2003 Saturn Ion

Above average

Owners filed 758 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 7 times.

Not among the Saturn Ion years to avoid. Which Saturn Ion years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
71,000 milesMedian miles at failure

554 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2003 Saturn Ion problems

346 of the 758 complaints (46%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System201
733
Steering108
000
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch65
000
Electrical System › Ignition50
101
Power Train › Automatic Transmission · transmission30
000
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine27
010
Air Bags · airbags25
1508
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration20
203
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system18
000
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine · engine13
001

2003 Saturn Ion electrical system problems

46% of all complaints

346 of the 758 complaints are about the electrical system. This is what owners describe:

  • will not start28% · 96
  • stalls11% · 37
  • sets off warning lights on the dash5% · 18

Share of the 346 electrical system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
68,000 mi
median of 239 reports
Peak year of filing
2014
67 electrical system complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
8 · 3 · 4
in these complaints
Recalls on the electrical system
“Tl* the contact owns a 2003 saturn ion. While the vehicle was parked and cold, it failed to start. The contact had to wait approximately 15 minutes for the vehicle to start. The failure only occurred when the vehicle was cold. The failure recurred constantly. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 60,000.”
Owner complaint, filed Apr 8, 2016 at 60,000 miles
“I received a letter from saturn today 12/29/2014 with the letter stating december 2014. In the letter it states the following " this letter is intended to make you aware that your vehicle's transmission shifter may not properly transmit an electrical signal that allows the ignition key to be turned counter clockwise past the accessory mode to the "lock" position after the vehicle has been shifted into park.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 29, 2014 at 157,280 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2003: 44 complaints, 7 about the electrical system'032004: 60 complaints, 9 about the electrical system2005: 21 complaints, 5 about the electrical system'052006: 29 complaints, 14 about the electrical system2007: 69 complaints, 54 about the electrical system'072008: 82 complaints, 57 about the electrical system2009: 79 complaints, 53 about the electrical system'092010: 53 complaints, 24 about the electrical system2011: 44 complaints, 16 about the electrical system'112012: 20 complaints, 4 about the electrical system2013: 17 complaints, 7 about the electrical system'132014: 140 complaints, 67 about the electrical system2015: 33 complaints, 9 about the electrical system'152016: 23 complaints, 4 about the electrical system2017: 12 complaints, 5 about the electrical system'172018: 7 complaints, 2 about the electrical system2019: 7 complaints, 1 about the electrical system'192020: 6 complaints, 5 about the electrical system2021: 5 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'212022: 0 complaints, 0 about the electrical system2023: 1 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'232024: 3 complaints, 2 about the electrical system2025: 1 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'252026: 2 complaints, 1 about the electrical systemRecall 04V003000 (fuel system)Recall 04V004000 (visibility)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 14V047000 (airbags)Recall 14V171000 (electrical system)NHTSA investigation PE07011NHTSA investigation PE06006NHTSA investigation DP05008
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2003 Ion peaked in 2014, with 140 filed that year. Owners had filed 270 complaints about the electrical system before the first recall that covers it, 14V171000 in April 2014; 76 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

7 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch14E021000
Filed Apr 30, 201414,529 vehiclesUCI-FRAM Group

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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).

Electrical System › Ignition14V171000
Filed Apr 10, 20142,191,014 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. 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 ignition is not in the "Off" position.

Risk. 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 not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.

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 each vehicle. For vehicles that were built with the redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Chevrolet owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac owners at 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn owners at 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' number for this recall is 14113 for the ignition lock cylinder and key replacement, and 14133 for only key replacements. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.

Air Bags14V047000
Filed Feb 10, 20142,190,934 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. 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 on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.

Risk. 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. All affected owners will receive another letter once parts are available. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for the initial recall is 13454 and 14063 for the expansion. GM’s recall number for the vehicles that may have received the replacement parts is 14092. Note: Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Always wear your seatbelt.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. 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, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. 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.

Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal04V547000
Filed Nov 16, 2004178,798 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Fuel System, Gasoline04V003000
Filed Jan 5, 2004127,285 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Visibility › Power Window Devices and Controls04V004000
Filed Jan 5, 200479,204 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. 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 PASSENGER DOOR IS OPENED.

Risk. 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.

All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 5 name the 2003 Ion.

