2005 Saab 9-5 2.2L Diesel · SM55 HXH

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-18 resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s fifth consecutive MOT without recorded defects. While this indicates a stable maintenance record, the presence of persistent advisories from previous MOTs—particularly those related to suspension components, tyre wear patterns, and brake condition—suggests a pattern of gradual wear rather than sudden failure. The advisories from 2021 and earlier, such as worn rear suspension arm bushes and ball joints, along with thin brake pads, indicate that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, its structural and functional integrity is being compromised over time. The absence of failures in the latest test does not negate the need for proactive inspection, as these advisories may escalate without intervention, particularly given the vehicle’s advanced age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 190,453 miles across approximately 21 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,069 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a vehicle of this age and model. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation over recent years suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to consistent but not extreme driving conditions. This consistency is important because it allows wear patterns to develop predictably, but it also means that consumables like brakes, suspension components, and tyres have experienced prolonged exposure to stress. The wear advisories, particularly those related to tyres and suspension, may reflect cumulative usage rather than sudden deterioration, but their persistence demands attention to prevent further degradation or safety risks. Given the recurring advisories—especially those concerning the front and rear suspension ball joints, track rod ends, and rear suspension arm bushes—buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry and alignment. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the suspension during cornering, braking, or over bumps, as these may indicate further play or wear in the ball joints or bushes. Visually inspect the suspension components for signs of excessive wear, such as cracked or deformed bushes, and check for uneven tyre wear, which could signal misalignment or suspension failure. Additionally, verify that the brake pads are not only thin but also that the discs are free from corrosion or binding, which could lead to reduced braking performance or failure. If the suspension components are confirmed to be beyond their useful life, replacement may be necessary to maintain roadworthiness and safety. For tyres, focus on both the tread depth and sidewall condition. The advisories from previous MOTs suggest that the tyres are worn close to the legal limit on specific edges, which could lead to hydroplaning or reduced traction in wet conditions if not addressed promptly. Buyers should replace the tyres to meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central ¾ of the tread and ensure they are balanced and aligned correctly. The rear tyres also show signs of being slightly out of shape, which may indicate improper storage or prolonged standing without movement, leading to uneven wear or potential blowouts. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age, consider checking the 12V battery for signs of weakness, such as difficulty cranking or a dimming headlight, as batteries degrade over time regardless of mileage. For fluids, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, inspect the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant for signs of contamination or degradation, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods. A comprehensive fluid check and top-up may be advisable, especially if the vehicle has been driven under varying conditions that accelerate fluid breakdown.