1998 Saab 900
Introduction to the 1998 Saab 900:
The 1998 Saab 900 is a compact executive car that was offered in sedan, convertible, and hatchback body styles. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 150 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque
- 2.3L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 170 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque
- 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 185 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque (Aero model)
- 5-speed manual transmission
- 4-speed automatic transmission
The Saab 900 was praised for its handling, performance, and safety features. However, it was also criticized for its high fuel consumption and lack of interior space.
Engine 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine
- Blown Head Gasket: Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: NHTSA 10018071
2.3L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine
- Oil Cooler Lines Leaking: Symptoms: Oil leak below engine Solution: Replace oil cooler lines Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine (Aero model)
- Turbocharger Wastegate Failure: Symptoms: Excessive boost, loss of power Solution: Replace turbocharger wastegate Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: NHTSA 10001129
Transmission
5-speed manual transmission
- Synchronizer Wear: Symptoms: Difficult to shift gears, grinding noise Solution: Replace synchronizers Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500 Recalls: None Found
4-speed automatic transmission
- Transmission Overheating: Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifting Solution: Replace or repair transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ Recalls: NHTSA 10001953
Suspension
- Control Arm Bushings Worn: Symptoms: Clunking noise when driving over bumps Solution: Replace control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Alternator Failure: Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery not charging Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 Recalls: None Found
Ignition Coil Failure: Symptoms: Engine misfire, loss of power Solution: Replace ignition coil Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Leakage: Symptoms: Water leaks into cabin Solution: Replace or repair sunroof seals Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000 Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Door Lock Actuator Failure: Symptoms: Difficulty locking or unlocking doors Solution: Replace door lock actuator Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1998 Saab 900 is a reliable and enjoyable car, but it is not without its issues. The most common issues are engine-related, with blown head gaskets and oil cooler lines leaking being the most severe and expensive to fix. Transmission issues are also relatively common, with the 5-speed manual transmission being more prone to synchronizer wear and the 4-speed automatic transmission being more likely to overheat. Suspension and electrical issues are less common, but can still be costly to fix. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues with the 1998 Saab 900 are moderate.