WINDSHIED WIPER LINKAGE FAILUREPreliminary evaluation PE07011Closed
Opened Feb 28, 2007Closed Aug 9, 2007visibility

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.the correction was to replace the wiper arm and blade.however, the bulletin did not place specific emphasis on the importance of using the proper tool and procedures to remove the wiper arm and to prevent damage to the pivot shaft housing.in GM's response to odi's information request letter, GM …

TIMING CHAIN FAILUREPreliminary evaluation PE06006Closed
Opened Jan 24, 2006Closed Jun 6, 2006engine

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 timing 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 …

TIMING CHAIN FAILUREDefect petition DP05008Closed
Opened Dec 20, 2005Closed Feb 6, 2006engine

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 that certain my 2002-2003 saturn vue and my 2003 saturn ion model vehicles with the 2.2l engine vehiclescovered by a technical service bulletin (03-06-01-017) that addressed timing chain design and service procedure changes, exhibited no complaints of timing chain failure.odi will grant the petition …

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILUREEngineering analysis EA04035Closed
Opened Dec 22, 2004Closed Oct 20, 2005headlights

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 start of my 2004 vehicle production appears to have reduced the failure rate for my 2004 saturn ion coupes.although operating temperatures in the subject vehicles' lamp assemblies are below the socket material maximum temperature specification, they are only slightly below the specification.in …

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILUREPreliminary evaluation PE04061Closed
Opened Aug 17, 2004Closed Dec 22, 2004Led to recall 04V547000headlights

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 base sleeves, which cause deformation.the deformed sockets can cause loss of bulb and socket contact.the deformed sleeves can cause stress cracks to form on the bulb that can lead to premature bulb failure.the recall remedy is to replace the front turn signal/drl bulbs and inspect for …

Technical service bulletins

499 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2003 Ion. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 150electrical system 101engine 77transmission 38equipment adaptive/mobility 17body and frame 15headlights 13fuel system 13
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIP4723JService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 25, 2024electrical system

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 Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.

24-NA-098Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 6, 2024electrical system

This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.

10-08-45-001HService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 28, 2024electrical system

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

07-08-49-020RService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 21, 2023electrical system

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

070849020QService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 20, 2020electrical system

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

Showing the newest 6 of 101 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System
Filed Oct 14, 202697,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that the vehicle was serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System); however, the recall repair failed to prevent the failure from occurring shortly after. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became stiff, the speedometer failed to display the accurate velocity, the fog lights would not deactivate, and several other electrical features failed. The check engine warning light illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 9, 2026IL

I took my 2003 Saturn ion to my local Chevrolet dealership in Lincoln Illinois and they refused to complete the recall issues (2) both are to do with the ignition and keys.thwy told me it was not fixable it needed a whole steering column that would cost me they said around $800.so it has now been 2 weeks my car has been there at Graue Chevrolet Dealership unfixed and they refused to fix please help me it's my only means of transportation and I have health issues that I have to go to Dr appointments quite frequently.

Steering
Filed Jul 16, 2025WA

After I did the recall several years ago, the problem came back. The key will not come out of the ignition. It's happened many times.

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed Sep 19, 2024111,350 milesPA

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.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 5, 202460,000 milesAK

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.

Steering
Filed Feb 20, 2024FL

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)

Steering
Filed Jan 23, 2023173,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2003 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. The contact restarted the vehicle to correct the failure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the dealer confirmed that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 173,000.

Engine
Filed Nov 22, 2021TN

2003 SATURN ION, CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BROKEN TIMING CHAIN. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING THE TIMING CHAIN BROKE, NEARLY CAUSING A CRASH IN THE MIDDLE OF AN INTERSECTION.

Steering
Filed Jul 24, 2021PA

Rack and pinion is going bad, my mechanic said it's a common issue in these vehicles. When going around a corner it will want to float the opposite way, the steering will eventually get tight my mechanic said until I loose all steering. I am a single mother and have already replaced the whole front end on this vehicle pretty much. I know I've read so many others experiencing the same issues with their Saturn Ion, so I wanted to make it aware that this should be a recall and fixed before someone who knows nothing about vehicles ends up in a severe accident due to this big issue. Also the Key don't want to come out most of the time. An there is an issue with the car not wanting to come out of park sometimes. Not to mention it eats ball joints like crazy every other month I'm replacing the ball joints in this car. If I could afford another vehicle trust me I would but I can't even save for a new car due to all the repairs I've made. It's just frustrating that so many people are having this issue and no mechanic wants to do the rack and pinion job with out charging a fortune.

Steering
Filed May 3, 2021223,388 milesNC

MY POWER STEERING KEPT CUTTING OUT. (BEEN DOING THIS FOR ABOUT 2 YEARS NOW) WHILE I WAS DRIVING TODAY THE WORST SITUATION HAPPENED. I WENT TO TURN AT AN INTERSECTION AND MID TURN THE POWER STEERING MESSAGE APPEARED AND MY STEERING WHEEL TIGHTENED AND STRAIGHTENED BACK OUT A LITTLE BIT. I WAS TRYING TO GET INTO THE TURN LANE BUT TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT I SPED UP TO MERGE WITH THE FARTHEST LANE AND UNFORTUNATELY I POPPED A TIRE AND BENT THE RIM. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED BEFORE SOMEONE GETS KILLED. TO BE HONEST IM SCARED TO DRIVE MY OWN CAR AFTER TODAY.

