Used 2004 Saab 9-5 Sedan Consumer Reviews
Used 9-5 for sale
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Keeping mine till they start making them again!
Joe L, 01/21/2018
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
11 of 11 people found this review helpful
Bought mine new in 2004 and am now approaching 150,000 miles. All three of my kids learned to drive with the Saab, and it became their car of choice (even though it lacks modern features like USB or Aux ports to the stereo). My only major issue so far was a HVAC failure that cost hundreds to repair. Otherwise, engine and transmission remain solid (knock on wood). The car still handles as well as anything I have owned or rented - a perfect balance between riding comfort and handling, in my opinion. And my gas mileage has been excellent. Low to mid 30s on the highway, blended average in the low to mid 20s. It's also an excellent winter car (I live in Minneapolis). I have had great luck with Nokian tires and with Firestone.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Extraordinarily fun car
jkkf1991, 12/05/2007
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
I too have owned several BMWs and this SAAB needs to offer no apologies for anything by comparison. Truly a fun car to drive. Superb acceleration, handling, sound system, styling, and comfort.
2004 Saab 9-5 for sale near you
Showing 3 of 4 listings
- Arc 2.3T SedanMSRP: $6,40093 mi away
- Aero SedanMSRP: $19,9981,794 mi away
- Arc 2.3T SedanMSRP: $3,9991,863 mi away
See all 4 listings
Remarkable Balance
Slee_Stack, 07/16/2008
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
Although I've only owned my Aero for just over two months, I've had some good experience with what this car excels at and what may be trouble spots. With all its gadgetry, I've already had my share of glitches, most notably poor performing rain-sensing wipers, a result of a poor sensor. Various electrical gremlins also pop up on occasion, but are mild irritants at worst. The 9-5 in Aero guise is a great looking and oddly rare car in the sea of Bimmers, Lexii, and Benz that swarm the roads of Atlanta. While in no way a neck-snapper, the Aero has plenty enough zip to best most 'sporty' sedans on the road. Where it truly dazzles is doing this and still returning 30mpg on the highway
Great vehicle
Saab turbo, 07/27/2007
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
The car has around 45,000 miles on it and there are no creaks from inside. The ride is very quiet. The performance of the Aero is great and it's a lot fun with the turbo. The 9-5 has a lot of neat features like park assist, pockets in the front seats, cooled glove box, etc. It is very AEROdynamic and is still quirky compared to a BMW or MB. It has been very reliable and was much less that the competitor's cars. Has more style and character than any Lexus.
Beautiful balance in the Arc sedan
Lon Sherer, 02/28/2006
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Performance is extraordinarily balanced in this car. Handling, accelleration, and highway cruising are simply excellent. The icing on the cake--and never seems to be mentioned in professional reviews--is its mileage! Over 30 mpg 70+ I don't know of a viable competitor with that combination of virtues.
Fabulous Aero
dcarmstrong, 02/12/2007
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This 9-5 was our 7th Saab. We upgraded to this and have loved it from day ONE. The ventilated seats for the summer cooling are a great asset and my husband absolutely loves them.
AMAZING
case, 10/28/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've had the Audi A4 and BMW 330xi all in the last few years, and they can't even touch this car.
Great car to by used
CaliforniaSaab, 07/09/2010
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
No better value, as depreciation runs high. Got mine with 23,000 miles for $15k at Carmax. What a deal. Spotless reliability so far, now at 45,000 miles. Very comfortable. Great on freeway. Handling could be a little tighter but that's what you get with FWD.
Great Saab
BTB, 03/02/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very enjoyable to drive. Quick pick up in power.
I love my SAAB
Thorsteinn7, 07/02/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love my SAAB. This is my 5th SAAB in 20 years. It is fun to drive, in snow and summer. Steady on the road. Reliable. In the evenings I sometimes just stand by the window watching my SAAB.
Saab 95 Aero review by HL
howard l, 07/09/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Handles well with a very nice acceleration. Fit and finish could be a little more modern and tighter. The interior is sturdy and wears very well. The materials always look new. I had a 2000 model and it was the same. The interior room is adequate, yet the outside is not too big. Trunk space is great. The car could use a nicer stereo and the vanity mirrors have useless lights.
