2006 Saab 9-5 2.3L Petrol · LB06 RVT

The most recent MOT recorded on 11 February 2022 was a pass, with the only recorded items being advisory notes on front‑off‑side tyre edge wear, rear‑near‑side tyre edge wear and a minor cut on the same rear tyre. Earlier tests show a mixed picture: a failure in early 2020 for a corroded rear brake pipe and a non‑functioning front headlamp, a failure in 2018 for deteriorated rear seat‑belt hardware and headlamp aim, and an advisory oil leak noted as far back as 2017. The absence of any recorded failures since 2020 and the fact that the last test passed suggests the vehicle’s maintenance has generally improved, although the persistence of tyre wear and the recurring oil‑leak advisory indicate that some components have not been fully addressed. At 138,406 mi the car averages just under 7,000 mi per year over its twenty‑year life, which is within the normal UK usage envelope. This modest annual mileage could imply periods of low utilisation or prolonged storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber, metal and electronic components despite the relatively low wear figures. The mileage itself does not raise immediate red‑line concerns, but the combination of age and intermittent use means that consumables such as suspension bushes, brake pads, and fluid integrity should be examined closely for hidden wear that mileage alone may not reveal. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the tyre condition: verify that the tread depth on all four wheels exceeds the legal minimum, inspect the sidewalls for cracking, and confirm the DOT code to ensure the tyres are not older than six years, as age‑related perishing can occur even on low‑wear tyres. The rear‑near‑side brake pipe, flagged for corrosion in 2020, must be examined for rust, pitting or any signs of fluid seepage; a compromised pipe can lead to a soft or spongy brake pedal, especially under heavy braking. The oil leak advisory, present on several occasions, warrants locating the source – common culprits on this model include the valve‑cover gasket, oil pan gasket or crankcase breather – and checking for oil on the under‑tray, around the spark‑plug wells and on the exhaust. Any persistent leak should be repaired promptly to avoid oil‑film buildup on the clutch or brake components. The headlamp that failed in 2020 should be tested for both dipped and main beam operation and correctly aimed; mis‑aimed lamps can cause glare to other road users and may be indicative of mounting or wiring issues. Finally, the rear seat‑belt hardware noted as deteriorating in 2018 should be inspected for cracked plastic retainers or frayed webbing, and the belt should be pulled firmly to ensure it locks securely under load. Beyond the specific MOT notes, the car’s age calls for a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Check the battery for terminal corrosion, confirm it holds charge under load, and consider a replacement if it is more than five years old. Examine the suspension for worn or cracked bushings, especially the front lower arms and rear trailing arms, and listen for clunking when the car is driven over bumps. Verify that the brake discs are free of heavy rust or scoring and that the pads have sufficient material; standing for long periods can cause disc surface corrosion that leads to pulsation when braking. Inspect the exhaust system for rust holes or cracked hangers, and ensure all fluid reservoirs – coolant, brake fluid, power‑steering fluid and gearbox oil – have been changed according to the manufacturer’s time‑based service intervals, as fluids degrade even without mileage. A comprehensive test drive should include listening for abnormal noises from the steering, suspension and drivetrain, feeling for any vibration or shudder under acceleration or braking, and confirming that all gauges and warning lights operate correctly. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Saab’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.