The 1998-2003 4 Cylinder 9-5's have a history of sludging their engines. The V6 engine does not have this problem. SAAB has taken steps to help the consumers by providing a lifetime engine warranty for the 4 cylinder engine and by issuing a new pressure crankcase ventilation (PCV) system. Unfortunately, to get the warranty claim through SAAB, you need to have documented dealer service visits for every oil change at the recommended intervals. In most cases this is close to impossible.

If you just bought a used 9-5 and you do not know the condition of your engine, then you should make sure your car has the latest PCV system and check your engine for sludge. The fastest way is to take off the valve cover and take a quick look. If things look pretty good, then your oil pan is probably okay as well.

There are very few warning signs that your engine is about to go. When the oil light starts to come on, the damage is already been done.

For more information on the sludge problem, check out this SAAB dealer's website.

Andrews of Princeton

This is not a difficult job, but it isn't a walk in the park. You are on your back the whole time and getting to all of the oil pan bolts can be tricky. It took me 4 hours the first time, but I feel this could be done in about 2.5 the second time around. You need to be prepared for broken exhaust studs and rusted bolts as these will cause you the most aggravation. You also want to be prepared for discovering the worst. You may have to keep the car apart longer than anticipated while you source a new oil pickup screen and any other part you may have broken.

Now let's get started!