2000 SAAB 9-5 Gary Fisher Wagon 2.3t from North America

Summary:

GREAT Ride; just a few headaches along the way!

Faults:

PCV update #6, SID, coolant diverter valve.

General Comments:

I have had a few problems, but I have had another 2000 9-5, so I am aware of the common problems.

I sent the SID to Guy at www.macassemble.com, and they repaired it for 85.00 with a warranty on it too.

I did pull the oil pan and valve cover, and had them all cleaned at a machine shop.

Honestly, every car I have had, came with their own issues at one time or another.

You can't beat the comfort and styling of this car.

And to all you guys who said that you are suppose to change your oil at 3k, you are all WRONG! Saab said to change it at 10k with 10w30, NOT synthetic. Just now are they saying to use synthetic, and also to change it anywhere from 7k to 8k. The issue with sludge is poor ventilation, bad oil pump design and small oil sump filter screen. So shame on SAAB for stating the wrong specs on oil and oil changes!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th July, 2007

2000 SAAB 9-5 2.3 turbo from North America

Summary:

Poor design and expensive parts

Faults:

The design of the cabin air filter is a joke. It looks as if they built the car around the air filter as it is a major job to replace it. There is no excuse for such a poor design.

General Comments:

Expensive to replace parts.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 14th May, 2007

2000 SAAB 9-5 Wagon SE turbo from North America

Summary:

Do not buy a 2000 Saab 9-5 Wagon V-6

Faults:

I've had the transmission replaced

The turbo igniters replaced

The 60,000 mile service was extremely costly

The alternator replaced

The seat belt replaced

The trunk lock mechanism replaced

The rear view mirror replaced

I've had the emissions replaced.

The thermostat replaced

General Comments:

The 2000 Saab 9-5 wagon SE V-6 I currently own has been a big disappointment.

It's nice and roomy. It rides great and has all the comforts one would want in a vehicle. And before I purchased the car, I checked the consumer report, and a picture and write-up of this car was in the "best buy" section.

However, this car has been a money pit. The amount of money spent on repairs has been astronomical. The only thing that has saved me somewhat thus far is my extended warranty. Now I am hearing a whistle noise on acceleration and deceleration and I've been told that it could be my turbo going bad.

This car has been the worst purchase I've made, and I could not with a clean conscience recommend this vehicle to anyone. If you are considering a purchase, be sure to buy Saab Certified only (the dealer pays for the repairs), and have a towing service on hand.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 19th October, 2006

23rd Jun 2008, 17:03

The V6 never came turbo you should correct your post to show that you have a I4 turbo 2.3 litre not the 3.0 V6 its misleading information. Thanks.

25th Jun 2008, 08:53

Uh, no, the 9-5 3.0 V6 was most definitely equipped with a light-pressure turbo. Not just the 2.3 4-cylinder was turbocharged in this car.

29th Jun 2009, 08:44

6 cylinder is definitely a turbo. Our 9-5 SE is also a money pit. Transmission, multiple ACC problems, shocks, coil packs (regularly), blower motor, crank sensor, radiator... all at less than 100,000 miles. SAAB parts are VERY expensive. Nice car if it was reliable. Has a penchant for leaving my wife stranded on the road. And to top it off, resale values are terrible.

16th Jul 2015, 10:52

Those no good, pain in the behind turbo 'igniters'...

2000 SAAB 9-5 AERO turbo from North America

Summary:

Won't buy another SAAB or GM product after this

Faults:

At 75000 miles I was driving the car from New Hampshire to North Carolina, the engine light came on and it start marking engine noises. I shut it down and had it towed. After SAAB looked at it they said the #4 Piston had scored and I needed a new engine. SAAB reviewed the case found at 55000 miles I had the engine oil changed by Jiffy Lube, the plug was put back in well and overnight the oil drained out. I had the car towed to SAAB and checked out then replaced the oil. SAAB said this caused the problem and refused to deal with it. Having read on this site other people with the same basic problem at the same mileage I tend to doubt the problem 20000 miles earlier caused this problem.

Anyone heard of a class action suit being brought for this problem?

General Comments:

I liked the car before this, but it was expensive to maintain.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 19th July, 2006

17th May 2008, 05:42

Saab has a horrible engine reflected in their absolutely horrendous customer service.

I would not buy another Saab even if it were the last transportation available on earth. Here is where the horse and buggy might be a better option.