Used 1999 Saab 9-5 Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Fun, Quick, Safe, Comfy Piece of Crap
Purveyor of Vehicles, 09/22/2010
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
So it's very safe, very comfortable, very fun to drive, pretty quick and all around enjoyable car to drive. However, it was designed poorly and is unreliable and puts a permanent pipeline from your wallet to the mechanic.
Sobbing over my SAAB
roland11, 01/01/2011
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
Thought I did enough research before purchasing, I was wrong. The car is wonderful when everything is working properly. Which was about 2 weeks! Have done more repairs than I can list here. Parts are often hard to come by and expensive! Unfortunately, Saab quit employing Aircraft engineers decades ago. I'm an aircraft mechanic and I have no doubt their early models held up best because of their aviation background. I'm convinced their partnership with GM was their ultimate downfall. If you already bought a 9-5, Four words: CHANGE THE OIL OFTEN! Change the ATF or manual GB oil often as well! Do maintenance yourself if possible. Mechanics hear "SAAB" and they see $$$$
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tiffm, 12/14/2011
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
12 of 15 people found this review helpful
Listen to the warnings before purchasing this car! This car is not worth the headaches you will more then likely endure. I purchased this car with 85K miles in March of 2011. I was carpooling with a group of peers so I drove the car for ONE full week during that first month. On day 34, my engine seized. I replaced that engine. Since then, I have also replaced numerous belts, sensors, pumps. Every 3-4 weeks this car was in the shop and needed a new overpriced part that was impossible to find. Engine failure is a common problem with this year as I have learned the hard way. The engine I purchased to replace the original one seized on us recently as well. Please save your $$ and think twice!!
Fantastic 'in-betweener'
Kiwidude, 07/05/2010
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
We've had our 95 for 5 years now and love it to bits, the whole family loves it. It is a great alternative to a Toyota Camry (or similar) as it is much nicer, has more style and 'feels' much better than the standard Japanese plastic box. It isn't at the same level as a BMW 5 or Audi A6 but neither is the price so what you get is a lovely solid car that does everything reasonably well at a great price. People moan about how it doesn't have the performance of a BMW 5 etc but it doesn't have the price either so! If you want a solid well performing comfortable car look no further. Mine has been reliable but like all cars you can find owners who disagree.
What DOESN'T it do well??
Horseman13, 01/25/2007
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
WOW, my first adventure into Saabdom. I had wanted one since 1983, but for whatever reason I allowed others to make me think the car wasn't "practical". What a moron I was. Lots of room, lots of trunk, lots of performance, great music(Harmon Cardon), Lots of MPG, LOTS OF FUN!!! I am convinced, however that taking your Saab to a dealership is your ticket to expensive operation and unreliablility. I now have three Saab's and ONLY either do any work myself or take it to a local independant mechanic I trust.
SAAB Story
Kevin, 08/30/2010
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This car when running is great. But it breaks at the drop of a hat and it is a thousand here and a thousand there. Luckily I can wrench on it myself and save some money. Expect to replace and engine and expect GM to flip you off unless you live in Europe. They honor the warranty there.
Love my 9-5, when its running!
Jessica Gochee, 09/25/2015
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought this car in April 2015 with 131k miles. It ran GREAT for about 2k miles then one day I hopped in it while it was parked in my driveway and wouldnt start. I had no previous issues and the breakdown came as a total surprise. Turns out the starter had gone out due to an underlying key ignition issue. I have to physically turn they key back to the "on" position immediately after starting. I believe the previous owner did not know the importance of this issue. The starter had probably alot of stress on it due to the key not always being turned back and the starter constantly turning and grinding on other things in the car. After I replaced the starter which I got pretty cheap from eeuroparts.com, it ran good for about another thousand miles. Then while I was on the interstate the car just shut off completely while I was driving with no warning signs and was stuck on the side of the road. Turns out the fuel pump went out at 132k. My dad is a certified mechanic and does all my car repairs and he has consistently been very impressed with the overall mechanical design of the car. Replacing the fuel pump was a breeze because it is located right under the back seat! Nice and easy fix. I have had other issues with a squeaky serpentine belt. But the biggest problem so far has been the oil. I do not suggest running 10W-40 like the car initially recommends. 10 weight is entirely too thick for that car and caused some clogging problems. I kept getting an oil alert warning light and couldnt figure out why because my dip stick read that the oil level was fine. Then the lifters started to tick very loudly. Luckily my dad figured out the issue before it was too late. It ended up being a simple fix with cleaning out the oil pan and drilling some bigger holes in the screen to allow oil to pass through much easier. We plan to switch to synthetic at the next oil change, which is what everyone else recommends too. Still havent fixed the ignition switch but it will be fine if you just turn the key like it is supposed to be. Overall, I couldnt have asked for a better used car! I bought it for $3250 and have put about $800 and most likely will not need to spend much more. It is so fun to drive. Stylish and unique! I get compliments everywhere I go and the turbo is so nice. The manual transmission truly makes me feel like I own a jet. The interior is far ahead of its time in terms of its technology and design. Despite these problems, I love it and want to keep it forever. I have not minded putting out the money for these repairs because my father and I are convinced that as long as we keep up the maintenance that it will run till the wheels fall off. I would tell anyone to get a saab that has been taken car of.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Lucked out.
