2004 SATURN ION

10 recalls, 1,124 complaints - 668 TSBs

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Defect Description

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 ... Read more

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 re... Read more

14,529 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: UCI-FRAM Group

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

Defect Description

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignitio... Read more

Consequence

If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is... Read more

Remedy

General Motors will notify owners, and for vehicles that were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have not previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for eac... Read more

2,191,014 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Defect Description

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power ... Read more

Consequence

If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will perform one of four bulletins. Parts are not currently available. GM expects to send an interim notification around May 28, 2014. When parts are available, owners will be mailed a second letter to come in to have the applicable bulletin applied. Bulletin 1... Read more

1,373,177 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

Defect Description

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency... Read more

Consequence

If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. An interim notification was issued to owners of 2007 and earlier models on March 10, 2014, informing them of the safety defect. Owners of 2008 and later vehicles will be mailed an interim letter on April 21, 2014.... Read more

2,190,934 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

Defect Description

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES... Read more

Consequence

DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy

SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

16,270 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: SABERSPORT

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE TURN SIGNAL LAMP AND DAYTIME RUNNING LAMP (DRL) ON EITHER FRONT SIDE CAN STOP WORKING BECAUSE OF LOSS OF CONTACT BETWEEN THE BULB AND SOCKET.

Consequence

IF A FRONT TURN SIGNAL LAMP IS INOPERATIVE, OTHERS MAY REACT MORE SLOWLY TO A TURNING VEHICLE AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRL/TURN SIGNAL BULB ON BOTH THE LEFT AND RIGHT FRONT SIDE AND INSPECT FOR AND ADD A DRL JUMPER KIT IF NOT PRESENT. THE RECALL BEGAN NOVEMBER 17, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

178,798 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

Defect Description

CERTAIN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SUPERCHARGED 2.0L 4-CYLINDER (LSJ) ENGINE WERE BUILT WITH A FUEL FEED PIPE THAT COULD CRACK AND LEAK FUEL NEAR THE FUEL RAIL. IF FUEL LEAKS FROM THE FUEL FEED PIPE, THERE WOULD BE A NOTICEABLE FUEL ODOR AROUND THE VEHICLE.

Consequence

FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FEED PIPE ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 9, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

670 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS

Defect Description

ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SOME WELDS BETWEEN THE PASSENGER'S SIDE MOTOR RAIL AND THE FRONT BUMPER BRACKET DO NOT MEET ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS.

Consequence

LONG TERM DURABILITY OF THE JOINT MAY BE REDUCED AND SEPARATION OF THE BUMPER FROM THE FRAME ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE MAY RESULT, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy

ALL VEHICLES ARE STILL IN DEALER'S POSSESSIONS.

344 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 118, "POWER-OPERATED WINDOW, PARTITION, AND ROOF PANEL SYSTEMS." THE POWER WINDOWS AND/OR SUNROOF MAY BE OPERABLE AFTER THE IGNITION HAS BEEN TURNED TO THE "OFF" POSITION AND THE FRONT PASSE... Read more

Consequence

IF UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN ARE LEFT UNATTENDED IN THE VEHICLE AND OPERATE THE POWER WINDOWS OR SUNROOF, THERE IS AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY TO THE CHILD.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL UPGRADE THE BODY CONTROL MODULE (BCM) CALIBRATION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 30, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

79,204 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

Defect Description

CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.2L 4-CYLINDER (L61) ENGINES WERE BUILT WITH A FUEL FILTER THAT COULD CORRODE PREMATURELY ON THE EXTERIOR SURFACE.

Consequence

IF CORROSION ON THE EXTERIOR SURFACE OF THE FUEL FILTER PROGRESSES TO THE POINT OF CREATING A HOLE IN THE SHELL, FUEL DROPLETS COULD FORM AND DROP TO THE GROUND. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE IS PRESENT, A FIRE COULD RESULT.

Remedy

DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FILTER ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 30, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876.

