SAAB 9-5 (2011)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 622 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
85%
Total Tests (2024)
622
Avg Mileage
110,433 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,577
Is the 2011 SAAB 9-5 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the SAAB brand average of 75%.
At 13 years old, 85% of SAAB 9-5s from 2011 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 622 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 110,433 miles.
How does the 2011 SAAB 9-5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2011 SAAB 9-5 has 110,433 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 96,200 miles for a 13-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 2011 sits between the two at 85%.
How much does a 2011 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 2011 SAAB 9-5
The 2011 SAAB 9-5 is a family car with a 1956cc diesel engine. 622 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. Among all cars from 2011, the average MOT pass rate is 77%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 110,433 miles at 13 years old, SAAB 9-5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2011 SAAB 9-5 Fuel Costs
The 1956cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 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 2011 SAAB 9-5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,577 (£131/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 85% 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 2011 SAAB 9-5
At 13 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 2011 SAAB 9-5
The SAAB 9-5 is actually the most reliable option among similar diesel family cars from this era. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2013) 85% pass rate (same) from 103,434 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2013) 79% pass rate (-6%) from 101,969 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-11%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2013) 85% pass rate (same) from 71,326 tests