Austin , 08/14/2010
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought mine in 2008 with 100k and now have 190k. Biggest expense was fuel pump at about 150k. I still have the clutch I bought it with and have had no prob with turbo yet. Change oil every 3 to 5k at the cheap places but sometimes my independent SAAB Tech or the SAAB dealer. I have a back up Ig. cass. but still haven't had to use it. Even the pixels on the SID aren't too bad either. I did have some belts break and that broke open an oil line ($1,000 fix). Not as reliable or as trouble free as our 2000 Camry but much more fun though.
Junk
Swen, 09/08/2007
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Beware of the lousy GM powertrain - it will suck your bank account dry! One thing after another and always very pricey. Timing belt replaced at 58K but the timing belt tensioner went out at 64K causing valve damage and a $4000 repair bill, both ignition cassettes went out, headlights burn out every 2-3 months, too many minor repairs to fit here, transmission now shot and it's a $5000 repair - enough!!! Will never buy a Saab or GM product again!
SAAB 9-5
Kevin, 04/22/2008
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Had to put in rebuilt trans at 92K, had to rebuild engine at 129K. Performed maintenance as scheduled. Very expensive car to own.
Horrible Vehicle
Anna, 09/24/2007
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This vehicle by far is one of the worst made of all time. Bought for 6700 and have put just about the same into it. Engine had sludge buildup even with regular oil changes and all scheduled maintenance. Problem after problem after problem. Truly lives up to its Saab acronym of Something Almost Always Broken... buyers beware of any Saab.
Broke after buying a 9-5
janie87, 08/20/2014
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
Just like many of these reviewers, I have owned a 9-5 and had to deal with a myriad of problems. I purchased the car in January 2013 and it ran well for about 6 months. Then the fuel pump exploded twice and the carborater needed replacing. And this was just the beginning.... $4000 later (over a period of 8 months), the car ran well for about 4 months, before the engine gave up and the mechanics couldn't determine the underlying issue.
this car is great
saaaab1, 12/02/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 9-5 is great for the roadtrip. Handles and responds excellent. Seats are comfortable, leg room sufficient. Sporty ride combined with luxury features and comfort.
Different, but in a good way...
MRF, 06/20/2006
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 52K mile in 02/2002. The car came with leather and winter pkg. 5-spd is the way to get the most out of the engine. I have over 130K miles now and still on the original clutch. Turbo started to go at around 90K, but it's still boosting just fine (makes noise). I've had several problems with A/C heater core (they have a $200 fix now), ignition, direct ignition. I've found a good mechanic which is the only reason I've kept the car. Car handles well, looks great, and offers a unique alternative to Lexus, Infiniti, Volvo. Overall a very satisfying experience, but only since I've found an alternative to the dealership. This is an extremely comfortable, practical car.
Best Car I've Owned
Tim Erskine, 05/09/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned my Saab 9-5 SE 2.3 for five years, and I'm still waiting for it to show some signs of wear. It still drives like the day I bought it. This is the best used car value on the market by far. This is a large, roomy sedan, and I get 30mpg on the highway cruising at 90mph. The car pulls strongly through 100mph (top speed is over 140) and is rock solid at that speed. It has incredibly comfortable seats and the best stereo in any car in this class.
