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Is it worth importing a 2009 Saab 9-3 diesel?

Hi,

I want to know how much VRT I would have to pay on a 2009 Saab 9-3 1.9 diesel. When I try and do it on the VRT website it doesn’t give me the option of that actual model. Don’t want to buy it if the duty is going to end up costing me too much and then the car won’t be worth the money then.

Thanks

Louise (Louth)

Feb 2025 Filed under: VRT

Expert answer

Hi Louise,

The difficulty here is working on what OMSP (Open Market Selling Price) Revenue is likely to place on the vehicle, especially one so rare. Let’s say a maximum of €4,000, though it should be worth less than that.

Then we need the CO2 rating, as that gives us the VRT band and percentage. Our data shows that the car would have a CO2 value of 137g/km. However, that’s the old “NEDC” figure and the Irish government will apply an “uplifting” formula to bring it up to WLTP standards for VRT calculation. It comes out as 166g/km.

That means VRT in Band 18, or 30 per cent of the OMSP.

With an OMSP of €4,000, the VRT would be €1,200.

And don’t forget the NOx levy, which would be quite high for that car as well regardless of the OMSP.


Worth importing a 2008 Saab from the UK?

Found a little gem in the UK; is it worth importing to Ireland or will it set me back a ton? It's an 2008 Saab for £10K

Mattias Stromberg (Trim)

Dec 2024 Filed under: importing

Expert answer

Hi Mattias,

If you love the car and can't find the same thing in Ireland or the North - and you don't want to look in the rest of Europe for a left-hand-drive example - then it's your only choice I guess.

It will cost a bit though. Beyond the usual VRT, you'll also pay VAT and import duty.


Cash for cars sites any good?

Hi guys,

I have a 2011 Saab 9-3 Vector Sport with 56k miles, 1.9 TTDi. I need to sell it as we only need one car in the family now and the Saab is only being used at the weekend. There are a few Irish websites offering to buy cars for cash. Do you know if they are any good? Should I expect a trade in price or less?

Any advice much appreciated.

Regards Rory.

Rory Donoghue (Dublin 12)

Aug 2018 Filed under: used car values

Expert answer

Hi Rory,

Generally speaking, the places that offer to buy your car for cash will be offering a very much lower value than you might achieve selling the car yourself, or trading in with a dealer. That said, it is a route to a quick sale if you’re struggling to get shot of the car, but make sure that the firm you use is reputable.


What will I replace my Saab 9-5 with?

Hi

I'm looking for a reliable and cheap to buy saloon or estate to replace a 10-year-old Saab 9-5. I'm thinking Saab again. Any advice on alternatives?

Many thanks, Dave.

David Doyle (Dublin)

Sep 2017 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi David,

One of the last of the 2010 Saab 9-5s could be a good purchase, but it's a bit tricky for us to get a handle on how reliable they are as so few were sold. We've always fancied one ourselves actually. Another good option, and not one of the obvious German saloons, is the Lexus GS, especially if your budget stretches to the newer GS 300h hybrid. The safest option would be a Honda Accord, which is reliable enough to out-live the Solar System, but if you like your Swedes then the Volvo S80 is a great buy - reliable, hugely comfortable, and temptingly cheap these days. 


Is the Saab 9-5 1.9 diesel a good car?

I have a Saab 9-5 1.9 Tid diesel saloon in relatively good condition and 155,000km on the clock. Is it rated as a good car?

James Mc Greal (Drogheda)

Dec 2016 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi James,

It depends; do you mean the first-generation 9-5, which was in production from 1996 to 2009 or do you mean the short-lived last-of-the-line 9-5, which only survived in production for two years before Saab went bust?

If it’s the first generation car then the rating is a little mixed. It was always well thought of in terms of overall quality, comfort and driving dynamics, but there were a number of annoying, niggling reliability issues with that model, although at least with the 1.9-litre diesel engine you’re avoiding the troublesome 2.2-litre model.

If it’s the later, second-generation version of the 9-5 then it is indeed very well thought of, and generally considered one of Saab’s best cars. It’s just a shame that it was also its last.


Should I go for a Saab 9-3 estate?

I am looking at a second hand Saab 9-3 Ttid estate from 2011. Should I be worried by the fact that Saabs are no longer in production for parts etc?

