SAAB 9-5 (2004)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,364 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
73%
Total Tests (2024)
1,364
Avg Mileage
131,575 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,050
Is the 2004 SAAB 9-5 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 9 points below the national average of 82%.
At 20 years old, 73% of SAAB 9-5s from 2004 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,364 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 131,575 miles.
How does the 2004 SAAB 9-5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2004 SAAB 9-5 has 131,575 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 148,000 miles for a 20-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
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%. The 2004 sits between the two at 73%.
How much does a 2004 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 2004 SAAB 9-5
The 2004 SAAB 9-5 is a family car with a 2170cc diesel engine. 1,364 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2004, the average MOT pass rate is 72%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 131,575 miles at 20 years old, SAAB 9-5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2004 SAAB 9-5 Fuel Costs
The 2170cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 40 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,245 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2004 SAAB 9-5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £2,050 (£171/month), broken down as £1245 fuel, £250 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 73% 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 2004 SAAB 9-5
At 20 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. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2004 SAAB 9-5
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2006) 72% pass rate (-1%) from 60,321 tests
- HONDA CIVIC (2006) 71% pass rate (-2%) from 28,045 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER (2006) 73% pass rate (same) from 23,355 tests
- LAND ROVER DISCOVERY (2006) 78% pass rate (+5%) from 17,245 tests