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2007 Saab 9-5

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2007 Saab 9-5 is a mid-size luxury car known for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and turbocharged performance. Engine options included a 2.3L turbocharged inline-4 producing 260 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L V6. Both engines were available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. People liked the 9-5 for its unique character and safety features, but disliked its reliability issues and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

2.3L Turbocharged Inline-4

  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil sludge accumulation in the engine can lead to poor lubrication, reduced performance, and eventually engine failure. This is often accompanied by a check engine light and unusual engine noises.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil and using the correct oil filter is preventative. If sludge is present, the engine may need to be flushed, or in severe cases, the oil pan may need to be removed and cleaned or the engine rebuilt/replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The DIC is responsible for providing the spark to the spark plugs. Failure results in misfires, rough running, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the DIC unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Crank Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car will not start, the car stalls. The check engine light will be on.
    • Solution: Replacement of the crank position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

3.0L V6

  • Timing Belt Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: If the timing belt breaks, the engine can suffer catastrophic internal damage, rendering it unusable.
    • Solution: Regular inspection and replacement of the timing belt at the manufacturer’s recommended interval (typically 60,000-100,000 miles) is crucial to prevent this issue.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 (for belt replacement); $3,000+ (if engine damage occurs)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sludge Buildup
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil sludge accumulation in the engine can lead to poor lubrication, reduced performance, and eventually engine failure. This is often accompanied by a check engine light and unusual engine noises.
    • Solution: Regular oil changes with high-quality synthetic oil and using the correct oil filter is preventative. If sludge is present, the engine may need to be flushed, or in severe cases, the oil pan may need to be removed and cleaned or the engine rebuilt/replaced.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

  • Shift Flare/Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or erratic shifting between gears, often accompanied by a noticeable “flare” in RPMs.
    • Solution: Transmission fluid change may help in mild cases. More severe cases may require valve body repair/replacement or a complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid change) - $3,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Weak Front Springs
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging front end, especially noticeable on uneven surfaces or when turning. Can lead to premature tire wear and reduced handling.
    • Solution: Replacement of front springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rear Suspension Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension, particularly when going over bumps. Can also affect handling and stability.
    • Solution: Replacement of worn rear suspension bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • SID (Saab Information Display) Pixel Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the SID screen become unlit, making it difficult to read information.
    • Solution: Replacement or repair of the SID unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Central locking system malfunctions, such as doors not locking/unlocking properly or the alarm system triggering intermittently.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of wiring issues, replacement of faulty door lock actuators, or replacement of the central locking module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Seat Heater Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to function.
    • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or related wiring repair.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Air Conditioning Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Failure of the automatic climate control system, blending door actuator failure.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of climate control system components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Saab 9-5, while offering a unique driving experience, suffers from several common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine sludge, DIC failures, and timing belt issues (on the V6) can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission problems, suspension wear, and electrical gremlins further contribute to the potential for higher maintenance expenses. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, making thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection essential.

Saab, 9-5
Saab 9-5 2007
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