2010 Saab 9-5

The 2010 Saab 9-5 marked the return of the iconic nameplate after a hiatus. It was offered with a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4, producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A 2.8L Turbocharged V6, generating 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, was also available. Both engines were typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. People often praised the 2010 9-5 for its distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and well-appointed interior. Some common complaints included limited rear seat headroom, a complicated infotainment system, and concerns about long-term reliability due to Saab’s then-uncertain future.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling sound from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, rough idle, difficulty starting, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the HPFP.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8L Turbocharged V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, rough running, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, whistling sound from the turbocharger, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Aisin-Warner)

• Rough Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, transmission slipping between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Fluid flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replace)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially over bumps, poor handling.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, compressor running constantly, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the air springs, compressor, or ride height sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, navigation errors, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update (if available), replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Identify and repair parasitic drain, replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Key Fob Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Key fob not working, unable to lock/unlock doors or start the car.
  • Solution: Replace key fob battery, reprogram key fob, or replace the key fob receiver module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Remove and reseal the headlight housing, replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making excessive noise, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2010 Saab 9-5, while stylish and comfortable, does have a number of potential issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine problems, particularly with the turbochargers and timing chains, can be expensive to address. Transmission issues, especially rough shifting, are also common. Electrical gremlins and suspension problems add to the ownership costs. Overall, the severity of the issues ranges from minor annoyances to major repairs, and the cost to fix can vary significantly. Given Saab’s limited production run and potential parts availability challenges, maintaining a 2010 Saab 9-5 can be more costly and complex compared to more mainstream vehicles.