Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
08089-B11/01/200808089-C10027804General motors corp: special coverage adjustment; analog onstar deactivation. *pe updated 2/17/09. *pe02/09/2009
3506A10018530Incorrect mileage displayed after programming a new bcm. various models including 2005 - 2006 pontiac pursuit (canada only). *tt01/05/2006
34923492A10017021Service engine soon (ses) light at highway speeds due to a p0171 diagnostic trouble code (dtc). *tt10/20/2005
3512C3512D10016533Service engine soon (ses) light due to a p1182 diagnostic trouble code - potential causes and issues. *tt09/20/2005
3493A10016527Crank no start, hard start, or service engine soon (ses) light after campaign 05522. *tt09/20/2005
05073000603/01/200510015047Service engine soon telltale illuminated with diagnostic trouble code p0742. *eh05/17/2005
3421B3421C10014807Engine stalls, loss of electrical systems, and no diagnostic trouble code (dtc). including 2005-06 pontiac pursuit. *tt *sc05/10/2005
04084500707/01/200410009433Additional power distribution information for body control module electrical (bcm elect) fuse in the instrument panel fuse block (ipfb). *tt09/29/2004
04084500203/01/200410008704Service manual updated - body control module (bcm) connector c3 and c4 illustrations. *mj08/17/2004
04060403505/01/200410008480Diagnostic trouble code (dtc) po132, p0138, or p0172 diagnostic enhancements. *mj08/02/2004
04084500606/01/200410008004Sunroof inoperative and/or inside rearview mirror electrical functions inoperative. *tt07/19/2004
0159201/01/2004100054382003-2004 generation 5 onstar steering wheel control function explanation. sit bulletin 1416474. *tt02/27/2004
01010401/01/200410005198Speedometer fluctuation. *tt02/12/2004
04E0108/01/200310003507Spark plug inspect/replace - product emission recall. *tt10/22/2003
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - BATTERY
07086100504/01/200710021919Floor plan corrosion (rust) perforation in battery compartment. *kb06/26/2007
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - SOFTWARE
08089-B11/01/200808089-C10027804General motors corp: special coverage adjustment; analog onstar deactivation. *pe updated 2/17/09. *pe02/09/2009
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING
03084201111/01/200310005572Service manual update for headlamp wiring harness replacement. *tt03/04/2004
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING - FRONT UNDERHOOD
364810018915Hesitation on acceleration after internal engine repairs - check injector harness orientation. *tt01/24/2006

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
02/06/200834000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the ignition switch key was engaged repeatedly and the engine would not operate. the failure occurred ten times. the vehicle was towed to the authorized dealer for diagnostic testing which detected a trouble code related to a module. the contact was uncertain of the part that was replaced. the problem continued and the vehicle remained at the dealer for further investigation. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 34,000. mah
02/06/200834000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the ignition switch key was engaged repeatedly and the engine would not operate. the failure occurred ten times, although the engine would start after several attempts. the vehicle was towed to the authorized dealer for diagnostic testing which detected a trouble code related to a module. the contact was uncertain of the part that was replaced. the problem continued and the vehicle remained at the dealer for further investigation. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 34,000. js
03/15/2011800001
 The ignition would not engage could not start the car and replaced the entire system at 400.00 cost. less than a year later, the key now will not come out of the ignition and the car will not turn off. i disconnected the battery and it still would not turn off. after more than 30 minutes, and the engine overheating we were able to pull enough fuses to shut the engine off. they say i have to replace the same system again. i have heard that this is a recurring problem with this car and i can't get any answers from gm. i can not afford to replace this system again at a cost of 400.00 please help me with. *tr
11/04/20111100001
 Our car, 2004, saturn ion3, caught on fire in the driveway on it's own about 2 hours after it was driven home on 4 nov 2011. no driver - no key in the vehicle when it caught fire. i submitted an initial request for review to gm claims along with all documentation that we had via emails and our claim was denied. *tr
03/15/2011800001
 The ignition would not engage could not start the car and replaced the entire system at 400.00 cost. less than a year later, the key now will not come out of the ignition and the car will not turn off. i disconnected the battery and it still would not turn off. after more than 30 minutes, and the engine overheating we were able to pull enough fuses to shut the engine off. they say i have to replace the same system again. i have heard that this is a recurring problem with this car and i can't get any answers from gm. i can not afford to replace this system again at a cost of 400.00 please help me with. *tr
11/04/20111100001
 Our car, 2004, saturn ion3, caught on fire in the driveway on it's own about 2 hours after it was driven home on 4 nov 2011. no driver - no key in the vehicle when it caught fire. i submitted an initial request for review to gm claims along with all documentation that we had via emails and our claim was denied. *tr
11/04/2011110000
 Our car, 2004, saturn ion3, caught on fire in the driveway on it's own about 2 hours after it was driven home on 4 nov 2011. no driver - no key in the vehicle when it caught fire. i submitted an initial request for review to gm claims along with all documentation that we had via emails and our claim was denied.
08/26/20121553001
 For the second time the ignition lock cylinder broke. today we unable to turn off the engine. we had to remove fuses to kill the engine and disconnect the battery. the first time it happened we were stuck in the grocery store parking lot because the key would not turn to start. in both cases we had to break the ignition lock in order to remove the lock cylinder. with the cylinder removed we can use a screw driver to start the car. the screw is much more reliable. *tr
08/26/2012155300
 For the second time the ignition lock cylinder broke. today we unable to turn off the engine. we had to remove fuses to kill the engine and disconnect the battery. the first time it happened we were stuck in the grocery store parking lot because the key would not turn to start. in both cases we had to break the ignition lock in order to remove the lock cylinder. with the cylinder removed we can use a screw driver to start the car. the screw is much more reliable.
11/09/201198000
 When starting the saturn on a cold morning, the ignition fails to start the car. i get a service message. after waiting about 10 minutes the car will start as if the security was resetting itself. i've read several complaints of this problem on the internet. gm will not own up to a faulty product that leaves 100s of people stranded. as time goes by this problem occurs at random times, even on warm days. i would like a recall approved for this massive safety problem. it's a safety concern because in an emergency our cars shouldn't have to sit for an additional ten minutes or stall us in a potentionaly bad neighborhood. the problem seems to correct itself after this ignition switch inside of the steering column has been replaced based on hundreds of testaments. i want to add that my saturn when it was new had other recall issues like the automatic light sensor. also, another safety issue.
08/01/2011
 The power steering is failing nearly every time the car is used. it fails within minutes after the car is started. making turns requires a lot of effort in turning the steering wheel. the car can still be driven without the power steering, but one would hardly call it safe.
12/01/20031000
 The litany of problems with this unsafe and unreliable vehicle is long and varied. multiple transmission problems, electrical issues, losing power while driving, etc.. gm and saturn knew of these issues, especially the ones concerning the vti transmission, yet they chose to continue to put the public at risk by denying their responsibilities to correct these problems. the only real way, in my opinion, to make this right is to fully recall and replace these vehicles. this car has been nothing but a nightmare since i bought it brand new in late 2003 and continues to be a hazard. please force gm to do the right thing and get these cars off the road before someone gets killed.
08/01/2011
 The power steering is failing nearly every time the car is used. it fails within minutes after the car is started. making turns requires a lot of effort in turning the steering wheel. the car can still be driven without the power steering, but one would hardly call it safe.
12/01/20031000
 The litany of problems with this unsafe and unreliable vehicle is long and varied. multiple transmission problems, electrical issues, losing power while driving, etc.. gm and saturn knew of these issues, especially the ones concerning the vti transmission, yet they chose to continue to put the public at risk by denying their responsibilities to correct these problems. the only real way, in my opinion, to make this right is to fully recall and replace these vehicles. this car has been nothing but a nightmare since i bought it brand new in late 2003 and continues to be a hazard. please force gm to do the right thing and get these cars off the road before someone gets killed.
08/01/2011
 The power steering is failing nearly every time the car is used. it fails within minutes after the car is started. making turns requires a lot of effort in turning the steering wheel. the car can still be driven without the power steering, but one would hardly call it safe.
12/01/20031000
 The litany of problems with this unsafe and unreliable vehicle is long and varied. multiple transmission problems, electrical issues, losing power while driving, etc.. gm and saturn knew of these issues, especially the ones concerning the vti transmission, yet they chose to continue to put the public at risk by denying their responsibilities to correct these problems. the only real way, in my opinion, to make this right is to fully recall and replace these vehicles. this car has been nothing but a nightmare since i bought it brand new in late 2003 and continues to be a hazard. please force gm to do the right thing and get these cars off the road before someone gets killed.
09/13/201196000
 Key stuck in the ignition. car would not start. a new key had to be cut.
09/01/2011145000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the steering wheel seized. the vehicle was carefully maneuvered to the shoulder and shut off. upon restart, the vehicle operated as normal. the failure had since recurred on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the contact also stated that the vehicle would intermittently experience a failure in which it would not start. whenever the failure occurred, the contact would have to wait approximately ten minutes before the vehicle would successfully start. the failure mileage was 145,000.
09/13/201196000
 Key stuck in the ignition. car would not start. a new key had to be cut.
09/01/2011145000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the steering wheel seized. the vehicle was carefully maneuvered to the shoulder and shut off. upon restart, the vehicle operated as normal. the failure had since recurred on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the contact also stated that the vehicle would intermittently experience a failure in which it would not start. whenever the failure occurred, the contact would have to wait approximately ten minutes before the vehicle would successfully start. the failure mileage was 145,000.
09/13/201196000
 Key stuck in the ignition. car would not start. a new key had to be cut.
09/01/2011145000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the steering wheel seized. the vehicle was carefully maneuvered to the shoulder and shut off. upon restart, the vehicle operated as normal. the failure had since recurred on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the contact also stated that the vehicle would intermittently experience a failure in which it would not start. whenever the failure occurred, the contact would have to wait approximately ten minutes before the vehicle would successfully start. the failure mileage was 145,000. kmj
09/13/201196000
 Key stuck in the ignition. car would not start. a new key had to be cut.
09/01/2011145000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph, the steering wheel seized. the vehicle was carefully maneuvered to the shoulder and shut off. upon restart, the vehicle operated as normal. the failure had since recurred on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired and the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the contact also stated that the vehicle would intermittently experience a failure in which it would not start. whenever the failure occurred, the contact would have to wait approximately ten minutes before the vehicle would successfully start. the failure mileage was 145,000. kmj
09/13/201196000
 Key stuck in the ignition. car would not start. a new key had to be cut.
09/01/2011145000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 40 mph the steering wheel seized. the vehicle was carefully maneuvered to the shoulder and shut off. upon restart, the vehicle operated as normal. the failure had since recurred on an intermittent basis. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the contact also stated that the vehicle would intermittently experience a failure in which it would not start. whenever this failure occurred, the contact would have to wait approximately ten minutes before the vehicle would successfully start. the failure mileage was 145,000. sm.
08/04/201154302
 The key of my saturn ion will not come out when the vehicle is shut down. when the vehicle is stopped and in park, the key turns back to off but will not come out. this is the second ignition switch we've had put in this car, and there are literally thousands of people that this is happening to.
06/05/201145000
 I have had same problem with 2004 saturn since day when i bought it. take to dealer and they dont know what the problem is. bought new battery cause that is what a mech said to do need larger size. last month every time never failed you get in vehicle turn key on . sounds like it wants to start, but no you have to wait 10 min then turn key and it starts. cold or warm weather didnt seem to matter. i was told maybe starter! so i took it to a new mechanic that i had a dealing with on another issue differnt vechicle. he did testing and replaced the pass lock key . something to do with the alarming system. so knock on wood.. this last week starts everytime its working. total cost for part is 250.00 plus you need to have new key made and coded.
01/01/201188000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that during cold weather the vehicle intermittently failed to start. during the failure, the engine rpms would momentarily increase and the security warning light would illuminate. the contact stated that the security light indicated that the vehicle did not recognize the key. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was told that the failure may be due to a wiring issue. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 88,000.
01/01/201188000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated during cold weather the vehicle intermittently would not start. during the failures the engine would momentarily rev and a security light would begin to illuminate on the dashboard. the contact stated the security light indicates the vehicle does not recognize the key. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the contact was told the failure may be due to a wiring issue. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 88,000. sm.
02/23/201055000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the vehicle would not start and the key became wedged in the ignition. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for repairs. the manufacturer was contacted and advised that there were no recalls on the vehicle. the approximate failure mileage was 55,000.
01/22/2010110000
 I just brought a 2004 saturn ion 2 a couple days ago. today i got up and ready for work and my car wouldnt start. i tried several times to start the car and still nothing but the lights and radio etc come on. i was lookin for a reliable car to get me and my son back and forth being as though we have no family that lives close by;;; turns out i think i might have made a wrong decision. i have had this car less than 2 weeks now and it already is turning into a nighmare. i am hesitant on putting my son in this car because if i do get it to turn on and this happens again wat are we to do? it is freezing outside!
01/21/201142000
 My car will not start when the weather turns cold. i am the original owner of this car and keep up on the maintenance. after researching the problem, i have read numerous complaints on line about the same problem from other saturn ion owners and have concluded that the passlock system is misinterpreting a theft and locking up the fuel . i read that changing the grease in the ignition switch will correct this problem and that saturn (gm) has known of this complaint for some time now. they have a new improved part to replace this bad one but i don't feel it is worth $400.00+ to pay for replacement when it is a quick fix and it is their fault to start with. please issue a recall for this problem. i have been stranded in the cold waiting and praying for the car to start so that i can get to work on time and back home. it is not too much to ask. the car only has about 42,000 miles on it.
01/22/2010110000
 I just brought a 2004 saturn ion 2 a couple days ago. today i got up and ready for work and my car wouldnt start. i tried several times to start the car and still nothing but the lights and radio etc come on. i was lookin for a reliable car to get me and my son back and forth being as though we have no family that lives close by;;; turns out i think i might have made a wrong decision. i have had this car less than 2 weeks now and it already is turning into a nighmare. i am hesitant on putting my son in this car because if i do get it to turn on and this happens again wat are we to do? it is freezing outside!
