Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
1990 Saab 9000 Problems
Noise and Overheating Due to Water Pump Failure
The water pump can fail causing noise on the left side of the engine and overheating. Other symptoms include coolant loss and leakage at the front/left area of the engine.
Coolant Leakage from Water Pump
If coolant is leaking, it may be from the water pump. Coolant will be seen at the front of the engine in the lower left.
Excessive Exhaust Noise from Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Failure
The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) Valve can fail, which also causes EGR distribution valve failure. The Check Engine Light may illuminate and there will be excessive exhaust noise.
Engine Dies while Driving Or Will Crank but not Start
The direct ignition cassette can fail causing the engine to die while driving, and/or it will crank but start. Diagnosis may also discover trouble codes for random misfires.
Lack of Boost or Over Boost Condition Due to APC Solenoid Failure
The APC Solenoid, also known as the boost pressure control solenoid, can fail creating an over-boost condition or a lack of boost from the turbocharger. This may be felt in an abrupt loss of acceleration under heavy load (climbing a hill, or quick acceleration).
Oil Leaks from the Distributor O-Ring
Oil commonly leaks from the distributor o-ring requiring replacement of the o-ring. Oil will be visible on the front of the engine near the distributor.
Head Gasket Failure
The head gasket can fail causing the coolant and oil to mix in the engine, and external leaks. Symptoms can include overheating, white smoke from the tailpipe at start-up or acceleration, and the visible presence of oil in the coolant expansion tank.
Oil Leaks from the Oil Pump Cover Seal
Oil can leak from the oil pump cover seal. Oil will be visible at the bottom and left side of the engine, behind the crankshaft pulley. The seal will need to be replaced.
Oil Leaks from the Valve Cover Gasket
Oil commonly leaks from the valve cover gasket requiring replacement of the gasket. Oil will be visible at the top of the engine and possibly in the center area around the spark plugs.