You want to buy a what? Accord? NO WAY!!
zfamily, 09/01/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned this car 4 years and have put 120,000 on it. With a demanding travel schedule, I couldn't ask for a better and more comfortable ride. I've had a few minor problems with computer screens going bad on the dash, which aren't cheap to repair, by the way - but no major mechanical problems. When I wear this one out, I'll buy another one. Don't waste your time with an overrated and inferior Honda Accord or Camry, there's no comparison (for you die hard Honda Toyota fans). I also own an Accord, my 2nd one. The only reason it's sitting in my drive way is because it's a company car and I have to drive it. I cringe whenever I have to get behind the wheel
Great car, doesn't get enough credit
jzeilinger, 05/20/2005
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned my 9-5 for 5 years and look forward top getting behind the wheel every time. I log 30,000 miles/year so I spend a lot of time behind the wheel. This car is great on long trips and the seats are the best I've ever experienced. The other great feature is the huge trunk, it will haul a LOT of stuff! The gas mileage is good too, I've gotten around 35 mpg on the hwy, not bad! For a car in this price class, the ride is noisey on the open hwy. The sheet metal is strong and I feel safe behind the wheel. This is a very underrated car and makes a KILLER deal for a used car. I suggest you try one of these. Overall, LOVE my 9-5.
SAAB Rocks
Rick Rock, 05/16/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned four other SAAB models and they just keep getting better. The General (GM) is adding some nice touches and improvements - better climate control system, braking, quiet interior. Superb Harmon Kardon sound system, sport car handling, room, comfort and nearly 30 mpg! The best Saab model to date.
Not a perfect car but fun to drive
dd, 12/29/2006
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought it with some warranty still in effect. Good thing, needed a whole new heating system and a turbo almost immediately. But looks great, drives very well and doesn't drink a lot of gas! Best part is driving curvy hills - sticks to the road like a sports car. And I do that almost every day to get to work.
saab 9/5
hmann, 03/22/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
very solid car over the past 4 years. The car does need more power though. Other than that it is a fine automobile.
Fantastic Car
Kennn, 10/06/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This has been a fantastic automoblie. It had fairly high milage when I purchased it (60K) but it feels like it was just getting broken in. It is tons of fun to drive in sport mode and gets excellent mileage in normal mode. All around - very quiet and smooth. Took it on a cross country road trip this summer and loved every minute. I will definitely be looking at another Saab when it comes time to purchase another.
Never thought I would love it but I do!
Helene, 03/31/2008
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car is amazing. I love it. I never liked the way saabs looked and never thought I would buy one. But when I sat in it ... I fell in love with it. I love the leather and all the extras! I'm thrilled with it, and my next car will probably be a saab.
great fun in a functional package
turrrbo, 12/10/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought used at 78,000 miles. No major problems though small things tend to go wrong sometimes - nothing serious though. Still, definitely excellent value because of depreciation. Smooth ride, some body roll but handling is excellent and steering well-weighted. Turbo is awesome on the highway! Huge trunk. Heated seats wonderful in winter. Love the steering wheel audio controls. Four speed auto shifts smoothly, includes sport and winter modes. Nifty details like cornering lights illuminate turns with blinkers engaged. Overall great car: nimble, powerful, and upscale.
A real gem...
Great car!, 03/17/2006
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This has been a great car, although once it hit 150,000 miles I sunk $4500 into repairs. Long trips go very fast - very comfortable. I loved the car so much I purchased another 9-5 (Aero).
best Saab I've owned
Will Wright, 04/15/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned 3 other Saabs, this is built the best and most solid and easily the most reliable of all. I miss the odd quirkiness of the older models, but this is great for driving long distances. Set cruise at 73 and get 33 mpg, even in mountains. Nice enough to entertain clients. Huge trunk. Can also fit 3 car seats across the back seat!
First Car & $4,500 Loss
eurodrive25, 04/02/2014
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
2 of 5 people found this review helpful
I bought my 1999 9-5 as my first car from a sleazy car dealer with 132k miles. It looked great and was unique. I loved it at first. First week I had to replace the emission tubes. About 2 weeks later as I was getting dressed for work it died in the driveway. I rolled into the street, blocking traffic and looked like an idiot pushing my car back into my driveway. I ran a stop sign because it stalled and luckily avoided a collision. It cost me tons to fix fuel pump, spark plugs, and carburetor. Weeks after that the timing belt broke on my way to work. On the busiest street possible of course. About $3000 to fix. Sold it for $800. Had it for 4 months, made 3 payments. Lost 4k. Own a 9-3 now.
all around fun
tjk, 06/25/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
really enjoy this car! definitely a unique experience...had lexus and audi in the past. Extremely comfortable! Great seats (ventilation system is awesome) I can't wait to see what saab's next 9-5 will be like!
