1997 Saab 900

Introduction

The 1997 Saab 900 is a compact luxury sedan known for its safety features, elegant design, and engaging driving dynamics. It was available with two engine options:

• 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 185 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque
• 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder with 225 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque

Both engines were paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

While the Saab 900 is generally praised for its handling and performance, it has its fair share of issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder

• Blown Head Gasket:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent stalling, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: 04E008

2.3L Turbocharged 4-cylinder

• Turbocharger Failures:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, excessive smoke, oil leaks
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Mesh Grinding:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult shifting, especially into second gear
  • Solution: Replace synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty shifting, erratic behavior
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises over bumps, decreased handling
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Dimming or Flickering Headlights:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced illumination, intermittent light output
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch or relay
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperable windows, window switch malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken door handle, difficulty opening doors
  • Solution: Replace door handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cruise Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inoperable cruise control system
  • Solution: Replace cruise control switch or module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Saab 900 is a solid choice for those who value safety and performance, but it is not without its issues. The most severe and costly problems are related to the engine and transmission, such as head gasket failures and turbocharger failures. Other concerns include suspension wear, electrical glitches, exterior component breakage, and interior issues. Overall, the cost of repairs for these issues can be substantial, so it is important to factor in potential maintenance costs when considering this vehicle.