1991 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 1991 Saab 9000 problems
Based on the complaints from owners of the Saab 9000 1991, several common problems have been identified:
- Climate Control System Malfunctions: Problems with the climate control system have been noted, including issues with the heater core. Malfunctions in the climate control system can impact the comfort level inside the vehicle, especially during extreme weather conditions.
- Ignition Switch Sticking: Some owners have experienced problems with the ignition switch getting stuck in the off position. This issue can prevent the car from starting properly and may require immediate attention to ensure the vehicle's operability.
- Transmission Shifting Issues: Complaints have been raised about difficulties shifting into gears, particularly not shifting into 5th gear smoothly. Transmission problems can significantly affect the drivability of the vehicle and may require professional inspection and repair.
- Electrical System Failures: Electrical issues, such as surging idle, low idle, and strange warning lights, have been reported by owners. Electrical system failures can lead to various operational problems and should be addressed promptly to avoid further complications.
- Door Mechanism Problems: Some owners have faced challenges with rear doors getting stuck. Door mechanism issues can hinder access to the vehicle and pose safety concerns, especially in emergency situations.
- Engine Smoking: Instances of the engine smoking excessively have been highlighted. Engine smoking can indicate underlying mechanical issues that need to be diagnosed and repaired to prevent further damage to the vehicle.
These common problems with the Saab 9000 1991, as reported by owners, encompass a range of issues affecting different aspects of the vehicle's performance, comfort, and safety. Addressing these problems promptly through professional maintenance and repairs is crucial to ensure the longevity and reliability of the Saab 9000.
Are Saab 9000s reliable?
9000 Aero is the best car Saab has ever made
Very reliable and can easily last 300,000-500,000 miles. Engine is bulletproof - change the oil every 3,000 miles (regular oil) or 6,000 miles (synthetic) and the base is good for at least 300k.
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.
What is the top speed of a 1991 Saab 9000 Turbo?
Engines
| Model | Code | Top speed |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0i | B202 | 190 km/h (118 mph) |
| Turbo | B202 | 210 km/h (137 mph) |
| Turbo | B202 | 215 km/h (134 mph) |
| Turbo | B202 | 220 km/h (137 mph) |
What is a Saab 9000 worth?
A: The average price of a Saab 9000 is $10,197.
1991 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:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Power train problems
- Seat belts problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1991 Saab 9000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1991 Saab 9000 complaints
The NHTSA has received 9 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1991 Saab 9000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-30
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY 1991 SAAB 9000CD TURBO "EATS" IGNITION MODULES. THIS HAPPENS ROUGHLY EVERY 10,000 MILES. AT A COST IN EXCESS OF $450 EACH IT'S EXPENSIVE. WHEN THE MODULE FAILS, THE ENGINE STOPS WITHOUT WARNING. THIS CAN BE HAZARDOUS IN TRAFFIC. *NM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-12-28
- VIN: YS3CL58M9M1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THIS CAR HAS BEEN A NIGHTMARE FROM THE PURCHASE DATE. NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ABOUT 55 TO 60MPH ON A CLEAR DAY DRIVER'S SIDE AIRBAG DEPLOYED WITHOUT A CAUSE. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-12-16
- VIN: YS3CK55B1M1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE CLUTCH PEDAL STICKS TO THE FLOOR WHEN DEPRESSED. THE CLUTCH INITIALLY DOES NOT ENGAGE BECAUSE THE PEDAL IS ON THE FLOOR. HOWEVER, THE PRESSURE EVENTUALLY BLEEDS OFF AND THE CLUTCH ENGAGES WITHOUT WARNING DESPITE THE FACT THE PEDAL IS ENGAGED. YOU STILL HAVE TO PHYSICALLY PULL THE CLUTCH PEDAL UP. THIS CREATES A VERY DANGEROUS DRIVING SITUATION, ESPECIALLY IN DC AREA TRAFFIC. I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WHEN THE CAR HAD 40,000 MILES ON IT. OBVIOUSLY, THE REPLACEMENT PART WAS OF NO BETTER DESIGN/QUALITY. AT THAT TIME THE DEALER WHO REPAIRED IT TOLD ME IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-01
- VIN: YS3CK48B1M2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-05-01
- VIN: YS3CK48B1M2
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT WILL NOT LATCH.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-04-21
- VIN: YS3CK58B3M1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ANTI LOCK BRAKES FAILED.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-02-14
- VIN: 1S3CL58M1M1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SPORADIC OPERATION OF ELECTRONIC DOOR LOCKS. APPEARS TO BE AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. TT
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-08-03
- Fire: 1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE DRIVING AT 55MPH. PLEASE DESCRIBE DETAILS. TT
1991 Saab 9000 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1991 Saab 9000.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: IMPROPER ASSEMBLY COULD CAUSE THE BALL OF THE GEAR SELECTOR ARM NOT TO BE PROPERLY FIXED TO THE SOCKET ON THE END OF THE GEAR SELECTOR CABLE; GEAR SELECTOR ARM COULD SEPARATE FROM THE GEAR SELECTOR CABLE AT THE BALL SOCKET JOINT.
- Consequence: THE GEAR POSITION COULD NOT BE SELECTED OR DETERMINEDUSING THE SELECTOR LEVER; CAR COULD BE STARTED IN GEAR OTHER THAN PARK ORNEUTRAL, RESULTING IN SUDDEN UNEXPECTED VEHICLE MOVEMENT.
- Remedy: PROPERLY SEAT GEAR SELECTOR ARM BALL IN THE SELECTOR CABLE SOCKET AND SECURE BY A LOCK RING INSIDE THE SOCKET.
Negative 1991 Saab 9000 car reviews
Positive 1991 Saab 9000 car reviews
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This is my first car, and I absolutely love it! My parents gave it to me, and I couldn't be more grateful. It's such an amazing car!
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Hi there! I've had the car for 2 years now and I must say, it's been a great experience. Although I've had to do some maintenance work, I found it to be fairly easy. Overall, I think it's a very good car!
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This is my second car and I absolutely love it! My previous car was a 1993 Subaru Legacy AWD, which was decent, but the Saab blows it out of the water. With 208,000 miles on it, it still runs like a charm. The handling is fantastic and the performance and ride comfort are top-notch. I highly recommend this car to anyone, especially beginner drivers!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1991 Saab 9000 problems:
Common Saab 9000 problems? : r/saab
Jul 29, 2022 ... The big issues I would anticipate are electrical gizmos that might wear out (like EDU, ACC) and (if equipped) TCS parts, and pretty much ...
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 ...
headlights not working. | Saab Link Forums
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.
Auto tranny in 9000s are not reliable? | SaabCentral Forums
Dec 18, 2010 ... From the Alfafaq link, my problem may indeed be the governor seals : quote : Common symptoms: 1. shifting up too soon, or not down shifting when ...
Other years of Saab 9000
Are you having problems with your 1991 Saab 9000?
Mose Kutch 2024-07-15
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.
Stanley Murray 2024-04-15
The car is designed to be a high-performance vehicle. However, as it ages, it may lose some of its power and style. Unfortunately, repairs can be quite costly, as many of the parts are special order and integrated. But don't worry, we'll do our best to get your car back on the road as soon as possible!