Nick Kunze
· 6 min read
The most common problems for Saab models are coolant loss, ignition issues, and oil leaks. The now defunct brand has generally high reliability ratings, but there's a lack of consistency—as different years of the 9-3 can be considered both the most and least reliable cars of the make.
No matter how good the make, every car has its issues, and for every make, some problems recur across their different models and years. While Saab is generally noted for its well-performing vehicles, they don't come without their problems. If you’re a Saab owner (or interested in becoming one), it's good to know what you can expect from your car.
To help you be prepared as you hit the road, the super app for
car insurance
, Jerry
, has put together this guide to the most common problems with Saab models—and what you can expect from Saab insurance costs
.What are the most common Saab problems?
Saab was a prominent Swedish car manufacturer until it shuttered its doors in 2016. It produced many popular sedans and SUVs. However, like any car, they’re not without their problems.
A few of the most common problems across the entire Saab brand include:
- Coolant loss
- Ignition issues
- Oil leaks
However, to really understand what might be wrong with your Saab, you’ll need to consider each model. For a complete breakdown of the most common Saab problems in five of their most popular vehicles throughout the years, check out the table below.
Model | Starting price | J.D. Power reliability rating | Most common problems | Years to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
9-3 | $29,775 | 82/100 | anti-brake system issues, coolant loss, engine dies | 2000, 2003-2011 |
9-5 | $39,350 | N/A | Ignition cassettes, oil leaks, throttle body | 2000, 2006, 2008 |
9-7X | $43,390 | N/A | Sagging suspension, all-wheel-drive issues, trunk issues | 2006 |
900 | $26,955 | N/A | Oil leaks, head gasket issues, engine failure | 1996, 1997 |
9-2X | $22,990 | N/A | Broken CV boots, ignition switch failure | 2005 |
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Most common Saab 9-3 problems
Average annual repair cost: $559
CarComplaints.com complaints: 34
The
Saab 9-3
, one of the best-selling Saab models, is a dependable sedan but it commonly has issues with the anti-brake system, traction control, and coolant loss. The anti-brake system and traction control features are important to keep you protected on the road. The 9-3 has issues with corroded wiring, which can cause the failure of both the anti-brake system and the traction control. This makes driving, especially on wet surfaces, dangerous.
The 9-3 also has a porous engine block, which leads to excessive coolant loss. Without proper coolant, your engine can overheat and become damaged. If you’re having coolant issues, have a mechanic take a look at your engine block.
The 9-3 has also been known for the engine to unexpectedly die. This is due to issues with the spark plugs or direct ignition cassette (DIC).
Most common Saab 9-5 problems
Average annual repair cost: $639
CarComplaints.com complaints: 32
The
Saab 9-5
is the staple midsize sedan for the make's lineup. While it typically is a consistent vehicle, it has had issues with ignition cassettes, oil leaks, and the throttle body.Ignition cassettes are on top of the spark plugs and distribute the electricity needed for the spark. These ignition cassettes are known to misfire or fail, which can cause your engine to stall, not turn on, or become damaged.
The 9-5 is also known for frequent oil leaks, usually caused by too much internal oil pressure. Saab added a positive crankcase ventilation kit to the 9-5 engine to alleviate pressure, but many owners report still having issues.
The throttle body, which controls air and fuel flow to the engine, is also known to fail and need replacement.
Most common Saab 9-7X problems
Average annual repair cost: $648
CarComplaints.com complaints: 4
The Saab 9-7X is a midsize luxury SUV in the Saab lineup with models from 2005 until 2009.
The most common reported issue for the Saab 9-7X is a sagging rear suspension. This means the back of your car will be too low to the ground. You'll likely need your suspension sensors recalibrated to fix this issue.
The system that turns on the car’s all-wheel-drive is also known to malfunction, turning on and off unexpectedly.
Finally, the trunk tailgate is known to malfunction when either opening or closing.
Most common Saab 900 problems
Average annual repair cost: $404
CarComplaints.com complaints: 12
One common issue for the 900 is frequent oil leaks. These oil leaks are most common from the valve cover gasket, the distributor o-ring, and the oil pump cover seal.
The head gasket has also been reported to fail, which can cause the engine’s coolant and oil to mix. This can cause your engine to smoke and overheat.
Smoke from the engine
is a very bad sign, and you should book an appointment with your mechanic ASAP.Owners also report engine failure, both while driving and when trying to start the car.
Most common Saab 9-2X problems
Average annual repair cost: $425
CarComplaints.com complaints: 8
Saab 9-2X owners have reported issues with the CV boots, which keep dirt and water out of the car’s flexible axle joints. This can cause your axle to become worn, which can lead to expensive repairs.
Ignition switch failures have also been reported. Without a properly working ignition switch, the car will not turn over.
Are Saab cars reliable?
Saabs are known as reliable cars and have high reliability ratings from Repairpal and J.D. Power. However, due to their age, original parts can sometimes be harder to come by. That means repairs can occasionally be pricier or take longer.
The least reliable Saab model: 2000 Saab 9-3
Most common problem: Engine Coolant Loss
NHTSA complaints: 49
The 2000 model of the Saab 9-3, its most well-known sedan, is the least reliable Saab model available.
Along with engine coolant loss (with no leak detected), owners also report the engine dying, excessive exhaust noise, throttle body failure, and oil leaks.
The most reliable Saab model: 2002 9-3
Most common problem: Knocking noise while turning
NHTSA complaints: 35
Just two years after the least reliable model comes Saab’s most reliable model—the 2002 9-3.
However, no car is perfect, and the 2002 9-3 still had some notable issues. Owners reported engine coolant loss, an unpleasant sound while driving on rough roads, and issues with the anti-lock brake system.
How to buy hassle-free car insurance
As you can see from the problems listed above, car ownership can be a seriously expensive proposition. Thankfully, paying for your
car insurance
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Jerry
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FAQ
How long do Saabs last?
Saabs have been known to last 200,000 to 300,000 miles, That means you can expect up to 20 years of full-time use from your Saab.
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