Saturn Ion problems
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Saturn Ion model years
Common Saturn Ion problems
Saturn Ion owners have reported several common problems, including power steering failure, transmission issues, ignition module failure, and gas cap issues.
Power steering failure is the most common issue, with 268 people reporting it. The power steering system is crucial for easy maneuvering and control of the vehicle. When it fails, the driver may experience difficulty turning the steering wheel, leading to safety concerns.
Transmission issues are another prevalent problem, affecting various Saturn models, including the Ion. These problems can range from transmission failure to difficulty shifting gears. Transmission issues can lead to significant repair costs and may compromise the vehicle's safety and drivability.
Ignition module failure is a specific issue reported by Saturn Ion owners. The ignition module plays a critical role in the engine's ignition system, and a failure can cause the engine to stall or fail to start. This issue can be particularly dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
Gas cap issues are also common in Saturn Ion cars. A faulty gas cap can lead to fuel leaks, difficulty starting the engine, and reduced fuel efficiency. In some cases, a faulty gas cap can even trigger the check engine light.
In addition to these issues, Saturn Ion owners have reported problems with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) system, which was introduced in some 2003 models. This transmission system presented an interesting technological gamble for the manufacturer, but it quickly spiraled out of control with numerous complaints.
Finally, the Saturn ignition switch recall in 2014 affected some Saturn Ion models. The recall was due to a faulty ignition switch that has been linked to the deaths of 13 people. The company may have known about the defect for over a decade, highlighting significant safety concerns for Saturn Ion owners.
How many miles do Saturn ions last?
Saturn Ion drivers regularly report the car surpassing 200,000 miles on the original engine and transmission. With excellent care there's no reason an Ion can't shoot right past a quarter million miles, but you'll have to be on the lookout for excessive wear and tear from previous owners.
How much does it cost to maintain a Saturn Ion?
The annual maintenance cost of a Saturn Ion is $338.
Is a 2007 Saturn Ion a good car?
On the positive side, the Ion is quick, and braking performance is very good. But the noisy engine returns unimpressive fuel economy, the cabin has poor-fitting materials, the seats are uncomfortable, and the rear is cramped. Steering is also inconsistent.
How fast can a Saturn Ion go?
On October 17, 2003 at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, the Saturn Ion Red Line, piloted by the GM Performance Division's "Saturn Land Speed Record Project" set a new land-speed record in the "G/Blown Fuel Altered" Class at 212.684 mph. This exceeded the previous record of 183.086 mph that was set in 2001.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Saturn Ion years
We have researched Saturn problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Saturn Ion cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Saturn Ion model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Saturn Ion model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Saturn Ion years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Saturn Ion car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Saturn Ion , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Saturn Ion vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ion model years
A total of 209 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ion model years
There were a total of 20 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ion model years
There were a total of 154 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ion model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 4344 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Saturn Ion . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Saturn Ion vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Saturn Ion 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1G8AJ52F45Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The ignition cylinder was replaced in my vehicle because the key would not turn in the ignition to start the car. It is actually, the fourth time this has happened. I understand that there have been two recalls on this issue in the past. The reason it was recalled is because the ignition has turned to the off position killing the car's engine while the driver is driving on the road which has caused serious accidents. I was lucky not to get into an accident from this. The last replacement has lasted almost ten years. However, my issue is that General Motors apparently keeps manufacturing a defective part. This is unacceptable because I had to pay $585.02 to have this work done due to the fact that the dealerships apparently are not required to replaced it at no charge to the vehicle owner. It could also be a potential safety issue again.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-15
- VIN: 1G8AL55F57Z
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: It won’t start! Been having starter problems. Battery not dead, and I also was told maybe crankshaft and starter
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F77Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving the car has issues with power steering when turning the wheel either direction the steering will lose power steering and jerk the opposite direction turning. I have almost been in numerous accidents now the worst going 75 on highway passing semi around a corner and it jerked and almost sent me right not the semi. This has happened numerous times as I was passing vehicles. Its not a steady no power steering it will do it out of the blue and anymore it's more times than not and again only when turning the wheel. It's scary. Our vin # isn't specified with the recall but has serious power steering issue. No warning lamps or anything like that. We have not had this vehicle inspected yet by a dealership. As far as the incident date it's not one specific date. It does this every day the car is driven.
Saturn Ion 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-19
- VIN: 1G8AL52F03Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that less than a minute after starting the vehicle, the steering wheel seized. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality, with the power steering failure message was displayed. The contact stated that after shifting to park(P), the contact would wiggle the key around in the ignition before being able to remove the key from the ignition switch. The vehicle had not been taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 111,350.
