Owners have filed 30 complaints
about the 2004 Saab 9-5 with NHTSA between 2004 and 2025.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 11 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 25
Against the median year of the Saab 9-5. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 69
13.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 66
38% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
1,000 – 9,999 miles
726.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
27.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
623.1%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1038.5%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
13.8%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Frontal crash test
Side barrier crash test
Photographs taken by NHTSA during its own New Car Assessment Program crash
tests of this model year. Public domain.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2004 Saab 9-5 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Aug 2004peak 4May 2025
Recalls on the 2004 Saab 9-5
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20070594,033 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, the fuel pump retaining tabs holding the fuel lines were damaged during production. Over time, this could cause the fuel lines to loosen from the pump resulting in fuel leakage. If an ignition source were present, the fuel may ignite resulting in a vehicle fire. Correction: Dealers will install a bracket that will secure the fuel lines to the fuel pump even if the plastic retaining tabs should break.
Recall 2005179762 units in Canada
Other
Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 210. The required markings for the child tether anchorage hooks are missing in the luggage compartment area. Correction: Dealers will install the required adhesive label to the luggage compartment loading floor in the near vicinity of the three anchorage hooks.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Stewartsville, NJFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stewartsville, NJFire
ENGINE
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stewartsville, NJFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Timnath, COCrash
AIR BAGS
7/26/22 10:23pm on interstate 25 North of Denver mile 249 I was not able to stop and rear ended another vehicle. My air bags did not deploy there were no dash lights indicating any problem with the airbags prior to the accident. My vehicle was not drivable and was towed to H&R Towing in Johnstown, CO. The only inspection so far has been by an Amica Insurance adjuster. My set belt pretensioner held me fast but the crown of my head went forward into the visor area I was dazed. I went by ambulance to MCR hospital in Loveland diagnosed with a concussion. I had other bruises from the seatbelt and hitting my left knee on the dash. The damage to my car begins at the driver’s side headlamp area and radiates across the font of the car to the headlights on the passenger side. The hood was folded back and there is significant damage to all the components in the front part of the engine compartment. I’ve tried to contact Saab cars but no response, they stopped building cars in 2011. I tried GM as well, no response.
NHTSA complaint #11477716 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Stewartsville, NJFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stewartsville, NJFire
ENGINE
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stewartsville, NJFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall. It would not start again for about 35 minutes. I tried to use it, and this behavior continued. Often, in traffic it would stall while I was moving at low speed, and moderate speed: Without warning, it cuts out and won't start for 40 minutes. I have spent money with my mechanic, over $1,000. I personally bought many parts: MAF sensor, fuel pump relay, fuel filter, and fuel pump. I replaced the Coolant Sensor. After all this the vehicle still stalls 5 minutes after warmup. If it drives to warm up, it stalls and won't restart for 40 minutes. After I replaced the Crankshaft Position Sensor, (CPS), it has never restarted. I bought 3, one a Bosch branded model, and It has never restarted. Many other drivers complain in forums, like Saab Forums, that they are experiencing the same problems. As you know, stalling at highway speeds can cause death. Clearly the problems with the Saab motorcars, produced, owned, and sold through General Motors, are something that poses a hazard, and should be repaired at GM dealership's expense. P.S. The vehicle's immobilizer device has caused my vehicle to not start at all. The key fobs have stopped functioning at all. I replaced the batteries, and they won't connect to the engine. The vehicle will crank, but no start. Battery runs down, with crank, but no start behavior. Can General Motors either: 1. replace the entire engine, 2. repair the "stall, no restart" situation, 3. moreover repair my seeming to be, "anti-theft system, no start" situation, called DICE/TWICEsystem, 4. achieving an actual fix for these older, but cherished sporting cars? Please check these links for confirming information: saabforums.com/forum/saab9-5-12/engine-turns-over--but-wont-start-9066/ www.saabcentral.com/threads/cranks-but-wont-start.689898/
NHTSA complaint #11660144 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Timnath, COCrash
AIR BAGS
7/26/22 10:23pm on interstate 25 North of Denver mile 249 I was not able to stop and rear ended another vehicle. My air bags did not deploy there were no dash lights indicating any problem with the airbags prior to the accident. My vehicle was not drivable and was towed to H&R Towing in Johnstown, CO. The only inspection so far has been by an Amica Insurance adjuster. My set belt pretensioner held me fast but the crown of my head went forward into the visor area I was dazed. I went by ambulance to MCR hospital in Loveland diagnosed with a concussion. I had other bruises from the seatbelt and hitting my left knee on the dash. The damage to my car begins at the driver’s side headlamp area and radiates across the font of the car to the headlights on the passenger side. The hood was folded back and there is significant damage to all the components in the front part of the engine compartment. I’ve tried to contact Saab cars but no response, they stopped building cars in 2011. I tried GM as well, no response.
