1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
Hi. I am seriously considering buying a 1995 900 V6. I am somewhat aware of the reliability issues with the V6 engine, but I am wondering really how much of an issue it is for a well-maintained car? The particular 900 I am looking at has 87K and looks as if it just came off the showroom. Oil changes have been like clockwork at 5K throughout the car's life, other regular Saab factory maintenance has been performed as well. This is a one-owner car who has since upgraded to a 9-5. The car is available for around $8,000, probably a very fair price (It is avialable from the local Saab dealer, so I can't expect a screaming deal).
Here are my questions regarding this model:
1) If the 90K timing belt replacement is done, will this engine be reliable, considering it's previously solid maintenance history?
2) What are other trouble spots exist on the 900 V-6 that I should be wary of?
3) The engine sounds fine, but doesn't feel as smooth or as powerful during acceleration as the 1996 9000CS I compared it too-A little bit jerky. II am pretty sure they are both rated 170hp. Potential problem or characteristic of the V6?
4) Even though the car is for sale at a Saab dealer, should I get it checked out by an indie shop just in case? The salesman had never heard anything of V6 unreliability.
5) How reliable has this model proven to be, and what is a broad average of typical maintenance costs per year (ballpark figure)?
6) Is purchasing this car a foolish endeavour, or is this model going to be a solid car for a couple of years (in which time I plan on stepping up to a late-model 9-3). It is simply the nicest-kept 900 I have seen with this amount of miles, which makes me think that it could be a solid car for me. But, I am not rich, and cannot afford to take chances that the engine may blow without warning. Thanks for the help, I really appreciate it!
posted by 198.181.18...
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