2004 Saab 9-5
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 19 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 19
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 2004
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2004: 19 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1998 | 1 |
| 1999 | 118 |
| 2000 | 102 |
| 2001 | 82 |
| 2002 | 65 |
| 2003 | 49 |
| 2004 | 19 |
| 2005 | 11 |
| 2006 | 23 |
| 2007 | 17 |
| 2008 | 20 |
| 2009 | 2 |
| 2010 | 2 |
| 2011 | 9 |
Known problem areas
Only 19 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
14 of 19 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing rear compartment/trunk and switch.
Show complaint excerpts
I purchased my 2004 Saab 9-5 in 2023. I was under the impression that everything was running and that drivability was proper. When I attempted to drive the automobile it would start, idle 7 minutes and stall.
NHTSA ODI report, 2025-05-10
Also filed under Fuel/propulsion system and engine
Tl* the contact owns a 2004 Saab 9-5. The contact stated that while traveling various speeds, the vehicle suddenly stalled.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-03-14
Tl* the contact owns 2004 Saab 9-5. The contact stated that she was traveling 55 MPH with her purse on the passenger's side seat.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-03-06
Tires
2 of 19 total reports mention: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
Kumho ecsta lx platinum 225/45ZR17 tire on left front of Saab 9-5 with approximately 25,000 miles use blew out suddenly (Rapid loss of air) and without warning at 35 MPH. Appears to have several cracks in sidewall near tread.
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-04-10
After significant vibration under front end at highway speeds appearing at less than 10,000 miles, car underwent alignment and 3 high speed balances.
NHTSA ODI report, 2005-02-24
Fuel/propulsion system
2 of 19 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Engine
2 of 19 total reports mention: engine.
Structure
2 of 19 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing hinge and attachments.
Show complaint excerpts
Back tailgate motor burned out, and the trunk was not accessible. The spare tire and other items were in the trunk.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-08-11
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
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2007-06-13Fuel system, gasoline07V087000 On certain passenger vehicles, the fuel pump retaining tabs holding the fuel lines were damaged during production.
Remedy: Dealers will develop a securing bracket that will secure the fuel lines to the fuel pump even if the plastic retaining tabs should break. The recall began on June 13, 2007. This is an expansion…
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2008-11-25Seats08V160000 Saab is recalling 57,389 my 2002-2008 9-5 series vehicles for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 201, "Occupant protection in interior impact."…
Remedy: Dealers will install a-pillar trim with improved energy-absorbing capability free of charge. The recall began on November 25, 2008. Owners may contact Saab at 1-800-955-9007.
Buy-smart checklist
2004 Saab 9-5 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 14 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel/propulsion system: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 07V087000 · Fuel system, gasoline
- Recall 08V160000 · Seats
FAQ
- Is the 2004 Saab 9-5 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 2004 Saab 9-5?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 74% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2004 Saab 9-5 have?
- 2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-08-10 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.