Richard Gelletlie (Wicklow)

Jan 2016 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Richard,

No, because there are plenty of Saab specialists still supplying parts, so you'll be able to get them - albeit at a price. The worry is reliability. While the 9-3 always performed well in things like the JD Power survey, it's bigger brother the 9-5 was a reliability calamity. Check everything carefully and make sure it's been cared for properly.


Should I go for an old Saab 9-5 auto?

Hi,

I'm thinking of taking a chance on a 2007 or 2008 Saab 9-5 automatic. Any advice appreciated: 2.0-litre petrol or 1.9-litre diesel?

Many thanks

Dave

David Doyle (Dublin)

Jan 2016 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi David,

I'd say overall that the 2.0 petrol will be the more reliable engine, not least because it's an older, more thoroughly developed unit. But beware - horror stories of 9-5 unreliability are legion...


What do you think of buying a used Saab?

Re buying a second hand Saab, what is your advice? Currently driving a ten-year-old 9-3.

Catherine Dooley (Dublin)

Jan 2016 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Catherine,

Tread carefully. We've heard many a horror story about reliability issues on the old 9-3 and 9-5, so caution is advised. If you've owned and loved your 9-3, and it hasn't let you down, then well and good, but the overall experience is a negative one. One possibility might be to track down a last of the line second-gen 9-5. There aren't many around but they're cheap and use a lot of Opel components, which makes them easier to fix in the future. A really lovely car and one worth a punt if you can find one.


My wife and I are in the market for a new car...

My wife and I are in our mid seventies and are in the market for a new car. We have been driving Saabs for 30 years and are now considering a BMW, a Mercedes-Benz, a Jaguar or a Lexus. I have been looking at 5 Series/E-Class category cars, mainly because I am for the first time in my life able to afford such a car. But I am totally confused by the jargon and the names the different manufacturers give to their options or packages. Please tell me what to buy. The most important feature for us is safety, including things that will stop us doing stupid things behind the wheel. Also good satnav and park assist/camera features.

And should I be looking at cheaper models? Do we really need E-Class or 3 Series to travel in comfort or should we drop down a category? Just tell me what to buy!

Thanks very much.

Peter, Dublin 6

Peter Kelly (Dublin)

Jun 2015 Filed under: choosing new car

Expert answer

Hi Peter,

To be honest, if it's just the two of you, then you don't really need to trade up to an E-Class or 5 Series sized car - a 3 Series would do you just as nicely. That said, there is definitely a slight comfort benefit from going for the bigger model, so I can understand why you might want to. 

I'm going to suggest something a little left-field for you but I think it might just work - have a look at a Lexus GS 300h. It's perhaps not as obviously economical as a BMW 520d or Mercedes E 200 CDI, but it's enormously refined and comfortable, and endlessly reliable and solidly built. It's also really nice to drive and I think the quirky elements of the styling and engineering might appeal to a former Saab driver. Have a test drive and let me know what you think.

Relevant reviews:

Lexus GS 300h review


Are parts for Saabs becoming expensive?

I'm thinking of buying a 2007 Saab 9-3 Linear Sport, 1.9 diesel. It's in good condition and seems to be a very good price, but I'm told parts for Saabs are becoming ridiculously expensive and that's why you can purchase them so cheaply. Can you shed any light on this?

Jules Hickson (Dublin)

Jun 2015 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Jules,

You could be on to something there alright. The 9-3 is generally a pretty reliable car, although you have to watch carefully for things like engine ECU problems (if it's slow to fire up or runs sluggish then walk away) and gearbox and clutch issues. 

As for parts - there is definitely a price difference. A quick trawl of the listings over at micksgarage.ie will show you that, for instance, a replacement front wing for the 9-3 will cost you €114 whereas the same part for a contemporary BMW 3 Series will only set you back €70.  That's not the case right across the board for all parts but there is definitely a premium charged for Saab bits.


How reliable is the Saab 9-5? Can I get parts?

I was looking to buy a 2011 Saab 9-5 Vector. Could you tell me whether it's a reliable car and if something does go wrong how easy it would be to source parts?

Many Thanks, Conor (Dublin)

Conor Carbury (Dublin)

Nov 2014 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Conor,

Tread very, very carefully. Saab 9-5s are generally very troublesome, with electrics and suspension being the key weak points. According to Warranty Direct in the UK, it's probably the least reliable prestige car you can drive. 

In terms of parts, it shouldn't be a major issue and there are Saab specialists such as www.saabparts.com from whom to source them. 

