I think you're confusing warranty obligations with the requirement to provide parts after a carmaker leaves the US market.
I've had first-hand experience with this.
When Peugeot left the US in 1992, they still distributed new parts for our nearly-new 405 Mi16.
They continued to do so until about 2000. I can't find evidence at the moment, but I believe DOT has some sort of requirement to this effect.
So assume as I did, that SAAB is dragged into bankruptcy court next week, and that US operations close by next year.
My biggest concern, before suggesting someone throw $3000 at a new turbo, is future parts availability.
Under full GM ownership, those parts came out of the suppliers' trucks at an Opel -- a subsidiary of both old and new GM -- facility first.
But in the end, it is all speculation. With the sale to Spyker, they may have completely abandoned the old logistics agreements.
And if you've been following the news lately, most of the suppliers have stopped sending SAAB parts on credit.
Ultimately, I'd take this as a blessing in disguise.
h:
A blown turbo may be just the tip of the iceberg.
Al, unless you're committed to the 9-5 for good, I'd look long and hard at fixing it cheaply and selling.
KBB gives $5800 for trade-in. (
http://www.kbb.com/saab/9-5/2003-saa...condition=good)
Having a good local mechanic is reassuring, but eventually, the parts supply will dry up. It took ten years for us. :hs: