Date: Sat, 25 Jul 1998 00:46:26 -0700 From: Spudman27nopsam_NO.aol.com (N. Williamson) Subject: Re: SAAB 95 Reliability
We bought a new 1994 900S V-6. Actually it was a demo with 2000 miles. Zero problems with the electrical system. I had always vowed to never buy a first year model, but the deal was too good to pass up. We both love the car, but have had a few problems. Blew the cam belt 1086 miles out of the roadside portion of warranty (41,086)...fortunately the powertrain part was still in effect. Seems to have been an anomally. Most our problems were with AC seals...had it in the shop 3-4 times for no fluid in system. Was told it was the seal mfr and subsequent models were OK. Now with 73K I just replaced the heater hose and main coolant hose...both had been chaffing and developed pinhole seeps. We also have a 92 BMW 525 that was purchased new. Neither car has been a zero defect automobile...something I think only the Honda and Toyota group are nearing. But too, we bought them for their functionality / driving fun quotient and not the defect rate...although within reason it is always a consideration. Both are exceptionally comfortable cars with merits that (IMHO) go beyond having a few basic mechanical problems to contend with...none the least of which is crash survivability. Even at >4 yrs old the car still seems 'fresh' and is not wearing on us...if you understand what I mean. Personally I think the biggest drawback is as the DK poster pointed out...the network of dealers is very limited. In GA I drove 150 miles to the dealer for service...and now live in the WA where there are several dealers. I still drive 120 miles to Portland as the road time is the same as driving the 65 miles to Seattle! One observation about Saab dealerships...the folks seem genuinely enthusiastic about the cars...something I have rarely seen at any other type of dealer; and when it's time for a new car I will seriously consider another Saab if I have a dealership within a few hours drive. Best of luck with whatever choice you make - NW -- I disagree with what you say, but will defend to the death your right to say it. --Voltaire--
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