To be honest though, you're probably better off going for something else. Maybe track down a nice Volvo S60 T5 instead? Terrific car, that and much more reliable.


I'm thinking of buying a 2011 Saab 9-5

I have been thinking about buying a 2011 Saab 9-5, which seem to have some great specs - any thoughts/reviews/comments ? I am wondering how easy is it to get parts in the future.

Aidan from Cork

Aidan Mackey (Blarney)

May 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Aidan,

Parts probably won't be a problem for the immediate and medium term, especially because so much of the car was mechanically shared with the Opel Insignia, but otherwise it depends on how the long-term reliability pans out and that's something of a mystery. There were so few sold that it's hard to get a handle on whether or not things actually go wrong on them.

On the upside, all of the Insignia bits underneath are decent quality and shouldn't give any major bother; on the downside Saab's reliability record with the preceding 9-5 was patchy to say the very least. It's a bit of a gamble to be honest, but as old-school Saab fans, we'd say it's worth a punt and let us know how you get on.

Here's our latest review of the Saab 9-5 as a new car by the way.


Should I run a mile from a diesel Saab?

Looked at nice diesel Saab recently: my friends say run, what do you think?

Michael Moloney (Cashel, Co Tipperary)

Apr 2014 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Michael,

Split decision; if it's a 9-3 running the 1.9 diesel then it's actually quite nice, if a little clunky compared to more modern cars. 

If it's a 9-5 then yes, run. Terribly unreliable car.


Would I be mental to buy the last of the Saab 9-5s?

I love the shape and image of the Saab 9-5 and the fact that they can be picked up for a song in the UK. Apart from the fact that they are now defunct and the resale value is thusly affected, are there any disadvantages to buying one?

Paul Campbell (Irishtown)

Jan 2014 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Paul,

I presume you're talking about the 'new' 9-5 - the last car Saab launched before everything went pear-shaped? It's a little hard to tell on the reliability front how good or bad they are, simply because there are so few on the ground. That said, all of the mechanical and chassis parts are shared with the Opel Insignia, and that's a car that has proved very reliable, bar the occasional electrical niggle. 

I know what you mean about the shape and style - you're talking to a long-term Saab fan here, and the 9-5 was an especially nice car, massive for the money (practically Mercedes-Benz S-Class sized for the price of a BMW 3 Series) and, in the fine Saab tradition, had a huge and comfy interior. It's also pretty decent to drive, not BMW good perhaps, but nice all the same and the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine should prove very frugal.

It is a bit risky, I suppose, but a risk I reckon might just be worth taking. Might be worth taking out an aftermarket warranty mind, just in case...


What are the different Saab models?

What are the different Saab models?

Declan Gilsenan (Carlingford)

Jan 2014 Filed under: miscellaneous

Expert answer

Wow, how much detail do you want? Here goes...

Saab 92 - the first Saab on sale. Two-stroke engine made it a bit impractical.

Saab 96 - like a 92 that real people could drive. Sweet V4 engine. Lots of rallying success.

Saab 99 - the first truly modern 'big chin' Saab. Gorgeous outside and in and with tearaway turbo engine. Fab.

Saab 900 - a highly developed 99, stayed in production for ever. Lovely convertible version.

Saab 9000 - some say it's not a proper Saab as it shared a platform with Fiat/Alfa/Lancia. Ignore them, as it's lovely, big, comfy and solidly built.

Saab 9-3 - the first General Motors Saab. Opel Vectra-based. Lovely cabin but flaccid chassis.

Saab 9-5 - bigger Saab but also Vectra-based. Better than you'd think but major reliability issues.

Saab 9-3 - second-gen 9-3 was based on the 2002 Vectra but not actually much better. Handsome estate version though.

Saab 9-5 - massive second-gen 9-5 was based on the Opel Insignia, really rather good and, sadly, the last car Saab ever made.


Any recalls or problems with the Saab 9-5?

Any recalls or problems with the Saab 9-5?

George Breaden (Longford)

Jan 2014 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi George,

Oh dear, where to begin? Warranty Direct describes the 9-5 as one of the most troublesome cars it's ever surveyed. Electrics are the most common problems, so make sure all the buttons work, then check the suspension for signs of wear, tear or incoming failure. Uneven tyre wear is an early sign of problems there.

Approach with caution basically.


Is the 2006 Saab 9-3 a good car or not?

Thinking of buying a 2006 Saab 9-3 1.9 diesel. Good car or not?

