1983 Saab 900
Only 2 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 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 1 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 2 |
| 1984 | 2 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 9 |
| 1987 | 4 |
| 1988 | 13 |
| 1989 | 22 |
| 1990 | 19 |
| 1991 | 13 |
| 1992 | 21 |
| 1993 | 6 |
| 1994 | 44 |
| 1995 | 100 |
| 1996 | 48 |
| 1997 | 21 |
| 1998 | 24 |
| 1999 | 2 |
| 2000 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
CRUISE CONTROL JAMMED, CAUSING VEHICLE TO ACCELERATE AT FULL THROTTLE, RESULTING IN HEAD-ON COLLISION WITH TREE. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19960706
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
TRANSMISSION SHIFTS ERRATICALY AND PERFORMS POORLY.
NHTSA ODI report, 19990217
SAFETY TIMELINE
THE ELECTRICAL CABLE BETWEEN THE STARTER AND THE ALTERNATOR MAY RUB AGAINST A BRAKE LINE THAT IS ATTACHED TO THE WHEEL WELL ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: THE CABLE CONNECTION AT THE ALTERNATOR WILL BE ADJUSTED AND THE CABLE WILL BE RELOCATED SO IT DOES NOT CHAFE. ANY DAMAGE TO THE CABLE WILL BE REPAIRED.
Campaign 84V012000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1983 Saab 900 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for vehicle speed control issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 84V012000 (electrical system) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1983 Saab 900 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 1983 Saab 900?
The most-reported component is vehicle speed control, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1983 Saab 900 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.