127,285 vehicles affected

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Complaint Statistics

1,124 total complaints 77 crashes 6 fires 44 injuries 4 deaths

Top Reported Components

Component	Complaints
STEERING	323
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	233
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION	47
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH	44
AIR BAGS	40
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	36
POWER TRAIN	26
ENGINE	23
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION	23
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	22

Incident date: Mar 1, 2024

Rear View camera has distorted image or changes to a blue screen before saying camera unavailable. It is an intermittent issue that has been happening over many months. No accidents or injuries have been caused.

Incident date: Aug 20, 2014

Experiencing a dead or faulty battery issue in my 2022 Honda Insight. I called the Honda dealership to see if I could charge the battery from the points noted in the owners manual. The service representative said yes. Charged the battery to 100% and proceeded directly to the dealership for service.... Read more

Incident date: Aug 20, 2014

Incident date: Jun 19, 2023

NHTSA Recall 14v396 is probably the best correction to this issue. My van has shut off mid-driving while my children are in the car with me. It is so dangerous in the road. I can't move the steering wheel. Mechanics can't seem to diagnose the problem because the van doesn't give any computer codes ... Read more

Incident date: Jun 19, 2023

I was driving on the highway when my car all of a sudden started to beep and told me it was activating the emergency brake. I was driving safely and was not at risk of a collision. The car slowed slightly. Just as soon as the emergency brake warning popped up, it was gone. It was terrifying for ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 8, 2022

The contact owns a 2004 Saturn Ion. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, excessive force was needed to maneuver the steering wheel on several occasions. The power steering assist warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that he replaced the electric power steering motor; howe... Read more

Incident date: Sep 8, 2021

My car started getting a strong odor of gas. A fuel pipe leak is causing the odor

Incident date: Jul 18, 2020

Hi I am a kind of new owner of an 04 saturn ion, this is actually the second complaint I've filled out. Last July I had a mechanic friend look at my fuel filter and he had said the fuel line needed to be cut off becuase of how rusted on to the original fuel filter I'd got it with was and I didn't be... Read more

Incident date: Jul 7, 2020

TRIED TAKING FUEL FILTER OFF LAST JULY TOOK A WHOLE WEEKEND OF USING PENATRATING OIL AND FREEZE OFF THEN I FINALLY GOT THE TABS TO COME LOOSE, I THOUGHT MAYBE I MESSED UP THE NEW FILTER OR DIDNT GET ENOUGH RUST OFF THE FUEL LINE AND THAT'S WHAT WAS CAUSING THE STRONG SMELL OF GAS ND POOR PERFORMANCE... Read more

Incident date: Dec 29, 2020

THE FUEL PUMP IS LEAKING, GM REFUSES TO FIX IT BECAUSE THE VIN ISN'T ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL, BUT THE SAME YEAR MAKE AND MODEL OF MY CAR SAYS IT HAS A RECALL FOR THE FUEL SYSTEM AND PUMP.

Incident date: Dec 29, 2020

THE FUEL PUMP IS LEAKING, GM REFUSES TO FIX IT BECAUSE THE VIN ISN'T ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECALL, BUT THE SAME YEAR MAKE AND MODEL OF MY CAR SAYS IT HAS A RECALL FOR THE FUEL SYSTEM AND PUMP.

Incident date: Nov 24, 2020

FUEL LEAK ON REAR DRIVER SIDE WHEN THE ENGINE IS RUNNING WHILE CAR IS STATIONARY. IT MAY HAVE HAPPENED BEFORE THE DATE AND MILEAGE STATED BELOW BUT THAT'S WHEN I FIRST NOTICED THE FUEL LEAK.

Incident date: Nov 30, 2020

POWER STEERING STICKS. I TAKE A 55MPH CURVE AND THE STEERING WHEEL DOESN'T COME BACK TO CENTER. IT WANTS TO TAKE ME OFF THE ROADWAY.

