Saab 9-5 Saloon 2.0t SE 4d (1999/V) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Economy
Value
Good value to buy second hand (compared against BMW/Merc) for what you get but budget for significant repair bills. Therefore the cheap price hides a hidden cost.
Costs
Reliability is poor. My poor warranty company has paid thousands.
-
On the road
Driving
Comfortable drive. Great on motorways. Does not much like corners.
Performance
Go for the 3.0l version which really goes. This one will see most boy racers off the lights if you feel the inclination.
-
Living with it
Reliability
Poor. Expect the timing chains to need replacing at 60,000 miles (£1k) expect the turbocharger to go at 75k (another £1k) expect the SID (trip computer) to need a new screen (£200). The new 9-3 has the same engine so would never buy another.
Image
Individualistic and slightly quirky. I like it.
Comfort
Good but do not agree with Parkers that the seats are the most comfortable around.
-
Security and Service
Security
Nothing to report.
Service
Local dealer excellent. Saab do not give a monkey's about the design faults that necessitates major repairs to engine. Make sure you have a decent warranty.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Engine very poor given build quality of rest of vehicle.
Other
SID Panel has problems. Heater a bit suspect so expect that that will be the next thing. I'm on first name terms with the local dealer.
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
No
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
No