SAAB 9-5 (2008)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,659 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
1,659
Avg Mileage
122,813 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£2,017
Is the 2008 SAAB 9-5 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the SAAB brand average of 75%.
At 16 years old, 79% of SAAB 9-5s from 2008 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,659 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 122,813 miles.
How does the 2008 SAAB 9-5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2008 SAAB 9-5 has 122,813 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 118,400 miles for a 16-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 2008 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 2008 SAAB 9-5 cost to run?
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 2008 SAAB 9-5
The 2008 SAAB 9-5 is a family car with a 1985cc petrol engine. 1,659 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2008, the average MOT pass rate is 73%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 122,813 miles at 16 years old, SAAB 9-5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2008 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 2008 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 79% 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 2008 SAAB 9-5
At 16 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 2008 SAAB 9-5
If reliability is your priority, there are 2 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FOCUS (2009) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 105,193 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2010) 67% pass rate (-12%) from 60,994 tests
- MINI MINI (2010) 80% pass rate (+1%) from 59,218 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2007) 80% pass rate (+1%) from 55,686 tests