01/21/201142000
 My car will not start when the weather turns cold. i am the original owner of this car and keep up on the maintenance. after researching the problem, i have read numerous complaints on line about the same problem from other saturn ion owners and have concluded that the passlock system is misinterpreting a theft and locking up the fuel . i read that changing the grease in the ignition switch will correct this problem and that saturn (gm) has known of this complaint for some time now. they have a new improved part to replace this bad one but i don't feel it is worth $400.00+ to pay for replacement when it is a quick fix and it is their fault to start with. please issue a recall for this problem. i have been stranded in the cold waiting and praying for the car to start so that i can get to work on time and back home. it is not too much to ask. the car only has about 42,000 miles on it.
01/22/2010110000
 I just brought a 2004 saturn ion 2 a couple days ago. today i got up and ready for work and my car wouldnt start. i tried several times to start the car and still nothing but the lights and radio etc come on. i was lookin for a reliable car to get me and my son back and forth being as though we have no family that lives close by;;; turns out i think i might have made a wrong decision. i have had this car less than 2 weeks now and it already is turning into a nighmare. i am hesitant on putting my son in this car because if i do get it to turn on and this happens again wat are we to do? it is freezing outside!
01/21/201142000
 My car will not start when the weather turns cold. i am the original owner of this car and keep up on the maintenance. after researching the problem, i have read numerous complaints on line about the same problem from other saturn ion owners and have concluded that the passlock system is misinterpreting a theft and locking up the fuel . i read that changing the grease in the ignition switch will correct this problem and that saturn (gm) has known of this complaint for some time now. they have a new improved part to replace this bad one but i don't feel it is worth $400.00+ to pay for replacement when it is a quick fix and it is their fault to start with. please issue a recall for this problem. i have been stranded in the cold waiting and praying for the car to start so that i can get to work on time and back home. it is not too much to ask. the car only has about 42,000 miles on it.
01/22/2010110000
 I just brought a 2004 saturn ion 2 a couple days ago. today i got up and ready for work and my car wouldnt start. i tried several times to start the car and still nothing but the lights and radio etc come on. i was lookin for a reliable car to get me and my son back and forth being as though we have no family that lives close by;;; turns out i think i might have made a wrong decision. i have had this car less than 2 weeks now and it already is turning into a nighmare. i am hesitant on putting my son in this car because if i do get it to turn on and this happens again wat are we to do? it is freezing outside!
01/21/201142000
 My car will not start when the weather turns cold. i am the original owner of this car and keep up on the maintenance. after researching the problem, i have read numerous complaints on line about the same problem from other saturn ion owners and have concluded that the passlock system is misinterpreting a theft and locking up the fuel . i read that changing the grease in the ignition switch will correct this problem and that saturn (gm) has known of this complaint for some time now. they have a new improved part to replace this bad one but i don't feel it is worth $400.00+ to pay for replacement when it is a quick fix and it is their fault to start with. please issue a recall for this problem. i have been stranded in the cold waiting and praying for the car to start so that i can get to work on time and back home. it is not too much to ask. the car only has about 42,000 miles on it.
01/22/2010110000
 I just brought a 2004 saturn ion 2 a couple days ago. today i got up and ready for work and my car wouldnt start. i tried several times to start the car and still nothing but the lights and radio etc come on. i was lookin for a reliable car to get me and my son back and forth being as though we have no family that lives close by;;; turns out i think i might have made a wrong decision. i have had this car less than 2 weeks now and it already is turning into a nighmare. i am hesitant on putting my son in this car because if i do get it to turn on and this happens again wat are we to do? it is freezing outside!
01/21/201142000
 My car will not start when the weather turns cold. i am the original owner of this car and keep up on the maintenance. after researching the problem, i have read numerous complaints on line about the same problem from other saturn ion owners and have concluded that the passlock system is misinterpreting a theft and locking up the fuel . i read that changing the grease in the ignition switch will correct this problem and that saturn (gm) has known of this complaint for some time now. they have a new improved part to replace this bad one but i don't feel it is worth $400.00+ to pay for replacement when it is a quick fix and it is their fault to start with. please issue a recall for this problem. i have been stranded in the cold waiting and praying for the car to start so that i can get to work on time and back home. it is not too much to ask. the car only has about 42,000 miles on it.
12/04/201092000
 My 2004 saturn ion 2 will not start on many cold mornings. it started initially, i drove it to the gas station, then it would not start again. the battery was fine, but i replaced it anyway. this issue presents in two different ways: turn key and get nothing, or turn key and hear an initial crank and then it shuts off. lights and radio still work. car will eventually crank and turn over after 10-20 minutes.
12/15/201060000
 I own a 2004 saturn ion2. at first, i only had a problem with my car randomly not starting. if i would wait for any ungiven length of time, it would magically start. now, my key has been stuck in the ignition for two weeks. (still stuck) i went to a saturn dealer today and was told that the problem could be the cylinoid, the housing unit, or even both. i was told that the key may have worn down, or a part in the housing may have scratched the inner surface of the housing causing the key to be stuck in the ignition. i live in florida, so the cold weather isn't a factor here. i cannot believe that there has not been a recall for this problem. i have two young kids who ride with me everyday, and i fear that we will get stranded in god only knows where. if my car is stolen because the key is always in the ignition, if it gets stolen, will my insurance even pay for my loss??? i thought saturn was supposed to be very good with problems involving their automobiles. i guess that idea only applied to their commercials.
10/12/2009
 I own a 2004 saturn ion. for the past two years when the temperature is below 36 degrees the vehicle fails to start. the ignition locks me out until the anti theft device resets and i can try again. after reading about many others expensive solutions to this issue without resolve or recall by gm, i have bought a small electrical heater to set on my floor board on the drivers side of the vehicle. this warms up the ignition inside the car and it starts right up. until i found this solution i was late to work, late for appointments and once stranded in frigid temperatures.
12/15/201060000
 I own a 2004 saturn ion2. at first, i only had a problem with my car randomly not starting. if i would wait for any ungiven length of time, it would magically start. now, my key has been stuck in the ignition for two weeks. (still stuck) i went to a saturn dealer today and was told that the problem could be the cylinoid, the housing unit, or even both. i was told that the key may have worn down, or a part in the housing may have scratched the inner surface of the housing causing the key to be stuck in the ignition. i live in florida, so the cold weather isn't a factor here. i cannot believe that there has not been a recall for this problem. i have two young kids who ride with me everyday, and i fear that we will get stranded in god only knows where. if my car is stolen because the key is always in the ignition, if it gets stolen, will my insurance even pay for my loss??? i thought saturn was supposed to be very good with problems involving their automobiles. i guess that idea only applied to their commercials.
10/12/2009
 I own a 2004 saturn ion. for the past two years when the temperature is below 36 degrees the vehicle fails to start. the ignition locks me out until the anti theft device resets and i can try again. after reading about many others expensive solutions to this issue without resolve or recall by gm, i have bought a small electrical heater to set on my floor board on the drivers side of the vehicle. this warms up the ignition inside the car and it starts right up. until i found this solution i was late to work, late for appointments and once stranded in frigid temperatures.
12/07/201055600
 On mornings when it is cold and has been during the night as well, my 2004 saturn ion will not start. it has happened three times now. i have already replaced the battery and now i am going to have to take my car to anothe shop in order for it to diagnose the reason it is not starting. the first mechanic said it is the tbs that is out on the no crank, no start for the ignition. the old part is still currently in my car.
11/13/2010162000
 Tl - the contact owns 2004 saturn ion 3. the contact stated that when the weather gets really cold she was unable to take the key out of the ignition. she started to noticed the failure when she park the vehicle outside . also, she mentioned that the only way she was able to get the key out was to rap a hot towel around the steering column. the contact will be taking the vehicle to the dealer. the vehicle has not been fix. the failure and current mileages is 162,000. pm
12/07/201055600
 On mornings when it is cold and has been during the night as well, my 2004 saturn ion will not start. it has happened three times now. i have already replaced the battery and now i am going to have to take my car to anothe shop in order for it to diagnose the reason it is not starting. the first mechanic said it is the tbs that is out on the no crank, no start for the ignition. the old part is still currently in my car.
11/13/2010162000
 Tl - the contact owns 2004 saturn ion 3. the contact stated that when the weather gets really cold she was unable to take the key out of the ignition. she started to noticed the failure when she park the vehicle outside . also, she mentioned that the only way she was able to get the key out was to rap a hot towel around the steering column. the contact will be taking the vehicle to the dealer. the vehicle has not been fix. the failure and current mileages is 162,000. pm
12/07/201055600
 On mornings when it is cold and has been during the night as well, my 2004 saturn ion will not start. it has happened three times now. i have already replaced the battery and now i am going to have to take my car to anothe shop in order for it to diagnose the reason it is not starting. the first mechanic said it is the tbs that is out on the no crank, no start for the ignition. the old part is still currently in my car.
11/13/2010162000
 Tl - the contact owns 2004 saturn ion 3. the contact stated that when the weather gets really cold she was unable to take the key out of the ignition. she started to noticed the failure when she park the vehicle outside . also, she mentioned that the only way she was able to get the key out was to rap a hot towel around the steering column. the contact will be taking the vehicle to the dealer. the vehicle has not been fix. the failure and current mileages is 162,000. pm
02/15/200740641
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn oin. the vehicle security system was re-designed and it causes the vehicle not to, be able to start. the dealer replaced the ignition switch; the repair didn't correct the failure. the dealer advised for the failure to be permanently corrected the body control module will need to be replaced. the manufacturer advised there wasn't a recall for the body control module and denied to assistance with the repair. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 40,641 and the current mileage was 96,000. li
11/16/201066000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving at various speeds and while parked the interior lights will not shut off. no warning lights illuminated on the instrumental panel. the contact also stated that the vehcile alarm goes off intermittently at night on it's own. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 66,000. tb
09/18/201055000
 The car will not start when it is cold or moist out. this is with a brand new battery. but, if you wait 15 to 20 minutes it will start without a problem.
04/17/200650000
 After driving through water in the street or a car wash, the next time i try to turn the car on, it won't start. you have to keep trying to start it until there is no noise at all except from the dash board. let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes and then it will start again, at least until another rain storm or car wash. have been stranded in parking lots, at home before work, and many other times. i just hope it never happens in an emergency. have had problems with three of the automatic windows not opening or closing, including the inconvenience of the driver window being stuck for about 2 weeks. had to get out of the car at the bank, drive throughs, and couldn't roll the windows down to cool the car off. all three windows were not working all at the same time. then about 2 weeks later, all of a sudden the window's start working again. the power steering which is powered by an electric motor went out and had to be replaced. i would be driving down the road, would hear a
06/25/201083000
 I drive a 2004 saturn ion-2 and my power steering goes out at random times. this is the first time i have had an issue with my power steering. i feel it is a major safety concern because this issue happens at random and the car becomes incredibly hard to steer. i have done some research on this matter and many other saturn drivers have the exact same problem as myself and i have also found that the chevy cobalt has the exact same steering column as the saturn ion and there has been a recall on the cobalt but not on the ion. this baffles me because if the same mechanism is on both cars the both cars should be recalled not just one. i feel extremely unsafe on the road driving my car now because i have no indication if and when my power steering will fail. the are no events leading up to this happening and i replaced the electrical power steering fuses in hopes that the fuses were blown but this did not solve the problem. from some internet research the next step would be having the entire steering column replaced but i do not feel saturn ion drivers should be responsible for replacing a defect on a car that should have been recalled years ago.
06/13/2010
 There was a error message on the panel that said power ster , 5 seconds later the steering wheel locked on a bridge.
01/01/201076000
 Quite often, without warning, the power steering fails on my wife's 2004 saturn ion. surprised at first by this failure, she has learned not to panic and to keep control of the car. internet research has told us that gm is aware of the problem and issued recalls on other models with the same system. it is apparently an expensive fix.
03/20/2009
 I owe a 2004 saturn ion and like many others, i having problems with my ignition switch. the power steering also goes out while driving. i purchased this vehicle in 2006 and started having problems 3 months afterwards. at first i thought it was only my vehicle until i was looking for a part via the internet and ran across other complaints. it's a shame that gm hasn't done a recall. there are several consumers affected by this problem.
