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.

Most affected: All, especially Turbo

Estimated cost: £1,500–£3,000Affects: 19791993Often appears around: 100k+ miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Smoothness of all gears
  • Oil leaks from the transmission
  • History of oil changes

Body Rust

SeriousBodywork & Rust

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

Most affected: All

Estimated cost: £500–£2,000Affects: 19791993Often appears around: Any

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Driveshaft tunnels
  • Wheel arches
  • Door bottoms

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.

Most affected: All, especially Turbo

Estimated cost: £300–£800Affects: 19791993Often appears around: 80,000+ miles

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Inspect the gearbox for oil leaks
  • Listen for a whine at motorway speeds in 5th
  • Test reverse gear engagement

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.

Most affected: All

Estimated cost: £50–£300Affects: 19791993Often appears around: Any age

Typical symptoms

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

What to inspect before you buy

  • Test all electrical accessories
  • Check the earth points under the bonnet and near the battery
  • Inspect wiring loom for chafing

Buying Tips for the 1979 Saab 900 Classic

  • Test reverse gear carefully; if it pops out, the gearbox is likely on its way out.
  • Inspect the front wheel arches, floor pans, and "drive tunnel" for rust.
  • Listen for a whining noise from the gearbox (pinion bearing wear).
  • Check the headliner for sagging, a universal 900 trait.

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