IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
1987 Saab 900 (Classic)

Facelift 900 gets a redesigned nose with body-coloured bumpers, a new dashboard, and is offered as a 3 or 5-door hatchback, a 4-door saloon and Convertible, with the Aero and SPG models topping the range.

What changed for 1987

  • •Smoother nose with flush headlamps and integrated bumpers, plus revised interior and dashboard trim
  • •Convertible and 16S variants, plus catalytic converter and unleaded-compatible engines

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Convertible roof frame, hood seals, and rotten sills and floors on soft-top cars
  • !Suspension and driveshaft wear, plus brake pipe and hose corrosion
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 1987 Saab 900 (Classic)

  • Check hood condition, rear screen and the convertible's hydraulic hood pump for leaks and slow operation
  • Prefer cars with a documented history; check the bodywork around windscreen pillars and the rear wheel arches for filler