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I am the new owner of a 1990 900S- my first Saab. It is a 5-speed and has just over 80K miles. I brought it into the dealer for a standard check and they found a few problems. I have a few questions regarding maintainence and reliability and how best to deal with these repairs economically. Also I have a query regarding Saab mechanics and service providers. Answers on any or all questions will be greatly appreciated:
1. The mechanics found that the ball joints need to be replaced- this they are doing for free, since it is a safety issue and wouldve been caught prior to sale. Are there any other standard safety issues that might need to be addressed asap?
2. All of the gaskets are leaking. The service manager claims that they are not a critical problem and are typical at this stage of the car's life. Replacing them now is not recommended. If this is true, how should I deal with them in the future? Should I replace them sequentially, and in the meantime constantly add oil to be safe? The gaskets would not be covered under the 30 day limited powertrain warranty since they are not critical and not causing the motor to malfunction (yet).
3. The passenger side seat does not heat. I stopped the service manager from servicing this because it was not covered under the warranty, but I would like to fix it myself at some point. Any ideas? There is a little sliding switch on the side of the seat, I'm not even sure what position it should be in for the heat to work and I don't see it in the manual.
4. They are replacing a seal that is torn- the technical term escapes me- I believe it is the CV boot but it apparently covers the axle and is an 'external part' of the trans. This will cost between $250-300. What is it and why is it important? Is this price reasonable?
5. Can anyone suggest an honest reliable mechanic in Philadelphia, PA. I saw on this site a list of a few in PA, NJ, and DE, but no one centrally located near Center City Philly. Also any rules of thumb in dealing with Saab repairs will be much appreciated- thats probably a big can of worms to open though.
Thanks for all of your help!
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