2011 Saab 9-5

The 2011 Saab 9-5 was a short-lived but ambitious attempt to revive the brand. Available engine options included a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, a 2.8L turbocharged V6 making 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L twin-turbo diesel available in select markets. All engine options were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciated the 9-5’s distinctive styling, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior, while common complaints included the scarcity of parts, limited dealer support due to Saab’s demise, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank times, engine misfires, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $700 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8L Turbocharged V6

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, harsh shifts.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Leaks/Failure (Aero Models)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the car sagging, air compressor running constantly, error message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace air springs, compressor, and/or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car battery drains overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draw, replace faulty modules, or replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking/unlocking properly, remote key not working, alarm system issues.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair wiring issues, replace door lock actuators, or replace the central locking module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system reboots, navigation issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Update software, replace the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• HID Headlight Ballast Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight flickering or not turning on.
  • Solution: Replace the ballast.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working, overheating, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Saab 9-5, while a stylish and comfortable vehicle, can present owners with a range of issues, primarily related to the engine, transmission, electrical systems, and suspension. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary widely, with some issues like turbocharger or timing chain replacements being quite expensive. The limited availability of parts and specialized repair knowledge due to Saab’s demise can further complicate maintenance and repairs. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the higher-than-average repair costs when considering a 2011 Saab 9-5.