There are no safety recalls for the 2011 Saab 9-5, but owners have filed 9 complaints with NHTSA.
2011 Saab 9-5 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Exterior Lighting | 5 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Structure | 1 | |
Most reported parts
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 58,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2011 Saab 9-5 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Structure · at 80,000 miles · reported Dec 8, 2018
Premature wear (Burn-out) of the halogen-style light bulbs in each of the rear turn signal and brake lights (The halogen lights serve as both a turn signal and brake light). The halogen lights appear to burn out every 4-6 months. The bulbs are creating excessive heat within the light housing and melting/fusing to the plastic housing. I believe this is potentially a fire risk. There is premature rust forming on the trunk lid aswell.
Air Bags · reported Apr 29, 2016
Takata recall. The contact owns a 2011 saab 9-5. The contact received a recall notification of NHTSA campaign number: 16v063000 (Air bags); however, the parts for the recall were not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not notified. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Exterior Lighting · reported Mar 30, 2016
Since 35,000 miles, I AM constantly getting notification errors to a replace rear turn signal with each usage of it. Simultaneously, the signal blinking is overaggressive, announcing its malfunction to my fellow road companions and traffic authorities who then politely tell me multiple time a day that my turn signal is about to go out. Although I appreciate this, I have replaced the bulb multiple times to rule out faulty bulbs. Within a couple of days, the issue starts all over again. The turn signal blinks at 160+ clicks per minute versus the accepted 80 cpm. The blub and socket are melting…
Exterior Lighting · at 15,000 miles · reported Mar 28, 2016
About once a month since about 10,000 miles I have had to replace one of the rear brake light socket assemblies because the plastic insert that holds the light bulb is melting. When it heats and melts, its shape slightly distorts disconnecting the connection between the light bulb and the light bulb holder. Thank goodness there are replacement parts on ebay but having to spend an extra 20 bucks every other month seems ridiculous and certainly something worthy to look into as a recall.
Exterior Lighting · at 87,000 miles · reported Feb 5, 2016
The rear tail lights overheat, causing the bulbs to burn out and wiring to melt. We have had the bulbs and sockets replaced multiple times on both sides since 2013, but the only thing that fixes the problem is replacing the entire assembly. Just had the socket and bulb for passenger side replaced twice in one month, and it is gone again.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2011 Saab 9-5 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2011 Saab 9-5 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2011 Saab 9-5?
Owners report exterior lighting problems most often (5 reports), followed by service brakes (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 58,000 miles.
Are Saab recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Saab dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.