04/12/201096000
 2004 saturn ion will not start randomly no crank no start issue which is from gm's faulty passlock system its not just cold weather related it was 50 degrees this morning when it happened but when i came home it started just fine its done this alot over the years and always at the worst times i know im not the only saturn/ gm owner with this problem and there are even tsb 's relating to these issues why are we stuck dealing with gm's faulty engineering
01/01/2007400001
 2004 saturn ion this car has problems starting when it is cold outside, i am late for work alot it might take 20 minutes to start or an hour. i called the dealership and they said i i would have to pay for a diagnostic evaluation. this happens in the cooler months i can count on it. the most current being this morning yesterday morning the day before that. *tr
01/01/2008500001
 Car does not start when below 35 degrees. i have to wait exactly 10 minutes then it will usually start. power steering would occasionally turn off while driving around 50,000 to 60,000 miles and gradually worsens over time. my power steering is now completely not working and has almost caused me several minor to major accidents when it shuts off while driving either by myself or with my children. i replaced the electric power steering fuses first to see if that solved the problem only to realize its the power steering column will have to be replaced costing me $1100. i can no longer drive my car because i am not strong enough to turn the wheel with the constant failing of the power steering. *tr
12/15/2009550001
 My 2004 saturn ion wont start in cold temperatures leaving me stranded. if i lived in guam this would be no problem, but i live in calgary alberta canada and its gets to -40 celsius and only takes minutes for frost bite to settle in. *tr
01/07/20103
 I drive a 2004 saturn ion and last year, the winter of 2008 whenever the temperature dropped below 40, which was once or twice, my car wouldn't start. this year, 2009, the temperature has been below 40 for about 2 weeks now and out of the 5 work days of this week my car started once on the first try. when i try to start it, the engine turns over and shuts off immediately. i have to wait at least 10 minutes to start again. sometimes it will work the second time, usually i have to wait until the third try. *tr
12/12/20091
 In cold weather (below 20f), the car refuses to start, or even try to turn over. *tr
12/23/2009761761
 I purchases a 2004 saturn ion in 2006. in october of 2007, my vehicle would not start for no apparent reason. after waiting about 15 minutes, my vehicle started and ran normally. this happened again about 3 days later while i was visiting relatives 2 hours from my home which detained me on my trip back home. i took my vehicle to the saturn dealership in harrisburg, pa to have it checked. i was told that the problem was the ignition switch which needed to be replaced (they replaced it). two years later in december, 2009 the problem occurred again, this time on my way to work on an extremely cold winter morning. i took the vehicle to the saturn dealership again and was told that i would need another ignition switch to replace the one they had replaced 2 years earlier. after reading about so many other complaints and dangerous situations that saturn owners have gotten into because of failing ignition switches, it is clear that there is a defect in these parts. i have read about countless situations where people were unable to turn their cars off! an ignition switch should not go bad every 2 years. this is not a high wear and tear part. a car should be able to turn on and off a large number of times without fail. a car that fails to turn off is an enormous safety issue. if you leave the car unattended and turned on, someone could be hurt or killed. not being able to start a car is also a dangerous especially when it happens in bitterly cold weather. saturn/gm is doing nothing to get these unsafe vehicle off the roads to be fixed. they are not taking responsibility for the countless number of ignition switch problems that saturn owners are experiencing. gm has a history of ignition switch failures and should stand behind their product by offering a recall of the defective part and replacing it. *tr
12/13/2009500001
 I purchased a 2004 saturn ion. no real problems until winter. my car won't start in the cold. i have been at stores and came out and it won't start. i give it 10 minutes exactly not a minute sooner not a minute later, it then starts. this is a safety issue. if for some reason i am out late and my car won't start and its subzero temp i can die from it. i am afraid that one day it won't start at all. this problem is becoming a big deal to me and other owners. please fix the issue, put out a recall!! *tr
12/09/2009900001
 On cold days my car will not start. it will roll over a few times and then the service vehicle light will appear. the car takes anywhere from 15-30 minutes to start leaving me stranded with no heat in the middle of no where. this occurs on a daily basis on cold days in the spring, winter and fall.. *tr
12/05/20051
 I have the same issue as many others with the anti-theft/electric system of my 2004 saturn ion. the manufacturer has refused to remedy the problem without me paying for their shoddy work. i am about to get a lawyer and see if he can get my car issue resolved with gm. when it is cold/wet the car will not start. it will crank 1 time and then nothing for 10 minutes. after waiting inside the car on a very cold morning i can attempt to try my car yet again. it may or may not work and the cycle may need to be repeated. i am very unsatisfied and have offered to gm an opportunity to correct the situation and was met with utter indifference. they want me to pay to replace their bad work and i will not. *tr
12/03/20091
 I pulled into a restaurant and the car was fine, when i went to leave the car would not start. i had aaa come out, they told me that i need to have the car looked at. the steering wheel will turn, but the key will not. the battery is not dead as all the lights work for the car but the key is not working. this problem happened once before but after waiting a few minutes the car simply started. now my car has to be towed to a garage, to be fixed. i looked online and have seen many other 2004 saturn ion owners have the same problem turning their car on in the cold. *tr
11/09/20091
 I recently purchased a saturn ion 2004 car. after 2 months, one day it just didn't turn on when i started it. i thought it was the battery. i had it checked and the battery was fine. i, however, replaced the battery with a new one, since it was the original battery. since then, the problem of not starting has happened 4 times....i went on the saturn website and to my amazement, there are pages and pages of the same complaint with the same car, saturn ion 2004, 2005, 2003. this is a real inconvenience not knowing if when i turn my car off it will start or not. i urge you to consider how many people are complaining about this same thing. saturn tells us when we call to take it to the service station. we then get a bill for their service, and they can't find anything wrong. we are wasting money. i believe saturn should step up to the plate and investigate this problem instead of just ignoring it. *tr
12/02/2009700001
 I bought a used 2004 saturn ion 6 months ago. i have had no real problems until it started getting cold. now, most mornings i have the common ignition problem that everybody else has. i turn the key, everything lights up, the engine cranks once, then nothing. i have to keep turning the key all the way off, wait 10 seconds, and try again. eventually, after 10-30 minutes of doing this repeatedly, the car starts. every once in a while, the car does start after only a few tries. i have read about this problem on many different forums, and i am angered and dismayed that gm will do nothing about this. good thing my employer is understanding, and has not fired me yet for being late every time this happens. *tr
10/10/2009240001
 Car won't start in cold weather. battery and alternator fine. had remote starter removed, as suggested by service center ; now have no running lights or keyless entry. have had the saturn ion 2004 since oct. 5th, 2009. have had to have the car jump started 5 times since. since this is under warranty it is going back to the dealers for good. i hope no one else decides to buy it until saturn owns up and fixes this defect. unsatisfied customer. 11-21-09. *tr
10/04/2009340001
 Saturn ion 2004 will not start in cold weather. the symptoms is sporadic and unpredictable and linked to faulty security module (anti-theft) which disables the car in cold weather. this is a well known problem documented in various forums as well as well known to saturn dealers. yet gm did not make a recall on this issue for more than 5 years. i have had this problem since 2005 and advised the dealers and saturn customer service several times with no success. *tr
02/01/2008450001
 The 2004 saturn ion fails to start in cold weather, after getting it checked it is the ignition switch. after reading reviews it seems this is very common on this year and make. this occurs at least once a week sometimes more. it has made me late for work and even miss classes. if this is so common why isn't this part being recalled!? apparently a security measure has the car not starting for 10 mins, sometimes 20. please help! *tr
06/27/2009810001
 Ignition lock cylinder broke which made it impossible to start the car. the lock assembly should be fairly easy to remove but the procedure requires that the key be turned to the run position. with a broken lock that cannot be done. i was only able to get the lock out be using brute force and completely breaking the lock mechanism. i am happy that this happened at a store close to home and we able to get a ride home. i guess i should be thankful we were not one of the poor souls who got stuck in an ion that couldn't be turned off. *tr
09/16/2008630001
 On colder days my car will not start. it will roll over a few times and then service vehicle light will appear. the car takes anywhere from 15-30 mins to start leaving me and my family stranded in the winter with no heat in the middle of no where. this occurs on a daily basis in the winter and in the fall 3 times a week. i haven't figured out what the problem is yet, they think it is the ignition switch. there should be a recall on these vehicles there is another person i know with the same car saturn ion hers is 2005 mine a 2004 and hers did the same thing hers was the ignition switch. *tr
04/14/200950000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. on april 14, 2009, while driving approximately 30 mph, the vehicle shut off without warning and the door lock system failed. the vehicle previously experienced electrical failures and trunk failure. the dealer replaced the trunk stopper. the vehicle was taken to a repair shop for a diagnosis. the current and failure mileages were 50,000.
04/13/20091
 I have so many things wrong with my 2004 saturn of course i have the cold start problem which i have had since i purchased the car(with only 7 miles on it). anytime i drive my car over 30 miles an hour it shakes had that problem fix 2 years ago and now it is doing it again. my driver side window seal leaks when it rains. new problem don't think i've since this one yet the transmission in the windshield wiper goes out nd guess what for only $275 saturn will replace that for you. this car is such a lemon. clearly as i read over complaints of the single mothers like myself, the teacher or just someone who want a reliable car. this experience has taught me never by american again and do my research before buying another car. the thing i hate the most is that they seem to have to take no responsibility for this car. *tr
01/01/2005350001
 I purchased my car new in 2004 and i have had an ongoing problem with it starting. it happens at random times and generally after 10 minutes to 30 minutes it will start up. i m not sure if the fact that i can remove my keys from the ignition while im driving down the road has something to do with it or not. it does seem like it does it more in cold/rainy weather than other times. there are still several incidents where it has been warm and sunny and it wont start. i am a single mom with two kids and i hate the thought of being stuck in my car w/ my kids and unable to go anywhere. i have been stuck in parking lots late at night after i get off work and one time it wouldn't start on my way to the hospital. no one seems to know how to fix it and everyone pretty much agrees it has something to do w/ the antitheft device put on the car. so how do we fix it and why wont saturn do anything about . today's economy is to bad to be loosing customers and my children are too important to me to be stuck in a car (at any given time) with no way to move. in the future i will be looking for a more dependable safe car. *tr
01/03/2009500001
 The problem began within the first month of the car's purchase. it was cold outside, and the car wouldn't start. after about 30 minutes, it started right up. after visiting several mechanics, i was advised to replace the alternator. since then, i cannot count the number of times that i go out to the car and it won't start.now, i am told that it 'may be' a faulty ignition switch. i am a teacher, and cannot be late for class. i have 34 students waiting for me every morning. now, i have to go out to my car, 30 minutes early, and start it. if it starts, i run out 30 minutes worth of gas for fear that it won't start if i turn it off. if it doesn't start, i waste 20 to 25 minutes in the morning getting it to start. this winter, it has not started no less than 15 times. this car is not dependable. *tr
02/04/2009660001
 My 2004 saturn ion does not start in cold weather. it has a brand new battery and starter, yet it is still having this problem. it will generally start after waiting about 15 minutes to try again. the consequences are being delayed 15-20 minutes each time i want/need to go somewhere. *tr
03/23/2009480001
 Car will not start at times , after letting it sit for about 10 mins after cranking the key a few times, it will start right up. seems to be a common issue with this year make and model, something to do with a white wire that is part of a plug containing a bunch of wires that plug in underneath the steering column. the problem seems to be more likely to happen when its damp or raining outside. and will always fix itself if you let the car sit for about 10 mins before trying to crank it again. car has a new battery, seems to be a lot of posts about this issue on bulletin boards on line. seems like cutting the white wire seems to fix the issue every time. *tr
10/23/2007660001
 I am having a consistent problem w/ my 2004 saturn ion 4 door 3.3 engine. the problem being is no crank with power on. after waiting 10 - 15 minutes the car will crank & start. this happens inthe morning trying to get to work, at the gas station trying to leave after a fill up, at the red light if i pump the ignition just so. after reading several ion forums there is a very large problem here. a recall should be issued at least investigated. i am taking the vehicle into saturn monday the 3.23.09 to have oil change & no crank w/ power evaluated. i will keep you informed. *tr
03/13/20094667001
 I own a 04 saturn ion. i have been having a constant problem starting the car. when the temperature is below 40 degrees, the car won't start. all the dash lights are illuminated. so i know the battery isn't the problem. i have to wait 20 minutes before the car starts up. after doing some research. it looks like the problem is the starter switch. the grease hardens up in the cold, then the security system locks out the starter switch. i have read hundreds of complaints on message boards regarding this problem. i know gm and saturn know of this problem also. they are saying this isn't a safety problem. i think it is. many people are having to sit in their cars when it's below freezing, waiting twenty minutes to start their ion's. what about parents with kids? what about if someone is trying to carjack myself? i don't have away to escape by driving off. *tr
01/26/20071
 My 2004 saturn ion has been giving me trouble for around 2 years now. it's off and on. i'll drive my car to walmart or where ever and go in the store, come out and it won't start. if i give it 15-20 mins it finally starts. my dad thought it might be my battery, but that was new. we are going to try and get an ignition switch now. hopefully that will fix it! *tr
02/14/2009380001
 We have a 2004 saturn ion that when it colds does not start. at first we thought it was the battery, but the battery is fine. then we noticed that it only happened on cold days. if the temp was below 40 degrees f. and the car sat for several hours (mostly mornings), when you attempted to crank, the car would not start. if seems if you have a dead battery. most of the time it would start after about 10 to 15 minutes. this is very dangerous, being stranded due to mildly cold weather. thank god nothing bad has happened while waiting for car to crank. i have talked to several saturn owners, and they to have the same problem. at least i live in florida and it does not stay cold long. saturn needs to fix this problem. also, was told by a service person at saturn to take a blow dryer to warm the steering column. this has been happening for a few years now. *tr
12/18/2008850001
 My 2004 saturn ion intermittently will not start in cold weather due to a faulty ignition switch that causes the passlock vehicle theft system to engage. i then have to wait for 10 minutes in the cold for the passlock system to reset so that i can try again to start my car. saturn is aware of this issue and has issued a technical service bulletin for it, but has yet to have issued a recall. *tr
02/01/2008330001
 2004 saturn ion, in cold weather failing to start, crank or turn over. battery, starter, and wires all checked all in working order. find out there was a tsb # 040845005 for it and was never informed of it. have had the problem for past two years but never took it to the dealer for that but did have it there for other service and was never advised of the issue. due to expired warranty dealer and gm customer service are unsure if they will cover all or any of the charge to repair it. cost is $250 first experienced last winter and in the past month this has occurred 4 times. *tr
10/03/2008510001
 My 2004 saturn ion does not start in the cold weather! it happened at least 8 times since october 2008. today is march 3, 2009. brought it to the dealer and they said they could not find anything wrong with it. already changed the ignition switch which wasn't the problem to begin with! *tr
12/15/200320001
 Purchased a new 2004 saturn ion on 9/30/03. winter of 03-04 car failed to start in cold weather. saturn put 2 new ignition switches in (warranty) 2004. this winter (08-09) same starting problem. fails to start in cold temperatures because of poorly engineered ignition switch common in the saturn ion. *tr
12/01/20081
 The date below is the date the issue began. i own a 2004 saturn ion, that began with cold start issues this winter. after looking up the issue online, i noticed it is a well known issue with these cars, yet there has been no recall. when attempting to start the car on a cold morning (or midday), the car will not turn over. it often takes 10-20 minutes of trying to get the car to engage. i called saturn, and they offered no remedy, as my car is out of warranty (only a 4.5 year old car!) - and i cannot afford the $250 repair for the ignition switch. on december 26, 2008, i was stranded for nearly an hour and a half, and suffered frost bite and mild hypothermia. *tr
02/22/2009720001
 I own a 2004 saturn ion quad coupe and like others, it has the cold weather fail to start problem when the temperature is below freezing. i stopped by the local saturn garage to see what type of repair is recommend for this problem. they are quite aware of the problem with no warranty replacement. their suggestion, if i didn't want to spend the bundle of money to have the ignition switch replaced was to carry bic lighter to warm the key. the service writer said that saturn engineering speced the wrong temperature grease to lube the switch. now, i the customer, have to deal with the another gm generated engineering design problem. this is a very annoying problem because i can not rely on an otherwise perfectly good running car and can't count on it for an emergency. *tr
02/17/2009458001
 Car refuses to start when turning key in ignition. passlock icon flashes on dashboard and service vehicle comes up on message panel. this is a cold weather starting problem due to the intermittent malfunction of the passlock circuit in the ignition (key) switch. passlock module has been replace 3 times by dealer. last time 2006. saturn has a complaint file under my name, vin, and phone number. this is an ongoing problem that happens every winter when the temperature drops below freezing. it is also a known problem, yet gm refuses to recall the cars affected. out of warranty dealer repair runs over $ 500. recent failure to start has happened at least 10 times since december of 2008. *tr
01/26/2009650001
 I have had by ion for 4.5 years. i just had to replace the ignition switch for the 2nd time. the first time was about 3 years ago. i have about 65000 miles. it seems like this is a manufacturer defect that i should not have to keep paying to have fixed. there were no warning signs, just one morning it would not start. it would then start sporadically until i fixed the problem. *tr
10/05/200730000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the vehicle fails to start on cold mornings. the failure was intermittent. an indicator flashes, which signifies that the past lock system is activated and that the vehicle is being stolen; however, this is not the case. the vehicle usually starts after ten minutes. there is a tsb for this failure and the vehicle is still under warranty. the manufacturer stated that they have never been able to replicate the failure because it only occurs approximately twelve times a year or in cold weather. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 30,000.
