2001 Saab 9-5
Introduction
The 2001 Saab 9-5 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a blend of comfort, performance, and safety. It is available with a range of engine and transmission options, including a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four, a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter V6, a 6-speed manual transmission, and a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 9-5 was praised for its spacious cabin, agile handling, and high-quality materials, but it was also criticized for its occasionally cramped rear seats and limited cargo space.
Engine
2.3-liter Inline-Four (185 hp, 263 lb-ft)
Intake Manifold Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, rough idling, reduced engine power
- Solution: Replace intake manifold
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
Turbocharger Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noises, increased oil consumption
- Solution: Replace turbocharger
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
- Recalls: None Found
3.0-liter V6 (200 hp, 229 lb-ft)
No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Manual
Shifter Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loose or sloppy shifter
- Solution: Replace shifter bushings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks, slipping gears, delayed shifting
- Solution: Replace transmission fluid pan gasket or torque converter seal
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Strut Mounts
- Description/Symptoms: Noises when turning or hitting bumps, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace strut mounts
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
Rear Shock Absorbers
- Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or floaty ride, excessive body roll
- Solution: Replace shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
Airbag Control Module Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Airbag warning light illuminated, airbags not deploying
- Solution: Replace airbag control module
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: 01V258000
Power Window Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, window motors whining or clicking
- Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
Door Handle Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming loose
- Solution: Replace door handles
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
Climate Control Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Climate control not working properly, fan not blowing air
- Solution: Replace climate control module or blower motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2001 Saab 9-5 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues that owners should be aware of. The intake manifold leak and turbocharger failure are two of the most expensive problems that can occur, while issues like shifter bushing wear and power window failure are relatively minor. The overall severity and cost of the issues are moderate, and most repairs can be performed within a reasonable timeframe.