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'89 900S Avg Mx Costs??

Wondering what to expect from my car down the road so to speak.

'89 900S w/ 155K miles. I've been spending approx $900-$1000 per year over the last 9 years on non-routine maintenance (everything other than oil changes pretty much). I got this cost from averaging my bills from an independent SAAB mechanic in the central US. I'm the only owner of the automobile, bought it new in 1989.

Is this maintenance cost par for the course? I'd appreciate any advice on the next 50 to 100K miles from current owners. I'm not a trained mechanic so do-it-yourself is not a savings option. My current mechanic is very honest and priced about right for the market.

I'm asking becasue I've got a new driver in the family coming on board next year. My spouse is leaning toward a car with airbags for the new driver (safer?). I've recently inherited another vehicle for my use. I may want to cut loose of the '89 and buy up to a newer model. All part of the decision matrix. TIA

JG

Reply to
enjjpt8506
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You have a 16+ year old car. There are bound to be repairs. Yes those sound reasonable if you have to pay a hired wrench to do the work. You might count on the costs being about 1/3rd that (or less) if you did the work yourself and ordered your own parts.

OTOH, there are few cars that would depreciate less than $1000 per annum and that's if they don't have any problems of their own needing repair.

Airbags are not that big of a deal IMO. Drive safely, drive a safe car (such as a classic SAAB) wear the seat belt and the incresed risk is negligble if any.

My opinion, keep the SAAB.

YMMV,

-Fred W

Reply to
The Malt Hound

I will point out here that there are plenty of routine maintenance items other than oil changes. For example, brake pads/rotors.

I am not a trained mechanic either, but every time something breaks on my car, I get a little closer to being one :)

Ah, my parents got rid of an older 900 turbo as I approached driving age, and replaced it with a non-turbo airbag model.

It's a tough call, as I'm sure you are aware. If you have somewhere to keep it, you might consider keeping the '89 and also getting another car. You probably won't get much money for it anyway, and you can always unload it later. But you'll never be able to get another one-owner 1989 Saab.

John

Reply to
John B

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