1988 Saab 900
Only 13 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 13 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 13 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 13 total reports mention: power train.
2 of 13 total reports mention: parking brake.
1 of 13 total reports mentions: visibility.
Show complaint excerpts
LOCATION OF DEFROSTER VENTS PREVENT WINDSHIELD FROM DEFROSTING ENTIRELY. *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19950420
1 of 13 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
SUDDEN ACCELERATION, CAUSING ACCIDENT/INJURY.
NHTSA ODI report, 19961114
1 of 13 total reports mentions: suspension.
SAFETY TIMELINE
BOLTS USED IN THE ATTACHMENTS OF THE FRONT SUSPENSION SYSTEM CONTROL ARMS MAY BE DEFECTIVE.
Remedy: REPLACE BOLTS WITH PROPER SPECIFICATION BOLTS.
Campaign 88V149000 — check if this car was fixed
BATTERY CABLE GROUNDING
WIRING HARNESS MAY CHAFE AGAINST SHARP EDGES UNDER THE DASHBOARD AND AGAINST A SUPPORT UNDER THE REAR SEAT (1988 MODELS ONLY).
Remedy: INSTALL RUBBER PROTECTIVE STRIPS TO SHARP EDGES AND COMPLETELY ENCASE WIRE HARNESS IN A PROTECTIVE PLASTIC TUBE.
Campaign 88V173000 — check if this car was fixed
SEAT BACK RECLINER FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 Saab 900 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for parking brake issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 88V149000 (suspension) has been completed.
- Verify recall 88V173000 (electrical system) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1988 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 1988 Saab 900?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 15% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 Saab 900 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.