02/04/20091
 2004 saturn ion will not start in cold weather. fighting same problem for the last two winters.(have read many others with same recurring problem). *tr
12/03/200830000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. approximately a month and a half after the vehicle was purchased in october of 2008, the vehicle failed to start. the vehicle finally started after approximately four attempts. the failure has occurred intermittently since the first incident. also, in cold weather conditions, the vehicle would not start. the vehicle was driven to a vocational school repair shop for diagnostic testing. it was determined that the ignition switch was defective. the manufacturer stated that there was no recall relating to the failure; therefore, they were not liable for the repairs. the current mileage was 32,000 and failure mileage was 30,000.
02/03/20091
 2004 saturn ion will not start when cold out. it wouldn't even start at 20 degrees f. this has happened numerous times now. *tr
02/01/200901
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. in cold weather the dielectric lubrication freezes and interferes with the security system - making the vehicle unable to start. this problem occurs approximately 50% of the time when the temperature drops below freezing - more frequently with even colder temperatures. the problem is often remedied by waiting for 10 - 30 minutes until the security system resets itself and then trying to start the vehicle again. i found a lot of complaints by consumers with the same issue by searching google. i also spoke with a saturn dealership service department. the person i spoke with at the saturn service department said he was very familiar with the problem and verified the diagnosis i listed above (dielectric lubrication freezing resulting the security system lockdown) but said there were no related recalls. i know three people with saturn ions and they all have the exact same problem. two of the owners i know took the vehicle in to saturn dealerships for repair and they replaced the starter, a three-hundred dollar procedure which did not fix the problem. i hope you can look into issuing a recall on this issue because based on personal sources, a saturn dealer, and google searches, it seems to be a very common problem. also, living in minnesota the temperatures can get dangerously low - where being left stranded outside for 30 minutes without a heat source can result in frostbite, hypothermia, and even death. thank you. *tr
09/15/20061
 My 2004 saturn ion will not start consistently during cold weather. i have replaced the battery already which ended up not being the problem. then i found information all over the internet about thousands of other people who are having the same issue i am having. i should not have to spend my hard earned money on problem that was defective from the factory. i have been waiting for saturn/gm to have some integrity on this issue, do the right thing and issue their own recall, but so for that hasn't happened yet. i have been experiencing this problem since i bought the car in 2006. *tr
01/15/2009750001
 My vehicle on cold days will not reliably start. turn key, all lights and indicators work but start function is electronically terminated within 1 second of engagement. the car will start after waiting for ten to twenty minutes as if nothing was wrong. after many trips to the mechanic (dealer and non) i have found many such reports on-line indicating a faulty ignition switch which fails in cold weather. the time delay in starting appears to be some type of interaction with the theft deterrent system. i will now pay to have this part replaced but suspect, as many have reported, that this will correct the issue for one or two years before it occurs again (as many others have also reported). *tr
01/01/20091180001
 After 5 years my 2004 saturn ion will not start when the temperature is below +10f. there is power ( new battery ) and no fuel issue ( clean fuel system and filter ), but after 10 to 15 minutes and a couple of hesitant engine turns, it starts. no one needs an unreliable vehicle where winter temps last several months. after replacing the anti-sway bar, both headlight assemblies as well as other annoying problems ( instrument lights out, cabin fan noisy ) i will never ever buy another saturn . i took the problem ( out of warranty of course ) to saturn of rochester and was told it was a faulty ignition switch, a common problem for this make and model year. since it is not a safety issue, no recall was issued and i would have to pay at least $275 unless something else came up. being late for work ( public safety and volunteer fireman ) or my wife and children is not an option for me. please force gm to make the recall on this ignition part for the financially stressed new york consumers. thank you. *tr
01/14/2009990001
 1. there were no problems, until it got cold out. 2. if there is anytime the weather stoops below 10 degrees f, the car will not start. it will click and click and click, then nothing. every once and a while it will start for all of a second, then quit. then it does nothing when i try to start it again. 3. i have done nothing yet, but after reading forums where many people complain about the same problem, i'm going to try changing the ignition module, and possibly get a remote starter. *tr
01/24/2009700001
 The vehicle in question does not start on cold mornings and many mornings missed at work, and other appointments. money has been spent on starters and batteries but many owners of this similar vehicle have had the same problem, but saturn is refusing to fix the problem. this could be a potential safety hazard when the car does not start in extreme cold temperatures and the vehicle has young children and elderly. *tr
01/22/20095001
 Hi, i have a 2004 saturn ion, with only 22,000 miles on it. it seems to have a problem starting in cold weather. i had to take my moms 1988 buick to work yesterday because my car wouldn't start in the cold! it happened about two weeks ago, and i waited about 10 minutes and it started right up. about a month ago it happened when i was going out to lunch, same thing after ten minutes it started right up. i can't keep being late for work and missing appointments and when i take my wife's car she has to walk 15 blocks with the kids to school and if it's too cold for this car to start i don't really want my kids to walk. i called saturn today and was told they're not aware of any problems, yet when you search the internet there's thousands of people complaining about this. any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks in advance for your help in this matter. *tr
12/01/20081
 It won't start when it is cold. i need to wait 10-15 min and try again. i see a lot of saturn owners' are having the same problem. *tr
01/07/2009500001
 I own a 2004 saturn ion, within the past 2 weeks the car will intermittently not start in the mornings. i purchased a new battery from the saturn dealer and still have the same issue. the vehicle was placed on a diagnostic machine and the check came back with every thing being ok but the vehicle does not start. when i called saturn their customer service rep stated there is no recall but tried to sell me an extended warranty. can you please help me. *tr
12/01/20061
 Car will sporadically not start in cold weather. starts fine in warm season. waiting 10 minutes after initial try will usually remedy this. this usually happens 5 times a week and normally in the morning. this has been a problem since the purchase of the vehicle. the starter and batter has been replaced with no positive results. i have done internet research and found hundreds of others with the same problem. people seem to believe it is a problem with the pass-lock system being temperamental. the electrical system is sensitive to temperature and condensation. the cold start triggers an approximate 10 minute wait time before the system is reset and the car will not turn over until after that period. i have read where people have disabled the pass lock system to remedy this with good results. i am not comfortable with paying a mechanic to disengage the system or doing this myself and feel that saturn should fix the problem. since this is such a sporadic and temperamental problem it would be difficult for a mechanic to diagnose.... hence the dozens of accounts of people replacing starters and batteries with no lasting results. i have, with mixed results, that heating the ignition key before the initial start will cause a better connection. i am going to try this method. overall this is just a ridiculous issue and i'm tired of being late for work and starting my car 10 to 20 minutes before leaving my car unattended while getting ready. i am hoping this complaint will help fix the problem for me and the others experiencing such strong dissatisfaction with their saturn vehicles. *tr
09/06/2005690001
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. it won't start when it gets cold and the chat room says its a common thing .it's the ignition switch and they know all about it but keep right on charging us to replace something they should be doing .as its been going on since 2003 ion and still is on the 2007 ion.. there should be a recall on all saturn ions gm knows but don't care. and they want us to buy gm that's a joke . *tr
01/10/2009593001
 2004 saturn ion passlock failure when the temperature is below about 25 degrees the vehicle will not start. lights come on, radio works so there is power, even with another car trying to jump start the saturn it will not start. you have to wait at least 10 minutes for it to start. this can happen anywhere at anytime, home, gas station, etc. here is a list of other people who have had this failure. http://www.carsurvey.org/viewmorecomments_review_97661_4.html. *tr
01/16/2009320001
 Car will not start when it is cold outside. the car uses the gm passlock system. often after several instances of waiting 10 minutes, and trying again, the car will start. *tr
01/12/2009520001
 Wont start due to passlock/ignition problems in cold weather. have not replaced any parts yet as funds are limited. *tr
01/17/2009700001
 Bought the car under warranty, no crank/no start because of faulty passlock system. saturn rebooted the computer (saturns words). this was in may of 06. strangely, the car has died in at least 3 driveways as though the battery was dead. i have taken the car to a garage and had the battery tested and it was fine. recently, when the weather is cold, the car will no crank/no start and throw the passlock code. on the dash, sometimes it says service engine it may or may not reset after 10 minutes. the vehicle has become unreliable as i am never sure if i am going to get to work on time or not. i called saturn last week. apparently saturn is aware of the problem, but since they are going to inconvenience me to drive 200 miles to the dealership and then charge me $100 to walk through the door land then another $1000 on top of that to fix the car' they know they are making money off their faulty equipment. i refuse to pay for it, but in the meantime my car continues to not start if it is zero degrees. *tr
01/15/2009380001
 My 2004 saturn ion will not start when it is cold. this first happened last year, and i thought that the gas lines were freezing. i have put several bottles of dry gas in my tank thinking that this resolves the problem. apparently it is a passlock security issue and my efforts of dry gas did nothing. i have been stranded countless times due to the error. this problems renders the car useless. the most recent occurrence was yesterday, but this happens way too often. *tr
01/15/20091
 During the colder days my passlock system deny my car to start. i or my wife will have to sit in the car for 10 minutes to be able to try it again. if it doesn't start ate the 10 minute mark we have to wait another 10 minutes. we have waited a 1/2 an hour for it to start before. i have no trust it will start at any point. we need to wait the 10 minutes nearly everytime from end of nov to feb. *tr
01/15/20091260001
 I own a 2004 saturn ion. it does not start in the cold weather (around 36 degrees f and below). i have replaced the starter and two months ago i bought a new battery. my mechanic assured me the battery is top of the line and guaranteed to start in cold weather. however, it did not start yesterday in 30 degree weather. all lights turn on but car does not crank. does not even make noise. i have researched this through various discussion boards and most of them agree that there is a faulty switch in the ignition that leaks lubricant. when the lubricant freezes, the passlock anti theft alarm does not get it's electrical signal so it activates and prohibits fuel from being used so the car does not start. i take very good care of my car, but i have spent a lot of time and money trying to figure out what is wrong in this situation. if this is the case of a faulty switch, saturn / gm should be held liable and forced to do a recall with an updated switch design. for the amount that cars cost today manufacturers should not be allowed to put out junk parts and expect consumers to sit back and take it. *tr
01/16/20091
 I have a 2004 saturn ion which this morning would not start after i left a convenience store. it was a little hesitant in starting about a week ago. both times were extremely cold compared to normal this time of year. this morning i figured it was a battery problem. well after some internet research it would seem that these vehicles have problems starting in the cold and everyone else's description online describes what happened me to me perfectly. wouldn't start, walked the mile home, called for a tow truck, got back, started right up with not problems. *tr
08/25/20051
 My saturn 2004 ion has been breaking down since i purchased it used in 2005. they have put in 2-3 transmissions and everytime it is cold it won't start. a couple times the would start but not shift into gear! the tech's could not figure out what was wrong so my dad (who does not work on cars ) figured out it was a loose wire! they have replaced the stabilizer bar bushings at least 3 times! the cars heat and radio would just shut off and turn back on they also fixed that a couple times. my car will be paid off shortly but i will not be able to know what it is like to not have a car payment because at any moments notice my 2004 saturn ion might fall apart!!!!! *tr
01/15/20091
 My saturn ion 2004, bought sept. 2007 from carmax, frequently does not start when it is cold outside. for example, it was about 33 degrees this morning and even when i jumped it, the car would not start. i had the same problem last winter- my first winter having this car. when the weather is warm, i do not have any problems with my car starting. i have had the battery checked and there was nothing wrong with it but i am going to get the starter checked today. i have been reading about this particular problem on various online forums. apparently there are many other people who have the same problem but there has been no recall. as an educator, i cannot afford to pay for repairs that are not going to fix the problem, as i have read people online have already done. i cannot afford to buy a new car, and most importantly, as a teacher, i cannot afford to be late to school whenever it is cold. i am very hopeful that my efforts in making this complaint will result in a recall for the cause for this problem. reading the online forums, it seems like the problem is with the ignition/starter. thank you for your time and patience. have a wonderful day! *tr
01/14/2009629871
 Saturn ion will not start. sporadically the vehicle will not start. problem is caused by issue with ignition switch passlock system. after waiting a period of time (10 minutes?) system will start vehicle. has been an on going issue since purchasing vehicle. *tr
12/10/20081
 Car has not started 8 times. saturn ion 2004. 40,000 miles. bought it used 5 months ago. runs fine in warm weather. bought new battery, still wouldn't start. bought new alternator. still wouldn't start. jump start it, it will start sometimes. called saturn recall; 2nd time, they said it was a faulty wire but no one has recalled the wire. the problem: white wire in ignition switch. when it gets too cold outside, not enough volts go through white wire and car thinks someone is breaking in and will not start. found this out on carspace.com. other people with my same car have same problem. you have to clip the white wire then your car will run with no problem. newer model saturns are having the same problem. next i was going to get a new starter, but other have gotten that and starter goes out within a year. it stressful to get into a fairly new car and it not start. all lights come on but engine will not. now i know to wait 15 minutes and then try starting car again. why hasn't this been recalled? so here i am again leaving work tonight in the cold and seeing if it will start and if it doesn't sitting around for 15 minutes and then trying it again. it is soooo aggravating!! so again why hasn't this been recalled? *tr
01/12/2009220001
 My 2004 saturn ion intermittently won't start. this began about a week ago. i took it to a local car repair shop, and they advised me that there are 2 service bulletins for my car that pertain to this problem: one is for reprogramming the body control module (bcm) and the other is for an ignition system repair. they told me to bring the car to a saturn dealer to be repaired. i plan to do so tonight. i learned that this is a very frequent problem that saturn is well aware of, but that saturn won't make this a recall because then saturn would have to pay for the diagnosis and repair. please have gm/saturn change the 2 service bulletins (listed above) to recalls! *tr
12/17/20071
 2004 saturn ion - won't start when cold. this looks to be a very common issue, please see http://www.carsurvey.org/viewcomments_review_73169.html or search it is all over the internet. it's a shame that this is such a prevalent problem and yet saturn does not acknowledge it as a defect that would warrant a recall. certainly this could be considered a safety problem if someone's car would fail to start. i was stuck in my car for over an hour in negative temps and became ill afterwards. *tr
12/09/2008380001
 I own a 2004 saturn ion 2. on cold mornings the car will not start leaving me stranded. this has occurred numerous time. upon taking the car to a mechanic, the ignition switch was replaced. i've read hundreds of complaints from other saturn owners. this is an obvious safety issue saturn needs to address. *tr
07/05/200640000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. on several occasions, the vehicle failed to start unless she waited 15 to 20 minutes. the dealer determined that the ignition switch failed and replaced it. one year later, when trying to start the vehicle it would not start unless she waited 15 minutes after the first attempt. on december 12, 2008, the vehicle failed to start and the check engine light was illuminated. a local mechanic inspected the vehicle and stated no failure was found. the manufacturer stated that they are aware of the failure and there was no recall. the contact was later informed that the ignition switch would have to be replaced again with no guarantee that the dealer would assume the cost. the vin was unavailable. the failure mileage was 40,000 and the current mileage was 82,000.
