1994 Saab 900 2.3L Petrol · L646 ADX

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 1994 SAAB 900 occurred in February 2025 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the vehicle’s previous test history. While the 2024 MOT failure highlighted critical issues—including severe rear tyre damage that compromised ply integrity and a failing brake system—subsequent tests in 2023 and 2024 recorded only advisories related to tyre perishing and a non-functional rear fog lamp. The pattern suggests a shift toward more consistent maintenance or corrective action, though the underlying wear on the tyres and drivetrain components remains a concern that warrants ongoing vigilance. The fact that the vehicle passed in February 2025 indicates either effective repairs or a temporary reprieve from major defects, but the history underscores the need for proactive checks to prevent recurrence of brake or tyre-related failures. The recorded mileage of 87,343 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 32 years represents a remarkably low annual usage rate of around 2,729 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this era and mileage. Such low mileage often reflects prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without regular use. This can lead to specific issues such as standing corrosion on brake components, particularly discs and calipers, which may exhibit signs of rust or binding due to prolonged idleness. Additionally, the lack of dynamic wear on suspension components or drivetrain elements suggests minimal movement, which could exacerbate problems like boot splits or insecure seals if not addressed promptly. Conversely, if the vehicle has been driven more frequently, the mileage alone does not fully capture the cumulative stress on components like tyres, which may have undergone accelerated wear from frequent starts and stops or rough road conditions. Given the vehicle’s history of tyre-related failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear tyres for signs of further deterioration beyond the ply cuts recorded in previous MOTs. Look for lateral cracking, delamination, or uneven tread wear that could indicate underlying structural damage or improper alignment. On a test drive, listen for any irregularities in tyre noise or vibration, which may signal hidden damage. The brake system, particularly the rear discs and calipers, should be examined for corrosion, binding, or uneven wear patterns that could stem from prolonged standing. During the inspection, check for fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder, caliper seals, and brake lines, as moisture ingress can accelerate corrosion. If the brakes feel spongy or require excessive pedal travel, this may indicate hydraulic issues or worn brake pads, warranting immediate attention. For the SAAB 900’s age and usage profile, the buyer should also verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, reducing reliability. Inspect the battery terminals for oxidation or loose connections, and test its charge capacity with a multimeter or load tester. The suspension components, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should be checked for signs of wear or damage, particularly around the rear axle area where previous CV boot failures were noted. Listen for clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged struts. Additionally, the drivetrain’s constant velocity joints should be inspected for play or excessive noise, as the previous boot failure suggests a need for preventive maintenance. Fluid levels, particularly brake fluid, transmission fluid, and coolant, should be checked and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, the vehicle’s exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate catalytic converter or manifold issues, given the SAAB’s emissions-related history.