1997 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 1997 Saab 9000 problems
The Saab 9000, introduced in 1985, has been known for its durability and long-lasting build quality. However, as with any car, it has its share of common problems. This article will focus on the 1997 Saab 9000, based on complaints from owners.
One common issue with the 1997 Saab 9000 is electrical problems, particularly affecting the central locking system and key fobs. Users have reported issues with locking or unlocking the car using the fob, leading to the alarm going off. This issue persists even after replacing the batteries in the fobs. The immobilizer seems to be removed, but the alarm remains active, with the hazard lights flashing erratically. The LED light from the VVS in the speaker grille does not illuminate, and the alarm cannot be disabled by unlocking the car with the key in the door. This problem may be related to the aftermarket modifications, such as the Din 1 player and the snipped radio antenna.
Another issue is the tendency for damaged turbo compressor units in turbo versions of the 1997 Saab 9000. This can lead to reduced performance and increased fuel consumption. Regular maintenance and inspection of the turbocharger system are essential to prevent this problem.
Worn front tyres are also a common problem in turbo versions of the 1997 Saab 9000. This is due to the increased power and torque produced by the turbocharged engine, which can put extra stress on the front tyres. Regular inspection and replacement of the front tyres are necessary to ensure the safety and performance of the vehicle.
Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket are a known issue in the 1997 Saab 9000. This can lead to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage. Regular inspection and replacement of the valve cover gasket are necessary to prevent this problem.
Lastly, the 1997 Saab 9000 may suffer from weak bodies, particularly in cars built in the first year. This can lead to reduced stability and handling, as well as potential safety issues. Regular inspection and maintenance of the body and chassis are essential to prevent this problem.
In summary, the 1997 Saab 9000 has several common problems, including electrical issues with the central locking system and key fobs, damaged turbo compressor units, worn front tyres, oil leaks from the valve cover gasket, and weak bodies. Regular maintenance and inspection are necessary to prevent and address these issues, ensuring the safety and performance of the vehicle.
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 are common faults with Saab?
Here are some of the most widely reported problems for the Saab 9-3.
- ABS or Traction Control Light Illuminate Due to Corroded Wiring. ...
- Engine Coolant Loss. ...
- Loud Noises When Driving on Rough Road. ...
- Engine Dies While Driving. ...
- Excessive Exhaust Noise.
Is a Saab 9000 a good first car?
I chose a Saab 9000 as my first car because of its reputation as a reliable well built and safe car. I have found it to comfortably live up to its name. The car is brilliantly built and it has plenty of kit. Although not a griffin model, the car still has all the gadgets you would expect for a 90's exec.
1997 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Child seat problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Saab 9000 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1997 Saab 9000 complaints
The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Saab 9000.
CHILD SEAT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-10-01
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 04C002000 FOR THE STRAP. PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-09
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE AT A STOP VEHICLE REVVED AT A HIGH RATE. CONSUMER SWITCHED TO NEUTRAL/SHUT OFF VEHICLE TO TEMPORALLY STOP THE PROBLEM. ON ONE OCCASION CONSUMER HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED. DEALERSHIPS MECHANIC TRIED TO REPAIR VEHICLE 3 TIMES, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-02-16
- VIN: YS3CF68M5V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE DIED IN A 7 YEAR-OLD CAR WITH APPROXIMATELY 45,000 MILES. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-10-24
- VIN: YS3CD68U2V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH ABS ON A 1997 SAAB 9000 CS.*MR THE ABS ECM UNIT WAS REPLACED AT 45900, AT 55393 MOST OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM HAD TO BE REPLACED, THE CONSUMER BELIEVED THAT THIS TYPE OF BRAKE WORK SHOULD NOT OCCUR AT SUCH LOW MILEAGE, ALSO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM AND RADIATOR HAD TO BE REPLACED. *JB *NM
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-21