11/01/200853000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. in 20 degree temperature or below, the vehicle fails to start. the contact stated that it takes 20 minutes for the vehicle to start. she notified the dealer and manufacturer and they stated that the ignition switch can be replaced, but it would not correct the issue. the contact feels that the failure is unsafe and an inconvenience because she works at night while the weather is cold. the vin was unknown. the current and failure mileages were 53,000.
07/20/200853000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the vehicle would not start in cold weather. the dealer stated that the ignition and start switches were defective. the ignition switch was replaced at the owner's expense. in addition, the temperature coolant switch continued to illuminate on the instrument panel. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was 53,000 and current mileage was 69,240.
12/10/200560000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. in cold weather conditions, the contact had to make several attempts to start the vehicle. the dealer stated that she needed to replace the ignition module at the cost of $300. the vehicle has not yet been repaired. the manufacturer referred her to nhtsa. the failure mileage was 60,000 and current mileage was 107,000.
12/04/20081
 Won't start in cold for about ten minutes. it gets worse every winter. it happens about once every day or two from december-february. common problem. in saturns *tr
11/10/2008850001
 My 2004 saturn ion has problems starting in the cold after about 10-15 minutes of trying it will start, everything such as starter battery fuel pump has been checked. my security light is on when this is happening. *tr
09/22/2008251061
 Failure of a wiring harness in a front door that controls windows, mirrors and door lock. a 2004 saturn ion with 25, 106 miles had 5 broken wires in the drivers door. the left rear door has no power at the window switch. this failure is due to an inherent design flaw that forces tiny wires to bend 2 times at 90 degrees and be slammed by a door!! think of the safety of unlocking a door in a panic situation or driving with a window down in rain, sleet, cold, etc., and a fuse is not the problem. *tr
09/04/2008600001
 In 2005 a recall was issued for the 2004 saturn ion front headlamps. i had the recalled parts replaced. for the past few months my left blinker has gone out about five times. i have replaced bulbs, had the dealer replace the sockets, and am now about to have the wiring harness replaced. the dealer said that no one else has had this problem. however, i have been researching the problem and have found hundreds of the same occurrences online and have seen other saturn ions around town with the same blinker out. i believe this problem is not normal wear and tear. i believe it is directly related to the 2005 recall. *tr
11/01/20073200
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. during the winter, it takes a half an hour to get the vehicle started. the dealer replaced the starter assembly solenoid in 2007. the manufacturer stated that the failure was a factory defect. the oil that was used at the time of manufacturing prevents the electricity to connect to the starter. the manufacturer would not assist with the repair. the failure mileage was 3,200 and current mileage was 7,200.
07/02/20081
 I have been having a problem with the anti theft/passlock system on my saturn ion. today is not the first time it has happen and after reading complaints from other consumers i see i am not the only one having the issue. the car will turnover but nothing will happen. all the lights come on the display as well as a service vehicle indicator. at first it would take 5 or 10 minutes to start and has progressively gotten worse. today for example i waited a half hour for the car to start. i called the saturn dealership here in my town only to end up in a argument with the person that sold me the piece of crap. i don
03/04/2008390001
 Ignition switch of all saturn ions are bad. it seems that the lubricant used for the internal parts is not well made and sticks to the internal parts in cold weather. when this happens, car will not start and will leave you stranded. it seems like it happens on every saturn ion yet saturn won't do anything about it. in the replacement parts the problem has not been corrected thus making this repair useful only until the next wave of cold temperatures comes along. *tr
12/10/2007490001
 Car does not start when weather is very cold. changed battery and had alternator checked. took it in to etna battery to have checked out. car started when it gets warmer or the sun warms up the car. *tr
11/01/2007200001
 Like many others i also had the problem with the ignition and it was repaired this past winter while my car is under warranty. at the same time they attempted to repair a strange grinding noise coming from my heater it has been replaced twice with no success in solving the issue and i was told by the dealer hey would not replace the item again. also i had recently replace the right head light socket since it was overheating and melting, (which could have caused a fire) while the lights were on. i am also having issues with my power steering turning off and on while driving. most of these issues i have found on here i hope someone is really looking into them cause saturn certainly made it clear that they didn't care. *tr
11/30/2007147031506/11/2004
 I purchase a 2004 saturn ion (6/11/04), brand new. the first sign of cold that year, late november, the car would not start at all. after awhile(10-15 min.) it would start up like nothing was wrong. i brought it in 12/28/04, which they replaced the ignition lock module; saying that was the problem. i still had issues with the car through the winter, and they didn't know was what wrong. everytime i brought it in, they would find nothing wrong and send me on my way since they couldn't reproduce the issue. the next winter than same thing happened. i was stuck in the cold a few mornings before work trying to get the car started. saturn claimed it was too cold outside for my car to start, and told me to wait a bit before bringing it in. (it maybe went below 0 degrees that week twice) fed up i brought it in again on 1/17/05, which they replaced my block assembly, wire harness, starter, battery, and wire connecters. they really weren't sure what was wrong they admitted, but it seems to work now. the car would work for a few weeks, then the same issue arises again. on 4/15/05 saturn had to replace my radio receiver for faulty issues. that same winter, my car would not start in the cold again. it was brought in on 12/20/05, which they replaced my ignition switch saying the usual this will fix the problem. now, just under two years later, i am back to having the same issues of my car not starting in the cold. saturn is now throwing their hands up saying i must purchase another ignition switch, and pay them to put it in for a total of $220. unacceptable. i may have taken actions sooner, but i wasn't aware there were many more saturn ion drivers with the same issues i had. *tr
03/06/200710007/12/2004
 Saturn 2004 ion 3 if i have the wipers and heat or a/c on at the same time as the radio the radio led lights go out when the car is moving and i am not able to read the time or radio station on the radio. if i turn the wipers off the led lights come back on. visibility problem causes driver to take vision off road longer-no specific accident has occurred but numerous close calls have occurred as a result of what apparently is a flaw. i have taken it to the dealership numerous times and the salesman and the general manage both said that is not right but the service manage tried to tell me that is normal operating condition. a saturn management review team person from saturn corp. said in a letter to me your retail service team leader has reviewed my concern and determined that the condition is a normal characteristic of the vehicle. since your vehicle is functioning within design specifications, we ask that you accept the diagnosis given at the time of this review. in other words they either do not want to fix the problem or don't know how to. this problem started happening after the turn signal/drl safety recall when they installed a drl jumper kit. *jb
02/15/200739500409/13/2006
 On 4 occasions now, when i leave work at around midnight in frigid weather, i attempt to start my 2004 saturn ion (manufactured in late 2003), and the starter will turn over approximately 1 or 2 revolutions, then stop. immediate subsequent attempts to start simply result in the click of the ignition switch. if i wait about 5 to 10 minutes, it will turn over once or twice again, one time, then i must wait another 5-10 minutes before the starter will turn over again. according to a website i was reading, this is a common problem, and is usually due to a defect in the ignition pass lock switch, an antitheft system designed to cut off fuel supply, and some sort of grease that freezes. so far, jump-starts seem to help...but according to that website, simply attempting start, waiting 10 minutes, attempting again, waiting for 10 minutes, and trying again, eventually will start the car. perhaps the time it takes to connect jumper cables is enough to reset this pass-lock system. *nm
12/01/2006500002006/01/2004
 2004 saturn ion, refuses to start in cold weather - mainly after an overnight park in sub-freezing temperatures...wait 10 minutes, and it starts. *jb
01/16/2007602/01/2004
 Vehicle randomly won't start. more frequently during cold and/or damp weather, but not always. vehicle will either do absolutely nothing or start to crank and stop or after repetitive tries, start and run very rough then cut out. i have lost count of the number of times this has occurred to me. in most cases i have left the disabled vehicle sitting for a day and tried again the following day to have it either start up like nothing ever happened or start, run rough and eventually smooth out. many of these incidents have occurred in my driveway and just caused me to be late for work and inconvenienced. twice it has left me stuck at work scrambling to find someone to pick my children up from day care. and tonight it left me stranded in the cold during the midst of an ice-storm at 11 pm...and again, late for work. these are not old vehicles experiencing this problem and after reading the vast complaints, it is certainly not an isolated problem. something needs to be done, the consumer should not have to pay for an obvious manufacturer defect. i will be contacting saturn in the morning to attempt getting it repaired. *jb
12/02/200634250106/03/2004
 Car won't start in cold weather. won't even turn on, then will and shuts right off. *nm
09/05/20045000109/05/2004
 Dt: the contact stated digital clock was losing one minute of time per month. he had to look at his wrist watch to keep accurate time. contacted the dealer, and they offered no free remedy. *ak
12/17/20044000406/17/2004
 Dt: the turn signals worked intermittently. also, thee car would not start. the vehicle started after multiple attempts of turning the key in the ignition. the vehicle was taken to a dealer, who repaired the problem. they were aware of an ongoing issue with the ignition. the turn signals were repaired under a recall. since then there was one incident where they did not work properly. the consumer felt they did not complete the repair. there was a tsb on the issue that the dealer used to correct it. these problems began in december 2004, and were thought to be corrected by the dealer. last week after filling the gas tank up the vehicle would not start. the contact made several attempts to start the vehicle and was unsuccessful. the contact's husband came and turned the key in the ignition and the vehicle started. the vehicle was not returned to the dealer at that time. no further repairs on this matter. *ak
06/08/2005103/30/2004
 Dt: while driving down the road the vehicle dies. sometimes will push the accelerator and nothing happens. when first bought the vehicle did this, readjusted the computer. and now was doing the same thing again . took vehicle to saturn, they kept saying nothing was wrong with the vehicle. *ak
09/20/20042000107/20/2004
 Usually i charge my cell phone at home overnight. but on monday 9/20/04 i had forgotten to charge the phone and used the cell phone charger in my new 2004 saturn ion 2 sedan. i noticed that my turn signal indicator was flashing quickly. i stopped to check and found that the front turn signals were not working and the normal daytime running lights were not working. i went to the local saturn dealer. he said i needed upgraded resistors and capacitors to handle my cell phone charger. this was done under warrantee in 2 hours. from research on the internet bulletin boards i found that this problem with the electrical system happens with some but not all cell phone chargers. the saturn factory recognized the problem and put in the better resistors and capacitors to handle cell phone chargers in cars made after 5 months ago. this is a potential safety problem if people continue to drive with non working front turn signals, it could lead to an accident. i also wonder if people with the old electrical system might suffer damage to their electrical system with cell phone charges over time which could lead to a failure of the electrical system. in my case i immediately recognized the problem because my lights stopped working. what about someone who's cell phone charger doesn't turn off the lights but just strains the electrical system leading to electrical system failures. *ak
07/15/200413
 While the vehicle parked while running the vehicle idling high on its own. the driver noticed while driving the vehicle would hesitate and would stalled. the driver tried to restart,but was able to do so. the driver was able to drive the vehicle to the dealer. the mechanic informed the driver that the vehicle was operating as design. *nm (possible valve sticking) when accelerating from stop, the vehicle would hesitate, then take off at a high rate of speed. this would also occur in reverse as well. there were times when accidents would almost occur. there would be high rpm's of 6000 plus. this was an intermittent problem. it was believed to be a problem with the vti transmission. additional problems: wind noise when sunshade was cracked, turn signal would not cancel on turns and the chime would go off and was an intermittent problems, the driver's side dash seemed loose and or misaligned, and the wipers would not clear the window. *sc
06/16/2004230206/10/2004
 I purchased my 2004 saturn ion 3 on thursday june 10, 2004. on sunday june 13 there were substantial rains in the atlanta area and i noticed that the trunk was full of approximately 2 inches of standing water around the tire and battery. the box of books in the trunk along with some other personal items were damaged from the water. on monday june 14, after having had the car in my posession for only 4 days i returned it to the dealership. they advised me on tuesday june 15 that the hole where the water is supposed to drain out of if the car had a sunroof was left unplugged during manufacturing resulting in the flooding of the trunk. i was able to pick up my car on the morning of wednesday june 16. later that afternoon, as i was using the power outlets in the car the turn signals and daytime running lights became inoperable. in order for my turn signals and daytime running lights to work i must unplug whats in the power outlet and turn the ignition off. when i restart the car they are operable again, but if i need to use my power outlets i must use them knowning that i won't have turn signals or daytime running lights. i feel that this is a safety issue because i either have to give up the use of my power outlets or my turn signals and running lights.*ak
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - BATTERY
03/17/2008100002502/01/2004
 On several occassion while it has been cold out, my vehicle would not start. as a matter of fact the vehicle would not even attempt to roll over. the only way i could seem to resolve the situation was by jump starting my saturn with another vehicle. this has happened so many times in the winter that i finally got sick of it and parked the saturn and drove a different vehicle. i am so sick of my car that i am ready to sell it. i recently found out about this site. after reading the first 20 some results and seen that everyone was having the same issue i was. i can not believe that there is not a recall on this part. i read other complaints too and am glad that i have not ran into their problem yet. if saturn does not fix this problem really soon, i will sell my car and i will never buy a saturn again. they are really making a bad product that they will eventually never sell again. after all these complaints, why has nothing been done to recall the problem. to anyone who reads this, never buy a saturn. it is not just the ion. i have heard several other issues with other vehicles. *tr
02/01/200815
 On several different occasions, there have been times where my vehicle would not start. it is usually when it is cold outside. the vehicle will not even attempt to roll over. it will act like the battery is completely dead. i have attempted replacing the battery and the same incidents occur when it gets cold out. i have talked to other people who have had similar incidents and they stated that it was something to do with the ignition switch. from what the mechanics told them, and that it was around a $500 part to replace. *tr
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
12/27/20058000410/07/2005
 I have taken my saturn ion3 in to the dealership three times now for the body control module keeps blowing fuses. the first time was the week after christmas 2005, the second was exactly a month later and the third time was o week after that. on the first visit they say that they replaced the (bcm), on the second visit they just replaced the fuse and sent me on my way and the third visit they said that they could not re-create the problem and told me to pick up my car after a week. i picked my car up on thursday evening and not 3 days later and the fuse is blown again. their only answer was to give me a couple extra fuses in the panel area so that i could change them myself. *nm
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION
04/01/2011385002
 2004 saturn ion. consumer states problem with faulty ignition. *tgw the consumer stated the dashboard lights would illuminate, when the key was turned, but the vehicle would not start. the consumer stated she would have to wait ten minutes or longer, before the vehicle would start. *jb
12/09/2009800001
 I drive a 2004 saturn ion 2. when the temperature is 32 degrees or lower my car will not start if it has been sitting for more than 4 or 5 hours. i have been left stranded on multiple occasions with this problem. i believe it is something in the ignition switch. during the winter months this will happen every morning and occasionally after work if the temperature is too cold. i have not done anything to fix the problem because it will cost around $200.00 to fix. *tr
10/14/200975000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated when the temperature dropped below 30 degrees the vehicle would not start due to the ignition switch failure. the failure was caused by the pass lock circuit that was inside the ignition switch and the resistance value within the pass lock system. the vehicle was towed to the dealer where they replaced the ignition switch. the vehicle was under warranty and there were no recalls. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 45,000.
