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I am writing this post to alert Viggen owners of a potential problem with their cars. My 2000 Viggen recently suffered a catastrophic engine failure that likely resulted from a pre-ignition that cracked the piston in cylinder #1. The cracked piston eventually failed and the subsequent damage the engine was terminal.
After several fruitless telephone conversations with both Saab USA and my local dealer (Saab Nashua North in Merrimack, NH), I have taken it upon myself to bring the car to an independent dealer to have the engine rebuilt, completely at my expense.
From what I have read on this message board, the fate of my car is by no means unique. Saab is well aware that there is a problem with the Viggen's B235R engine; however they are heretofore refusing to acknowledge and/or accept responsibility for their flawed product.
As a loyal Saab owner/enthusiast, my disappointment is titanic. The customer service reps were exceptionally rude and curt and refused to answer my questions, to provide me with information, or to allow me to speak to anyone with decision making authority within the company. I was originally offered $2,000 toward the purchase of a $6,000 used engine with no additional cash for labor.
The car had only 57,000 miles on it and was exceptionally well maintained. Its oil was changed every 5,000 miles with Mobil 1, and the engine (other than the failed piston) looked like brand new when disassembled, i.e., no deposits, no wear. While I admit the vehicle was 7,000 miles out of warranty, I feel it is the responsibility of a company to stand behind their product. No one buys a $38,000 vehicle with the expectation of fewer than four years of practical use.
I am severely unhappy with Saab and am contemplating class action. I will soon post pictures of the damaged engine components and would look forward to replies from any other Viggen owners who have either experienced this problem themselves or who are fearful they too might soon be the proud owners of expensive lawn ornaments.
posted by 68.169.1...
, Tue, 1 Jun 2004 09:10:08
, Mon, 31 May 2004 18:48:39
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