I just bought a 1999 Saab 9-5 with 52000 miles.?

Question

What are some common problems I may come across over the years? Are there certain mileage markers that require a general service check? If so, what should my mechanic be looking at? I drive 12000-15000 miles/year and would like to get 4 years out of this car.

Answer 1

Follow the maintenance schedule in and read the manual you should be okay. Nice car you should be okay. Watch the electrical system.

Answer 2

You have in my humble opinion one of the last good years for a Saab. You do not mention whether you purchased the 4 cyl. or the 6 cyl. If you have the 6 cyl. be VERY mindful of the timing belt. Saab intervals for replacement are short, 35 to 40K mileage. If you lose a belt you lose your valves and guides. If you have the 4 cyl. this is not an issue as it has a chain that is permanent. At 52K you are 8K away from a Major Service as recommended by Saab. It is wise to have this service done. While a bit pricey by KIA standards, cheap by Porsche standards, its all relative. Change your spark plugs every 24K and only use NGK BCPR7ES-11 plugs in the 4 cyl. and NGK BCKR7 in the 6 cyl. engine. Do Not let the pimple face kid at the Auto-Zone or whatever chain auto store sell you anything else unless he is willing to buy you an ign. cassette. Change you oil at 3K if your commute does not allow your engine to run at full operating temp. for at least 20 minutes. 4K oil change if 20 minutes or more at full operating temp. Use a good semi-synthetic, avoid Mobil 1 its crap, Castrol, Valvoline are excellent oils. 15w-30 will be fine year round unless it gets below 20 degrees for your average winter then go to a 10w-30. If you have an auto trans. watch the fluid color. Red to pink okay, faint pink to brown flush it quick, black buy a tranny. That's basics, if you have any other questions drop me a note. Good Luck

Answer 3

First of all you should check out www.saabnet.com. Great site for all kinds of things Saab.

You want to keep an eye on the Direct Ignition Cassette (DIC). It is what is attached to the spark plugs. They have given Saabs FITS over the years, and will go at the blink of an eye. My advise is to buy a spare one, and put it in your trunk. They are kind of expensive ($300-400), but are very easy to change, and can save you from the side of the road.

This is all in the category of Saab's electrical system problems over the years. But they are a great car! Fun to drive!

Answer 4

You will love the car. Is it an automatic or standard shift? I have a stick shift, so I have had to replace the clutch. Also, the parts for the car are NOT cheap. As long as you keep the oil changed and keep GREAT gas in it, it will last you a long time. I have the convertible and love it. It is a little small, since I used to drive a sport utility, but it is so convienent to have. Enjoy. I used to wholesale cars......