2006 Saab 9-5 2.3L Petrol · E21 TAX

The most recent MOT test for this 2006 SAAB 9-5 occurred on 2025-07-15 and resulted in a failure, marking a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous history where most tests passed or only carried minor advisories. While earlier MOTs in 2023 and 2024 showed only low-severity issues—such as tyre wear close to legal limits, minor exhaust leaks, and minor suspension wear—the 2025 test revealed multiple major faults, including critical engine and emissions system failures, active stability control and supplementary restraint system warnings, and a severely worn front brake disc. This suggests a deterioration in both the vehicle’s drivetrain and safety-critical systems, potentially due to undiagnosed or neglected issues from prior years. The progression from minor advisories to major failures indicates a pattern of either worsening mechanical wear or unresolved underlying problems that have compounded over time. The recorded mileage of 224,254 miles for a vehicle aged 20 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,213 miles per year, which is consistent with typical light-to-moderate use for a car of this era. However, the absence of recent high-mileage spikes does not necessarily imply pristine condition; the vehicle’s age alone places it in a high-wear category where components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and exhaust systems are expected to exhibit significant signs of degradation. The suspension advisories from 2021 and 2022—such as worn coil spring pins and corroded suspension arms—highlight that the vehicle has likely undergone considerable stress, particularly in the front suspension, which is critical for handling and ride quality. Additionally, the repeated brake-related advisories and failures, including a significantly worn front brake disc, indicate that the braking system has been heavily utilised or has suffered from improper maintenance, warranting immediate attention to prevent further damage to discs, pads, and hydraulic integrity. Given the recent MOT failures and recurring issues, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to address the critical faults identified. The engine and emissions system failures suggest a need for a full diagnostic check of the fuel injection, oxygen sensors, and catalytic converter, as well as a review of the vehicle’s service history for any missed maintenance or potential electrical faults. The active stability control and supplementary restraint system warnings require immediate resolution to ensure road safety, as these systems are essential for crash avoidance and occupant protection. During a test drive, listen for abnormal noises such as clunking from the suspension (indicating failing coil springs or bushings), uneven tyre wear patterns (suggesting misalignment or suspension issues), and any signs of brake shudder or binding calipers (which could point to worn discs or pads). Additionally, check for exhaust leaks, as the central exhaust major leak and previous exhaust-related advisories may lead to increased emissions or carbon monoxide risks if not repaired. Beyond the immediate mechanical concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection to address the broader wear and potential corrosion issues. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories of corroded brake pipes and suspension components, inspect the undercarriage for signs of rust, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension mounts, as standing water or poor drainage can accelerate corrosion. Verify the brake fluid level and condition, as the previous brake fluid significantly below minimum mark failure indicates a need to replace the fluid and flush the system to prevent moisture-induced corrosion and hydraulic failure. Check the tyre sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity over time, even if the tread remains legal. Lastly, since the vehicle has been in use for over two decades, consider a 12V battery health check and a review of the service book for any time-based fluid servicing, such as the oil change interval, which for older engines may require more frequent attention due to wear on seals and valve train components. If the buyer is concerned about the vehicle’s long-term reliability, a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to confirm the extent of the issues and plan for necessary repairs.