Incident date: May 1, 2020

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDOWS ROLLED UP AND DOWN INDEPENDENTLY. T... Read more

Incident date: May 1, 2020

Incident date: Apr 27, 2020

WE HAVE BEEN HAVING TROUBLE REMOVING THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION THE PAST FEW DAYS. AS I WAS MAKING A LEFT TURN THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED THEN MADE A LOUD POPPING SOUND. NOW THE STEERING WHEEL JUST SPINS IN A COMPLETE CIRCLE AND DOES NOT TURN THE WHEELS. I WAS IN MOTION IN A PARKING LOT.

Incident date: Apr 27, 2020

Incident date: Mar 3, 2019

WHEN THE KEY IS IN THE OFF POSITION AND REMOVED FROM THE CAR THE LIGHTS ON THE DASH STAY ON. CAR IS PARKED WHEN THIS HAPPENS.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED TO FUNCTION AS DESIGNED INTERMITTENTLY WHICH CAUSED DIFFICULTY WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO VERA CADILLAC LOCATED AT (300 S UNIVERSITY DR, PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33025, ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 6, 2020

IT LOOKS LIKE MY CAR IS LEAKING FUEL. DON'T KNOW IF IT'S THE FUEL INJECTOR LINE OR FUEL PUMP BUT I KNOW THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS ON MY CAR BUT IT'S NOT SHOWING UP ON MY VIN NUMBER

Incident date: May 25, 2019

WHEN PLACING THE VEHICLE IN PARK, IT WILL NOT ALWAYS REGISTER THAT IT IS PARK; THEREFORE, IT WILL NOT RELEASE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS OF MOVING THE GEAR SHIFT FROM DRIVE TO PARK, IT WILL EVENTUALLY ALLOW THE KEY TO BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. IT STARTED WITH JUST A FEW D... Read more

Incident date: Sep 5, 2019

I RECENTLY BOUGHT A 2004 SATURN ION 1 FROM A PRIVATE PARTY. I WAS NOT AWARE THAT THERE IS A RECALL ON THE THE ELECRTIC POWER STEERING ASSIST. THE DEALER IN MY AREA SAYS THE RECALL HAS EXPIRED AND THEY ARE REFUSING TO FIX IT. I BOUGHT THIS CAR MAY 2019 USED EVERY DOLLAR I HAD TO BUY IT. IM A SINGLE M... Read more

Incident date: Jun 14, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN WITHOUT POWER STEERING ABILITY TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED SCHUMACHER CHEVROLET OF DENVILLE (LOCAT... Read more

Incident date: Apr 17, 2019

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V153000 (STEERING). WHILE REVERSING, THE CHECK POWER STEERING WARNING MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE SEIZED AND THE ENGINE FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER ... Read more

Incident date: Jan 2, 2004

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, IT FAILED TO START. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC THREE TIMES AND THE BATTERY AND CRANK SENSOR WERE REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICL... Read more

Incident date: Feb 16, 2019

THE STEERING WHEEL JUST STOPPED. IT STIFFENED UP AS IF THE CAR WAS TURNED OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING NEARLY CAUSING ME TO CRASH. I TOOK THE CAR TO THE DEALERSHIP TO ASK THEM TO CONSIDER REPAIRING THE PROBLEM BASED UPON THE FACT THAT THERE ARE SO MANY (400,000 SATURN IONS ON THE ROAD) COMPLAINING OF THE... Read more

Incident date: Oct 10, 2018

THE POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING WITHOUT NOTICE .WHEN YOU ARE TRUNING IT IS HARD,ALSO THE BEARING AND STRUTS ARE ALSO VERY RUFF.ALMOST HAD A WRECK WHEN TURING

Incident date: Oct 10, 2018

THE POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING WITHOUT NOTICE .WHEN YOU ARE TRUNING IT IS HARD,ALSO THE BEARING AND STRUTS ARE ALSO VERY RUFF.ALMOST HAD A WRECK WHEN TURING

Incident date: Oct 10, 2018

THE POWER STEERING STOPS WORKING WHILE YOU ARE DRIVING WITHOUT NOTICE .WHEN YOU ARE TRUNING IT IS HARD,ALSO THE BEARING AND STRUTS ARE ALSO VERY RUFF.ALMOST HAD A WRECK WHEN TURING

Incident date: Jan 5, 2019

WHILE ON A NEIGHBOR HOOD DRIVING AT APPROX. 35 MPH I STEERING WHILE WAS DIFFICULT TO TURN AND THEN LOCKED ITSELF IN STRAIGHT POSITION. IT IS PARKED NEXT TO HOME ON CITY CURB SIDE.