NHTSA complaint #11477716 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesIndian Harbour Beach, FL
STEERING
I HAVE OWNED A 2004 SAAB 9-5 SPORT COMBI WAGON SINCE 2006. TWICE, OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS (2011, 2014), MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAD AN IGNITION SWITCH INCIDENT WHERE HE WAS THE DRIVER AND I WAS THE PASSENGER. IN BOTH INCIDENTS, I TURNED AROUND TO TALK TO MY DAUGHTER (2011) AND THEN DAUGHTERS (2014) AND INADVERTENTLY BUMPED THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WITH MY KNEE. THE IGNITION SWITCH IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THE CAR BY THE CONSOLE. IT ONLY TOOK A SLIGHT TAP OF MY KNEE AND MY CAR SHUT OFF WHILE GOING AT SPEEDS OF 75-80 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. FORTUNATELY, BOTH TIMES MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND GET THE CAR OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #10608119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesIndian Harbour Beach, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I HAVE OWNED A 2004 SAAB 9-5 SPORT COMBI WAGON SINCE 2006. TWICE, OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS (2011, 2014), MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAD AN IGNITION SWITCH INCIDENT WHERE HE WAS THE DRIVER AND I WAS THE PASSENGER. IN BOTH INCIDENTS, I TURNED AROUND TO TALK TO MY DAUGHTER (2011) AND THEN DAUGHTERS (2014) AND INADVERTENTLY BUMPED THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WITH MY KNEE. THE IGNITION SWITCH IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THE CAR BY THE CONSOLE. IT ONLY TOOK A SLIGHT TAP OF MY KNEE AND MY CAR SHUT OFF WHILE GOING AT SPEEDS OF 75-80 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. FORTUNATELY, BOTH TIMES MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND GET THE CAR OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #10608119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesIndian Harbour Beach, FL
ENGINE
I HAVE OWNED A 2004 SAAB 9-5 SPORT COMBI WAGON SINCE 2006. TWICE, OVER THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS (2011, 2014), MY HUSBAND AND I HAVE BEEN ON THE HIGHWAY AND HAD AN IGNITION SWITCH INCIDENT WHERE HE WAS THE DRIVER AND I WAS THE PASSENGER. IN BOTH INCIDENTS, I TURNED AROUND TO TALK TO MY DAUGHTER (2011) AND THEN DAUGHTERS (2014) AND INADVERTENTLY BUMPED THE KEY IN THE IGNITION WITH MY KNEE. THE IGNITION SWITCH IS LOCATED IN THE CENTER OF THE CAR BY THE CONSOLE. IT ONLY TOOK A SLIGHT TAP OF MY KNEE AND MY CAR SHUT OFF WHILE GOING AT SPEEDS OF 75-80 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. FORTUNATELY, BOTH TIMES MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL AND GET THE CAR OFF TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #10608119 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,000 milesEllicott, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SABB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND TOOK IT TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OF THE FAILURE WHERE THE TECHNICIAN REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE. THE CONTACT WAS MADE AWARE OF A MANUFACTURER'S RECALL FOR THE IGNITION SWITCH BUT WAS ADVISED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,000. UPDATED 10/23/2014*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE CHECK ENGINE AND NO AUTOMATIC WARNING LIGHTS WOULD ILLUMINATE ON FREQUENTLY. UPDATED 8/10/2015
NHTSA complaint #10586152 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 51,108 milesRockville, MD
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSOR, FUEL PUMP, AND THE TWICE UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,108.
NHTSA complaint #10569393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 51,108 milesRockville, MD
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSOR, FUEL PUMP, AND THE TWICE UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,108.
NHTSA complaint #10569393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 51,108 milesRockville, MD
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE TRAVELING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS FOUND THAT THE CRANK SHAFT POSITION SENSOR, FUEL PUMP, AND THE TWICE UNIT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,108.
