Saab 9-5 - used buying guide

Used versions of the Saab 9-5 have never been cheaper.

What's more, buyers get loads of standard equipment, exemplary safety protection and superbly comfortable seats.

Tom Hagstrom, a specialist dealer, advises: "They are great. We don't get any big problems with them at all. If not looked after, though, the engine will go pop at 150,000 miles."

If you're tempted, here's what to look out for:

HeadlampsBig and prone to chips. Dealers will charge over £100 per headlight, whereas a breaker will supply one for £39. Self-levelling items can fail and official quotes for a complete unit will be £700, but a handy independent can replace the motor for a shade under £100.

Head gasket If the top corners of the engine block look damp or oily, the gasket could be on the way out — especially if it is accompanied by a misfire. Most garages charge about £500 to fix it. This is a clear sign of service neglect, along with the state of the breather pipes.

Breather pipesLocated at the top of the engine towards the back and under a cover, so often ignored. Eventually the pipes get cooked and break, which leads to oil starvation and terminal engine damage. Worth changing them and the plastic pulleys that you also can’t see.

SID displayThose pixels are almost inevitably going to disappear over time; it’s the most common issue with 9-5s. It is possible to replace the display and a good specialist can offer a rebuilt unit for about £80.

Coil packsThis large, black plug-in unit has a finite life. Hesitation when accelerating or starting problems mean trouble but failure still comes suddenly. A £200 fix officially but can be had for £140. A recon unit from a breaker is £50.

Suspension bushesThis is a heavy car, so when you drive the car over rough surfaces, listen for knocking noises indicating that a shock absorber, suspension arm or, most likely, a bush needs replacing. The bushes themselves are just a few pounds, but replacing them all on a 100,000-miler will be about £200.

Twitter - follow autocar.co.uk