IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1984 Saab 900 (Classic)

16-valve DOHC engines arrive in the UK and the Turbo 16 and later Turbo 16S become the performance cars to have, alongside the 900i 16 and a more refined cabin.

What changed for 1984

  • •16-valve cylinder head in the 2.0-litre engine, with Bosch LH-Jetronic injection on turbo cars
  • •Boost control and ignition upgrades, plus the SPG-style Turbo 16S trim and alloy wheels

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Exhaust manifold and downpipe leaks or blowing joints, and corroded rear silencer sections
  • !Worn bushes, ball joints and tired rear suspension arms
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 1984 Saab 900 (Classic)

  • Check the turbo for blue smoke and shaft play, and for oil leaks in the intercooler pipework
  • Ask for evidence of cam-chain and tensioner checks, and for regular oil changes with good synthetic oil