Basic Information Identification Make: Saab Model: 9-5 Year: 2002 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Saab owners seeking to maintain their vehicles Competitive Analysis Comparison: Offers...
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (refer to manual for specific grade and capacity, e.g., Mobil 1 75W-90)
Automatic Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI or equivalent (refer to manual for specific type and capacity)
Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 4800 mm (189.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on engine and features
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 2000 kg (4409 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 520 liters (18.4 cu ft) for sedan, 460 liters (16.2 cu ft) for wagon (excluding underfloor storage)
Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (based on similar era vehicles and Saab's safety reputation)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (based on similar era vehicles and Saab's safety reputation)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver, front passenger, side airbags (often standard, check specific trim)
Body Structure:
Saab 'B' Pillar design, reinforced safety cage
Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Factory CD/Radio system with optional CD changer, potential for aftermarket integration.
Display:
Saab Information Display (SID) for climate control, audio, and vehicle status messages.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Onboard Diagnostics:
OBD-II compliant system for diagnostics and emission monitoring.
Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil type)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable for most 2002 models, which use a timing chain. Refer to manual for specific engine variant maintenance.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
Silicate-free G48 coolant or equivalent (e.g., Saab Blue/Green coolant, GM Dex-Cool compatible)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Known Issues
Saab Arch Problems:
Crankcase ventilation (PCV) system clogging, oil sludge build-up (especially with neglected oil changes), DI cassette failure, turbocharger issues, fuel pump failures, automatic transmission issues (sluggish shifts, overheating).
Specific Common Faults:
Door lock actuators, ECC (Electronic Climate Control) head unit failures, SID (Saab Information Display) pixelation.
Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Origin:
Swedish automotive manufacturer, formerly owned by General Motors (GM)
Model Evolution
First Generation:
First generation 9-5 launched in 1997, replacing the Saab 9000
Mid-Cycle Refresh:
Significant facelift (often referred to as 'Griffin' facelift) introduced for the 2006 model year, though this manual covers the pre-facelift 2002 model.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Trollhättan, Sweden
Production Years:
1997-2010 (across both generations)
Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Saab vehicles of this era were generally well-regarded for safety, often receiving good ratings in crash tests.