Steering
Filed Apr 12, 2021148,000 milesMA

INTERMITTENT ELECTRIC POWER STEERING LOSS DURING DRIVING, CAUSING MAJOR SAFETY ISSUE AS WELL AS DAMAGE TO STEERING COLUMN. VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND THE STEERING SHAFT SNAPPED CAUSING COMPLETE LOSS OF CONTROL.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 18, 2021234,000 milesFL

MY IGNITION WAS RECALLED BUT THE MECHANICS AT GM CRESTVIEW DIDN'T KNOW HOW TO RESET THE COMPUTER SO ALL MY LIGHTS STAYED ON FOR CHECK ENGINE. NOW MY IGNITION IS ACTING UP AND MY CAR WON'T TURN ON. IS IT STILL COVERED UNDER THE RECALL?

Electrical System
Filed Dec 16, 202066,000 milesTN

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY REMAINED SEIZED IN THE IGNITION WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS SHIFTED INTO PARK. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY SEIZED MIDWAY WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE LOST ELECTRICAL POWER AND TOOK 15 TO 20 MINUTES BEFORE STARTING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A CLICK BEFORE THE KEY WAS RELEASED. THE BATTERY AND ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE CONTACT CALLED SATURN OF MEMPHIS (2420 COVINGTON PIKE, MEMPHIS, TN 38128) AND INFORMED THE DEALER OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED TO TAKE THE VEHICLE TO JIM KERAS AUTOMOTIVE (2000 COVINGTON PIKE, MEMPHIS, TN 38128). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER AND WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.

Electrical SystemCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 23, 2020PA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT SLOW SPEEDS, WHEN THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO STALL AND ANOTHER VEHICLE REAR ENDED HER. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A CONCUSSION AND BACK INJURIES. THE CONTACT WAS TAKEN BY AN AMBULANCE TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AND ALSO SEEK PHYSICAL THERAPY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO REPAIR SHOP AND WAS NOT REPAIRED AT THAT MOMENT. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE HAD THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed Aug 21, 202075,000 milesCA

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY SEIZED IN THE IGNITION. THE CONTACT CALLED A LOCKSMITH WHO REMOVED THE KEY AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS SUBJECTED TO AN UNKNOWN RECALL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED IN 2014 FOR AN UNKNOWN RECALL, FOR A SIMILAR FAILURE, AT THE WESELOH CHEVROLET DEALER LOCATED AT 5335 PASEO DEL NORTE, CARLSBAD, CA 92008. THE CONTACT CALLED THE SAME DEALER AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE RECALL WAS EXPIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 2, 2020139,000 milesLA

MY KEY SWITCH DOESN'T ALLOW ME TO REMOVE MY KEY WHEN I'M IN PARKED AND MY TRANSMISSION STRANDS AT TIMES AND MY CAR DOESN'T START ALL THE TIME WHEN I TRY TO START IT I HAVE TO SIT AND WAIT AWHILE BEFORE IT STARTS AGAIN I COULD BE SITTING IN THE DRIVE THRU ON PARKED WAITING TO TRAVEL AGAIN ON TH HE MAIN ROADWAY

Electrical System › Ignition
Filed May 19, 202068,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER GM RECALL NUMBER: 14632 (SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT-UNABLE TO REMOVE KEY FROM IGNITION), NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: (N/A), IN DECEMBER OF 2013 AT SERRA CHEVROLET SAGINAW LOCATED AT 4200 BAY RD, SAGINAW, MI 48603, (989) 790-0800 HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MCDONALD GMC LOCATED AT 5155 STATE ST, SAGINAW, MI 48603, (989) 319-4136, WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER, HOUSING AND KEYS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 68,000.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Feb 26, 2020138,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 10 MPH, ANOTHER VEHICLE IN THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION DROVE HEAD FIRST INTO HIS VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AT THE SCENE. THE CONTACT AND HIS SON WERE TREATED FOR INJURIES AT THE SCENE AND WERE TRANSPORTED TO A LOCAL HOSPITAL. THE CONTACT WAS TREATED FOR CHEST, NECK AND BACK INJURIES. THE CONTACT 'S SON SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS NECK AND HIS BACK. THE WHEREABOUTS OF THE OTHER DRIVER WERE UNKNOWN. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT TOW YARD. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 30, 2019138,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS AND PARKING THE VEHICLE, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE KEY WOULD NOT EJECT OUT OF THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER AN UNKNOWN RECALL AND THE RECALLED PART WOULD NOT BE REPAIRED AGAIN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 26, 2019170,000 milesMI

