2006 Saab 9-5 2.3L Petrol · LE06 CBV

The latest MOT test recorded in June 2022 resulted in a pass, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning. The vehicle has a history of repeated failures and a persistent list of advisories, suggesting a reactive approach to maintenance where defects are only addressed once they become critical failures. The recurrence of issues spanning the braking system, suspension, and engine seals indicates that the vehicle has not been subject to a rigorous preventative maintenance schedule, leaving it prone to sudden component failure. At approximately 20 years old with 104,794 miles, the vehicle has averaged roughly 5,240 miles per year. This is significantly lower than average usage, which often implies the car has spent extended periods stationary. While low mileage is generally seen as a positive, in a vehicle of this age it frequently leads to the degradation of rubber components and seals. The recorded oil leaks and suspension wear are typical symptoms of a vehicle that has suffered from age-related perishing and standing corrosion rather than high-mileage wear and tear. Buyers must conduct a rigorous inspection of the braking and suspension systems. The MOT history shows chronic issues with pitted and scored brake discs, thin pads, and corroded brake pipes. During a test drive, feel for any shuddering through the brake pedal and listen for metallic grinding. The history of fractured coil springs, leaking shock absorbers, and worn suspension arm bushes suggests a tired chassis. Listen for clunks or knocks when traversing uneven road surfaces and check for uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges, which would indicate failing suspension geometry or worn bushings. The engine and exhaust system require close scrutiny due to previous failures regarding excessive oil leaks, coolant leaks, and exhaust emissions. Inspect the engine bay for fresh oil residue and check the coolant for contamination. The previous exhaust leak suggests the system may be corroded, so a visual inspection of the piping and silencers is essential. Given the low annual mileage, verify that fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage, as old brake fluid and engine oil can lead to internal corrosion and sludge. Finally, check the underbody and brake lines for the corrosion noted in earlier tests to ensure the structural integrity of the vehicle remains sound.