Incident date: Oct 1, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY MALFUNCTIONED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN IN EITHER DIRECTION. IN ADDITION, "POWER STEERING" DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MA... Read more

Incident date: Aug 27, 2011

2004 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER STATES THAT THEY WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF RECALL AND DURING AN AUTO ACCIDENT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *LD *TR

Crash

Incident date: Aug 27, 2011

2004 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER STATES THAT THEY WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF RECALL AND DURING AN AUTO ACCIDENT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *LD *TR

Crash

Incident date: Aug 27, 2011

2004 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER STATES THAT THEY WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF RECALL AND DURING AN AUTO ACCIDENT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *LD *TR

Crash

Incident date: Aug 27, 2011

2004 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. CONSUMER STATES THAT THEY WERE NEVER NOTIFIED OF RECALL AND DURING AN AUTO ACCIDENT AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *LD *TR

Crash

Incident date: Jun 21, 2018

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE STEERING ABILITY WAS LOST AND THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED.... Read more

Crash

Incident date: Jun 18, 2018

2004 SATURN ION 2.2/4 ENGINE STARTED SMELLING GAS FUEL LINE ISSUES FOUND ... OTHERS HAVING SAME ISSUE THERE ARE RECALLS BUT ONLY ON CERTAIN VIN #S 107,000 MILES HOW MANY CARS BEFORE NATION WIDE RECALL ??!!

Incident date: May 10, 2018

WHEN STOPPED AT EITHER A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR STOP SIGN, ONCE I TAKE MY FOOT OFF OF THE BRAKE AND PLACE IT ON THE GAS PEDAL THE CAR HESITATES LIKE IT'S GASPING FOR GAS HOWEVER, THE GASPING ONLY HAPPENS FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN THE CAR DRIVES NORMALLY! WHAT IS STUMPING ME, WHY DOES THE NEW PROBLEM ONL... Read more

Incident date: Apr 14, 2018

I PURCHASE THIS CAR ON 04/12/2018 FROM A LOCAL DEALER, EVERYTHING WORKED FINE, UNTIL 2 DAYS LATER. I WAS DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WHEN SUDDENLY THE STEERING BECAME HARD TO TURN. I THEN PARKED THE CAR FOR A FEW DAY WHEN I STARTED IT UP STEERING WORKED ALRIGHT FOR ABOUT A HALF MINUTE, THE STOPPED WORKIN... Read more

Incident date: Mar 14, 2018

WHEN CAR IS PARKED IN DRIVEWAY, I HAVE TROUBLE REMOVING KEY FROM IGNITION. I DO NOT KNOW WHY THIS IS HAPPENING.

Incident date: Jan 1, 2018

I'VE HAD SEVERAL TIMES WHERE MY CAR WASN'T AS STABLE AS IT SHOULD BE. THE CAR ITSELF RUMBLES AND JERKS A LOT ON CITY STREETS AND AS I GET OFF THE HIGHWAY. IN THE PAST THERE'S BEEN A FEW ISSUES WITH THE BREAKS. DURING WINTER TIME, THE CAR WON'T START UP (I HAVE A NEW BATTERY NOW AND IT STILL HAPPENS)... Read more

Incident date: Jan 1, 2018

Incident date: Jan 10, 2018

THE CAR ONCE AGAIN ACCELERATED AT A STOP SIGN AND I HAD TO AIM FOR A SNOE ENBANKMENT TO NOT GO INTO TRAFFIC. IF NOT FOR THE SNOW I COULD HAVE WENT ON TO THE SIDEWALK ANS POSSIBLY HIT SOMEONE.