KEY STICKS IN IGNITION, WONT COME OUT. KEY COMES OUT IN NEUTRAL AND DRIVE SOMETIMES. HAVE TO KEEP STARTING AND GOING FORWARD AND BACK THRU GEARS UNTIL IT RELEASES KEYS CONCERNED ABOUT WEAR/DAMAGE ON ALL COMPONTS INVOLED. WAS TOLD TO DISCONNECT BATTERY TO RELEASE KEYS. KEYS COME OUT WHEN BATTY IS DEAD. BATTERY IN TRUNK, TRUNK FULL. WAS TOLD AND SHOWN VIDEOS ABOUT IGNITION/IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER AND GEAR SHIFT AREA REPAIR RECALL. NEED RECALL INFO, LETTER AND RECALL CODE NUMBERS. MY VEHICLE IS STATIONARY WHEN IGNITION NOT RELEAAING. I BOUGHT THE CAR 8/2018. THE PREVIOUS OWENER TOLD ME ABOUT THIS MALFUNCTION. IT STRANDS ME SOMETIMES AND I NEED A JUMP START. TIRED OF MESSING WITH IT. IT IS EXTREMELY INCONVENIENT.

Steering
Filed Apr 20, 2019110,000 milesNY

THE POWER STEERING SUDDENLY STOPPED WORKING.

Steering
Filed Mar 28, 2019149,000 milesNY

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH, THE POWER STEERING OPERATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PADDOCK CHEVROLET (LOCATED AT 3232 DELAWARE AVE, KENMORE, NY 14217, (716) 941-4093) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE STEERING SHAFT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 149,000.

Steering
Filed Mar 12, 2019200,000 milesIN

POWER STEERING GOES OUT RANDOMLY WHILE IN MOTION. SOMETIMES IT LASTS 5 MINUTES SOMETIMES UP TO 25-30 MINUTES. GOES OUT EVERYDAY ON MY WAY TO WORK (26 MILE COMMUTE). EXTREMELY DANGEROUS WHEN TRYING TO PARK OR TURN FROM A LIGHT AND I DON'T REALIZE THAT THE ASSIST IS OUT. OBVIOUSLY ON HIGHWAY NOT AS MUCH OF AN ISSUE BUT WHEN DRIVING AT SLOWER SPEEDS IT IS DIFFICULT.

Steering
Filed Jan 14, 2019152,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE STEERING SEIZED AND THE STEERING WHEEL COULD NOT BE TURNED AT ALL. THE CONTACT PULLED THE VEHICLE OVER AND WAITED FOR AWHILE. AFTERWARD, THE STEERING RETURNED TO NORMAL. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WAS CONTACTED, BUT COULD NOT REPAIR THE VEHICLE BECAUSE THEY DID NOT HAVE THE EQUIPMENT TO REPAIR ELECTRIC VEHICLES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER AND DEALER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 152,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 7, 201978,585 milesAK

TAKATA RECALL, MY 2003 SATURN ION HAS RECALLS ON THE IGNITION SWITCH AND CYLINDER WHICH IS CAUSING MY CAR TO BE IMPOSSIBLE TO DRIVE. THIS RECALL IS CAUSING THE SYSTEM TO HAVE A SHORT WITH ALL MY ELECTRICAL. FOR EXAMPLE, WINDOWS DON'T ROLL DOWN/UP, WIPERS DON'T WORK, HEATER DOESN'T WORK, BLINKERS DON'T WORK, DASH LIGHTS STAY ON CAUSING BATTERY TO CONSTANTLY BE DEAD. ALL BECAUSE THERE ARE RECALLS THAT NEED TO BE FIXED.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 9, 2018101,000 milesNH

FUEL LINE ROTTED SO MUCH THAT ONE DAY I START MY CAR AND EVERY DROP OF GAS I HAD POURED OUT ONTO THE GROUND UNDER MY DRIVERS SEAT. IT WAS A FIRE HAZARD AND NOW I AM STUCK WITHOUT A CAR. THE GARAGE WANTS OVER $600 TO REPLACE THE FUEL LINE AND I LITERALLY HAVE NO WAY TO FIX IT. THE VEHICLE WAS ON A CITY STREET.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 27, 2018151,472 milesTX

TAKATA RECALL THE SEAT BELTS WHEN STOPPING SUDDENLY DO NOT ALWAYS LOCK UP. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS ESPECIALLY WITH KIDS. THE FUEL SYSTEM HAS BEEN PRODUCING A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AT CERTAIN TIMES OF FUELING UP. AND THE FUEL PUMP WILL KNOCK OCCASIONALLY EVEN AFTER IT'S BEEN CHANGED. THE SUSPENSION IS REALLY BAD AND DANGEROUS, RATTLING NOISE AND SHAKING.

