FAQs about the GM-backed Saab Warranty

Is Saab in bankruptcy? Is Saab insolvent or going out of business?
Saab is going through a self-managed legal process in Sweden under Swedish court supervision which is quite different from U.S. bankruptcy processes. This process enables the brand to continue operating while a new ownership structure is being pursued. We simply don't know when this process will conclude or what the exact results will be. Saab business continues largely unchanged, with the possibility of a new ownership/operational structure being formed for the future.

Are there any immediate changes for Saab owners/customers?
No. From a consumer standpoint, Saab's business continues largely as it was before, from the standpoint of consumers. Warranties are completely valid; service and parts are unchanged as well. All of Saab's product offerings are intact.

Will Saab dealers continue to operate in the U.S.?
Yes, although it is quite likely it could be a much smaller dealer body. GM will cease to continue an ownership stake in Saab after 2010, but this does not currently impact a dealer's normal, day-to-day dealership operations in respect to sales, service and parts activities. All of these items remain ongoing under the Dealer Agreement. GM will stand fully behind all warranties on Saab products and Saab customers will have continued availability of needed parts and service.

What happens with Saab warranties? Will customers be able to get parts and service?
While discussions between GM and the Swedish Government are ongoing, it is business as usual.

What are a dealer's rights under the Sales and Service Agreement?
The viability plan as submitted has no effect whatsoever on the Saab dealer agreements and all the terms of those agreements themselves remain in place. As GM has advised all Saab dealers, the dealer agreements remain in effect and day-to-day dealership operations are unaffected by the actions outlined by GM in the viability.

Are there funds in the viability plan to buy out dealers?
Some dealers have inquired about exiting the business and about potential GM assistance in this regard. Given the current review of GM's viability plan by the federal government, the availability, timing and conditions of any potential transition assistance that may be offered to exiting retailers by GM is uncertain.

How long has Saab been part of GM?
Saab began business in 1949. GM acquired 50% when Saab Automobile was established as an independent company, following a joint venture agreement with Saab-Scania. GM purchased the remaining 50 percent of Saab in 2000.

What have sales been like in the U.S. and globally?
Saab sold 20,206 vehicles in the U.S. and 93,295 vehicles globally in 2008.