1994-1998 Saab 900: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Saab 900/Turbo includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saab 900/Turbo .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
Scratches or microscopic cracks in the rear-window heater grid cause interference in the radio when the rear defroster is turned on. (All)
Battery:
Due to faulty time delay relay, electric cooling fan may not turn off. This usually results in a dead battery. (1989-98)
Climate control:
If blower on the automatic climate control quits working, the control unit may have failed. (1994-98)
Engine fan:
The battery may go dead because the cooling-fan relay, which allows the fan to run 10 minutes after the engine is turned off, keeps the fan on. (1994-96)
Hard starting:
The turbo bypass valve is secured with plastic clamps that break, causing hard starting and poor drivability. (All)
Poor drivability:
Stumble, stalling, or hesitation during the first minute after startup is corrected by replacing the engine-control computer. (1994-95)
Transmission leak:
The gear-selector shaft seal is prone to leak on manual transmissions. (1994-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $665 |
| Alternator | $455 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,250 |
| Brakes | $265 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $655 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $485 |
| Exhaust System | $640 |
| Radiator | $395 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $990 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $630 |








