2003 Saab 9-5

2003 Saab 9-5

The 2003 Saab 9-5 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a compelling blend of comfort, performance, and safety. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.3T (220 hp/258 lb-ft) with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission
• 3.0 V6 (250 hp/236 lb-ft) with 5-speed automatic transmission only
• Aero 2.3T (250 hp/258 lb-ft) with 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission

The Saab 9-5 is praised for its stylish design, well-equipped interior, and responsive handling. However, like any vehicle, it has its share of issues.

Engine

2.3T

• Oil Leak from Turbocharger Oil Return Pipe: Oil leaks from the oil return pipe located under the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the oil return pipe.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: The crankshaft position sensor fails, causing starting problems and engine stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0 V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damage the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: The intake manifold gasket leaks, causing a vacuum leak and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Aero 2.3T

• Turbocharger Failure: The turbocharger fails, resulting in reduced engine power and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shift Fork Failure: The shift fork wears out, causing difficulty shifting gears or getting the car out of gear.
  • Solution: Replace the shift fork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Clutch Failure: The clutch wears out, making it difficult to engage gears or causing the car to slip while driving.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Control Module Failure: The transmission control module (TCM) fails, leading to transmission shifting issues or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replace the TCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Solenoid Pack Failure: The solenoid pack within the transmission fails, causing shifting problems and erratic behavior.
  • Solution: Replace the solenoid pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Bearing Failure: The strut mount bearings wear out, causing a knocking or clunking sound when driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mount bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Subframe Mount Failure: The rear subframe mounts can crack or wear out, causing a variety of suspension issues and noises.
  • Solution: Replace the rear subframe mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The vehicle’s battery drains prematurely, even when the car is parked. This can be caused by parasitic draws from faulty components, such as the ignition switch or alternator.
  • Solution: Diagnose and resolve the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Depends on the underlying cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure: The headlight switch fails, causing the headlights to not function properly or turn on intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Roof Antenna Malfunction: The roof antenna can fail to extend or retract, making it difficult to receive radio signals.
  • Solution: Replace the roof antenna motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Taillight Lens Condensation: The taillight lenses can collect condensation inside, affecting the visibility of the brake lights.
  • Solution: Replace the taillight lenses.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Radio Display Failure: The display on the radio can fail, causing the radio to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Replace the radio display or the entire radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heated Seat Element Failure: The heated seat elements can burn out, preventing the seats from heating properly.
  • Solution: Replace the heated seat elements.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

Overall, the 2003 Saab 9-5 is a well-rounded sedan with a solid reputation for performance and safety. However, it is not without its share of potential issues. Some of the more serious problems, such as engine and transmission failures, can be costly to repair. However, many of the electrical and interior issues are relatively minor and can be fixed at a reasonable price.