Incident date: Jan 7, 2018

THE CAR STARTED TO ACCELERATE INTO CROSSING TRAFFIC WITH MY FEET FIRMLY ON THE BREAKS. IT HAPPENED THREE TIMES.

Incident date: Dec 30, 2017

TAKATA RECALL 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT WITH FOOT ON THE BRAKE (FOOT COMPLETELY OFF THE GAS PEDAL AND GAS PEDAL WAS NOT STUCK ON ANYTHING), THE ENGINE REVVED WITHOUT WARNING (4000-4500 RPM, AND RPMS WOULD STAY ELEVATED AND WOULDN'T COME BACK DOWN TO A NORMAL IDLE) AND THE ... Read more

Incident date: Dec 17, 2017

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE, THE POWER STEERING SENSOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED. THE LOCAL DEALER (PELLAGRINO CHEVROLET IN WESTVILLE, NJ) WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND... Read more

Incident date: Sep 1, 2017

IN PARKING LOT ON LEAVING A STORE THERE WAS NO POWER STEERING MAKING IT VERY HARD TO DRIVE. NEXT I WENT TO A GAS STATION AND FILLED MY TANK. WHEN I LEFT THE STEERING WAS OKAY....THE DASH SYMBOL FOR POWER STEERING WAS NOT LONGER SHOWING. I LOST POWER STEERING ONCE BEFORE AND THE DEALER FIXED IT. ... Read more

Incident date: Sep 5, 2006

I BOUGHT MY 2004 SATURN ION 2 COUPE AND HAD TO REPLACE THE FRONT ROTORS IN THE FIRST 2 YEARS, THEY WERE WORN DOWN TO THE IRON. I BOUGHT AMERICAN STEEL ROTORS FROM MIDAS. I'M STILL USING THE NEW ROTORS AND EVERYTHING, INCLUDING THE BRAKES, ARE STILL LIKE NEW. MY CAR IS IN A GARAGE AND I DON'T DO MUC... Read more

Showing 50 of 1,124 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 SATURN ION

Trim / Engine	City MPG	Highway MPG	Combined MPG	Fuel Type	Annual Fuel Cost
2.0L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	26.0	23.0	Premium	$3,350
2.2L 4-cyl, Automatic (variable gear ratios) (Front-Wheel Drive)	22.0	29.0	24.0	Regular	$2,600
2.2L 4-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	20.0	30.0	24.0	Regular	$2,600
2.2L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive)	23.0	32.0	26.0	Regular	$2,400

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 SATURN ION

668 manufacturer communications from 463 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

Component	Bulletins
350000 EQUIPMENT	81
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	71
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL	59
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	34
356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY	34
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL	26
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.	23
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE	23

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels shou

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Di

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

020000 SUSPENSION

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

010000 STEERING

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have hi

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

117100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:INSTRUMENT PANEL:SPEEDOMETER/ODOMETER

This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the

200000 WHEELS

This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.

061600 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

353720 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ACCESSORY GENERATOR:OUTLETS/RECEPTACLE

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.

138220 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT

This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the need to inspect the induction system for potential icing issues in very cold ambient temperatures. To allow the ice to melt so that it can be drained from the related component

200000 WHEELS

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed fo

190000 TIRES

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that General Motors and General Motors of Canada Company do not support cross border sales. The General Motors of Canada Customer Care Centre is the sole auth

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

100000 POWER TRAIN

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician to not remove the torque converter bolts and start the engine as this may cause damage to the torque converter of the crankshaft on vehicles equipped with an

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

160000 STRUCTURE

353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL

This service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers Only).

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers Only).