2004 95 Aero
Kumar, 07/14/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Very comfi, did not realize what i was missing (I have an Isuzu Trooper). Very snug and well fitting seats. Great pickup and handling (not quite the same as a BMW 325i), but for 36K I got much more car for a little bit in terms of pickup and handling. Saab's paid attention to small things like the two sunshades/visors. Controls are very ergonomic in addition. Cant say much about the reliabilty, i bought it on the 10th of july and have done only about 400miles. Overall fun car. Bought the car for my wife's b'day, she'd happy, but she thinks that this is too complicated for her to handle, something that I am not in a hurry to correct :)
More fun than should be legal
Rocklin Ed, 07/20/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Saab 9.5 Aero: The road handling is superb with the 17" wheels and the Pirelli wide tires. The feeling is total and effortless control, especially on winding Sierra mountain roads. Braking has perfect feel. Ventilated seats are a great plus in Sacramento summer heat. Seats fit like a glove. I test drove BMW 525 and Mercedes C sport coupe and the Saab beats them both. What understeer? Turbo lag is there, but I'm not drag racing, and when you kick it to merge or manuever on the highway it snaps nicely. Before you buy a sport sedan, drive an Aero.
I love it
abbydabby2, 03/02/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
as in clothing i hate seeing myself coming and going...i love that there are very few on the road!!!
'02 Aero wagon is top notch
dcaero, 05/17/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is an overall great car. After a BMW 5-series wagon -- much costlier -- and this is a worthy contender. Don't pass up the 9-5 -- it remains a very competitive platform.
What's not to like?
graynylons, 11/07/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Having just purchased this auto there isn't much to complain about. The car drives well, handels well, and presents itself well.
Aero Go
Spencer27, 09/15/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
The Aero is a "Beast" to say the least, I looked at the BMW 5 Series, Cadillac CTS and CTS-V, Accura TL, and they did not stack up. Saab Aero is in a class alone when considering value to dollar ROI. Handling is clean and crisp, fuel ecomony is running nearly 24 MPG (highway/city). 17" rims are very nice. Overall impression is, "where has Saab been?" We know Saab is owned by GM, but this group is a sleeper. Don't get it confused, sleep on the Saab and you are likely to get snake bitten!
SAAB Wagon
walker, 11/15/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We traded our Volvo V70 wagon after too many service trips to count for annoying things (windows that wouldn't work, door locks that were stuck, back latch not working properly...etc). After driving the SAAB wagon we wondered why we even considered a Volvo! The handling and pickup is in a league of it's own, the gas milage makes our old Volvo look like a pickup truck!
Drive one and you will buy one.
pigman, 05/25/2005
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car for size. Average 22.5 mpg on last 8K. Mileage is same as some smaller cars. Really need to use cruise to maximize. The Aero option again is the only way to go on a Saab. Bigger tires and add the spoiler and the car goes from a plain Jane to the girl every bad boy wants. Power is there when you need to pass. My 96 was more sure footed but this model is more agile. The cabin updates for rear passengers was needed. The seats are comfortable but not like the 9000 Aero. As long as Saab is making cars I will be an owner.
Best Kept Secret
JaeNoh, 02/04/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
It's great that I get to buy a car like the 9-5 for $35,000 while suckers will pay $50,000 for a BMW 530 and get so much less of everthing else.
Love mine!!
lalzaga, 03/11/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I've had my Aero almost a year now. Has 8500 miles on it. I've had not trouble with it. I've been service dept free. The only time I've had to go in to the service dept is for the 30day inspection that's part of the warranty. I love owning and driving this car. I like to so much, I'm think of buying a 9-3 conv. :)
Took a long time to buy one
arline grady, 12/27/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I am in the market to buy another Saab probably will look at the BMW, Mercedes and a Jag but I know in my heart it will be a another Saab I change every two or 3 years. This will be my 4th. Have had all the others above, but the ride, comfort and dependability in a Saab is the best. I now have a 2001
Middle Age Fun
mike souris, 03/25/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car on impulse, and have not had any regrets. I look forward to my next one. It feels good, and is fun to drive.
Better thatn the Reviews
LMW, 03/24/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is a superb car and a wonderful ride. Especially at $32,400 I paid for it. The only comparable car for me is the BWM 525 and that was almost 18 grand more. I needed good room in the back seat for three kids and this had it. The ride is great as is the handling. The turbo lag that has been described in otehr reviews is non- existent. I highly recommend it.
