Saab 9-5

two time saab owner but having doubts

By saab enthusiast (Chicago, IL) on Tuesday, August 26, 2008

"This is my second saab owned in the past four years. The first was a 9-3 which by far was the best car I ever owned. It was smooth, quick, and handled awesome....all in all a very fun car. At 100k miles and no real issues I sold it to buy a new 2007 9-5. What I thought was that I was upgrading to the flagship vehicle, but in reality have been disappointed. Let's see: 1) several rattles and fit / finish issues that were fixed by the excellent dealership 2) Lots of road noises and vibration issues which prompted new tires at 35k miles...this seemed to quiet the ride somewhat but 3k miles later, the vibrations have returned 3) The Xenon headlights that continually flicker which are being replaced while under warranty as I am told it is a low voltage issue...what happens if this problem comes back while out of warranty? 4) Finally the grand enchilada...an oil leak at 38k miles from the rear seal...never saw a major repair coming with so few miles. I am having severe doubts about my future relationship with Saab cars. If I could get out from this vehicle I would ABANDON SHIP!"

9 people out of 9 found this review helpful

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Good but not good enough

By Tampa Geeza (Tampa, FL) on Tuesday, May 05, 2009

"I traded in a 2004 Saab 9-3 for the bigger 9-5 to help with transporting the cubs. I got a $12k rebate from Saab which pegged the vehicle at $24k which I thought was a great deal for a car with a $38k sticker. The goods - whizzy turbo engine which is plenty powerful for the car - 260HP is about the max you can run through the front wheels without getting too much oversteer. Seats are really comfortable, Harmon Kardon audio is great and, as others have said, the car is not cookie cutter. It's unique. 3 years serving is alos a big plus. The bads - no real technology offerred, poor fit and finish - nowhere near Germanic and just a wee bit outdated now. I've had several Saab dealer visits for popping up speaker covers and rattles and now a faulty airbag sensor, luckily just within warranty. Not good for a prestige ride. With GM set to jettison Saab, unless a good investor can be found, this will be my last Saab."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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Car connection!

By emotional driver (Detroit, MI) on Wednesday, February 16, 2011

"Wow, what a car! I love it. This car is so easy to drive right from the get go. If you are thinking about a Mercedes E or BMW 5, or Audi, just go and test drive the Saab and you will be amazed! It may just change your mind, as it did mine. Very nice car that makes sense."

4 people out of 4 found this review helpful

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