Saturn Ion 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2015-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-05
- VIN: 1G8AG52F63Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that occasionally the key failed to turn while in the ignition. The vehicle was slow to start. The contact had to avoid bumps in the roadway while driving. The lock symbol was displayed. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V171000 (Electrical System) and 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who declined to service the recall repairs due to an insurance issue. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact called another unknown local dealer, who informed the contact to place the vehicle in park(P) and restart the vehicle, and the symbol turned off. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim and informed the contact that a technician would be sent to the residence, but the technician failed to show up. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-11
- VIN: 1G8AL55FX7Z
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Saturn Ion. The contact stated while driving at approximately 55 MPH with the accelerator pedal depressed, the accelerator pedal was released and became stuck causing the vehicle to unintendedly accelerate to 90 MPH. The brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to slow down. The contact manually lifted the accelerator pedal and was able to merge to the side of the road. The vehicle was driven to the local dealer but not diagnosed or repaired due to the warranty being expired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 113,000.
Saturn Ion 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-20
- VIN: 1G8AJ52F93Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I have the power steering column issue that still needs to be fixed as advised by GMC of Port Richey, FL where I was promised my replacement vehicle even 10 or 20 yrs later if I bought another one. If on my walking tape recorders and contact lens, I pull off my brake peddle flat lining at least twice without crashing however he would grant me whatever 2 vehicles on the lots I chose as long as I had insurance. However, I do not have the money for the tow and corporates to include the police will not listen too. Please, contact me immediately for a more rapid communication please at [XXX] or [XXX] . INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Saturn Ion 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-07
- VIN: 1G8AL58F96Z
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: Airbags
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-04
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F77Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This problem has been ongoing for a while. The key gets stuck in the ignition for a while. Have to wait until it finally clicks twice. I have taken vehicle 3 different times to have this repaired. Last for a month or two and same thing starts happening again.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-04
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F77Z
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My 2007 Saturn Ion recently started leaking drops of gasoline near the driver side rear tire. It is either an issue with the fuel line or the tank. It has not been inspected by the dealership yet. I get a gas cap warning message, but I'm not sure if it is related.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-22
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F27Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering column became inoperable, and the steering wheel locked up. The contact stated that the power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact stopped the vehicle and turned the vehicle off. The contact stated restarted the vehicle and was able to safely drive to her destination. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice within six months. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
Saturn Ion 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2014-01-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-03
- VIN: 1G8AN15FX6Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2006 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the key was stuck in the ignition switch. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who informed the contact that the ignition lock cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer; however, the parts to do the repair were not available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,764.
Saturn Ion 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-25
- VIN: 1G8AJ55F17Z
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact's parents own a 2007 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that there was a fuel odor coming from the vehicle when the vehicle was started or turned off. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact's father inspected the vehicle but could not find a fuel leak. Upon investigation, the contact discovered NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V459000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) which she linked to the failure. The contact notified the manufacturer of the failure and was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
Saturn Ion 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-20
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-06
- VIN: 1G8AG52F44Z
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the contact stated that the key was stuck in the ignition. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the ignition switch and the ignition lock cylinder; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System) and 14V171000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.
Saturn Ion 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-19
- Date Complaint: 2023-06-22
- VIN: 1G8AN12F34Z
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: The drivers side windshield wiper linkage failed at the junction of the metal rod and the plastic wiper mount causing the wiper to stop working. And the wiper arms are almost impossible to remove, even with a puller. Obviously this condition is a safety issue, and other GM vehicles have been recalled for the same issue. Why not the 2004 Saturn Ion?
Latest 5 recalls Saturn Ion
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 35 recalls for different components of the Saturn Ion.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Saturn Ion 2003
- Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
- Model: Saturn Ion 2006
- Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
- Model: Saturn Ion 2005
- Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
- Model: Saturn Ion 2004
- Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
- Model: Saturn Ion 2007
- Report Received Date: 2014-04-30
- Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
- Summary: UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
- Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
- Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
Latest negative Saturn Ion car reviews
Latest positive Saturn Ion car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2006
I purchased my 2006 Saturn in 2014 as a second car with 130,000km on the clock. As a Saturn enthusiast, I am aware that the GM engine is not the quietest or most reliable, but I have owned a few Saturns and have always loved them. Fortunately, I was able to find an excellent mechanic when I had an issue with the solenoids. He explained to me that for the 2.4L engine, using a good filter is crucial, as a regular oil filter cannot offer the same oil flow everywhere it is needed. He also recommended a synthetic oil that he said would work wonders for my car. Since using fully synthetic Amsoil and a Napa premium filter or Amsoil recommended filter, I have had no issues with my Saturn in the last 6 years. Last year, at 185,000km, I did some maintenance work on my Saturn, including new Amsoil in the transmission and fancy iridium spark plugs. Although I had no issues before the work, I felt my car was working better. I have a super reliable car, and when the time comes to change it, someone will buy a super reliable car. I would like to thank Edmunds for all the knowledge they have put together here. I have learned so much from this site and am happy to contribute to this knowledge with what I know. Thank you!
