1999 Saab 9-5

Introduction:

The 1999 Saab 9-5 was a mid-size luxury sedan known for its unique styling, safety features, and performance. It was available with a range of engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine (150 hp, 180 lb-ft of torque)
• 2.3L V6 naturally aspirated engine (170 hp, 175 lb-ft of torque)
• 2.3L V6 turbocharged engine (230 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque)
• 3.0L V6 turbocharged engine (250 hp, 258 lb-ft of torque)
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 4-speed automatic transmission

Owners often praised the Saab 9-5 for its handling, comfort, and distinctive design. However, it also had some reported issues.

Engine

2.0L 4-cylinder Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive oil consumption, turbo noises
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Engine Oil Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal
  • Solution: Replace leaking seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

2.3L V6 Naturally Aspirated Engine

• No Engine Issues Found

2.3L V6 Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: As described for the 2.0L engine
  • Solution: As described for the 2.0L engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: As described for the 2.0L engine

3.0L V6 Turbocharged Engine

• Turbocharger Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: As described for the 2.0L engine
  • Solution: As described for the 2.0L engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: As described for the 2.0L engine

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• No Transmission Issues Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
• Valve Body Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no response from transmission
  • Solution: Replace valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squealing noises, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Rear Subframe Bushing Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace subframe bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Electrical System Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, lights flickering, instrument cluster not working
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+

Exterior

• No Exterior Issues Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Climate Control Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary:

The 1999 Saab 9-5 had some reported issues, particularly with the turbocharger and transmission. However, many of the issues were relatively minor and affordable to fix. The vehicle was generally praised for its performance and handling, but some owners experienced electrical and interior problems as well. Overall, the severity and cost of the issues were not excessive for a vehicle of its age and type.