other years of Saab 9000
Are you having problems with your 1990 Saab 9000?
Brandon Daugherty 2024-02-11
I really enjoy the way the car drives. It has an excellent motor and transmission. However, there seem to be some issues with the electrical parts. It needs repairs on the hood, a small place on the body, a rear tail light lens, repairs on the AC, and the tape deck and CD player are not working. I believe it also needs a new alternator. Unfortunately, it is not currently running, even with a new battery that is not holding a charge.