Used 1999 Saab 9-5 Sedan Consumer Reviews
MY 99 9-5
This is my second Saab. Being a very satisfied owner of a 9000 CD (it was really an excellent, great performance car) I decided to purchase a new MY99 9-5 2.3 LPT. Even today, with more than 50k miles on it, I do not regret my decision. The car is very comfortable (way above the 9000 standard), very reliable, economical and still fun to drive. I also suppose that the safety standard is excellent but hope not to test this trait ever. My next car will be a Saab again. Unless GM makes a main stream car out of it (aka the German Opel) which could happen if they continue to prefer watching the financial aspects of Saab too closely.
Need optional towtruck
This car when running has been great. It has been towed in four times. The battery had been replaced three times, once because it blew up damaging under components, another time excessive corrison caused damage to transmission external areas. if this is not a lemon I don't know what is. It has been in the shop now for two + weeks. I can't afford to kep it much longer based on dependability. Its a nice car but the quality is terrible.
BIG IMPROVEMENT
For a 4-cylinder car, this thing really moves. Of course I'd like more power, but it certainly delivers more then most engines of this size. The interior of this car is awesome. The back seat treats folks just as nice as the front with the rear bun warmers, adjustable head restraints and such. The ride is really nice too, by far the best of any Saab I've ever owned. Build quality is also much improved. Only one little rattle by the steering wheel. This is a huge improvement for Saab. The only gripe I have is the somewhat mushy ride. At speed, the car tends to feel a bit floaty, unlike some Volvo 850's I've driven.
my 6th Saab
I have owned a Saab since 1970. The vehicle that I drive now is my 6th Saab and have been thoroughly satisfied with its performance. The only criticism I have pertains to the on board computer which malfunctions now and again especially on humid days. I have encountered this problem on previous models too! I also enjoy the sound system, probably the best in the field.
Impressed with ride, not Reliability
I bought my 9-5 new in Germany. I bought it for safety, performance, and reliability. Handled great in Europe and is still fun to drive, when it works. Have 70,000 miles on it now and pay average of $600/4 months for service/reoccuring problems. Ex, the clutch system. The clutch lost pressure and became sloppy. Eventually, the clutch no longer engaged! The electronic displays are shorting out, seat controls are fragile. Throttle and ignition controls went out. It is not all bad. The car would cruise smoothly at 130mpr on German roads for 300+ miles/tank with 2x the range in the US. Brakes perform smoothly and stop the car with full control in a short space.