NHTSA complaint #10569393 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 95,000 milesSouth Riding VA 20152, VA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE WAS TRAVELING 55 MPH WITH HER PURSE ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT. THE CONTACT PROCEEDED TO EXIT THE HIGHWAY WHEN THE WATER BOTTLE THAT WAS IN HER PURSE TOPPLED OVER AND STRUCK THE IGNITION SWITCH, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO STALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 95,000.
NHTSA complaint #10567631 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 24,895 milesKennesaw, GA
TIRES
KUMHO ECSTA LX PLATINUM 225/45ZR17 TIRE ON LEFT FRONT OF SAAB 9-5 WITH APPROXIMATELY 25,000 MILES USE BLEW OUT SUDDENLY (RAPID LOSS OF AIR) AND WITHOUT WARNING AT 35 MPH. APPEARS TO HAVE SEVERAL CRACKS IN SIDEWALL NEAR TREAD. PRIOR TO BLOWOUT, SLIGHT LEFT PULL IN CAR STEERING WAS NOTED DURING INTERSTATE DRIVING, BUT ASSUMED TO BE ALIGNMENT ISSUE SINCE ALL TIRES MAINTAINED NORMAL PRESSURE. TIRE WAS REPLACED; DEALER DETERMINED TIRE WAS DEFECTIVE (POSSIBLE INTERNAL BELT SLIP). FAILED TIRE IS AVAILABLE FROM OWNER.
NHTSA complaint #10505800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,172 milesHenderson, NV
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
A RECALL WAS PREVIOUSLY ISSUED FOR SAAB DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURES FOR MODEL YEARS 2000 THROUGH 2002. MY 2004 SAAB 9-5 ARC, WHICH HAS 46,180 MILES ON IT, HAD TO HAVE THE DI CASSETTE REPLACED TODAY DUE TO FAILURE. MY MODEL YEAR SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED IN THIS RECALL DUE TO THE LIMITED (LESS THAN REASONABLE) LIFE OF THE PART.
NHTSA complaint #10421659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesRaleigh, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY. THE ENGINE AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WOULD TURN OFF COMPLETELY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE IMMEDIATELY RESTARTED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS MOST LIKELY THE CAUSE FOR FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 74,00. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000. UPDATED 12/30/10 *BF UPDATED 01/10/11*JB UPDATED 3/31/14
NHTSA complaint #10355728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesRaleigh, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SAAB 9-5. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE WOULD SUDDENLY SHUT DOWN COMPLETELY. THE ENGINE AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS WOULD TURN OFF COMPLETELY. THE FAILURE OCCURRED SEVERAL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE IMMEDIATELY RESTARTED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS MOST LIKELY THE CAUSE FOR FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 74,00. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 60,000. UPDATED 12/30/10 *BF UPDATED 01/10/11*JB UPDATED 3/31/14
NHTSA complaint #10355728 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 64,000 milesAvon, CT
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
2004 SAAB 95 LINEAR WAGON LIFTGATE HINGE FAILURE HINGE MAY OR MAY NOT HOLD THE LIFTGATE AT THE OPEN POSITION. IF ONE IS REACHING DEEP INTO THE TRUNK, LIFTGATE CAN CLOSE BY ITSELF, AND HIT ON THE BACK WITH SUBSTANTIAL FORCE.
NHTSA complaint #10300083 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,500 milesWinston-Salem, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
PURCHASED THE CAR USED 5/23/08 WITH 42,700 MILES FROM SAAB DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A MONTH THE HEADLIGHTS WORKED RANDOMLY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULDN'T HURT ANYTHING AND SHOULD IT BECOME MORE FREQUENT, BRING THE CAR IN. 8/18 TOOK THE CAR IN TO DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT WAS COMING ON MORE FREQUENTLY. HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED, ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO A DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. SAAB DEALERSHIP ORDERED THE PART WHICH WAS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER, PART CAME IN 10/9. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN 10/6 DUE TO STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER MOVED ABOVE THE MIDDLE. BYPASS VALVE REPLACED ($450 PARTS/LABOR). VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 48,500 MILES AND IS OUT OF MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER DEALERSHIPS LIMITED WARRANTY. AFTER AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO THE DI CASSETTE FAILURE I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2000-2002 MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS A 2004 SAAB 9.5 AERO SEDAN.
