IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1979–1993 Saab 900 Classic

We've identified 4 known issues that can affect the 1979–1993 Saab 900 Classic. 2 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

4
Known Issues
2
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

All Known Issues

Gearbox Failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The gearbox is located underneath the engine and is a known weak point, especially on Turbo models.

Est. Repair Cost: £1,500–£3,000
Warning Signs:

Popping out of reverse, Whining in 5th gear, Difficult shifts

What to Inspect:
  • Smoothness of all gears
  • Oil leaks from the transmission
  • History of oil changes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Body Rust

SeriousBodywork & Rust

Structural rust in the wheel arches and floor can be terminal if not caught early.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£2,000
Warning Signs:

Visible bubbling, Soft metal in the boot floor, MOT failure on structural points

What to Inspect:
  • Driveshaft tunnels
  • Wheel arches
  • Door bottoms
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Gearbox Oil Leak and Pinion Bearing Wear

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The gearbox sits directly beneath the engine and is prone to oil leaks from seals and gaskets. The pinion bearing can also wear, producing a distinctive whine especially in 5th gear.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£800
Warning Signs:

Whining noise from gearbox, Oil spots under the car, Difficulty engaging reverse

What to Inspect:
  • Inspect the gearbox for oil leaks
  • Listen for a whine at motorway speeds in 5th
  • Test reverse gear engagement
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Electrical Gremlins and Warning Lights

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Older 900s suffer from corroded earth points, intermittent warning lights, and failing instrument cluster connections. Central locking and electric window failures are also common.

Est. Repair Cost: £50–£300
Warning Signs:

Intermittent warning lights, Electric windows dropping or failing, Central locking not working

What to Inspect:
  • Test all electrical accessories
  • Check the earth points under the bonnet and near the battery
  • Inspect wiring loom for chafing
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 1979–1993 Saab 900 Classic

  • Test reverse gear carefully; if it pops out under load, the front-mounted gearbox is likely failing and requires a very expensive rebuild.
  • Meticulously inspect the front wheel arches, floor pans, and "drive tunnel" (where the driveshafts exit) for structural rust.
  • Listen for a whining noise from the gearbox in lower gears, indicating pinion bearing wear.
  • Check the headliner; they almost universally sag and require professional re-trimming.
  • Verify the condition of the turbocharger on APC models; look for blue smoke on acceleration indicating worn seals.
  • Ensure the complex vacuum system isn't leaking, as this causes erratic idling and poor turbo performance.
Check a 1979–1993 Saab 900 Classic by Registration