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

190000 TIRES

200000 WHEELS

190000 TIRES

200000 WHEELS

030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

061520 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:FILTER/SCREEN

This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

356230 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY:VEHICLE CONTROLS:STEERING

This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure, when diagnosing vibration concerns.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about installing General Motors Accessory parts/kits. Technicians should refer to Service Information for information regarding most accessories. Technician

120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

160000 STRUCTURE

350000 EQUIPMENT

200000 WHEELS

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about engine block of possible cylinder bore damage, scoring or out of round as the possible cause of engine oil consumption, misfire, cylinder leakage or blo

350000 EQUIPMENT

This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.

061560 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:OIL/LUBRICATION:PRESSURE/TEMPERATURE SENSOR

350000 EQUIPMENT

This Preliminary information communicates the use of Winter grade fuel during the warm months of 2020 and the potential rivability issues that it can cause. The ongoing Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused significant reductions in

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This informational bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.

190000 TIRES

200000 WHEELS

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about finding needle bearings during an oil change. Technician will gain access to the roller rockers to inspect them. Only replace the roller rocker that is

350000 EQUIPMENT

138000 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

355100 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.

070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

350000 EQUIPMENT

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

073000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM

This informational bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels

350000 EQUIPMENT

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This informational bulletin provides information on key code security rules and information on GM keycode look-up applications.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides information on key code security rules and information on GM keycode look-up applications.

046000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK

120000 LIGHTING (PWS)

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Replacement Guidelines.

356000 EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Replacement Guidelines.

350000 EQUIPMENT

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Replacement Guidelines.

200000 WHEELS

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This informational bulletin provides information for dealers how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).

060000 ENGINE (PWS)

110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

This informational bulletin provides information on key code security and information on GM key code look up applications.

Showing 100 of 668 bulletins.

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SATURN ION

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2004

Electric Power Steering Failure

On March 31, 2014, General Motors Company (GM) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 1,340,447 model year (MY) 2004 through 2010 vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS), ... including 334,728 MY 2004 through 2007 Saturn ION vehicles that are the subject of EA11-014.GM has assigned the recall number N140115.The NHTSA recall number is 14V-153.According to the DIR, if power steering assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Center and a chime sounds to inform the driver.GM indicated that steering control can be maintained in manual (unassisted) steering mode, but would require greater driver effort at low vehicle speeds, which could increase the risk of a crash.Sudden loss of power steering assist can occur in the subject vehicles if the system loses electrical power or whenever the system detects a fault that requires it to enter fail-safe operation mode, removing power from the EPS motor.GM?s DIR identifies three basic conditions that may result in loss of power steering assist in the recalled vehicles:power steering motor faults, torque sensor assembly faults, and power steering motor controller unit faults.GM will issue four service bulletins providing different repair procedures for recalled vehicles.Bulletin 14115 will provide repair instructions for replacing the power steering motor in MY 2004-2007 Saturn ION, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt and vehicles repaired in recall 10V-073 that received repairs prior to May 31, 2010.Bulletin 14116 will provide repair instructions for replacing the torque sensor assembly in MY 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura vehicles built from March 1, 2008 through June 27, 2008.Bulletin 14117 will provide repair instructions for replacing the torque sensor assembly and power steering motor controller unit in MY 2008 Malibu, G6 and Aura vehicles built from February 1, 2008 through February 28, 2008.Bulletin 14118 will provide repair instructions for replacing the power steering motor controller unit in MY 2008 Malibu, G6 and Aura vehicles built from October 1, 2007 through January 31, 2008.Analysis of information from all sources identified a total of 4,787 complaints and 30,560 warranty claims related to loss of power steering assist while driving in the MY 2004 through 2007 Saturn ION vehicles, resulting in a complaint rate of 14.3 incidents per thousand vehicles and a warranty claim rate of 9.1 percent.ODI?s analysis of alleged steering related crashes identified 12 with evidence indicating the incident was related to a loss of power steering assist. Two of the crash allegations involved low-speed curb impacts and are excluded from the resume crash count.Three incidents occurred in parking lots, six occurred while turning at street intersections, and one occurred on a highway exit ramp.The crashes in parking lots or intersections all occurred at speeds less than 30 mph.The crash on the highway exit ramp involved impact into a guard rail at approximately 35 mph.Two of the crashes resulted in injuries to the drivers.This investigation is closed.All ODI complaints associated with this closing resume are listed in the attachment pages.Read more