NHTSA complaint #10245621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,500 milesWinston-Salem, NC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
PURCHASED THE CAR USED 5/23/08 WITH 42,700 MILES FROM SAAB DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A MONTH THE HEADLIGHTS WORKED RANDOMLY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULDN'T HURT ANYTHING AND SHOULD IT BECOME MORE FREQUENT, BRING THE CAR IN. 8/18 TOOK THE CAR IN TO DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT WAS COMING ON MORE FREQUENTLY. HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED, ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO A DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. SAAB DEALERSHIP ORDERED THE PART WHICH WAS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER, PART CAME IN 10/9. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN 10/6 DUE TO STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER MOVED ABOVE THE MIDDLE. BYPASS VALVE REPLACED ($450 PARTS/LABOR). VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 48,500 MILES AND IS OUT OF MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER DEALERSHIPS LIMITED WARRANTY. AFTER AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO THE DI CASSETTE FAILURE I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2000-2002 MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS A 2004 SAAB 9.5 AERO SEDAN.
NHTSA complaint #10245621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,500 milesWinston-Salem, NC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
PURCHASED THE CAR USED 5/23/08 WITH 42,700 MILES FROM SAAB DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A MONTH THE HEADLIGHTS WORKED RANDOMLY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULDN'T HURT ANYTHING AND SHOULD IT BECOME MORE FREQUENT, BRING THE CAR IN. 8/18 TOOK THE CAR IN TO DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT WAS COMING ON MORE FREQUENTLY. HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED, ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO A DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. SAAB DEALERSHIP ORDERED THE PART WHICH WAS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER, PART CAME IN 10/9. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN 10/6 DUE TO STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER MOVED ABOVE THE MIDDLE. BYPASS VALVE REPLACED ($450 PARTS/LABOR). VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 48,500 MILES AND IS OUT OF MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER DEALERSHIPS LIMITED WARRANTY. AFTER AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO THE DI CASSETTE FAILURE I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2000-2002 MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS A 2004 SAAB 9.5 AERO SEDAN.
NHTSA complaint #10245621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 46,500 milesWinston-Salem, NC
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
PURCHASED THE CAR USED 5/23/08 WITH 42,700 MILES FROM SAAB DEALERSHIP. WITHIN A MONTH THE HEADLIGHTS WORKED RANDOMLY, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WOULD COME ON RANDOMLY. CALLED THE DEALERSHIP AND WAS TOLD THAT IT WOULDN'T HURT ANYTHING AND SHOULD IT BECOME MORE FREQUENT, BRING THE CAR IN. 8/18 TOOK THE CAR IN TO DEALERSHIP WHEN THE LIGHT WAS COMING ON MORE FREQUENTLY. HEADLIGHT RELAY REPLACED, ENGINE LIGHT WAS DUE TO A DIRECT IGNITION CASSETTE FAILURE. SAAB DEALERSHIP ORDERED THE PART WHICH WAS ON NATIONAL BACK ORDER, PART CAME IN 10/9. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN 10/6 DUE TO STEAM COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD, TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEVER MOVED ABOVE THE MIDDLE. BYPASS VALVE REPLACED ($450 PARTS/LABOR). VEHICLE HAS APPROX. 48,500 MILES AND IS OUT OF MANUFACTURER WARRANTY AND REPAIR IS NOT COVERED UNDER DEALERSHIPS LIMITED WARRANTY. AFTER AN INTERNET SEARCH FOR INFORMATION RELATING TO THE DI CASSETTE FAILURE I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL FOR 2000-2002 MODELS FOR THE SAME ISSUE. MY VEHICLE IS A 2004 SAAB 9.5 AERO SEDAN.
