Faults:

Head gasket replaced at 142,000 ($800 at a local Saab shop).

Brake pads and rotors ($120).

4 new tires ($360 for all 4).

General Comments:

I LOVE my Aero. This car is by far the best I have ever owned. I initially was not a Saab person until I bought my prior car, a 1996 Saab 9000 CSE, to drive while my Jetta was in the shop. I loved the CSE so much I sold the Jetta.

About a year later, a neighbor who knew how much I loved my CSE, offered to sell me his 1997 9000 Aero. I jumped on the opportunity, and have never looked back.

I have slowly been fixing the car's exterior. Being a 14 year old car that had been used as a commuter for its whole life, it had the usual scratches and paint chips you would expect.

This car's performance is astounding, and its reliability is second to none. I would strongly recommend this car to anyone!

Faults:

Temperature gauge sensor failed, replaced myself.

Hard shift between 3-4 in overdrive. Have not fixed it.

General Comments:

I bought this car after owning 5 different Volvo models in the past 10 years. I always wanted a SAAB, and after reading the reviews on this website particularly on this model, I found one I like with relatively low K for a 97 (150000) and purchased it.

Wow what a car. This thing screams when pushed on the highway. Drop the hammer even at 110-120 kmh and this thing passes everything.

Poor gas consumption it is a 4 cylinder turbo - my 5 cylinder Volvo 850 got way better mileage, but it wasn't a turbo like the SAAB.

Pulleys are noisy have not replaced. I found a great Saab mechanic; he said not to worry about it.

Super comfortable, heated seats, TONS of room, feels like it will go forever. I feel like this car is more solid than my other car, an 02 turbo Jetta, which has left me stranded more than twice, yet only has 90 000 k on it.

Highly recommend this car for anyone, take it to a good mechanic first to be sure it's been maintained. Proper oil changes are key to not wrecking your timing chain.

Faults:

Hazard light switch failed twice in last few months.

Cabin temperature sensor required replacing due to noisy operation.

Passenger side sun visor sags.

General Comments:

This car has been relatively reliable. The engine is fantastic, delivering strong performance with good fuel economy. Handling is also good. It also has a large cargo capacity. Unfortunately, the interior rattles and squeaks like a 25 year old pickup truck. The ride is hard, but I could accept this if the interior were more tight. My last car was a 1987 Audi 4000 quattro and it was infinitely quieter over bumps than this Saab. I would sell this car in a cold moment, but I would lose too much on resale value. The seats are uncomfortable with the lower cushion side bolsters too close together putting undue pressure on the outer thighs. There is also insufficient headroom. I am 6'1" tall and my head touches the ceiling even with the seat fully lowered. The car vibrates on the highway even after I had the tires balanced by the dealer.

Faults:

Excellent car with excellent performance. Had a 9000 non-turbo SAAB previously and it was a dog in terms of performance.

Would never buy another SAAB without the turbo.

I live in New England and it handles very well in winter conditions.