IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2012 Saab 9-5 NG

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 2012 Saab 9-5 NG. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2012 period has 3 more issues than the Saab 9-5 NG average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Haldex AWD Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The 4th Gen Haldex system requires regular servicing that was not in the official Saab schedule.

Most affected: XWD (All-Wheel Drive) models

Estimated cost: £600–£2,000Affects: 2010–2012Often appears around: 40k-70k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •"Service AWD" message
  • •Rear wheels not engaging
  • •Binding during tight turns

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for AWD service history (fluid and filter changes)

Parts and Body Trim Scarcity

SeriousBodywork & Rust

As the final Saab model with very limited production, unique body panels, glass, interior trim, and electronic modules are extremely difficult and expensive to source. A minor accident can write the car off.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: Variable (can be total loss)Affects: 2010–2012Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Difficulty sourcing replacement parts
  • •Long lead times for body panels
  • •Very high quotes for glass and trim

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the condition of body panels carefully
  • ✓Ask about any previous accident damage and repair history
  • ✓Inspect glass for chips or cracks

LED Tail Light Bar Failure

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The full-width rear light bar suffers from water ingress, killing the LEDs. Replacements are no longer manufactured.

Most affected: All models

Estimated cost: £400–£800 (Used/Repair)Affects: 2010–2012Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

  • •Sections of the light bar dark
  • •Flickering LEDs

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Visual inspection in dark and light

HiPer Strut Front Suspension Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The advanced HiPer Strut front suspension (on Aero models) has complex components that can develop knocks and play, leading to vague steering and uneven tyre wear.

Most affected: Aero models with HiPer Strut

Estimated cost: £300–£700Affects: 2010–2012Often appears around: 30,000–60,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Knocking from front suspension
  • •Vague steering feel
  • •Uneven front tyre wear

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test drive over rough roads for knocks
  • ✓Inspect front suspension bushes and struts
  • ✓Check front tyre wear patterns

Buying Tips for the 2012 Saab 9-5 NG

  • ✓Check the LED light bar across the boot lid; water ingress frequently causes sections to fail, and replacements are virtually unobtainable.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the Head-Up Display (HUD) and the digital speedometer, as the electronics can be glitchy.
  • ✓Ensure the Haldex 4WD system (XWD models) has been serviced regularly, as neglected fluid changes lead to pump failure.
  • ✓Inspect the interior trim for damage; unique plastic pieces are no longer manufactured and must be sourced used.
  • ✓On the 2.0 TTiD diesel, check for DPF blockages and ensure the twin turbos spool smoothly without excessive smoke.
  • ✓Confirm the car comes with two working keys, as programming new keys requires specialist software (Tech2/MDI) that few garages possess.
2011 Saab 9-5 NG

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Other Saab 9-5 NG Year Periods

201020112012

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