Saab 9-5 years to avoid
The Saab 9-5 years to avoid are 1999, 2001, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2007, 2009 — each drew complaint volumes well above the model's norm or has an open safety investigation. The 1972 is the cleanest year on record.
724
Total complaints
16
Recall campaigns
1965–2011
Years covered
10
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
9-5 years to avoid
Every 9-5 year
Common questions
What are the worst Saab 9-5 years?
Based on NHTSA complaint rates and open investigations, the 9-5 years to avoid are 1999, 2001, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2007, 2009. The cleanest year on record is 1972.
What is the best year for the Saab 9-5?
By complaint volume, 1972 has the cleanest NHTSA record among 9-5 years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Saab 9-5 have?
Across all model years, the 9-5 has 16 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 724 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.