2006 Saab 9-5 1.9L Diesel · LC06 DFG

The most recent MOT test on this 2006 SAAB 9-5 was conducted on 3 October 2025, resulting in a Pass, though it was preceded by a Fail just one day earlier on 2 October 2025. This back-to-back pattern indicates the vehicle was presented in a near-failed condition and rectified on the same visit, which is a common but slightly cautious pattern to observe. The maintenance trend across the four-year MOT history shows a recurring pattern of component wear rather than any catastrophic failure, with each annual test presenting items related to brakes, suspension linkages, or lighting. The 2024 test was clean with no advisories, while the 2025 test introduced advisories regarding corrosion to the rear sub-frame and both rear suspension arms. While the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the appearance of structural corrosion advisories on a twenty-year-old SAAB warrants close attention, as these areas can deteriorate further between annual tests. The recorded mileage of 140,716 miles on a vehicle of this age equates to an annual average of roughly 7,036 miles per year, which sits within the typical range for a car of its vintage. This mileage profile suggests regular but moderate use, which is generally beneficial for mechanical longevity as it prevents the issues associated with prolonged standing, such as brake disc corrosion and fluid degradation. However, at this odometer reading, the vehicle has well exceeded the lifespan of many original consumables, and components such as the timing chain, clutch, and turbocharger (if applicable) will have already been replaced or be approaching major service intervals. The mileage progression between tests appears consistent with the stated annual rate, with no evidence of clocked figures or irregular gaps that would suggest extended periods of inactivity. The recurring front brake pad advisories and the 2023 Dangerous failure for pads below 1.5mm indicate that braking consumables have been a persistent cost on this vehicle, and a prospective buyer should physically inspect pad and disc condition, looking for lipping on the disc edges and measuring pad material thickness through the wheel. The 2024 wheel bearing failure on the offside front, followed by the 2025 Macpherson strut pin or bush failure on the nearside front, suggest that suspension refurbishment costs are mounting. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front corners when turning or traversing speed bumps, and pay close attention to steering precision and any vagueness that could indicate worn top mounts or track rod ends. Given the 2025 advisories regarding rear sub-frame and suspension arm corrosion, a thorough undercarriage inspection is essential, ideally with the vehicle raised on a ramp, as surface corrosion on these components can progress toward the structural integrity threshold in future tests. Check for any oil leaks from the engine and transmission, examine the condition of the rubber boots on the drive shafts, and verify that the exhaust system is free from corrosion holes or blowing joints. As this SAAB approaches its third decade, age-related deterioration such as perishing of tyre sidewalls, degradation of coolant and brake fluid (which typically require renewal every two to three years regardless of mileage), and the health of the twelve-volt battery should all be factored into any purchase decision. Furthermore, SAAB-specific parts supply is increasingly limited, so any major mechanical failure may carry a premium repair cost or require sourcing from specialists, which should be weighed against the purchase price.