NHTSA complaint #10245621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 31,821 milesCincinnati, OH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
I OWN A 2004 SAAB 9-5 WAGON, WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN NOV 2004. THERE WERE APPROXIMATELY 31,800 MILES ON THE CAR AT THE TIME OF THIS FAILURE, WHICH OCCURRED IN LATE JULY 2008. (IRONICALLY, LESS THAN 2 WEEKS AFTER HAVING TAKEN THE CAR FOR ROUTINE SERVICE/OIL CHANGE/TIRE ROTATION.) AFTER HAVING RUN 2 ERRANDS (I.E. TWO STOPS & STARTS), I WAS DRIVING TO WORK ON A RELATIVELY BUSY 4-LANE ROAD. JUST AFTER HAVING COME DOWN A HILL & ROUNDING A CORNER, WITH ESTIMATED SPEED 35MPH, THE CAR'S ENGINE CUT OUT, THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT, & THE BRAKES SEEMED NOT TO WORK APPROPRIATELY. I WAS FORTUNATE TO BE IN THE RIGHT LANE, AND WOUND UP COASTING TO A STOP IN THE LANE OF TRAFFIC, AS I HAD SO LITTLE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE THAT I WAS NOT EVEN ABLE TO MOVE TO WHAT LITTLE SHOULDER WAS AVAILABLE (THE VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED WHILE ON A BRIDGE). THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT RESTART. FORTUNATELY, TRAFFIC BEHIND ME BECAME AWARE THAT THE CAR HAD DIED, AND NO ACCIDENTS OCCURRED. HAD THIS FAILURE OCCURRED EVEN 5 OR 10 SECONDS EARLIER, HOWEVER, IT WOULD ALMOST UNDOUBTEDLY HAVE CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AS I WOULD HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY UNABLE TO NAVIGATE THE TURN COMING DOWNHILL. AFTER HAVING THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE SAAB DEALERSHIP, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE "CRANK SENSOR FAILED ELECTRICALLY." FORTUNATELY, IT WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY & WAS REPLACED. I WOULD NOT HAVE EVEN THOUGHT TO REPORT THIS HAD I NOT SEEN REPORTS OF SIMILAR FAILURES IN OTHER SAAB MODELS.
NHTSA complaint #10237522 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,000 milesHackensack, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
I HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9.5 THAT I BOUGHT NEW ON APRIL 1, 2004. I DISCOVERED TODAY FOR THE FIRST TIME THAT MY BACKUP LIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING. YESTERDAY, I FILED A COMPLAINT #10166145. THIS BACK UP LIGHT PROBLEM IS RELATED. THE HARD PLASTIC MOLDED ASSEMBLY ON THE DRIVERS SIDE OF THE TRUNK LID THAT IS SUPPOSED TO PROTECT THE WIRING HARNESS FROM DAMAGE IS ACTUALLY DAMAGING AND EVENTUALLY CUTTING THROUGH ALL OF THE WIRES THAT PASS THROUGH THE ASSEMBLY. WIRES IN MY CAR BEGAN GETTING CUT WITHIN 2 MONTHS OF PURCHASE AND HAVE CONTINUED. THIS ASSEMBLY APPEARS TO BE ABLE TO CUT THROUGH ABOUT 8 WIRES LEAVING EXPOSED WIRE IN CONTACT WITH EACH OTHER AND THEREBY DISABLING THE CRUISE CONTROL, BRAKE LIGHTS, REVERSE LIGHTS AND ELECTRIC TRUNK LOCK. THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR - ITS A DESIGN FAULT. THE WIRES SEEM TO CATCH ON THE SHARP EDGE OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR (!) THAT FITS INTO THE LID. THEY RUB AGAINST THIS AS THE LID IS OPEN AND CLOSED. I BELIEVE THIS SITUATION PRESENTS A POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL FIRE HAZARD AND SAFETY HAZARD AND THAT THE NHTSA SHOULD IMMEDIATELY ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ITEM.
NHTSA complaint #10166216 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,000 milesHackensack, NJ
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
I HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9.5 THAT I BOUGHT NEW ON APRIL 1, 2004. FROM DAY 1 THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS WORKING ERRATICALLY. DEALER SAID HE COULD NOT REPLICATE PROBLEM. THEN CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING. THEN THE ELECTRIC TRUNK LOCK STOPPED WORKING. I CONTACTED THE DEALER TELLING IT THAT EVEN THOUGH I WAS NOW BEYOND THE 50,000 MILE PORTION OF THE 4 YEAR WARRANTY (OF WHICH ONLY 28 MONTHS HAD ELAPSED) I WANTED THE TRUNK AND CRUISE ISSUES FIXED ALONG WITH A LAUNDRY LIST OF ITEMS THAT WERE NOT ADDRESSED PREVIOUSLY THE LAST TIME I BROUGHT THE CAR IN UNDER WARRANTY. THEY HAVE REFUSED TO ADDRESS ANY OF THE ISSUES. I FOUND A SITE ON THE INTERNET CALLED SAABNET. A PARTICULAR POST HIT THE PROBLEM ON THE HEAD. HTTP://WWW.SAABNET.COM/TSN/BB/9-5/INDEX.HTML?BID=125557 IT SAID: TURNS OUT TO BE A BADLY WORN WIRING LOOM WERE THE CABLES RUN FROM THE CAR TRUNK INTO THE TRUNK LID. 6 WIRES HAD BROKEN THROUGH THE INSULATION AND TWO HAD COMPLETELY SNAPPED. THIS CAR IS LESS THAN 3 YEARS OLD!!!! THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR - ITS A DESIGN FAULT. THE WIRES SEEM TO CATCH ON THE SHARP EDGE OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR (!) THAT FITS INTO THE LID. THEY RUB AGAINST THIS AS THE LID IS OPEN AND CLOSED. YOU CAN CHECK TO SEE IF YOURS IS OK SIMPLY BY PULLING OFF THE PROTECTIVE RUBBER BOOT THAT ATTACHES TO THE END OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR. I DID THE VERY SIMPLE CHECK THE POSTER RECOMMENDED ABOVE BY PULLING THE RUBBER COVER BACK AND WAS SOMEWHAT AMAZED TO SEE 4 WIRES COMPLETELY CUT AND THE OTHER 3 WITH BROKEN INSULATORS. AS THE POSTER ON SAABNET INDICATED, THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AND APPEARS AS IF IT COULD LEAD TO FIRE. LOOKING FURTHER ON SAABNET, I SEE THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM AS IT IS DISCUSSED QUITE FREQUENTLY. I BELIEVE THIS SITUATION PRESENTS A POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL AND FIRE HAZARD AND THAT THE NHTSA SHOULD IMMEDIATELY ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ITEM.
NHTSA complaint #10166145 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 5,000 milesHackensack, NJ
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING: REAR COMPARTMENT/TRUNK
I HAVE A 2004 SAAB 9.5 THAT I BOUGHT NEW ON APRIL 1, 2004. FROM DAY 1 THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS WORKING ERRATICALLY. DEALER SAID HE COULD NOT REPLICATE PROBLEM. THEN CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING. THEN THE ELECTRIC TRUNK LOCK STOPPED WORKING. I CONTACTED THE DEALER TELLING IT THAT EVEN THOUGH I WAS NOW BEYOND THE 50,000 MILE PORTION OF THE 4 YEAR WARRANTY (OF WHICH ONLY 28 MONTHS HAD ELAPSED) I WANTED THE TRUNK AND CRUISE ISSUES FIXED ALONG WITH A LAUNDRY LIST OF ITEMS THAT WERE NOT ADDRESSED PREVIOUSLY THE LAST TIME I BROUGHT THE CAR IN UNDER WARRANTY. THEY HAVE REFUSED TO ADDRESS ANY OF THE ISSUES. I FOUND A SITE ON THE INTERNET CALLED SAABNET. A PARTICULAR POST HIT THE PROBLEM ON THE HEAD. HTTP://WWW.SAABNET.COM/TSN/BB/9-5/INDEX.HTML?BID=125557 IT SAID: TURNS OUT TO BE A BADLY WORN WIRING LOOM WERE THE CABLES RUN FROM THE CAR TRUNK INTO THE TRUNK LID. 6 WIRES HAD BROKEN THROUGH THE INSULATION AND TWO HAD COMPLETELY SNAPPED. THIS CAR IS LESS THAN 3 YEARS OLD!!!! THIS IS NOT NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR - ITS A DESIGN FAULT. THE WIRES SEEM TO CATCH ON THE SHARP EDGE OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR (!) THAT FITS INTO THE LID. THEY RUB AGAINST THIS AS THE LID IS OPEN AND CLOSED. YOU CAN CHECK TO SEE IF YOURS IS OK SIMPLY BY PULLING OFF THE PROTECTIVE RUBBER BOOT THAT ATTACHES TO THE END OF THE PLASTIC PROTECTOR. I DID THE VERY SIMPLE CHECK THE POSTER RECOMMENDED ABOVE BY PULLING THE RUBBER COVER BACK AND WAS SOMEWHAT AMAZED TO SEE 4 WIRES COMPLETELY CUT AND THE OTHER 3 WITH BROKEN INSULATORS. AS THE POSTER ON SAABNET INDICATED, THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AND APPEARS AS IF IT COULD LEAD TO FIRE. LOOKING FURTHER ON SAABNET, I SEE THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM AS IT IS DISCUSSED QUITE FREQUENTLY. I BELIEVE THIS SITUATION PRESENTS A POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL AND FIRE HAZARD AND THAT THE NHTSA SHOULD IMMEDIATELY ISSUE A RECALL ON THIS ITEM.
NHTSA complaint #10166145 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
