1991 Saab 900

Introduction:

The 1991 Saab 900 is a compact luxury sedan that offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and safety. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The 900 was praised for its robust construction, advanced safety features, and engaging driving dynamics. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of common issues.

Engine

2.0-liter Turbocharged Engine

• Head gasket failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown head gasket, coolant leaks, engine overheating
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and possibly cylinder head
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced boost pressure, oil leaks from turbocharger, whistling or grinding noise
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.3-liter Turbocharged Engine

• Piston ring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace piston rings and possibly pistons
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Valve body failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed or harsh shifts, slipping gears
  • Solution: Replace valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking struts, uneven tire wear, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control arm bushings:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noises, vibration
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or clicking noise when starting, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Repair or replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on body panels, fenders, and undercarriage
  • Solution: Rust prevention and repair
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks from sunroof
  • Solution: Replace sunroof seal or adjust sunroof mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate control issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control, AC or heater not working
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1991 Saab 900 is a reliable and enjoyable vehicle, but it is not without its potential issues. Some common issues include head gasket failure, turbocharger failure, clutch wear, valve body failure, and rust. While the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the issue, many of them are relatively affordable to fix. Overall, the Saab 900 is a solid choice for those seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and safety in a compact luxury sedan.