Faults:

Control arms, sway bar links.

One CV shaft.

Clutch cable.

Alternator is a bear to get out.

Replaced a few vacuum hoses.

Power antenna inoperable since purchase.

Info display pixel problem like all of them.

Speakers deteriorated from sun/heat.

A/C out again.

Changed the battery a few years ago, and the factory radio wanted a security code to work. Nearest Saab dealer insisted I put the car in for service to obtain a code. Bought a Sony CD deck instead, but aftermarket fitment kits do not fit properly, so there's a hole in the dash above the radio.

Interior has held up pretty well, but small plastic knobs & clips are starting to break, which are difficult to find replacements for.

The most frustrating event was when the driver's door latch mechanism (inside the door) failed & jammed. It made it impossible to unlock the doors, even from the other side.

Clutch disc, outer tie rods and timing chain will need replacement eventually.

General Comments:

Bought the Saab for $1400 from an auction with 105,000 miles on the clock. Was a one-owner car from Long Island.

It's a good car that handles well and has plenty enough get up with the 5-speed. I feel a little "closed-in" driving it, but it has been comfortable on long trips and averages 31 MPG on the highway to this day. Commendable cargo capacity, and the back seats are roomy enough for adults to ride comfortably, even though it's a two-door.

Parts are not cheap, and that's the car's biggest downfall - I'm having a hard time justifying spending around $2000 on upcoming maintenance needs on a 15 year old car I'd have a hard time selling for more than $1500-$2000.

Overall, I'm satisfied with the service it's given us.

Faults:

2/22/2010 - Replaced water pump & upper radiator hose @ 166,417.

3/12/2010 - Replaced lower radiator hose @ 166,916 miles.

5/5/2010 - Repaired evaporative leak by replacing the canister valve; replaced broken valve cover nipple & bushing @ 167,680.

6/25/2010 - A/C needed servicing (evacuated & charged system) @ 168,819 miles.

12-29-2010 - Replaced Direct Ignition Cassette, spark plugs, and had fuel injection service @ 175,431 miles.

General Comments:

It is quirky, but commands high miles if maintained with quality.

This car is fast, durable, safe, and well-equipped. If anything should happen to it, I am hunting for another one.

Faults:

Re-torqued head bolts at 125,000 miles.

Turbo oil seal had failed, so I purchased a used turbo and replaced the failed unit (not bad service for the extreme temps these run in).

Replaced alternator (which is a pain to get to) at 135,000 miles.

General Comments:

For a cheap used car (under $5K) that sold for multiple decade digits new, and gives such great performance and comfort, you can't beat these cars. Don't let anyone fool you. They are just cars; if you can fix a newer Chevy or a Ford, with a little extra research and patience you can fix a SAAB. There are a lot of forums available to help diagnose and help with step by step repairs. I wish I could buy one of these brand new, I wouldn't hesitate. They are extremely well built and engineered.

This 4 banger beats any I've ever seen in a production vehicle in top end. It really is an amazing motor when it spools up and powers the heavy 900 down the tarmac. I became a believer after my wife talked me into getting this car for her.

Faults:

Needed to replace the fuel pump.

General Comments:

Other than replacing the fuel pump, my Saab has run perfect. No issues at all.

5 speed, so gas mileage is excellent.