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Vehicle year: 2003
The Saturn ION has great gas mileage and handles well in the mountains, as I have experienced firsthand driving it from coast to coast. However, I did experience hydroplaning a couple of times. It is worth noting that the fuel tank design could be improved to prevent the gas nozzle from sliding out during filling, as it happened to me yesterday (10/18) and caused a big mess. Despite this issue, I am confident in the quality of my Saturn ION and grateful for the great deal I received on it. Perhaps I can also find a great deal on a new suit and shoes to match my stylish car.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I bought my Ion 3 2.4L Manual brand new and I absolutely love it! The only downside was that all the dealers around me were sold out of the redline models, so unfortunately I couldn't get my hands on one. However, this car has been amazing for the past 4 years that I've had it. I drive it constantly and have not had a single problem. Even when I drive around 140km/h, the mileage on the highway is great! I haven't had to spend a single penny on it other than oil changes, and to top it off, I even got free tires for life when I bought it. Out of the 6 new vehicles I've purchased since 2000, ranging from trucks, SUVs, and cars, this and my 2005 Vue are the only ones I've kept for more than 2 years. I'm really going to miss Saturn. Both my Vue and Ion have been incredibly reliable and fun to drive!
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Vehicle year: 2003
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 2003 Saturn Ion 3. I bought it brand new and it's been such a reliable car for me. Even after thirteen years, it still runs like a top! Of course, I've had to replace a few things like alternators, batteries, and a water pump, but that's just normal wear and tear with how much I drive. I did have an issue with the ignition, but that was fixed after the recall. Recently, I had to replace the front strut assemblies due to rust, but that's been the only major repair I've had to deal with. I'm so proud to say that my car is about to hit 300,000 miles soon! I take good care of it by doing as much of my own work as possible, changing the oil regularly, and not driving it too hard. I really love my Saturn and I hope it lasts for another 300,000 miles!
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Vehicle year: 2007
I ended up buying this car. The mileage was a nice selling point for me and the mpg is great. The dealership put new tires on it which is a plus. Overall, I'm pretty happy with my purchase.
Are you having problems with your Saturn Ion?
Jack Tillman 2025-10-08
Vehicle year: 2004
The Saturn model mentioned here unfortunately has a known issue with the Passlock anti-theft system. Despite having replaced the IC chip twice, the issue persists and can be frustrating to deal with. Additionally, there are some concerns with the McPherson struts making noise in winter, and the seats lacking proper back support. The electric steering can also be too tight, which may cause oversteering. Furthermore, there are some blind spots on both side pillars. It is important to note that this model is essentially a 2004 Chevy Cavalier with plastic side panels. Overall, it is important to consider these factors before making a purchase decision.
Johnpaul Rempel 2025-10-07
Vehicle year: 2003
The door lock collapsed into the door, the daylight running lights went out three times, the lowest fan speed squeaks, and everything stains the seats, even water. The interior plastic doesn't line up and panels fell off on the inside. You have to get used to using your mirrors because you can't see out the back. The seats are hard and flat, and the CD player skips. The horn is hard to press, and there is not enough ground clearance. The gear shift obstructs the cupholders, and there is a grinding noise from the steering wheel. A bad smell comes from the AC, and the key got stuck in the ignition. However, the service team may have difficulty replicating the problem with the transmission slipping and the car jerking forward. Fun times!
Jamey Johnson 2025-10-07
Vehicle year: 2005
I have to give this car some credit. I picked it up for $5,500 and didn't like it at first. However, after driving it for a while, it grew on me. I have owned three Saturns in the past and have never had any problems with them, including my Ion. The dealer warned me about common issues with Ions, but I have not experienced any of them. I have even put 18-inch wheels on it, and it looks great. Overall, I am happy with my purchase. While it may not be a jewel, my Saturn Ion was a great deal and a great car.
Coty Stroman 2025-10-06
Vehicle year: 2005
Back in 2008, I had to buy a new car right after starting a new job. I decided to go to the SATURN dealer out of loyalty since my old SATURN had lasted for 12 years. Luckily, they had just received a 2005 model with very low mileage (only 12,000+). Although I've had some issues with the car, the cold start problem has been bothering me for over two years now! At first, the engine light kept turning on, and it took almost a year and two instances of my car being out of commission for weeks at a time to resolve the issue. Unfortunately, GM did away with the SATURN brand, but I still have a bad taste in my mouth about their product.
Wendell Turcotte 2025-10-01
Vehicle year: 2003
I purchased this car about 7 months ago and unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with it. There have been 2 recalls and the CD player skips frequently. Additionally, there was a plastic piece inside that was unattached and the car has had trouble starting. While it does start occasionally, most of the time I have to jump it or turn the key for an extended period. I have taken it to the dealership twice for this issue, but unfortunately, it has not been resolved. Although it is a cute car, it feels a bit flimsy and I was recently in an accident that caused damage to the plastic on the right side of the car. It also does not handle well in snow. Overall, I have had some challenges with this car, but I am hopeful that the issues can be resolved soon.