Electrical System
Filed May 18, 201878,500 milesVA

THE IGNITION SWITCH IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. SOMETIMES, WHEN VEHICLE IS PARKED AND AN ATTEMPT MAKE TO TURN IGNITION TO OFF POSITION, IT WON'T GO. IT SEEMED TO TAKE 10 - 60 SECONDS FOR IT TO RESET AND THEN KEY COULD BE REMOVED. THE LATEST INCIDENT OCCURRED ON 5/12-13/2018. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, TRANSMITION IN PARK POSITION, AND AN ATTEMPT MADE TO TURN IGNITION TO THE OFF POSITION. THE KEY COULD NOT BE MOVED. IT DID NOT RESET ITSELF. KEY WAS STUCK IN THE IGNITION, COULD BE TURNED SLIGHTLY TO THE RIGHT, VEHICLE COULD NOT BE RESTARTED. THEN ALL POWER WAS LOST, AS THOUGH THE BATTERY WAS DEAD. THE VEHICLE COULD NOT BE LOCKED OF UNLOCKED WITH THE KEY FOR, HAD TO USE A SECOND KEY TO LOCK AND UNLOCK THE VEHICLE. THIS VEHICLE WAS RECALLED FOR IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEMS IN 2015 AND WAS REPAIRED. THE SAME PROBLEM IS OCCURRING AGAIN. GM TELLS ME THE NEW REPAIR IS NOT GOING TO BE COVERED BY THEM. THE REASON, I'M TOLD, IS BECAUSE THE VEHICLE HAD TO CHECKED INTO THE DEALERSHIP NO LATER THAN 5/17/18. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP ON THAT DATE. DUE TO SEVERE STORMS IN THE AREA THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER ARRIVED AT THE DEALERS SHIP A FEW MINUTES AFTER THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT CLOSED AND DEPOSITED THE KEY IN THE LOCK BOX. A REP FROM GM WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE CALLED THE DEALERSHIP ON 5/17/18 BETWEEN 5:45 AND 6:00 TO ALERT THEM THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE WAS AND MIGHT BE A FEW MINUTES LATE AND TO PLEASE ACCEPT THE VEHICLE AND GET IT CHECKED IN. I AM ADVISED BY THE DEALERSHIP THEY RECEIVED NO SUCH CALL

Engine
Filed May 10, 2018120,000 milesFL

FUEL LINE TO THROTTLE BODY LEAKED FUEL DUE TO STRESS CRACKS. PART THAT FAILED IS " NO LONGER AVAILABLE" ACCORDING TO GM PARTS SALES. .MECHANIC WELDED CRACKED PIPE AND SAID EH HAS FIXED QUITE A FEW OF THESE. I HAVE RECEIPT FROM REPAIR SHOP

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 7, 2018120,475 milesNY

FUEL LINE LEAK. I OWN A 2003 SATURN ION 3, WITH 120,481 MILES ON IT. THE CAR WAS GARAGE KEPT TILL THE PAST 6 MONTHS. WHEN DRIVING ON 4/15/18, THE CAR SUDDENLY DEVELOPED A STRONG FUEL SMELL. THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT INTO THE REPAIR SHOP ON 4/16/18. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A LEAKING, RUSTED FUEL LINE. THE LEAK WAS FROM LINE COMING OUT OF FUEL PUMP. MY RESEARCH SHOWS THIS WAS A KNOWN AND COMMON FOR THE SATURN ION, ALSO SEEMS THAT GM IS AWARE OF THE ISSUE. FUEL LINE/S SHOULD NOT RUST THROUGH LIKE THIS. THIS CAR IS WELL MAINTAINED, INSPECTED REGULARLY AT EVERY 3000 MILE OIL CHANGE INTERVALS. THE VEHICLE WAS MAINTED BY SATURN AS LONG AS THEY WERE IN BUSINESS. THIS IS A SAFETY RELATED DEFECT THAT SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED AND A RECALL CAMPAIGN STARTED AND I SHOULD BE REIMBURSED FOR THE REPAIR.

Electrical System › Ignition › Switch
Filed Apr 4, 2018TX

2003 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO IGNITION SWITCH AND POWER STEERING RECALL NOTICES ISSUES. *SMD *CN

Steering
Filed Mar 4, 2018OR

POWER STEERING GOES IN AND OUT WHEN DRIVING

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Dec 13, 2017KY

CAR JUST RECENTLY POPPED UP POWER STEERING ONLY HAPPENS WHEN ITS SITS OVER NIGHT AND WHEN I START IT UP IN THE MORNING IT'S VERY STIFF TO TURN BUT IF I DRIVE IT LIKE THAT FOR A LITTLE AND SHUT THE CAR OFF THE STEERING IS FINE. THE DASH LIGHTS FLICKER OFF AND ON AND WHEN DOING SO CAUSES HEAT OR A/C TO CUT OUT AFTER DRIVING IT FOR ALITTLE BIT. THE KEY LOCKS IN THE IGNITION SWITCH WHEN I GO TO SHUT OFF THE CAR AND I HAVE TO PRESS THE PLUNGER FOR IT TO RELEASE. KEEPS SAYING COOLANT WHEN GOING DOWN THE ROAD EVEN THOUGH THE COOLANT IS WHERE IT NEEDS TO BE. *TR

