1992 Saab 900

The 1992 Saab 900 is a compact executive car that was produced by Saab from 1992 to 1998. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 155 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine with 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 133 horsepower and 136 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual transmission, a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The 900 was praised for its handling, performance, and safety, but it was also criticized for its high price and lack of reliability.

Engine

2.0-liter Turbocharged

• Blown head gasket: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and coolant loss. Solution: Replace the head gasket and bolts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
• Turbocharger failure: Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke from the exhaust, and a whining or whistling noise. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

2.3-liter Turbocharged

• Timing chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially at idle. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and related components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
• Crankshaft seal leak: Symptoms include an oil leak from the front of the engine. Solution: Replace the crankshaft seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include a vacuum leak, which can cause rough idling, stalling, and decreased engine performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

2.0-liter Naturally Aspirated

• No major issues reported

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Synchronizer wear: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, especially into second and third gear. Solution: Replace the synchronizers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Clutch failure: Symptoms include slipping or chattering of the clutch, and difficulty engaging gears. Solution: Replace the clutch and pressure plate. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,400+

4-speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, and a lack of power when accelerating. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering or vibration when shifting gears, and a loss of power when accelerating. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

CVT

• No major issues reported

Suspension

• Front control arm bushings: Symptoms include clunking or rattling noises over bumps, and a decrease in handling and stability. Solution: Replace the control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Rear trailing arm bushings Symptoms include a loose or unstable feeling in the rear of the vehicle, and excessive movement of the wheels over bumps. Solution: Replace the trailing arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim headlights, a dead battery, and a warning light on the dashboard. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Battery drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after the vehicle has been sitting for a period of time. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Ignition switch failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, or the vehicle stalling while driving. Solution: Replace the ignition switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Exterior

• Sunroof leaks: Symptoms include water leaking into the cabin from the sunroof. Solution: Replace or repair the sunroof seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Tail light lens cracking: Symptoms include cracked or broken tail lights. Solution: Replace the tail light lenses. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Climate control failure: Symptoms include the climate control system not blowing hot or cold air, or not working at all. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the failure, which could be a faulty compressor, refrigerant leak, or electrical issue. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include difficulty or inability to operate the power windows. Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the failure, which could be a faulty switch, motor, or wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks or splits in the dashboard. Solution: Repair or replace the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Door panel delamination: Symptoms include the door panels separating from the door frame. Solution: Repair or replace the door panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 1992 Saab 900 is a well-built and reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. The most common problems reported by owners include head gasket failures, turbocharger failures, transmission slipping, and electrical issues. However, these issues are not universal, and many 900s will go for years without experiencing any major problems. The severity and cost of the issues will vary depending on the specific problem and the extent of the damage.