AboutJerry Schwell Expertise Most anything about SAAB 900's 1990 and earlier, except for automatic transmission info. Also, I have lotsa vintage parts.
Experience I have rebuilt many dozens of SAABS, from 1970's to 1990's.
Education/Credentials BSEE grad work in electronics and underwater acoustics.
Expert: Jerry Schwell Date: 5/7/2008 Subject: saab not starting
Question We have a Saab 9-5, 2001 model with about 95k miles. The car will, and it seems random, not start. Sometimes it is hours after the car has been off and at other times, it is right after the car has stopped. When you turn the key there is no sound coming from the engine at all. All the dash lights come on and things appear normal. I've looked at the battery cables and they appear to be clean as does the ground to the body. Recently the engine light came on, but it is sporadic as well and may have been caused by not tightening the gas cap after a refill. Any thoughts...
Answer Gregg:
With no sound whatsoever coming when you put the key in the start position, the problem can be in three places, listed below in order of likelihood:
1. The starter itself; would need replacement.
2. The neutral safety switch (only on automatic transmission equipped vehicles); likewise replacement required.
3. The key switch itself; requiring disassembly of console and replacement of switch.
A typical mechanic should be able to identify which of these is at fault in just a few minutes. OR, if you are handy and have a voltmeter, you could as well.