Disappointed in the Saab
cruzr412, 12/29/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased my Saab 9-5 based on it's exterior looks. I should have done more research. The best thing I did was purchase the extended warranty. It has been in the shop for 2 major repairs in the past 12 months. Minor problems also have plaqued the car. (Winshield wiper motars, brake lights, daytime running lights, etc). I expected more from a name like Saab.
Okay At First But Then......
BeetleCraze, 01/06/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When I first bought this car I did like it. I bought it used with just 11,000 miles. I just hit the 50,000 mile mark and I have dumped so much money into this car already. When it runs, it's very nice to drive. The trouble is this car breaks down way too much. This is my first Saab and certainly my last. For a better vehicle, look to Mercedes, BMW, Volvo, or Audi. The Saab is not a good choice!
Least reliable car, Ever!
T in Seattle, 02/04/2006
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought this car used in 2003 with 60k miles on it. Initially enjoyed its comfort, style and all that, but in 2.5 years have spent $10,000 (more than it is even worth now!) on repairs - DI unit, transmission (at 80k miles), and other, smaller but still spendy flaws too numerous to mention. Now the ABS has gone, and we stand to spend another thousand, and that is if my mechanic finds a used part. Had I known the car consumed money instead of gasoline, would have gone with another make. Could have bought two of something more reliable . . .
A very honest car.
RED, 02/28/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In three years, this car has been 99% trouble-free. The only problem has been with the electronic displays, which apparently was a common problem with the 1999. These have since been made more reliable, and the dealer has immediately replaced the ones that have caused trouble. The gas mileage with the manual 5-speed and turbo 4 cyl. has amazed me. On trips from Ohio to Colorado and New Mexico, including city and mountain driving, I've gotten 31-32 mpg.
My Experience with a '99 SAAB
relady, 02/25/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had never owned a SAAB before but will continue to buy them based on my first experience. I am in my car continually and always find it a pleasure to drive. I love the way it handles. It's sporty, yet very reliable and functional. I have had extremely good luck with mechanics even though I put a lot of mileage on it in my line of business (I sell real estate). The only draw back is the price of repairs, I've overcome that somewhat by finding a great non-Dealer mechanic who knows SAABs and is not out to make beaucoup bucks!
First Saab
pcdrj, 03/10/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was my first Saab. The car has been very reliable so far at 61000 miles. Performance is Ok. It could definitely use more power. Economy is so-so at about 21 mpg. Handling is too soft. Turning radius is poor. Interior room was pretty. Trunk space and rear seating is good. Front seats are as comfortable as I've. Console infringed on leg room a bit too much. Interior ergonomics leave a lot to be desired. Needs more/better cup holders. Computer is useless. Climate control worked well but need easier controls. Paint quality was poor and difficult to keep clean. Wheels were impossible to keep clean unless you wash them at least once a week.
Better Know a Good Mechanic
BrianM, 01/28/2009
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Engine has been torn apart 3 times for misc oil leaks, turbo has been replaced, muffler replaced. Misc sensor and electrical systems failures. We are on a first name basis with our mechanic. We spend at least $1000-$1500 per year on maintenance. Much more than any other vehicle we've owned. Every part is amazingly proprietary and expensive. $300 plastic turn signal lights... $900 mufflers... etc. It was just crazy. The best thing that ever happened to us was that car getting nearly totally in an accident (and of course that no one was hurt) so that we can take the insurance money and run.
Saab 95
Jim Crawford, 12/18/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car for the money
Best car I've owned
donkle, 03/25/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Not only is this the best car I've ever owned, SAAB's warranty is AWESOME. Example: The decal peeled away from the front emblem... they replaced free, no questions asked. The dual zone climate control flaked out on me twice, but it righted itself within minutes... they replaced it even though the couldn't duplicate the problem. I drove this front-wheel drive beauty in a Noreaster in 2002 from NY, through the mountains of PA, to OH and it performed like a CHAMP. I want another.