12/08/20091
 I have a 2004 saturn ion that will not start when the weather is cold. this problem happens only in the winter. i have read many reviews about other customers having the same problem with their ions and most of them say it has something to do with the ignition switch. i think i will probably have it replaced. *tr
10/17/2009600001
 2004 saturn ion- ignition fails to release the key, cannot remove the key from ignition without struggling. have researched the consumer affairs website and there are so many complaints about this occurring, that is unreal. fortunately we have not had to leave the car running yet... as so many other customers and some have had to remove a fuse to get the car to turn off. saturn needs to do a voluntary recall on this and replace all of the ignition switches before a tragedy occurs. *tr
11/20/2008350001
 I am the owner of a 2004 saturn ion2 sedan. as of the past winter with unseasonable cold temps i began having an issue with the ignition of my car. the car would not turn over at all sometimes for hours at a time. the ignition has been replaced and did not fix the problem. i live in western ny where we do see cold temps during the winter months. i have a child i must get to school before i go to work every day. i have been a true advocate of saturns vehicles up until the purchase of this one. i have been researching the problem and found several others with the exact same problem and no resolution. i really hope that thee have been enough complaints about this problem for gm to actually step up and issue a recall. i really do not want to sell my car or be forever slighted by saturns because of this problem. please as a struggling single mom help take care of your consumers. *tr
11/01/20041
 My car has problems starting when the temp. gets below 30 degrees. i have had this fixed twice, and i was told this was because i needed a new ignition switch. i have found several sites where others have had the same issue. i have concluded that there is something wrong with the sensor in the passlock part of the ignition switch that causes it to not work properly when temp. gets below 30 degrees. saturn is well aware of this i believe and they have yet to do anything about it. it is very dangerous because it can cause someone to be stranded somewhere in the cold weather. it has also caused me to be late for work several times and has almost cost me my job. *tr
02/05/20091
 My car does not start in the cold. (at or below freezing.) i have had this problem many times so far!! after doing some online research i have found hundreds of other people who have the exact same problem with this car on different forums and consumer complaint websites. what is gm doing to remedy this, and why isn't there a recall on the ignition switch or whatever part is at fault? i was stuck outside in the cold today with my two small children while waiting for someone to help me...!!! *tr
09/10/2008580001
 I purchased my vehicle in march of 2004 and have had numerous problems since. i have had the ignition switch replaced previously and now just paid $630 to have the body module replaced because the anti-theft system locks the whole car down making it impossible to start it. initially it was thought to be a cold weather problem back when i first had the car ignition switch replaced. this recent incident is still not yet resolved because i have been having difficulty getting the keys out of the ignition once the car is turned off. it appears that the body module is still not registering that the key is in off position because the ignition switch is still faulty. i am at a loss for what to do next because i don't have money for these kind of repairs especially once every week. *tr
05/23/20081
 Have to have my ignition cylinder and housing replaced in my saturn ion 3. key will not turn to start vehicle. a new key will start the car but only works for 2 weeks. i am on my 5th key in a little over 2 months. took car to dealership yesterday, hope to get it back tomorrow. charge was $523, complained to saturn customer care and they brought it down to $230. so i am paying $230 to turn the key in the ignition of my 4 year old car. *tr
01/15/200884000306/14/2004
 Whenever the temperature is at 30 degrees f or below my 2004 saturn ion will not start due to the passlock system. this is a known problem and could lead to a very dangerous stranded situation. *tr
11/15/200460003005/30/2004
 Car often will not start. seems to be ignition switch, and/ or related circuits. leaves motorist stranded, usually in bad weather. replaced battery at 18 mos., which was not problem. required 'rescue' from other family members many times, in lieu of tow service. *tr
03/17/2008100002502/01/2004
 On several occassion while it has been cold out, my vehicle would not start. as a matter of fact the vehicle would not even attempt to roll over. the only way i could seem to resolve the situation was by jump starting my saturn with another vehicle. this has happened so many times in the winter that i finally got sick of it and parked the saturn and drove a different vehicle. i am so sick of my car that i am ready to sell it. i recently found out about this site. after reading the first 20 some results and seen that everyone was having the same issue i was. i can not believe that there is not a recall on this part. i read other complaints too and am glad that i have not ran into their problem yet. if saturn does not fix this problem really soon, i will sell my car and i will never buy a saturn again. they are really making a bad product that they will eventually never sell again. after all these complaints, why has nothing been done to recall the problem. to anyone who reads this, never buy a saturn. it is not just the ion. i have heard several other issues with other vehicles. *tr
02/21/20081
 My 2004 saturn ion2 will not start in very cold weather (sub-zero air temperatures). after several attempts are made - with approx. 10-15 minutes between each attempt - the car starts right up. the ignition will not crank the car, causing it to not roll over. when this happens, the display on the dash reads service vehicle. after doing some research, i've learned this is an on-going problem with these vehicles. i am told i must replace the ignition switch to remedy the problem, but also that this may not even be a permanent fix. i am appalled by such faulty workmanship in an american-made car. *tr
01/16/200894100501/10/2008
 Saturn 1on 2004 bad ignition switch... *cn
12/18/200752000307/01/2007
 Prior to purchasing my '04 saturn ion i read all the reviews and customer complaints. one of the biggest complaints i came across was that the vehicle would not start in cold weather. i assumed that since i lived in florida and it seemed most of the complaints where from other states where they get freezing temperatures, that i would not have this problem. how wrong i was, i have had this problems several times now when the temperature drops below 40 degrees. i contacted saturn and asked them if there was anything they could do about it and was told that since there wasn't a recall i'd have to pay for any repairs to fix this problem. i have read several complaints where not even them attempting to fix it has resolved it, i guess i'll just live with the headache of trying to get it started on the mornings where it is too cold, thankfully i do live in florida and that's not very often. *tr
11/25/2007300002009/01/2004
 The saturn ion will not start in cold weather. saturn knows of the problem but will not fix many posts on line of this issue. it is a major problem as i need to move at a moments notice for work. *tr
11/07/20075700206/30/2004
 When the weather reaches freezing and car has been left off for about 6 to 8 hours it will not start again. i had the problem two years ago and saturn replaced the starter on the car and now the problem is back again this winter. i have checked several sites and this appears to be a big problem that should be address. replacing the starter every other winter is not an acceptable solution. *tr
05/29/200744700203/01/2004
 At the begining of may i took the car into the dealer because i could remove the key from the ignition while the car was still on. they replaced the ignition lock cylnder. i thought all was well. *ak on may,29 2007, i was taking my wife out to dinner for her birthday. when i parked the car i tried to turn the car off and found out that i could not pull the key out nor could i turn the car off. i called saturn and was told to try to disconnect the battery to turn off the car. this did not work. i instead had to remove the cars fuse for the fuel relay pump. i took the car into the shop the next morning. after sitting at the dealer for over 4 hours i was told the anti theft device and ignition column couldnt be reprogramed because the computer had gone out. i ended up buying a new car.