Steering
Filed Oct 5, 2017227,478 milesLA

SEVERAL TIMES THESE LAST FEW MONTHS MY VEHICLE PWR STR LIGHT HAS COME ON. THE STEERING WHEEL IS HARD TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND WENT IN THE HOUSE AND GOT MY HUSBAND. WHEN HE TURNED IT ON AND PUT IT IN REVERSE NOTHING HAPPENED, IT WAS OK. THE NEXT TIME I WAS BACKING INTO A PARKING SPOT, IT LOCKED UP AND WAS HARD TO TURN. I TURNED THE IGNITION OFF AND RESTARTED IT, THEN IT WORKED AGAIN. THEN AGAIN IN THE DRIVE POSITION. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES. MY DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING THE CAR NOT LONG AGO ON A CITY STREET AND HAD TO STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE STREET, TURN THE CAR OFF AND ON AGAIN, THEN IT WAS OK. TODAY I WAS DRIVING ON THE ROAD (A CITY STREET) AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. I FOUGHT WITH THE WHEEL TO GET OVER. TURNED THE CAR OFF AND ON AGAIN BUT THE STEERING WHEEL WAS STILL HARD TO TURN AND THE PWR STR LIGHT REMAINED ON. I DID THIS SEVERAL TIMES TO NO AVAIL.THE WHEEL STAYED HARD TO TURN. I FOUGHT WITH THE WHEEL, TURNING CORNERS, PRAYING NO ONE WOULD BE IN MY WAY AS I HAD TO MAKE WIDE TURNS BECAUSE OF THE HARD STEERING WHEEL. WHEN I GOT TO MY DRIVEWAY I HAD TO TURN AND BACKUP SEVERAL TIMES TO GET INTO MY DRIVEWAY. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND ON AGAIN SEVERAL TIMES AND THE LIGHT HAS NOT GONE OUT. I WILL NOT BE ABLE TO DRIVE MY CAR IN THIS CONDITION.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 13, 201777,750 milesNJ

GAS ODOR COMING FROM UNDER VEHICLE. FUEL LINE NEXT TO FRAME DIRECTLY UNDER LEFT REAR PASSENGER SEAT WAS LEAKING, FUEL LINES WERE RUSTED THROUGH CAUSING GAS TO LEAK. FIRE HAZARD

Electrical System
Filed Aug 25, 201769,000 milesSC

SEVERAL TIMES WHEN I HAVE GONE TO TURN OFF MY CAR THE IGNITION SWITCH WILL NOT RELEASE THE KEY. WHEN THIS HAPPENS I HAVE TO PLACE MY FOOT BACK ON THE BRAKE AND RUN THROUGH THE GEARS WITH MY GEAR STICK. THE IGNITION SWITCH THAT IS CURRENTLY IN MY CAR IS ONE THAT WAS USED TO REPLACE THE FACTORY ONE WHEN THE IGNITION SWITCH RECALL WAS ISSUED. ALSO, RECENTLY MY CAR HAS BEEN SHOWING PROBLEMS WITH THE POWER STEERING. IT HAS GONE OUT MULTIPLE TIMES ON MY SON WHILE HE WAS DRIVING RESULTING IN HIM HAVING TO FIGHT THE CAR TO GET IT TO TURN. I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM BEFORE AND I HEAR THAT THERE ARE RECALLS FOR BOTH. THESE PROBLEMS HAVE HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES AND I DO NOT HAVE EXACT DATES.

Steering
Filed Jul 21, 2017143,000 milesOR

THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT ON MY CAR TWICE SO FAR, BOTH TIMES I WAS DRIVING THE CAR AT THE TIME IT WENT OUT. THIS HAPPENED ONE WEEK APART AND BOTH TIMES THE POWER STEERING CAM BACK AFTER THE IGNITION WAS TURNED OFF AND THEN RESTARTED. THE FIRST TIME IT WENT OUT I WAS DRIVING ON AN INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AND THE SECOND IN THE CITY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 16, 2017138,000 milesDE

SAME ISSUE AS IN SATURN ION 2004 RECALL: RUSTED AREA ON FUEL LINE NEAR REAR DOOR. VERY SUDDEN FUEL LEAK (HALF GALLON) WHEN I ARRIVED HOME AND PARKED MY CAR