My Aero
Peter, 01/26/2007
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have owned this Saab 9-5 Aero for three years and it has been working without any troubles. It's a dream around town and on the highway. It is 5 speed.
perfect
cr92290, 01/05/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
the saab 9-5 aero has got to be the best midsize sedan on the market toady. It has speed (150 mph) agility, and awsome looks. Best car I have ever perchased
9-5 aero...a joy to drive
canemagic, 04/08/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
this is a fine performane vehicle...fun to drive....something different....priced 5-7000 less then compatible bmw
Fun to drive luxury car !
Marilyn, 04/18/2006
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
The car has been an excellent family "sports" sedan. Dashboard layout, comfortable seats, large trunk, xenon headlights and 5-speed auto transmission w/ paddle shifters on the steering wheel are features that make this car very enjoyable. The standard Pirelli tires are not the quietest or best performing but adequate for most driving styles.
It's a blast to drive
Rob, 02/11/2005
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This Aero really MOVES! I can't seem to keep it under 100 mph. It's fun to drive. I looked at the Audi A6 and the Volvo S60R, test drove them all extensively, but the fun factor and interior room in the 9-5 sold me. I wanted a winter worthy car and front wheel drive is, for most practical highway purposes, as useful as AWD. Great gas mileage on the 9-5 to boot. Just watch out for tickets!
Shame on GM
Saad_Saab, 09/04/2007
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
My initial love affair with this car has gone cold. I've had this car almost 1 year, bought it as Certified Pre Owned, and it is bordering on qualifying as a lemon. Ten trips to the dealership, mostly for brake related problems (noise, vibration, ABS/TCS lights coming on). My nearest dealership is 100+ miles away, so major inconvenience. Today, check engine light came on, a week after getting it back from the shop. Typical story. In the car's defense, a lot of the trips are due to dealership/mechanic incompetence, but isn't that part of the package? I only recommend a 9-5 if you live near a dealership and they supply loaners, and you get extended warranty.
texas aero
texassaab, 01/30/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This car has personality...not as prolific as the German competition. My mettalic silver Aero feels like it has unlimited power on tap even going 70 mph on the freeway.
Second Saab 95
Saab Owner Greg, 06/29/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very responsive and fun to drive. Extremely comfortable seating and controls.
9-5 aero
dfeldm, 02/22/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Really enjoy the driving experience. The Aero with the ventilated leather seats are very comfortable
Welcome to The State of Independence...
Michael_LA_CA, 10/02/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I admit it; they had me at 'Welcome.' I was captivated by a marketing campaign aimed at winning buyers from new, diverse demographics. To my own credit, I still did my homework and heavily researched several other vehicles. I read endless consumer guides and reviews, online and in print, that covered everything about these cars from environmental ratings to crash test results to resale values and more. In the end, spreadsheet in-hand, I test drove the Audi A4, the BMW 3 series, the Volvo S60, saving the Saab 9-[3] [my pre test drive pick]. Then, at the showroom, I was again captivated. This time by a sexy, black 9-5 Aero Sedan. For fun, I decided to test it. They had me at 9/10's of a mile.
Excellent chocie for comfort, fun, price
PattyK, 02/26/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We are extremely satisfied with our SAAB. Considering trading in our other vehicle to get a second SAAB
aero
deltaomega, 10/16/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i dont know what there talking about the the turbo not kicking in in lower rpm but this car has 258 ftlb torque at 1900 rmp so the turbo kicks in after u already take off with all that torque for continuous acceleration id like to see a bmw do that for this price
Awesome Saab 2004 9-5 very classy sports car
Paul Henry Rojas , 05/26/2019
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Saab 2004 9-5. And very clean car can handle the road smooth
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Three Time Saab Owner
Three Timer, 04/15/2005
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The combination of fuel economy and performance is unequalled in its competitors. Saab's turbocharged engine deliver smooth performance through the fulll power band. With rising fuel costs, I'm gonna be thankful I have a four-banger!
Stay Away Unless You Won the Lottery!
danducati, 08/21/2011
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
2 of 21 people found this review helpful
OMG, what a piece of junk. Bought with 40K miles on it and had the check engine light go on after about 3 months. Cost $2,100 to fix it. Nice. Then the grill flew off as I was driving down the highway. Then it began leaking antifreeze like a sieve. Another $400 fix. I have had enough and will never ever buy a Saab again! Traded that sucka in today for a Lexus and am now super happy.
new saab 9.5
new car, 05/01/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
not a great experience with dealer...picked up car on a very stormy day and was handed the keys and said good luck...no delivery at all...also got home and there was a dent in roof...a 10 minute ride home no stops...in the garage to dry and we see this dent...they did repair it...however a huge inconvenience...
