Three problems related to power assist brake vacuum have been reported for the 2000 SAAB 95. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I own a 2000 SAAB 9-5 aero sedan. On June 14, 2007, I was driving this car when I experienced total loss of the braking system. This loss occurred completely without warning. The only way to stop the car was by engaging the emergency brake. Subsequent examination by a mechanic determined that the vacuum pump and brake booster had failed. I was fortunate in that the emergency brake engaged and that I did not drift out into the 5 lane highway that I was approaching. I was also fortunate in that I did not hit other cars or pedestrians in this incident. SAAB has recalled other models that have had similar brake problems and I believe that the 9-5 should be investigated.
When parked on hill overnight with car pointed down hill, when engine is started and shift lever moved to drive and hand brake released, the foot brake is unable to prevent the car from rolling and hand brake must be used to stop vehicle. After a few minutes of driving, the foot brakes appear to function normally. This could be a serious problem for a woman unable to work hand brake or exert enough brake pedal effort to assist in stopping the car. SAAB expert mechanic says this is a common design problem and I should report it as a serious safety problem.
The break booster gave out on my '00 SAAB while driving causing the breaks to stop working.