Paddy Dunne (Cashel)

Dec 2013 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Paddy,

I have a bit of a soft spot for Saabs in general, but would advise some caution here. That generation 9-3 suffered from a chassis that aged very badly relative to the competition and to be blunt, a Ford Mondeo will drive rings around it. There's also not a lot of space in the back seats. 

On the upside, the 1.9 diesel (a Fiat-General Motors unit) is a good 'un - noisy but very economical and, being a Saab, it's both refreshingly different to other cars, superbly comfy and well able to deal with the rigours of an Irish winter.

Hope that's of some help


What's wrong with my Saab 9-3?

My Saab 9-3 stops running when I lift my foot off the accelerator. What could be wrong?

Richard Daly (Cork)

Oct 2013 Filed under: fault

Expert answer

Hi Richard,

Sounds to us like the idle control valve. Have your mechanic check that first.

Let us know how you get on


Hold onto my Saab or change it?

I have a 2005 Saab 95 (2.0t) petrol automatic with about 136,000km on the clock. It just failed the NCT on emissions with "smoke". It is apparently a problem with the turbo (burning oil) and between that and a few other more routine issues it looks like about €1,200 to sort. The car seems to be running well otherwise, but I'm worried that there might be other issues around the corner.

That's the background - my question is, should I hold onto it and get it fixed or... bite the bullet and go for a change?

J B (Dublin)

Jun 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi James,

 

I’m tempted to say yes, simply because the car is going to be worth very little if you go to sell it or trade it in without that work being done. True, the cost of repair in this case is probably about what the car is worth, but if you still love it (and it sounds as if you do) then I think it’s worth having a go at maintaining it.

True, there’s always the danger of more trouble down the line and it’s impossible for us to quantify how likely that is, but put it this way — the €1,200 you’ll spend on it now will be a fraction of the cost of chopping it in for something new, so if there are bigger problems in a year’s time, you won’t have cost yourself too much. 


Saab 9-3, VW Jetta or Skoda Octavia?

What would you say is the most reliable from the following: 2009/2010 Saab 1.9 diesel 9-3, VW Jetta or Skoda Octavia?

I'm looking for a car that will not develop electronic/electrical problems that will disable the car or turn on warning lights that require special equipment to turn off, if such a car exists these days!

Thanks

Tony Maher

Tony Maher (Ennis)

May 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Tony,

No, no such car exists. They all, when a problem occurs, need a trip to a diagnostic rig. Of the three you’ve mentioned though, the Octavia is by far the best, and yes even better than the Jetta with which it shares its mechanical bits and pieces.


View on the 2008 Saab 9-3 1.8t?

What is your view on the 2008 Saab 9-3 1.8t Linear Sport?

Ger Cuddy (Laois)

May 2013 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Ger,

We always did have a big soft spot for Saabs in general, but the sad fact is that the last-gen 9-3 was neither a great car in and of itself, nor especially reliable. The 1.8t petrol engine was, at least, a little better than the diesel options in terms of reliability, but it’s probably going to be troublesome. Definitely don’t buy one that doesn’t have a full service history, and don’t pay too much for it either. I reckon €4,000 would be top value.


Is €300 too much to pay for an alternator?

Is €300 too much to pay for an alternator for a 2008 Saab 9-3?

Edmund Ryan (Kilkenny)

Nov 2012 Filed under: servicing

Expert answer

Hi Edmund,

That sounds reasonable if it's a new alternator.


What do I do about my dead Saab key?

The key for my Saab 9-3 has stop working and the car seems to be dead now with nothing coming up on the dash when the key goes in. Also, as I live in Donegal and there are no Saab dealers here where do I go from here?

Annette Conaghan (Letterkenny)

Apr 2012 Filed under: fault

Expert answer

Hi Annette,

First thing to try is changing the battery in the key. Hopefully it's as simple as that!

If not, come back to us again...


Skoda Superb, Saab 9-5 or Volvo S80 - all diesel - which one?

Hi lads,

Question for you: 2009 Skoda Superb 1.9 TDI, 2008 Saab 9-5 1.9 Tid or 2008 Volvo S80 2.0 D: all similar price. Safety, reliability and economy are what's important and in that order!

Thanks

Justin McElwee (Galway)

Dec 2011 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Justin,

Let's break it down into chunks. First of all, safety. Here are the crash test results from Euro NCAP:

Skoda: five stars on new system

Saab: five stars on old system

Volvo: four stars on old system

Looks like the Volvo loses out there, though it's a safe car by most standards.