Visibility/Wiper
Filed Jul 13, 201780,000 milesFL

IN THE PHOTOGRAPH BELOW YOU WILL SEE THE WIPER TRANSMISSION, MADE OF PLASTIC, THAT BROKE ON MY 2003 SATURN ION AND WAS REPLACED ON MY VEHICLE ON 7/7/2017 AT MY EXPENSE OF $298. I WAS STUNNED TO LEARN THAT ANY CAR MANUFACTURER WOULD USE PLASTIC FOR ANY MOVING PART IN A VEHICLE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH GENERAL MOTORS, AND AT FIRST THEY TOLD ME THERE WAS NOTHING THEY COULD DO. HOWEVER, I HAVE REQUESTED THAT THEY DO A RECALL ON THE 2003 SATURN TO REPLACE THE WIPERS TRANSMISSIONS. I HAVE ALSO BEEN TOLD NOT TO WASTE MY TIME THAT THIS IS NOT CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE BY NHTSA. LET ME ASSURE YOU, IT MOST DEFINITELY IS A SAFETY ISSUE. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS TO DRIVE WITHOUT THE USE OF WIPERS WHEN IT IS POURING RAIN. THE WIPER BROKER WHILE I WAS DRIVING IN MORNING RUSH HOUR TRAFFIC WHEN I THOUGHT A ROCK HAD HIT MY WINDSHIELD. IT WASN'T A ROCK, IT WAS THE WIPER THAT HAD SLAMMED BACK INTO MY WINDSHIELD. I HAD NO CHOICE BUT TO KEEP GOING UNTIL I REACHED MY DESTINATION AT WHICH TIME I CALLED A FRIEND WHO LOANED ME THEIR CAR UNTIL I COULD GET THIS FIXED. I HAVE ALSO DONE A LITTLE BIT OF RESEARCH ON THIS AND FOUND THAT MY CAR IS NOT THE ONLY SATURN 2003 THAT HAS HAD THIS PROBLEM. THE CASE FILE NUMBERS WITH GM ARE 8-2993888661 AND 8-3078081084, WITH THE LATTER BEING THE MOST RECENT COMMUNICATION. AND, WHILE I KNOW MY CARE IS 14 YEARS OLD, THE AGE SHOULD NOT BE AN ISSUE SINCE THE WIPER TRANSMISSION IS MADE OF PLASTIC. I THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION OF THIS MATTER,

Electrical System
Filed Jun 22, 2017112,246 milesWI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND LOST POWER COMPLETELY. THE VEHICLE VEERED TO THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CAME TO A ROLLING STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON FOUR SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED IN MAY OF 2014 PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V047000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) AT A UNKNOWN DEALER, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. GENERAL MOTORS WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS UNDER A TWELVE MONTH WARRANTY, WHICH EXPIRED IN APRIL OF 2015. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 112,246.

Electrical System
Filed May 24, 2017WA

MY IGNITION SWITCH WOULDNT TURN ONCE THE KEY WAS IN SO I OPENED IT UP TOOK A LOOK AND PUT IT BACK IN. NOW IT TURNS BUT IT TURNS ON AND BACK OFF BEFORE AFTER JIGGLING THE KEY A LITTLE IT WOULD TURN ON. NOW IT DOESNT JUST STARTS AND TURNS OFF.

Electrical System
Filed May 16, 2017140,000 milesIL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION FAILED TO TURN OFF AND PREVENTED THE KEY FROM BEING REMOVED. ALSO, THE KEY WAS UNABLE TO START THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS SERVICED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V171000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), BUT THE REMEDY FAILED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 140,000.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Apr 10, 2017170,000 milesTN

DRIVING ON STAIGHT ON THE HIGHWAY HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD MY CAR STARTED SPINNING OUT OF CONTROL STEERING WHEEL LOCKED UP WHICH MADE MY DRIVER SIDE CRASH INTO A CEMENT WALL, MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY EVEN THOUGHT THE CAR HIT THE WALL SO HARD THAT IT CRACKED MY RADIATOR, MY CAR THEN SHUT OFF THEN TURNED BACK ON

Electrical SystemCrash
Filed Mar 28, 2017110,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AND THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER AN UNKNOWN RECALL FOR THE IGNITION SWITCH. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. *TT *AS

Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
Filed Nov 16, 2016GA

2003 SATURN ION. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE PLASTIC LINKAGE ON THE TRANSMISSION CONNECTS THE WIPER MOTOR TO THE WINDSHIELD WIPER ARM. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEFECTIVE PART WAS MADE OUT OF PLASTIC, WHICH WAS NOT DURABLE IN SUCH A CRITICAL PLACE AS THE WINDSHIELD WIPER TRANSMISSION. *JB

Steering
Filed Sep 18, 2016134,000 milesMI

IN JUNE OF 2016 AT A SPEED OF APPROX. 70 MPH MY 2003 SATURN ION LOST POWER STEERING ON THE E-WAY. I HAD TO PULL OFF E-WAY. PARK AND RESTART. AFTER RESTART POWER STEERING WAS BACK BUT ONLY FOR SHORT PERIODS OF TIME. HAS BEEN AN OFF AND ON REOCCURING PROBLEM SINCE.

