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Good idea to buy a used 9-5, all things considered? Posted by NP [Email]  (#244) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from NP) on Sun, 24 Jul 2005 18:16:46
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Hello, Saabnet. I’ve been a fan of Saabs for some time now, but have not had a chance to own one myself until now. I am strongly considering buying a used 9-5 wagon 2.3t. I could really use the advice of Saab owners and enthusiasts.
I love the features of the 9-5, and the wagon looks to be especially versatile. I’ve read many reviews and overviews of the 9-5, but I have some real life concerns. First, I am a relatively poor college student. The early 9-5 wagons are very attractive (both physically and financially) because the used car values are so low. Here’s what the car has:
2000 9-5 Wagon (white exterior/tan leather interior)
2.3L light-pressure turbo
95,600 miles
Automatic
16(?) spoke alloys (with rusty lug nuts)
Heated front/rear seats
TCS
No extra cargo features (i.e. load floor, tie-downs)
*Private Party seller says it has premium sound, but how can you tell for sure? I don’t see any harman/kardon logos anywhere.
In good condition: seller has completed 90k service and replaced belts, shocks, and brakes. As far as I know, the car has not had any significant repairs done (or presumably needed). Some normal wear on the interior. Seller is second owner—previous owner had the car for ~65k.
Seller is asking $9000.
First question: Is this a good deal?
Second, most important, question: Will the actual cost of the car be much more, considering the high miles? My chief concern is Saab’s reputation for spotty reliability and VERY expensive parts/labor. I need an honest, so sugar-coated assessment of whether early model year 9-5’s are a reliability risk. I can afford to purchase the vehicle, but I cannot afford to drop $500-$1000 a year on maintenance. I'm scared that even routine maintenance for regular wear will break the bank. For instance, on this car, the SID has some pixel glitches (as in every other Saab I’ve ever test-driven), and the rear wiper fluid doesn’t dispense. I’ve read that the SID is notoriously faulty—how costly is it to repair? I’m more worried about serious mechanical problems, such as turbo-related issues. I’ve also heard about the DI cassette (whatever that is) being problematic.
Thirdly, this is a subjective question, but how is the 9-5 wagon to live with? I noticed some body roll around the corners, and the leather seats seemed a little slippery. The light pressure turbo 4 had pretty good power, but it was no kick in the pants like the Aero model. I was surprised that the arm rests on the door and on the center console don't allow the driver to keep a good hold of the steering wheel (could make for tired arms on long drives). Any insights would be appreciated.
The bottom line is that I would love to part of the Saab “family,” and I’m thrilled at the prospect of owning a unique luxury car at a fraction of the sticker price, but I can in no way afford to pay luxury prices for maintenance. Please give me some advice! Should I buy?
NP
Currently driving a piece of junk, boring old Nissan.
posted by 67.142.12...
, Sun, 24 Jul 2005 18:16:46 <-- Viewing This Message, Mon, 25 Jul 2005 19:20:29
, Mon, 25 Jul 2005 14:59:38
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