In terms of reliability, the Skoda has no reported issues. The Saab doesn't fare so well, with plenty of electrical issues and problems with the suspension. Check for uneven tyre wear and that all the switches are working - every single one. The Volvo is a little better, but has a few known problems, with random electrical gremlins and several recalls. If you're serious about that one get confirmation that the recall work has been completed. Also, it should have its timing belt, tensioners and pulleys changed every four years so best to check that it has been done.

Assuming you're looking at the 105hp Superb, then the combined cycle consumption was quoted at about 5.7 litres/100km (50mpg) and it is a frugal car. The 150hp Saab uses a fraction more fuel (5.8 litres/100km) on the combined cycle, while the 136hp Volvo also uses 5.7 litre/100km.

So in summary, for us it would be between the Skoda and the Volvo. They're both comfortable and spacious, though we'd trust the reliability of the Superb more given the data.

Hope that helps.


What car to replace my reliable Volvo?

Hi folks,

I drive 500 miles a week at my own expense to and from work on the N24 - one of the worst national routes in the country. My 2001 Volvo S60 2 litre Turbo (Petrol) has been mostly a great servant and now has almost 240,000 miles on the clock. The running costs have become a bit tasty in recent times. I have a budget of around €15,000 to replace it with a second hand motor. I'll consider most any marque of car. Running costs, reliability and safety are my most important considerations. Any chance of a few suggestions?

Noel Carroll (Tipperary)

Sep 2011 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Noel, 

You obviously spend a lot of time in your car on a very bad road so the Volvo would probably have been ideal for you. In that case I am recommending that you get something with super comfy suspension and super comfy seats. You have probably extracted all of the value from your Volvo, so you can't really expect to be offered much more than a token gesture of up to €1,000 for  that car, but I imagine that you know this. 

So, with your budget of €15,000 then what should you buy? I would imagine that you keep your cars for a long time so future depreciate probably isn't a major factor for you, but you say that running costs are. 

The first car I have picked is a Saab 9-5. Saab are in a little bit of trouble, but their cars are so comfortable, with great seats. This one has a diesel engine and will be cheap to run. It would be a great car to own long term and is well under your budget. 

We really like the Mazda6 here at CompleteCar.ie and here is a nice one with a diesel engine and low mileage. This is a great car for mega mileage and would be super for your needs.

Another brilliant choice would be the Skoda Superb which is massive, comfy and really well built. This one has low mileage, the right engine and is great value. It is amazing value at under €13,000. I think I would buy this to be honest. 

I hope this helps!


How much to repair the balance shaft in my Saab?

How much would it cost to replace the balance chain tensioner and guide on a 2004 Saab 9-3 2.0-litre Turbo?

Gene Lett (Donegal)

Sep 2011 Filed under: servicing

Expert answer

Hi Gene,

Prices for labour etc. vary wildly around the country, but the work involved is only two to three hours. The parts are between €150 and €200. Assuming the garage has the right tools then the engine doesn't need to come out.

Hope that helps.


Will I buy the Saab I have always wanted?

Hi,

I'm considering buying a 04/05 Saab 9-3 petrol with about 80,000 miles on the clock. I have always like this car but are they reliable? And are they expensive to repair? My heart is telling me to get the saab and my head is telling me to get an Avensis/Mondeo type car..Help!

Thanks Ray

Ray Murphy (Dublin)

Jul 2011 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Ray, do you know what? I am like you. I would always go for the older, more interesting car rather than the brand new snooze-box. I won't lie to you though, the Saab could be a pain if you compare it to something like an Avensis (sorry, I nodded off there). Look, a few things might end up going wrong, but it is a way cooler car than the ones that you mentioned. Repairs won't be too bad as most Opel dealers can cope with them pretty well. I'd say go for it, but don't expect it to be as trouble free as an Avensis.


Where do I get a new key fob for my Saab?

Where can I get a key fob for a Saab 9-3 1.9 TD without having to take out a bank loan? Is there some place on the Long Mile Road in Dublin?

Thanks

Mike Mc Donald (Dublin)

May 2011 Filed under: miscellaneous

Expert answer

Hi Mike,

You best bet would be to contact OHM, the distributor of Saab. Here is its details.


How reliable are second-hand Saabs?