RQ, Closed , Model Year: 2004

Electric Power Steering Failure

ODI has received 846 complaints and GM identified 3,489 reports alleging sudden loss of steering power assist in model year (MY) 2004 through 2007 Saturn Ion vehicles manufactured and sold by General Motors Corporation (GM).Sixteen of these complaints alleged that the EPS warning lamp had illuminate... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

WINDSHIED WIPER LINKAGE FAILURE

INVESTIGATION DISCLOSED THAT THE MANUFACTURER ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN IN AUGUST 2003, REGARDING SERVICE THAT REQUIRED REMOVAL OF THE WIPER ARMS.GM ISSUED THE BULLETIN AT THAT TIME TO ADDRESS CUSTOMER COMMENTS ON WINDSHIELD WIPER CHATTERING OR HOPPING ACROSS THE WINDSHIELD DURING WIPER OPERATION.TH... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

TIMING CHAIN FAILURE

ON DECEMBER 12, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A DEFECT PETITION (DP05-008) REQUESTING THE INVESTIGATION OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURES THAT COULD CAUSE STALLING IN SATURN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.2L (L61) ENGINE. ODI OPENED PE06-006 ON JANUARY 24, 2006, WITH 24 VEHICLE OWNER COMPLAINTS THAT ALLEGED A BROKEN TIMI... NG CHAIN CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP OPERATING.ON APRIL 12, 2006, ODI RECEIVED INFORMATION FROM GENERAL MOTORS (GM) CONCERNING TIMING CHAIN FAILURES IN APPROXIMATELY 412,000 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2000 THROUGH 2003 SATURN L-SERIES AND ION VEHICLES WITH 2.2L ENGINES. GM'S RESPONSE INCLUDED 1,020 OWNER COMPLAINTS AND FIELD REPORTS CONCERNING TIMING CHAIN FAILURE, INCLUDING 228 THAT ALLEGED THE FAILURE CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STALL WHILE DRIVING.GM ALSO PROVIDED WARRANTY CLAIM DATA THAT SHOWED 1,902 SUBJECT VEHICLES RECEIVING TIMING CHAIN REPAIRS, INCLUDING 261 WHICH INDICATED THAT A STALL WHILE DRIVING RESULTED FROM THE FAILURE.THE GM COMPLAINTS, FIELD REPORTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS THAT DID NOT CONTAIN SUFFICIENT INFORMATION TO DETERMINE THAT A STALL WHILE DRIVING OCCURRED WERE PROVIDED IN THE CATEGORY OTHER.GM STATED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THESE INCIDENTS PROBABLY OCCURRED WHILE THE VEHICLES WERE PARKED SINCE THE TIMING CHAIN IS MORE LIKELY TO BREAK DURING HIGH CHAIN LOAD SITUATIONS, SUCH AS ENGINE STARTUP.GM'S DATA SHOWED ELEVATED FAILURE RATES IN APPROXIMATELY 20,500 MY 2001 L-SERIES VEHICLES PRODUCED DURING A FOUR MONTH PERIOD FROM NOVEMBER 2000 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2001.OVER ONE-THIRD OF GM'S TOTAL COMPLAINTS AND FIELD REPORTS (34.3%) AND WARRANTY CLAIMS (38.2%) INVOLVED L-SERIES VEHICLES BUILT DURING THE 4-MONTH PERIOD, WHICH ARE ONLY ABOUT 5% OF SUBJECT VEHICLE PRODUCTION.THE TIMING CHAIN FAILURE RATE IN THE VEHICLES BUILT DURING THIS RANGE IS OVER 10 TIMES GREATER THAN THE REMAINING SUBJECT VEHICLE POPULATION. FOR THE MY 2001 L-SERIES VEHICLES BUILT DURING THE 4-MONTH PERIOD, THE 36-MONTH FAILURE RATE FOR REPAIRS INVOLVING STALL WHILE DRIVING IS SLIGHTLY UNDER ONE PERCENT.HOWEVER, IF THE INCIDENTS CODED AS OTHER ARE ADDED, THE 36-MONTH FAILURE RATE RISES TO NEARLY FIVE PERCENT FOR THOSE VEHICLES.ODI AND GM ARE CONTINUING TO ASSESS THE NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS AND WARRANTY CLAIMS CODED BY GM AS OTHER THAT INVOLVE INCIDENTS OF STALL WHILE DRIVING.GM'S STATISTICAL MODELING OF THE FAILURE DATA INITIALLY CONCLUDED THAT THE FAILURE RATES WERE DECLINING WITH AGE AND MILEAGE FOR ANY SET OF WARRANTY DATA ANALYZED (E.G., STALL WHILE DRIVING, OTHER OR COMBINED).HOWEVER, SUBSEQUENT ANALYSIS SHOWED THAT THE FAILURE RATES ARE INCREASING. BASED ON THE HIGH COMPLAINT AND WARRANTY RATES FOR TIMING CHAIN FAILURE IN THE 4-MONTH PRODUCTION PERIOD FOR THE MY 2001 L-SERIES VEHICLES, THIS INVESTIGATION HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS TO FURTHER ASSESS THE FREQUENCY OF STALL INCIDENTS DUE TO TIMING CHAIN FAILURES IN THOSE VEHICLES (EA06-009).Read more

