1986 Saab 900
Only 9 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 9 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 9
- Recalls
- 2
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
Campaigns on file for 1986
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1986: 9 complaints
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 9 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Electrical system
6 of 9 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring and module.
Show complaint excerpts
My 1986 , 8 valve, 2.0 liter Saab 900 stalls out in hot weather and will not restart unless at least 15 minutes have passed. I have replaced the fuel filter,distributor cap, ignition coil, spark plugs, and the problem still exists.
NHTSA ODI report, 2003-09-01
Also filed under Fuel system, other
Engine and engine cooling
5 of 9 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing catalytic convertor and exhaust system.
Show complaint excerpts
Vehicle engine fire.
NHTSA ODI report, 1998-10-14
Catalytic converter overheated wiring and sent smoke into passenger compartment. Tt
NHTSA ODI report, 1995-09-06
Tires
2 of 9 total reports mention: tires, most commonly citing temporary/emergency spare tire.
Suspension
1 of 9 total reports mentions: suspension, most commonly citing multiple axle.
Service brakes
1 of 9 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Safety timeline
2 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
R
1986-07-02Steering86V057000 The bolt in the upper steering column u-joint clamp may have been over torqued and may break.
Remedy: Replace and properly torque bolt.
-
R
1987-03-23Fuel system, gasoline87V013000 The fuel hose between the pressure regulator and the injector fuel rail may rupture due to stress.
Remedy: Replace fuel hose with new preformed plastic hose.
Buy-smart checklist
1986 Saab 900 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Electrical system: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Engine and engine cooling: 5 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 2 reports on file for this year.
Verify these recalls were completed
- Recall 86V057000 · Steering
- Recall 87V013000 · Fuel system, gasoline
FAQ
- Is the 1986 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 1986 Saab 900?
- The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1986 Saab 900 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.