I have always loved Saabs. I am now considering buying a used 9-3 or 9-5, maybe a 2007 model or thereabouts. I have heard that some models more than others can be very expensive to maintain, as major things go wrong with them, like the Turbo, etc... Is this true? Is there one model more than another I should look for?

Trish Gallagher (Wexford)

Feb 2011 Filed under: reliability

Expert answer

Hi Trish,

In general, the later Saabs are pretty solid. They are generally based on General Motors platforms and the engines are tried and trusted. As they get older they can become a little expensive to repair but since you are looking at 2007 models or newer then these should be good. It is true that there have been some reports of failed turbos in the past, but they are quite rare. 

There was a recall in 2007 for a problem with the handbrake but in general this car has been good. Depending on your needs, we would say you should get the cabrio, because this has brilliant resale value. This example is nice and comes from a SIMI dealer. 

Otherwise, I would probably go for this 150hp diesel, which has low mileage and would have good fuel economy. 

I hope this helps. 


Which car to replace my beloved Saab?

Hi

I'm looking to replace our '99 Saab 9-3, which has been a great car - now with 206,000 miles on the clock. I'm looking for a safe, reliable family car - four- or five-door - with low tax. I'm contemplating 2008 models to reduce tax - we're currently paying  €634. I'm looking at Skoda Octavia, Volvo S40, Volkswagen Passat, Saab 9-3 and Toyota Avensis. I want manual and probably diesel. Which would you advise or are there others to consider?

Peadar O'Callaghan (Donegal )

Jan 2011 Filed under: choosing used car

Expert answer

Hi Peadar,

Firstly it is hardly a surprise that your Saab has served you so well. Those cars are so well-built that they can go on for what seems like forever. I'm sure you realise that you probably won't get much for your Saab, unless of course you were prepared to opt for a new car and avail of the Government Scrappage Scheme, but since you mentioned 2008 cars we will deal with those first. 

My first choice for you would be a 2008 Saab 9-3 Diesel. Since you have enjoyed your previous Saab so much and it has served you so well, I thought that this would be the best place to start. You can have a 2008 model, in Linear Sport spec, with just 44,000km on the clock from a SIMI-approved Saab dealer for €19,950. The emissions are 147g/km so it sits in motor tax Band C, so will cost just €302 per year in road tax. This car is really nicely specced too. Plus, you will most certainly get the best price for your own Saab from here.

Another fantastic car that might not have considered is the Subaru Legacy diesel, a personal favourite of mine. This car has a brilliant engine, is beautifully balanced on the road and nicely equipped too. You would pay around €20,000 for a 2008 model. They don't come up for sale very often and can be hard to find but they are super cars. 

The same sort of money would get you a Volvo S40, although my only issue with this car is that it might feel a little small compared to the others. The S40 1.6-litre diesel has low emissions however, so you will pay just €156 per year on road tax. This car is okay, but I don't think it's anywhere near your best choice here. 

The Avensis is a good solid choice and should be reliable and comfortable, but after having quite an interesting car in the shape of the Saab, you might feel a little bit like you sold your soul with the Toyota. You will save some money though. A 2008 model from a Toyota dealer will cost you under €18,000. Sure this car will be a safe choice, but I think it might bore you a little. 

You will save even more money with a 2008 Skoda Octavia Diesel, which will cost you under €16,000 and just €156 in road tax. They are nicely built too. Or in the case of a Volkswagen Passat, you should best avoid the 1.9-litre diesel and get a 2.0-litre one instead - the 1.9-litre diesel is noisy. So this 2.0-litre diesel with 140hp will cost you €18,500 and will still just cost you €302 per year in road tax. 

Another one to consider, and a very under-rated car, is the Citroen C5. The newer model is really good and comfortable and you could have a 2008 version for around €17,500. Here is one.

If you ask me which of this lot you should buy, I would say the Saab or the Subaru. The rest are fine, but if you loved your Saab then those two will be the most interesting for you. 

I hope this helps! 


How much for crankshaft seal on a Saab?

How much should it cost to replace a crankshaft oil seal on a 2004 Saab 9-3 2.0-litre petrol Turbo?

Gene Lett (Donegal)

Jul 2010 Filed under: servicing

Expert answer

Hi Gene,

We contacted John McCarthy Motorpoint, Saab dealers in Cork and they told us that you should expect to pay around €400 for a front seal and about €330 for a rear seal.

I hope this helps


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