01/01/200720
 Saturn ion will not start due to cold issues and is caused by an issue in the starting mechanism. something about there being a security feature that cuts the car off from starting. car leaves you pretty much stranded in the bitter cold when it will not start.*jb
02/11/200736000109/01/2005
 Tl*- the contact stated that the 2004 saturn ion did not crank or start when the outside temperature was below 35 degrees. the contact called the dealership, and they stated that the passlock switch would need to be replaced. the failure with the vehiclewas a common problem with the 2004 saturn ion. the failure mileage was 36000 and the current mileage was 42000.*ak
02/01/20076
 2004 ion ii intermittently won't start - makes a short cranking sound and then - nothing. after waiting for a while (20-30 minutes or s) it will turn over - especially in cold weather - had the same problem last year and was sold a new starter by the dealership. a month later i had a starting problem again, but it did not repeat until today. *nm
12/15/2006420001
 My 2004 ion has the intermittent starting issue as well. it first happened when the car had 42000 miles (currently at 80000). the display on the dash reads service engine and turning the key results in nothing. repeat attempts in 10 minute increments usually fixes it right up, after 2 or 3 tries. saturn should really be held accountable as this seems to be the rule more so than the exception with these ions. *nm
10/30/2006400001208/25/2004
 I had a problem with my 2004 saturn ion not starting a few times last winter i thought it was related to water in the fuel or a battery problem and after taking steps to fix any defects with either i had no further problem with my car until the first cold day this winter. it has in the last month failed to start at least 6 times, all on cold mornings. it will eventually start after trying for about 10 minutes. i am no longer under warranty so i did some research before calling the dealer and found other owners with the exact same problem. i then called the dealership where i purchased the car and although they knew of the problem, they were still going to charge me diagnostic fees if i brought in my car. i contacted the saturn corporation to find out why that have not issued a recall and did not get an answer to my question. i am presenting this as a safety problem for a few reasons. it is not safe to be sitting in your car in freezing temperatures for as long as it takes to eventually start. you can't plan ahead for emergencies. most importantly, i have automatic locks that unlock everytime you remove the key and the car will not even turn over if i don't remove the key in between each attempt. i do not feel safe sitting in my car for 10-15 minutes, late at night, after work in a dark parking lot without locked doors, and i don't want anything to happen to my family or anyone else's just because their car wasn't built properly. *nm
11/30/200678000403/10/2005
 I have had my 04 ion for one and half years now, and last year when the weather started to get cold, it would not start. i called the dealer and they told me that the grease around the ignition could not tolerate the cold weather here in nevada. so i had it replaced. problem solved, until this year. just today, for the first time this year, it didn't start. now the weather here has been in the teens for the past week, this tells me that it's not just the temperature, there has to be something else. but no one can tell what. something needs to be done. *jb
02/20/200615520102/19/2004
 Starter failure saturn ion in cold weather. half hour to 45 minutes to crank - backfiring in a closed system with fuel injection occasionally, twice blowing lid off of air-filter compartment - not a joy. service engine light goes on - late to work - common problem - lots of online complaints. replaced batteries believing this to be problem. new batteries with higher cranking amps does not solve. not a battery problem. date given is most recent occurrence, with only one event on that date. it also occurred on 2/19/06, many times in 01/06, a few times in 12/05, and several times in 12/04, 01/05, and 02/05. it did not happen when i bought the car in 02/04 - but that was a much milder winter than years that followed. treatment of gasoline with heat does not solve. car runs like a dream when warmer weather - utterly inconvenient and embarrassing (what? this is a saturn? new and won't start? less than 16,000 miles on it?) when cold. bad advertising for the company too. *jb
02/08/2006380002102/27/2004
 2004 saturn ion no crank and no start when the outside temperature is cold. lots of complaints on the web. lots of ions have this issue. *jb
12/17/20044000406/17/2004
 Dt: the turn signals worked intermittently. also, thee car would not start. the vehicle started after multiple attempts of turning the key in the ignition. the vehicle was taken to a dealer, who repaired the problem. they were aware of an ongoing issue with the ignition. the turn signals were repaired under a recall. since then there was one incident where they did not work properly. the consumer felt they did not complete the repair. there was a tsb on the issue that the dealer used to correct it. these problems began in december 2004, and were thought to be corrected by the dealer. last week after filling the gas tank up the vehicle would not start. the contact made several attempts to start the vehicle and was unsuccessful. the contact's husband came and turned the key in the ignition and the vehicle started. the vehicle was not returned to the dealer at that time. no further repairs on this matter. *ak
08/05/20057500112/04/2004
 2004 saturn ion suddenly stalled while driving with my family. this happened on 8/5/05 and 8/20/05. everything died for no apparent reason, which made it difficult to maneuver the vehicle without power steering in traffic. when i came to a safe stop with the stalled vehicle i pulled out the ignition key and re-entered it. the car then started just fine and there were no stalling issues since then. the problem i foresee is the fact that someone could get hurt and get in a serious accident while trying to control a vehicle without power in traffic. also, as a reaction to the engine stall, someone might try to remove the ignition key while in motion and accidentally lock the steering wheel, which could be lethal. i also find it irritating that you would not expect a 10 month old car with approx. 8000 miles on the odometer to stall without warning (i.e. no engine noise, no check engine light, full tank of gas..etc.) while cruising along. i also believe the dealership/manufacturer will have a hard time to duplicate the problem, because the engine stall happened for no apparent reason and the car runs fine otherwise. this is why i have not yet reported the incidents to the dealership, because it would be a waste of time until more ion owners report this issue to you folks. however, i just wanted to get the word out. i looks like my ion is not the only saturn ion with this kind of problem according to the already existing car stalling complaints. *jb
09/06/20052501/15/2004
 While driving my 2004 saturn ion, it dies for no reason. there are no consistencies to the problem. it has happen approximately 25 times over the last 6 months. i will be taking it back to the dealership for the 4th time this evening. the dealership claims that they cannot duplicate the problem and cannot find the source of the problem to fix it. the problem has occurred on the highway in traffic. i could be in a serious accident and have indicated to the dealership and saturn corporation that i feel i am driving an unsafe car. they have no solution for the problem. *nm
06/14/20041563106/04/2004
 Dt: car stalls without warning while driving and when turn the car off, it will not turn back on. dealer said they could not find the cause of the problem. manufacturer said they cant help caller.*ak
01/22/20047000301/10/2004
 3 days in a row 2004 saturn ion 2 won't start. after waiting 10 min i tried again and it started. this only happens when it is cold our temp.have been averaging -4 to 13 degress.will be going into the dealers tues.there should be a recall on the pass lock sensor since i have read on another site about all the problems this is causing with saturn not starting. *jb
12/21/2004180004
 I live in the pittsburgh area and have had my ion for almost a year and have never had a problem with. that is until this winter. 4 times i have came out of work at night on cold nights to start my car only to have it not start. after about 15 - 25 minutes of trying my car finally starts up. after i have sat in the cold. i can't wait for the day it decides not to start. anyway i never left anything on , no doors were left open,nothing. i don't know if this has something to do with the battery being located in the trunk of the car or not. everything else is fine and it runs fine after i do get it to start. we are expecting some cold days ahead were in live in the next few weeks, so i can't wait to see if it happens again. we i leave work everyone around me has no problem starting up there car different makes and years no problem. i will be giving my dealership a call tomorrow to see if they can help but i am sure as most dealerships are they won't. anyone else have this problem? *nm
12/23/200443002
 This has happened twice. my parents bought a saturn ion 2, it is only about 6 months old. after driving the car to their location and turning it off, they came back to the car (maybe 2 hours later), to start the car and nothing would happen. the first time this happened, they called the dealership and was told to push the unlock button several times on the remote. after about 20 pushes the car was finially able to be started. they brought the car to the place where it was purchased only to have someone tell them they don't see anything wrong and don't know why it did not start. about 1 month later the same thing happened again, they called the dealership, spoke with someone in the shop area and was told they couldn't help them out but if they brought the car into the shop, it would have to left over night to see if they can find any problems. we tried to push the unlock button on the remote as we were told last time to do this - it didn't work this time. after sitting in the car for about an hour, the car finially did start. also on two other separate occassions, on the dash panel, the mileage would dissappear and words would appear. i dont know what this was about, but when this was mentioned to the shop they said not to turn off the car and that it should be brought directly to them. on both of these occassions it was impossible to do that. when the car is turned off and started again, the words disappear. are there any other complaints or problems like this? *ak
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER
01/01/20052000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. when the pass lock/ anti-theft warning light illuminates on the instrument control panel , he cannot start the vehicle. usually he has to wait 12 minutes to start the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and the technician replaced the cd player and adjusted the cruise control switch. the repairs did not remedy the failure. the manufacturer was notified, and he was referred back to the dealer. the failure mileage was 2,000. the current mileage was 136,000.
01/01/20052000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. when the pass lock of the anti-theft system warning light illuminates on the instrument control panel, the vehicle will not start. he usually has to wait for 12 minutes to start the vehicle. a technician from the dealer replaced the cd player and adjusted the cruise control switch. the repairs did not remedy the failure. the manufacturer was notified, and he was referred back to the dealer. the failure mileage was 2,000. the current mileage was 136,000.
10/28/20091
 I couldn't start my car. i had it jumped and the problem went away. i got a new battery thinking this would fix everything, which it did not. i came to learn it was not the battery, but the passlock system. it is a safety issue for the following reason: when this happens i'm required to sit for ten minutes to wait for it to clear out the passlock system. this happened the other night at midnight, which is a very dangerous situation to be in a parking lot with no one else around. after a little research i find that many people have experienced this. seems unfair that saturn is aware of this costly issue and is not being held responsible for the cost of fixing it. especially since i've read that some people have the same issue after they've spent $300+ to get it fixed. *tr
09/10/2008580001
 I purchased my vehicle in march of 2004 and have had numerous problems since. i have had the ignition switch replaced previously and now just paid $630 to have the body module replaced because the anti-theft system locks the whole car down making it impossible to start it. initially it was thought to be a cold weather problem back when i first had the car ignition switch replaced. this recent incident is still not yet resolved because i have been having difficulty getting the keys out of the ignition once the car is turned off. it appears that the body module is still not registering that the key is in off position because the ignition switch is still faulty. i am at a loss for what to do next because i don't have money for these kind of repairs especially once every week. *tr
01/15/200884000306/14/2004
 Whenever the temperature is at 30 degrees f or below my 2004 saturn ion will not start due to the passlock system. this is a known problem and could lead to a very dangerous stranded situation. *tr
03/17/2008100002502/01/2004
 On several occassion while it has been cold out, my vehicle would not start. as a matter of fact the vehicle would not even attempt to roll over. the only way i could seem to resolve the situation was by jump starting my saturn with another vehicle. this has happened so many times in the winter that i finally got sick of it and parked the saturn and drove a different vehicle. i am so sick of my car that i am ready to sell it. i recently found out about this site. after reading the first 20 some results and seen that everyone was having the same issue i was. i can not believe that there is not a recall on this part. i read other complaints too and am glad that i have not ran into their problem yet. if saturn does not fix this problem really soon, i will sell my car and i will never buy a saturn again. they are really making a bad product that they will eventually never sell again. after all these complaints, why has nothing been done to recall the problem. to anyone who reads this, never buy a saturn. it is not just the ion. i have heard several other issues with other vehicles. *tr
02/22/2008400005009/15/2004
 Car will not start in cold weather. must wait between 5 and 10 minutes after each start attempt. posted bulletins relate the problem to a faulty passlock switch/ignition switch. *tr
01/10/2008650001010/10/2007
 On numerous occasions this year, my 2004 ion would not start despite the fact that the battery was charged. my own mechanic told me to have it serviced by a saturn dealership because the problem was related to the anti theft controller and could only be worked on by the dealership. he had seen this problem numerous times before. the problem was confirmed and repaired (for $214.00).the parts were only $40.00.as your own website(and others)confirm,this is an inherent problem that many ion owners eventually will encounter. despite this defect, general motors takes no responsibility doesn't seem to be a logical strategy to hold on to an already dwindling number of loyal customers. *tr
01/25/200895
 My 2004 ion won't start. the problem started in november with cold weather, but has occurred when it was not cold out and has gotten progressively worse until i can't start it at all and its because of the passlock security system. i have read probably more than a hundred complaints from others about this problem. saturn obviously doesn't care about people's safety. what is the point of a car payment when you can't drive the car or leave in an emergency? i used to be able to wait ten minutes for the passlock to deactivate, although it might take several tries of doing this before i ever got anywhere, but now nothing. the car is ok otherwise. mechanics don't know what to do. *tr
01/21/200742550311/01/2004
 My car will not crank when the key is turned to start. it has complete power. the battery is well within the normal limits. the instances when this occur all seem to be when the car has been outside and not running for at least 2 hours in temperatures in the 20 degrees fahrenheit range or colder. all the dash lights are on, and all the accessories work when the key is turned to start, but the starter does not even attempt to turn. the service engine message flashes. i pulled all the electrical relays in the fuse box and the engine will now start with no problem. it is a recurring problem when the weather is cold. the same fix works each time. there is most likely a fault in the ignition switch or the passlock system. should be recalled. *tr
12/04/2006615302409/10/2006
 '04 saturn ion fails to start in cold weather. security system prevents starting. must warm key/ignition, and after 15 minutes car may start. *tr
03/28/200790006
 My 2004 saturn ion occasionally will not start (will not crank). the battery is in good condition and a good state of charge. in general the problem is cured by waiting 10 minutes or so, and trying to start it again. then it might be several weeks of months before the problem occurs again. *jb
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - MODULE
03/17/2008100002502/01/2004
 On several occassion while it has been cold out, my vehicle would not start. as a matter of fact the vehicle would not even attempt to roll over. the only way i could seem to resolve the situation was by jump starting my saturn with another vehicle. this has happened so many times in the winter that i finally got sick of it and parked the saturn and drove a different vehicle. i am so sick of my car that i am ready to sell it. i recently found out about this site. after reading the first 20 some results and seen that everyone was having the same issue i was. i can not believe that there is not a recall on this part. i read other complaints too and am glad that i have not ran into their problem yet. if saturn does not fix this problem really soon, i will sell my car and i will never buy a saturn again. they are really making a bad product that they will eventually never sell again. after all these complaints, why has nothing been done to recall the problem. to anyone who reads this, never buy a saturn. it is not just the ion. i have heard several other issues with other vehicles. *tr
11/30/2007147031506/11/2004
 I purchase a 2004 saturn ion (6/11/04), brand new. the first sign of cold that year, late november, the car would not start at all. after awhile(10-15 min.) it would start up like nothing was wrong. i brought it in 12/28/04, which they replaced the ignition lock module; saying that was the problem. i still had issues with the car through the winter, and they didn't know was what wrong. everytime i brought it in, they would find nothing wrong and send me on my way since they couldn't reproduce the issue. the next winter than same thing happened. i was stuck in the cold a few mornings before work trying to get the car started. saturn claimed it was too cold outside for my car to start, and told me to wait a bit before bringing it in. (it maybe went below 0 degrees that week twice) fed up i brought it in again on 1/17/05, which they replaced my block assembly, wire harness, starter, battery, and wire connecters. they really weren't sure what was wrong they admitted, but it seems to work now. the car would work for a few weeks, then the same issue arises again. on 4/15/05 saturn had to replace my radio receiver for faulty issues. that same winter, my car would not start in the cold again. it was brought in on 12/20/05, which they replaced my ignition switch saying the usual this will fix the problem. now, just under two years later, i am back to having the same issues of my car not starting in the cold. saturn is now throwing their hands up saying i must purchase another ignition switch, and pay them to put it in for a total of $220. unacceptable. i may have taken actions sooner, but i wasn't aware there were many more saturn ion drivers with the same issues i had. *tr
11/06/2006407/01/2004