It's a Love - Hate Relationship
CommuterMobile, 04/13/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this SAAB. The wife convinced me to buy it. After putting 200K on my 1992 900, I thought it was time to upgrade. I forgot how much the dealership charges for small repairs - and Maintenance. That's where the hate comes in. They are really nice, and smile when they hand you the bill. Overall very satisfying experience - but the advertised loaner is never available.. for $37,000 your car should come with a trunk mounted scooter. The engine runs on air, everything from acceleration to braking is superb. Love the Stereo and climate controls. The Ride is awesome too. Hint - get winter wheels and tires - all seasons won't cut it.
Very SAFE Car!
SafeSAAB, 01/13/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my 9-5 used after trading in a BMW. A few weeks ago I was cut off by a moron and impacted the vehicle at over 45mph. Both airbags deployed. My child was in his carseat in the back. The accident as extremely violent and when I opened my eyes I expected serious injuries to all 4 passengers. The Saab held up very well despite being totalled. No one was seriously injured which is a testament to the superb design and solid construction of this car. I am getting another!
Fun to drive all year round
Mark17171, 05/04/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle used, with about 80,000 KM and have logged about 15,000 KM over the past year. I also purchased a 3 year bumper to bumper warrentee to cover off any incidental breakdowns. Zero so far. Did the brakes at a local discount shop and will do the plugs myself. Overall I am very pleased with this vehicle, and consider it a great used purchase @ 40% of original sticker price. However I also have piece of mind with the 3 year war. and would not go without one, as I suspect repair costs would be through the roof.
Strong Car built to last
kemosaabe, 05/19/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very reliable, good dealership support, nothing has failed in 80,000 miles (usual wear items excepted). Very strong engine and excellent acceleration. Good winter car
MY 99 9-5
thausner, 02/12/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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
polo, 05/24/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
my 6th Saab
TMJ, 09/29/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
BIG IMPROVEMENT
MRF, 04/10/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
The best vehicle I've ever driven!
Jim, 12/07/2004
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is the most comfortable and spacious car I have ever owned (far more so than our SUV). I am 6'3" and 220 lbs and I can put the seat so far back I can't reach the clutch and my head isn't close to hitting the ceiling even with the sunroof. Extremely comfortable seats and incredible gas mileage -- I average about 29 mpg in town, and 35 on the highway.I have had to replace some parts: belt pulleys, wheel bearing, light bulbs, brakes, tires, but certainly not excessive for 95,000 miles. Parts do tend to be expensive, however.
Impressed with ride, not Reliability
Last Saab, 07/25/2003
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
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.
Love My Saab
Budlet, 01/05/2005
1999 Saab 9-5 2.3t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Saab.....I love the car, the way it handles, the safety record, and the overall look...(although I really preferred the old style to the current style). I really like the quirkiness of the car, I think you either love Saabs or hate them. I've also been very happy with the service I receive from my dealer....they've been terrific over the years.
Hot Swedish Piece of Junk
Scott, 03/04/2006
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm in a love/hate relationship with this car. We bought it used two years ago and haven't gone six week without it being towed or in the shop, at an average repair cost of $300/month. In the first thirty days we had to spend $1200! I lost my patience when we topped $7,000 and resolved to buy a new car, but after two months of test drives and research I couldn't find a car at any price that I loved more. That changed last week when we got an estimate for yet another $3,000 of repairs. We've replaced the display system, the environmental control system, the emergency blinker button, seat heaters, wiper motor, driver's window motor, air bag light, water pump, blower and tires THREE times!
amazing car
cara, 08/31/2002
1999 Saab 9-5 SE 2.3t Turbo 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is so fun to drive!! THe handling and acceleration make it a great car for traffic-the interor is so driver friendly-would love mnore cupholders_that is my only complaint! I love my car-you should get them from a saab dealer-and let them maintain them carmx is not all that it is cracked up to be!!
Bring back the hatchback!!!!
turkeyrun, 02/12/2005
1999 Saab 9-5 SE V6t 4dr Sedan
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my fourth Saab. Will buy another. Minor problems are constantly buying lightbulbs. Major problem in this car was a starter. But love the "old look." That was a classic style.