Very Reliable & Fun & Economical
Darren Moon, 11/01/2005
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased this vehicle 6 months ago and have loved it from the first drive. Very responsive for an economical car, good styling and very comfortable interior. I would highly recommend this vehicle.
vyl
vyl, 05/22/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drive alot each year. Bought certified preowned car--affordable comfortable, quality, intended to last a long time and endure incredible mileage. First Saab, love this car. Own a 2000 model 9.5 sedan. Still feels new. Impressed w/preowned program, gas mileage. Ride is wonderful, will move out when needed. Comfort and performance are key features. Love the way we were served at Moore (Richmond, VA) before and after purchase. Because of distance, Charlottesville provides service. Not quite Moore, but adequate. Would buy another Saab in a heartbeat.
Excellent 2004 Arc
samthomas, 05/24/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I own a new 2004 9-5 Arc 2.3T with about 5,500 miles. The only problem was a rattle in one of the doors, fixed under warranty. The overall design is very good, and strikes a good balance between "sport" and "luxury." The car is loaded with thoughtful features, from the high- pressure headlight washers to the huge trunk. The turbocharged motor and 5-speed auto tranny work well together. Instruments are well laid-out and readable. Cabin is spacious and comfortable, but driver- oriented. Car handles well; suspension is forgiving, but tuned more towards comfort than performance. This is not a car you can fling around.
2004 Arc 2.3T 220 HP 4 cyl. CPO w/ 14K
rickzull, 01/03/2006
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought with CPO (certified pre-owned) mainly for future issues, but have driven this awesome car for 5 months and have no issues with it. Have owned 5 prev saabs and this GM/Saab is Great. I do wish the seats were more "aero" with more lateral side bolsters, and that it had the upgraded stereo. Torque steer can be quite noticeable though...
2nd time 9-5 Buyer
Kevin Ztrem, 05/28/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I just purchased my second Saab 9-5. This is a great car. I have ordered with the 5 speed manual transmisison. It's fun to drive. I always take the long route. There is more then enough power and the gas mileage is great. The cars are very reliable and Saab is a very customer friendy company. I recomend this car to anyone.
dream car
loop, 02/17/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. Handles well, is comfortable, and I feel sage with my family.
beware
meleele, 07/06/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Aero 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Saab has become very hostile to its customers on warranty issues. The rudeness extends to corporate level. My longtime Saab loyalty is OVER!
Luxury & Reliability = Awesome
sizzlinturbo, 10/25/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 9-5 Arc has a 3.0. It doesn't exhibit turbo lag at low speeds. What it lacks in a sport suspension is made up for in superior ride comfort. You no longer have to feel every pot hole. For $38,000 you can't buy a roomier, faster, more functional mid-luxury vehicle. The 9-5Arc comes loaded with standard features that would be pricey options with any other maker. How many under $40,000 sedans do you know that come standard with heated and air conditioned front seats, assymetrical turbo and Harmon Kardon sound system? How many of them hold the world's highest safety ratings? Let me know. Then we can talk about your 6.7 rating.
I'm so happy!
Milan, 12/03/2003
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Pefect!The Saab 9-5 is comfortable, convenient and enjoyable to drive around town and on the open road. Clever ergonomic solutions, like seats with fans, an aircraft-style map light,roomy cargo area with a perfectly flat floor,with its high-output turbocharged engine, puts a lot of power under the pedal for quick throttle response at highway speeds!
Balance of Comfort and Performance
rad, 07/29/2004
2004 Saab 9-5 Arc 2.3T 4dr Sedan (2.3L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
It's a great car, with the right balance of comfort, performance and economy. Its aethetics are hard to beat, inside and out. It has a comfortable rear seat, adequate for 3 adults, perfect for 2 and my 3 kids. I can get 4 ice hockey bags in the trunk, 2 adults and 2 kids. With the AT in SPORT mode, the car plain out hauls, as it does in MANUAL mode (but MANUAL mode can be awkward.) In DRIVE mode, it performs well, at the rate of 28+ mpg. Needless to say, I highly recommend it.