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. i purchased it in july of 04. it now has 73,000 miles on it & just startedto have this problem. on very cold mornings (15-25 dgrees) it will not start. after trying to start it after 15-30 minutes (or tryin to jump it off) it finally cranks. now i have researched this problem on the web (where i got this website) & numerous saturn owners are having this same problem. apparently it is the bcm (body control module). it is around $600 to replace this. why should the owners have to pay this if its a part that should be clearly recalled! its saturns fault, make them pay the money. not single mothers such as myself! *jb
09/28/20053
 As i was going to start my 2004 saturn ion this morning, it would not turn over. the car would not start. i waited 15 minutes and tried again and it would not turn on. the transmission light was on and the service vehicle warning was on. this is not the first time i have had this problem. i was late for work due to this. i could not get the car started. my car has been serviced recently, so i know it is not my fault. i contacted the dealership at 9 am and was told to bring the car in at 4:00 pm , if it would start. otherwise it will be towed and i will receive a rental. *jb
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - IGNITION - SWITCH
09/29/20121500001
 When starting the saturn on a cold morning, the ignition fails to start the car. i get a service message. after waiting about 10 minutes the car will start as if the security was resetting itself. i've read several complaints of this problem on the internet. gm will not own up to a faulty product that leaves saturn owners completely stranded. this problem occurs at random times, even on warm days. a recall must be approved for this massive safety problem. it's a safety concern because in an emergency the cars shouldn't have to sit for an additional ten minutes or stall out in unsafe areas. the problem seems to correct itself after this ignition switch inside of the steering column has been replaced based on hundreds of testaments. i have replaced my stater and battery before realizing the problem was a faulty ignition switch that numerous other saturn owners have had the unpleasant experience of dealing with. *tr
02/06/20101
 I have a 2004 saturn ion 2. seems to be a problem with the ignition switch in these vehicles. my car will not start when cold and damp outside. i have replaced the switch in my vehicle several times and still get the same problem in time. this is a safety issue because i live in mo where it gets very cold and not always someone to pick me up when the car dies. so i am left stranded in sub zero temperatures. saturn knows very well about this problem and will not recall this. please see that a recall takes place. this is an ongoing problem with this car. *tr
12/23/2009761761
 I purchases a 2004 saturn ion in 2006. in october of 2007, my vehicle would not start for no apparent reason. after waiting about 15 minutes, my vehicle started and ran normally. this happened again about 3 days later while i was visiting relatives 2 hours from my home which detained me on my trip back home. i took my vehicle to the saturn dealership in harrisburg, pa to have it checked. i was told that the problem was the ignition switch which needed to be replaced (they replaced it). two years later in december, 2009 the problem occurred again, this time on my way to work on an extremely cold winter morning. i took the vehicle to the saturn dealership again and was told that i would need another ignition switch to replace the one they had replaced 2 years earlier. after reading about so many other complaints and dangerous situations that saturn owners have gotten into because of failing ignition switches, it is clear that there is a defect in these parts. i have read about countless situations where people were unable to turn their cars off! an ignition switch should not go bad every 2 years. this is not a high wear and tear part. a car should be able to turn on and off a large number of times without fail. a car that fails to turn off is an enormous safety issue. if you leave the car unattended and turned on, someone could be hurt or killed. not being able to start a car is also a dangerous especially when it happens in bitterly cold weather. saturn/gm is doing nothing to get these unsafe vehicle off the roads to be fixed. they are not taking responsibility for the countless number of ignition switch problems that saturn owners are experiencing. gm has a history of ignition switch failures and should stand behind their product by offering a recall of the defective part and replacing it. *tr
12/01/2008530001
 After owning my 2004 saturn ion for 8 months, it developed a random starting problem. sometimes the car would start normally and others not at all. i replaced the battery, starter, and ignition switch. the dealership where i bought the ignition switch said it is common to need to replace the switch when the weather gets cold. after all of those new parts the problem persisted. i researched on the internet and found a forum where dozens of other ion owners where having similar problems. the only remedy that seemed to fix the problem was to disable the vehicles anti-theft system by cutting the proper wire from the ignition switch while the car is running. this allows the car to start every time, but also gives an error message about the disabled system. this is clearly a common problem that occurs for ion owners in cold weather. *tr
03/01/20082006/01/2004
 Apparently i am not the only frustrated gm owner out there. this is regarding my 2004 saturn ion which is maintained on a regular basis... when turning the key to start nothing happens. no crank, nothing. after viewing several hundreds of complaints regarding the same problem other saturn owners have been having, i quickly knew it was my ignition. one would think that living in california the weather wouldn't have caused the problem, but almost every day now for the last month my car will not turn on immediately. sometimes i would wait a couple minutes and it would turn over, sometimes i would wait over 10 minutes for it to turn over as well. i have been late numerous times to work and have had my car towed twice to a mechanic who ultimately cost me hundreds of dollars on parts that had nothing to do with this problem. i am in law enforcement; with that responsibility it is imperative that i be cordial and on time always. i have been reprimanded several times for being late and i've pretty much had it with this car. if saturn supposedly knew about this problem they could have at least notified their owners and offered some sort of retribution or reconciliation for costs. *tr
01/04/2008301/01/2004
 It seems that with the saturn ions, the ignition switch has a defect wherein about every two years it will fail to start when the temperature drops below freezing (due to the connection between it and the cars safety feature). not a problem if you have a heated garage, or even a garage period, or live somewhere warm. but god forbid you live in an area where there is cold weather. the last estimate i got from the dealer to replace the ignition for this problem was over $200. *tr
11/15/200460003005/30/2004
 Car often will not start. seems to be ignition switch, and/ or related circuits. leaves motorist stranded, usually in bad weather. replaced battery at 18 mos., which was not problem. required 'rescue' from other family members many times, in lieu of tow service. *tr
03/17/2008100002502/01/2004
 On several occassion while it has been cold out, my vehicle would not start. as a matter of fact the vehicle would not even attempt to roll over. the only way i could seem to resolve the situation was by jump starting my saturn with another vehicle. this has happened so many times in the winter that i finally got sick of it and parked the saturn and drove a different vehicle. i am so sick of my car that i am ready to sell it. i recently found out about this site. after reading the first 20 some results and seen that everyone was having the same issue i was. i can not believe that there is not a recall on this part. i read other complaints too and am glad that i have not ran into their problem yet. if saturn does not fix this problem really soon, i will sell my car and i will never buy a saturn again. they are really making a bad product that they will eventually never sell again. after all these complaints, why has nothing been done to recall the problem. to anyone who reads this, never buy a saturn. it is not just the ion. i have heard several other issues with other vehicles. *tr
11/01/200747000106/15/2004
 Car began failing to turn over before warranty expired. continuing to try would eventually succeed. shortly after warranty expired (excessive mileage) the failure required service. dealer replaced ignition switch which was 'sticking' and causing a security lockout. *tr
02/17/200859800701/11/2008
 Several times, after pulling into my driveway, i turned the ignition switch to the off position and the car continues to run! after trying several different things to turn the engine off it finally quits. i am afraid that some day i will not be able to turn the engine off. i understand now that this is happening to others. *tr
01/31/200858000611/26/2003
 This is the third time i've had to push this saturn into the street to get our other drivers off to work. the first time it was only a few months old and was towed to the dealer. they said my floormats were too thick and not genuine saturn parts and caused it not to start(no kidding, they said this). a few weeks later it once again failed to turn over. another tow to the dealer and this time they re-coded the key and ignition switch. several times over the past few years it has failed to start. if i wait 20 minutes, the anti theft module re-sets and it will start. this morning i slipped on ice while pushing it into the street and fell. my back is killing me right now and i'm very angry. this is an obvious problem that saturn is ignoring. no self respecting thief would steal a saturn in the first place. i see no need for an anti-theft device on this awful car. *tr
01/31/2008405003
 Car will not start when the temp. is very cold. this has caused me to miss work and to have parts replaced that were in working condition. research has led me to a problem with the switch. after following instructions the car started. *tr
01/20/2008500001510/01/2004
 Car does not start when it is cold outside because of faulty ignition switch. i was stuck out in sub zero temperatures for about 20 minutes until ignition switch warmed up enough to start. i will have the ignition switch fixed, but i am waiting to see if it will be covered under my warranty. *tr
01/21/200742550311/01/2004
 My car will not crank when the key is turned to start. it has complete power. the battery is well within the normal limits. the instances when this occur all seem to be when the car has been outside and not running for at least 2 hours in temperatures in the 20 degrees fahrenheit range or colder. all the dash lights are on, and all the accessories work when the key is turned to start, but the starter does not even attempt to turn. the service engine message flashes. i pulled all the electrical relays in the fuse box and the engine will now start with no problem. it is a recurring problem when the weather is cold. the same fix works each time. there is most likely a fault in the ignition switch or the passlock system. should be recalled. *tr
12/17/2006243411707/31/2004
 He saturn ion will not start in cold weather. after 10 minutes the car will start again when the security system has reset. problem is in the grease in the ignition system of 2004 saturn ion. car runs fine until it gets cold out and then the problem returns. very dangerous -- can strand driver in frigid temperatures. saturn has been aware of the issue for 4+ years but continues to risk the lives of drivers. *tr
12/15/20077500030
 No warning about issue to come before it happened. the first cold morning this winter my wife's 2004 saturn ion-2 failed to start. after about 30 minutes or intermittently trying to start it, the car finally started. this has happened every morning where it fell below 40deg the previous night. have taken the car numerous time to mechanics to diagnose. original answer was i needed a new battery. battery was replaced with stronger battery (higher cca rating) and the problem persists. car has new battery, full tank of gas, and sits outside in the driveway. car has had regular maintenance and oil changes done and has had absolutely no problems until this winter. my research of this issue had produced numerous other saturn owners with this problem. and no available solutions (i.e. replacing ignition switch) guarantee the problem with be fixed. *tr
01/17/200837500309/17/2007
 My 04 saturn ion will not start in colder weather. after investigating many web sites, many people have the same problem. the problem seems to be the ignition switch. i read that sometime in 04 they started using a different switch and that solved the problem. i think there should be a recall on the cars having this problem. *tr
11/24/2007100010006/18/2004
 Car will not start below 35 degrees and will also stall at any moment due to imobilizer activating. after 10 minutes the car will start again when the security system has reset. problem is in the grease in the ignition system of my car. it is a 2004 saturn ion. car runs fine until it gets cold out and then the problem returns. very dangerous during driving if it occurs. *tr
10/30/20073003/26/2004
 My car will not start when it drops below 32 degrees. i've done the research, and it appears that this is a nationwide problem with my car. apparently, there is a problem with the ignition switch. i am hoping that a recall is made since this is a recurring problem with potential to do harm (think: being stranded in sub-freezing temperatures.) . *tr
12/04/2006615302409/10/2006
 '04 saturn ion fails to start in cold weather. security system prevents starting. must warm key/ignition, and after 15 minutes car may start. *tr
03/28/200790006
 My 2004 saturn ion occasionally will not start (will not crank). the battery is in good condition and a good state of charge. in general the problem is cured by waiting 10 minutes or so, and trying to start it again. then it might be several weeks of months before the problem occurs again. *jb
02/14/200710
 My 2004 saturn ion ii would not start in cold weather. it happened after the vehicle sat overnight and the dealership told me to replace the battery, which did not solve the problem. after several months of this occurring the dealership told me that the ignition switch was bad and they had been seeing this on many vehicles of the same model. i had to pay for the part to be replaced, even though according to the dealership, this is an ongoing problem with this type of vehicle. *jb
02/22/20071
 Recently i experienced a problem with my car failing to start. i was advised by the mechanic that saturn issued a technical service bulletin addressing this issue. the reference numbers is 04-08-45-005c, date of issue december 4, 2006 affecting 2003-2006 saturn ions built up to and including vin breakpoint 6z147837. i was told by the mechanic that my car had both diagnostic trouble codes listed in this bulletin. *jb
02/19/200738500101/15/2004
 In cold weather (usually below freezing), the 2004 saturn ion 2 will not start. the car will go into a passive lock situation upon initial attempts to start it, then will not allow another attempt to start for around 10 minutes. occasionally will not start even after waiting 10 minutes. the dealer will charge around $300.00 to replace the ignition switch, which is the cause of the lock out. *nm
02/03/20072
 The ignition switch freezes up when it is cold outside. had to get the car jump started when it was -10 degrees outside. saturn says the only way to fix the problem is to replace the switch. according to the dealing near me, there was about 70 cars that had the exact same problem last week when it was really cold. *nm
02/13/200739000402/02/2004
 I bought a 2004 saturn ion from the dealer in 2004. in the cold weather, 30 degrees and lower, if the car sits it will not start. this has happened to me 4 times, last week i got stranded at work at 2:00 am with a car that would not start. the engine turns over one time but does not start. i did a lot of research on this and it looks like ignition switch grease hardens and saturn knows about it and even changed the ignition switch assembly but for the thousands of us that own cars before this change are left out in the cold! *jb
02/13/20072009/15/2006
 Numerous no-start conditions associated with faulty ignition switch 2004 saturn ion with 49,000 miles. if current ignition switch replaced it will be the third since car was new. anytime vehicle is exposed to 32 deg. or less temperature for more than a few hours ignition switch faults and engages anti-theft system. usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to ?? to get vehicle started. being in upstate ny where temps and weather push the extremes possibility of vehicle leaving someone stranded is imminent. i cannot rely on this vehicle during cold weather months. i have researched issue on internet and found numerous complaints for saturn ion with same exact problem. saturn needs to re-design and repair all associated vehicles ignition switches. *jb
02/08/200730700202/10/2006
 I own a 2004 saturn ion 3. i purchased this feb, 2006. december of 2006 my car failed to start. i called for help and by the time it arrived, the car started on its own. on feb 7th, 2007, the car failed to start again. it did not seem like a battery failure. i found the tsb 040845005 online. i called corporate saturn customer service and they logged my complaint. they were not very helpful and simply directed me to call the local dealer. i called the local dealership service manager and explained the situation. i took the car in and they ran diagnostics. the issue was indeed the same issue in the tsb, which is ignition switch failure. because they need to replace the ignition switch, they also need to reset the passlock. i was told that this would cost me $291.00. i was also told that they could not give me any kind of a break on the cost of replacement as those type of decisions were made on a case by case basis and per the service manager you have over 40,000 miles on the car (i have 30,700 and have owned the car just short of 12 months), so they cannot provide me with any assistance. i am very disappointed in this as saturns are supposed to be reliable and this is a known part failure. *jb
11/23/2006503/13/2006
 Tried to start car nothing, service vehicle light comes on. replaced battery and next day same thing no start. after waiting 10-15 minutes car starts like nothing ever wrong . called dealer told its going to cost $175 for new switch. *nm
10/31/200657632203/13/2006
 Car wouldn't start whenever temp got below 35 degrees. this happened twice.........the second time i took the car to the dealer and they tell me the starter switch needed replaced! this on a car that has fewer than 60k on it. they also had to reprogram the bcm. apparently, i'm one of 100's that has had this problem! saturn dealer was very nice about the whole thing............but is this not a safety hazard if the temp is really frigid and your car needs to start to keep warm?? *nm
10/24/200537119406/21/2004
 Dt: the consumer received recall 04v547000 concerning the exterior lighting: turn signal. she had the recall repairs performed three separate times. approximately two months after the recall work was performed, the problem recurred. after the last repair, she believed it will happen again. the service dealer informed her that the vehicle was no longer under warranty, and she would be responsible for future costs for this repair. *ak the ignition switch was replaced. updated 11/29/05. **jb
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - STARTER ASSEMBLY
03/08/20072
 2004 saturn ion - failure to start during very cold weather. car would not start on separate occasions, in employer's garage, and also in shopping center parking lot. when i called the dealer service department, they knew all about the problem and said it was my starter which will cost over $150 to repair. *jb
01/22/20047000301/10/2004
 3 days in a row 2004 saturn ion 2 won't start. after waiting 10 min i tried again and it started. this only happens when it is cold our temp.have been averaging -4 to 13 degress.will be going into the dealers tues.there should be a recall on the pass lock sensor since i have read on another site about all the problems this is causing with saturn not starting. *jb
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM - WIRING
03/13/2006505/24/2004
 Car will randomly not start and will only start again with new spark plugs. *tr

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