- VIN: YS3CD68U1V1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK GOING 25MPH WHEN THE CAR STARTED ACCELERATING. I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE AND I WAS BARELY ABLE TO STOP. SINCE I WAS IN TRAFFIC, I CONTINUED TO A STOP SIGN WHERE THE CAR STOPPED AFTER A SHORT LUNGE FORWARD. I CHECKED TO BE SURE THAT THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS OFF AND I CHECKED THE DASHBOARD AND THERE WERE NO WARNING MESSAGES FLASHING. WHEN I REMOVED MY FOOT FROM THE BRAKE AND WITH MY FOOT OFF THE ACCELELERATOR, THE CAR GAINED SPEED QUICKLY AND I WAS ONLY ABLE TO SLOW IT DOWN BY KEEPING MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE. I PULLED INTO A PARKING SPACE, SHIFTED THE AUTOMATIC CAR INTO "PARK" WHERE THE CAR STARTED RACING/REVVING AT A VERY HIGH RATE OF SPEED WHEREBY I IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF THE CAR. I HAD THE SAAB TOWED TO MY DEALER. THE DEALER SAID THAT THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG AND THAT THEY WERE NOT ABLE TO DO ANYTHING FOR ME. THEY TOLD ME TO DRIVE THE CAR TO THEM IF THE PROBLEM HAPPENED AGAIN--I TOLD THEM THAT THEIR RECOMMENDATION TO DRIVE TO THEM WOULD PUT MY PASSENGERS AND ME AT RISK. THAT EVENING, I CALLED SAAB USA'S CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBER WHERE I FILED A FORMAL COMPLAINT WITH SAAB (SAAB'S FILE # FOR MY COMPLAINT IS 1-32268057).AND WAS TOLD THAT THE DEALER SHOULD HAVE KEPT THE CAR FOR SEVERAL DAYS TO TEST IT OUT MORE THOROUGHLY GIVEN THE RISK THAT EXISTS IF A FUTURE PROBLEM OCCURS. I ALSO EXPRESSED MY FEAR OF DRIVING THIS CAR AGAIN WITH ME AND MY FAMILY IN IT. THE WOMAN AT SAAB USA SAID SHE WOULD CALL THE DEALERSHIP AND GET BACK TO ME GIVEN MY CONCERN. I HAVE HEARD NOTHING AS OF TODAY, MAY 25, 2002. I AM CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THIS CAR AND SAAB HAS DONE NOTHING TO ALLEVIATE MY FEARS AND THEY ARE OFFERING NO SOLUTION EXCEPT TO SAY THEY COULD FIND NOTHING WRONG. I PAID FOR THEIR DIAGNOSIS AND I WOULD PAY ANYTHING REASONABLE TO CORRECT A PROBLEM WHICH COULD HAPPEN AGAIN. I HAVE ALSO OWNED SAABS SINCE 1983 AND IT IS SAD THAT SAAB'S RESPONSE TO THIS PROBLEM IS TO SEND ME AWAY.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-01-14
- VIN: YS3CH65R3V1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TURBO APC SOLENOID VALVE FAILED. YH
1997 Saab 9000 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Saab 9000.
- Manufacturer: SAAB CARS USA, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE AIR BAG ALERT LABEL ON THE DRIVER SIDE VISOR WAS OMITTED. THIS DOES NOT CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE OCCUPANT MAY NOT PROPERLY UNDERSTAND THE OPERATION OF THE AIR BAG SYSTEM AND THE NEED TO USE SEAT BELTS.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ALERT LABEL TO BE INSTALLED ON THE VISIBLE SIDE OF THE DRIVER'S SUN VISOR. IF AN OWNER SO DESIRES, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM.
Negative 1997 Saab 9000 car reviews
Positive 1997 Saab 9000 car reviews
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This car is great! I highly recommend it.
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Hey there! Have you seen the 9000 CSE hatch? It's one of the latest Eurohatches!
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It's amazing how well this car drives and returns excellent fuel economy, even to this day. The CS model is very easy to modify from LPT to FPT, giving you the same performance as the CSE. After making the modification, my gas mileage actually increased by 1.5 mpg. The seats are very comfortable and there's great interior space, especially in the rear and trunk. It's the most comfortable car I've driven so far and makes for a great cargo hauler with its folding split rear seats. Plus, it's nearly maintenance-free!
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For the money, you can enjoy great comfort, performance, and one of the safest cars ever. Although there are some minor things that need to be done, they are nothing compared to buying a new car. These cars can be real performers (450hp+) with little work and have a great feel for the road. The seats in the Aero are a dream and there is great cargo space. You can even rebuild the entire car for under $10,000. Just remember to maintain oil changes at 2,500 miles and automatic transmission at 30,000 miles (using synthetic oil) and you can easily see 300,000 miles.
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We have loved driving this car! As a military family, it has taken us all over the world. We give Saab kudos for their excellent service and reliability.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 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 ...
Auto tranny in 9000s are not reliable? | SaabCentral Forums
Dec 18, 2010 ... Common 4hp18 problem. The 4hp18 is a good ... Yes it's a shame so many good 9000's are scrapped because of small automatic transmission issues.
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 ...
ABS Warning Light Permanently On, But Brakes are Fine (1995 ...
Apr 3, 2020 ... My own mechanic thoroughly inspected the brakes and saw no problems ... Year: 1997 Transmission... 0 replies 1K ... Saab 900, Saab 9000 and all ...
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 ...
Other years of Saab 9000
Are you having problems with your 1997 Saab 9000?
Cyril Schmitt 2024-05-27
Hey there! I just sold my Saab. It had only 47,000 miles on it, but unfortunately, everything was starting to go wrong with lots of electrical problems. It was quite a shock to find out how much this car lost in value. I don't think I would ever own a Saab again. Remember to follow your own road though, right? Take care!