DP, Closed , Model Year: 2003

TIMING CHAIN FAILURE

ANALYSIS UNDERTAKEN IN RESPONSE TO THE PETITION IDENTIFIED 26 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING TIMING CHAIN FAILURES IN MY 2000-2003 SATURN L-SERIES VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.2L L4 ENGINE.MOST COMPLAINTS OF TIMING CHAIN FAILURE REPORTEDLY RESULTED IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND STALLING.ODI ALSO NOTED TH... Read more

EA, Closed , Model Year: 2003

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILURE

THE COMBINATION FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL IN MY 2003 SATURN ION COUPES EXPERIENCED SIGNIFICANT EARLY-LIFE FAILURES DUE TO VARIOUS BULB QUALITY ISSUES DUE TO INADEQUATE DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE.THIS PROBLEM TREND APPEARS TO HAVE DISAPPEARED AFTER THE FALL OF 2003.THE CHANGE OF LEAD WIRE MATERIAL NEAR THE S... Read more

PE, Closed , Model Year: 2003

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILURE

ON NOVEMBER 16, 2004, GM NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL OF 178,798 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 AND 2004 SATURN ION SEDAN VEHICLES FOR INOPERATIVE FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL BULBS.GM STATED THAT TEMPERATURES IN THE LAMP ASSEMBLY EXCEED THE MATERIAL SPECIFICATION FOR THE BULB SOCKETS AND BULB... Read more

SATURN ION - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the SATURN ION across all model years (2003, 2007).

35 Total Recalls

5,468 Total Complaints

7 Investigations

333 Reported Crashes

23 Reported Fires

5 Reported Deaths

SATURN ION - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year	Recalls	Complaints
2008	0	4	View
2007	7	1,090	View
2006	6	1,537	View
2005	5	755	View
2004 (current)	10	1,124
2003	7	958	View

Other SATURN Models

Model	Recalls	Complaints
AURA	34	2,223	View
SL	29	2,891	View
SKY	22	623	View
OUTLOOK	21	1,939	View
SC	20	379	View
SW	17	274	View
LS	16	1,885	View
SC1	13	554	View

Vehicle Safety

Consumer Safety

Infrastructure

Public Health

2004 SATURN ION

Complaint Statistics

Top Reported Components

EPA Fuel Economy, 2004 SATURN ION

Technical Service Bulletins, 2004 SATURN ION

Most Affected Components

NHTSA Safety Investigations, SATURN ION

SATURN ION - All Years Overview

SATURN ION - Year by Year

Other SATURN Models