At a Glance
The Saab 96 has 13 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the 96 (1960-1980) being the most affected generation and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 5K MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Saab 96 common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Saab 96 generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
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Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Saab 96 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Saab 96 Generations
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Most Common Saab 96 MOT Failures
Every reason Saab 96 vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 9.00% |
| 2 | Brake performance below minimum | 8.43% |
| 3 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 6.57% |
| 4 | Stop lamp not working | 6.08% |
| 5 | Driveshaft fault | 5.51% |
| 6 | Headlamp aim defect | 4.86% |
| 7 | Suspension mounting corroded | 4.14% |
| 8 | Tyre condition | 4.10% |
| 9 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 3.76% |
| 10 | Front lamp not working | 2.85% |
| 11 | Front suspension joint worn | 2.62% |
| 12 | Number plate lamp not working | 2.58% |
| 13 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 2.39% |
| 14 | Track rod end worn | 2.24% |
| 15 | Windscreen washer not working | 2.24% |
| 16 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 2.17% |
| 17 | Rear lamp not working | 2.09% |
| 18 | Indicator fault | 1.86% |
| 19 | Exhaust system fault | 1.63% |
| 20 | Front suspension fault | 1.63% |
| 21 | Spring mounting corroded | 1.44% |
| 22 | Horn not working | 1.33% |
| 23 | Brake fluid leak | 1.06% |
| 24 | Body corrosion or damage | 1.03% |
| 25 | Headlamp fault | 0.95% |
| 26 | Parking brake condition | 0.95% |
| 27 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.95% |
| 28 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.91% |
| 29 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.87% |
| 30 | Steering operation fault | 0.80% |
| 31 | Chassis condition | 0.76% |
| 32 | Seat belt condition | 0.76% |
| 33 | Rear suspension fault | 0.72% |
| 34 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.61% |
| 35 | Steering rack fault | 0.57% |
| 36 | Brake caliper fault | 0.53% |
| 37 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.49% |
| 38 | Position lamp not working | 0.49% |
| 39 | Brake pads or linings worn | 0.42% |
| 40 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.42% |
| 41 | Steering lock fault | 0.42% |
| 42 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.38% |
| 43 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.34% |
| 44 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.30% |
| 45 | Body security fault | 0.27% |
| 46 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.27% |
| 47 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.27% |
| 48 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.27% |
| 49 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 0.27% |
| 50 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.27% |
| 51 | CV joint worn | 0.23% |
| 52 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.23% |
| 53 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.23% |
| 54 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.19% |
| 55 | Brake clevis joint worn | 0.19% |
| 56 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.19% |
| 57 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.19% |
| 58 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.19% |
| 59 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.15% |
| 60 | Brake pedal fault | 0.15% |
| 61 | Driver door fault | 0.15% |
| 62 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.15% |
| 63 | Brake lever fault | 0.11% |
| 64 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | 0.11% |
| 65 | Electrical switch fault | 0.11% |
| 66 | Front passenger door fault | 0.11% |
| 67 | Brake air or vacuum system fault | 0.08% |
| 68 | Brake fluid warning light on | 0.08% |
| 69 | Fog lamp not working | 0.08% |
| 70 | Speedometer fault | 0.08% |
| 71 | Steering column fault | 0.08% |
| 72 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.08% |
| 73 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.08% |
| 74 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.08% |
| 75 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.04% |
| 76 | Brake linkage mounting fault | 0.04% |
| 77 | Brake pedal linkage fault | 0.04% |
| 78 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.04% |
| 79 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 0.04% |
| 80 | Driver seat fault | 0.04% |
| 81 | Engine mounting worn or broken | 0.04% |
| 82 | Exhaust leak | 0.04% |
| 83 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.04% |
| 84 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.04% |
| 85 | Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault | 0.04% |
| 86 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.04% |
| 87 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | 0.04% |
| 88 | Passenger seat fault | 0.04% |
| 89 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.04% |
| 90 | Steering free play excessive | 0.04% |
| 91 | Tailgate damaged or insecure | 0.04% |
| 92 | Trailing arm worn or corroded | 0.04% |
| 93 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.04% |
| 94 | Vehicle floor corroded | 0.04% |
| 95 | Steering coupling worn | 0.04% |
Showing all 95 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Saab 96 MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Saab 96, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Saab 96 problems?
Based on analysis of 5K Saab 96 MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 13 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Suspension component mounting corroded". Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Saab 96 generation has the most problems?
The Saab 96 96 (1960-1980) (1960–1980) has the highest number of identified common problems (16). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Saab 96?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Saab 96 owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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