Power Train
Filed Aug 20, 2016104,065 milesCA

I WAS DRIVING AND MY TRANSMISSION I BOUGHT FROM GM ONLY 14 MONTHS AGO WENT OUT. IT WAS REMANUFACTURED AND THE PART COST ME 5,513.63 DOLLARS. I ONLY DROVE APPROXIMATELY 9,000 MILES AND THEY SAID IT WAS 12 MO. OR 1 YEAR SO THEY CAN'T HELP ME. I WOULD EXPECT A REMANUFACTURED TRANSMISSION TO LAST MORE THAN 9000 MILES AND ASKED IF I WAS THE FIRST TO HAVE FAILURE AT SO LOW MILEAGE AND HE REPLIED YES. I FEEL I'VE BEEN CHEATED AS A CONSUMER. GM PARTS TOLD ME THAT PART IS COVERED 3 YEARS OR 36,000 MILES HOWEVER CUSTOMER SERVICE SAID THAT'S WRONG. I WAS ONLY AT 14 MONTHS WHEN IT WENT OUT AND AT 9000 MILES IT IS SO UNFAIR BECAUSE IT IS SUPPOSE TO BE LIKE A BRAND NEW TRANSMISSION. ALL GM IS ABOUT IS MAKING MONEY AND NOT ABOUT THE SATISFACTION OF THEIR CUSTOMERS. CAR WAS IN MOTION WHEN IT WENT OUT.

Steering
Filed Aug 15, 2016141,000 milesFL

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT HAD TO APPLY FORCE TO THE STEERING WHEEL IN ORDER TO STEER THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER AND REPAIRED PER A RECALL. AFTER THE REPAIRS, WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE AIR BAG AND CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE RECALL SPECIFICS WERE UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 141,000. UPDATED 10/19/16*LJ *TR

Power Train
Filed Aug 8, 2016215,000 milesTX

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 SATURN ION EQUIPPED WITH A MANUAL TRANSMISSION. WHILE STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE TRANSMISSION FAILED. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO GEAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CLUTCH PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO SHIFT INTO GEAR. THE FAILURE WAS INTERMITTENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 215,000.

Engine
Filed Jul 20, 2016115,522 milesCA

ON SAT., JULY 2, 2016 I NOTICED A LOUD NOISE COMING FROM THE ENGINE AREA. BEING A HOLIDAY WEEKEND, I HAD TO WAIT TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP ON TUES., JULY 5, 2016. I ENDED UP TAKING IT TO A REPUTABLE MECHANIC THAT DAY AFTER A RUNAROUND AT THE DEALERSHIP AND FILING A COMPLAINT AGAINST THEM. THE MECHANIC DID NOT KNOW HOW I MADE IT TO HIS SHOP. THE TIMING CHAIN WAS COMPLETELY LOOSE AND TENSIONER HAD BROKE OFF INSIDE AS WELL AS A COUPLE OF BOLTS. LOOKING AT THE OIL NOZZLER IT WAS BLOCKED WHICH COULD BE CAUSING LACK OF OIL GOING TO THE TENSIONER/CHAIN. I HAVE READ POSTS THAT THIS WAS AN ISSUE ON CERTAIN SATURN CARS AS WELL AS TIMING CHAIN. I PURCHASED MY CAR NEW IN JUNE 2003 AND HAVE MAINTAINED IT VERY WELL, BARELY DRIVING 5,000 MI./YR. KEEPING THE OIL CHANGED WHEN REQUIRED. I AM NOT CERTAIN IF THE CAR WAS IN MOTION AT THE TIME THIS OCCURRED OR IF IT HAPPENED AT START UP. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE IT TO THE MECHANIC, HOWEVER, HE DID NOT SEE HOW I COULD HAVE MADE IT THERE DUE TO THE CONDITION OF THE PARTS. I WAS DRIVING ON THE FWY. AT 65 MPH AND MADE IT THERE SAFELY.

Complaints 1-50 of 758, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20084010Routine
2007876700Above average
20061,235671Fatalities reported
2005573540Above average
20048981043Fatalities reported
2003 — this page758740Above average

Compare every Ion year →

2003 Saturn Ion: questions buyers ask

Is the 2003 Saturn Ion a good car?

It is not among the Ion years to avoid. Owners filed 758 complaints, against about 876 for a typical Ion year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (46%).

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Saturn Ion?

The electrical system: 346 of the 758 complaints (46%) are about it. Owners most often say it will not start (28%), stalls (11%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (5%). The typical report comes at 68,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2003 Saturn Ion have?

7 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 30, 2014. The largest, 14V171000, covered 2,191,014 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2003 Saturn Ion problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 71,000 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 68,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2003 Saturn Ion?

Yes, 5 times. The latest, PE07011 ("WINDSHIED WIPER LINKAGE FAILURE"), was opened Feb 28, 2007 and closed Aug 9, 2007.

Are there service bulletins for the 2003 Saturn Ion?

The manufacturer filed 499 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (101), the engine (77) and the transmission (38). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 30, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.