SAAB 9-5 (2002)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 828 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
71%
Total Tests (2024)
828
Avg Mileage
125,369 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2002 SAAB 9-5 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 11 points below the national average of 82%. It falls below the SAAB brand average of 75%.
At 22 years old, 71% of SAAB 9-5s from 2002 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 828 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 125,369 miles.
How does the 2002 SAAB 9-5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2002 SAAB 9-5 has 125,369 miles on the clock, which is below the expected 162,800 miles for a 22-year-old car. This suggests lighter use than average, which generally means less wear on major components.
Best year to buy a SAAB 9-5?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 71%. Consider a different year if reliability is a priority.
How much does a 2002 SAAB 9-5 cost to run?
Higher than average due to low pass rate
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SAAB 9-5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 88% | 50 | 91,077 mi |
| 2011 | 85% | 622 | 110,433 mi |
| 2010 | 83% | 1,096 | 112,776 mi |
| 2009 | 79% | 1,050 | 116,189 mi |
| 2008 | 79% | 1,659 | 122,813 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 1,891 | 123,119 mi |
| 2006 | 75% | 1,825 | 130,088 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 1,671 | 129,775 mi |
| 2004 | 73% | 1,364 | 131,575 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 869 | 134,877 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 828 | 125,369 mi |
| 2001 | 77% | 620 | 122,330 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 519 | 127,259 mi |
| 1999 | 79% | 601 | 126,506 mi |
| 1998 | 73% | 322 | 118,343 mi |
Checking a specific SAAB 9-5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2002 SAAB 9-5
The 2002 SAAB 9-5 is a family car with a 1985cc petrol engine. 828 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2002, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model falls short of that benchmark.
With an average of 125,369 miles at 22 years old, SAAB 9-5 owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver.
2002 SAAB 9-5 Fuel Costs
The 1985cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2002 SAAB 9-5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,017 (£168/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 71% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SAAB 9-5 Reliability Trend
Newer SAAB 9-5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2002 SAAB 9-5
At 22 years old, the SAAB 9-5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age.
Alternatives to the 2002 SAAB 9-5
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- MINI MINI (2004) 71% pass rate (same) from 36,444 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2004) 69% pass rate (-2%) from 29,927 tests
- RENAULT CLIO (2004) 68% pass rate (-3%) from 15,179 tests
- MERCEDES C (2004) 72% pass rate (+1%) from 13,493 tests