Bulletins

BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STEERING
07023200708/01/2009SB-07-02-32-007A10022958Diagnostic tips for power steering inoperative/steering wheel hard to turn, power steering message displayed on dic, dtc's c0176, c0176, c0475, c0476, c0550, u2105, u2107 set. *nj updated 2/17/10. *pe updated 310/09/2007
05023500710/01/2006050235007A10020951Information on inadvertent turning of key cylinder, loss of electrical system and no dtc's. *kb02/01/2007
05023200206/01/2009SB-050232002D10020740Power steering inoperative/steering wheel hard to turn, pwr str displayed on driver information center (dic). after jump starting the vehicle. *kb (replace fuse and instruct owner how to jump start vehicle). updated 2/17/10. *p01/04/2007
06023200212/01/2006060232002B10019478Normal operating characteristics of electric power steering (eps) system during extended lock-to-lock (maximum steering wheel rotation) usage. *tt03/16/2006
05023200509/01/2007050232005E10017497Ei05093 - clunk noise in steering system at slow speeds while turning and/or driving over bumps. *tt (replace intermediate shaft). updated 10/05/07. *nj updated 11/02/07 *nj11/09/2005
050232002A10/01/2005050232002B10017423Power steering inoperative/steering wheel hard to turn, pwr str message displayed on driver information center (dic) after jump starting vehicle. *tt11/07/2005
STEERING - COLUMN
04023500604/01/200410006421Rattle noise from steering column. *mr05/03/2004
020235008A11/01/200302T8010005288Fluid dripping on driver's floormat. *ph02/18/2004
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
SB-1018707/01/201010033564Saturn: special coverage adjustment-power steering assist. some vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist, which could occur at any time while driving the vehicle. if the power s08/25/2010

Investigations

NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STEERING
RQ10004GENERAL MOTORS LLC12/15/201010/05/2011Electric Power Steering Failure
 Odi has received 846 complaints and gm identified 3,489 reports alleging sudden loss of steering power assist in model year (my) 2004 through 2007 saturn ion vehicles manufactured and sold by general motors corporation (gm).sixteen of these complaints alleged that the eps warning lamp had illuminated before or during the loss of steering assist and the increased steering effort contributed to a crash. two of the gm crash claims indicated that the driver was injured in the crash. in a previous preliminary evaluation pe10-005, odi investigated the sudden loss of power steering assist in my 2005 through 2010 chevrolet cobalt vehicles. in may 2011, in response to an odi information request letter for rq10-004, gm provided odi with complaint, warranty and eps system information related to eps loss of assist for the saturn ion and peer vehicles pontiac g6 and chevrolet malibu. in that response, gm indicated that the eps system used in the subject vehicles was the same as that used in the my2005 to 2010 chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5. in march 2010, gm recalled approximately 1.05 million chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5 vehicles (nhtsa recall no. 10v-073) to correct a defect with the eps assist motor. the defect identified was described as a buildup of brush debris mixed with oily material on the eps electric motor armature which causes the motor to stop functioning; the same problem identified in the current subject vehicles.odi has duplicated this failure in both a chevrolet cobalt and saturn ion previously tested at the vehicle research and test center (vrtc). in the defect notification letter for the previously recalled cobalt and g5 vehicles, gm stated that the vehicles may experience a sudden loss of assist that could occur at any time while driving and that if power steering was lost the vehicle would revert to manual steering mode and would require increased steering effort from the driver.odi believes that, depending on driving circumstances this increase in steering effort could result in some loss of control and a crash.this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea11-014) to further assess the frequency, scope and safety consequences of a sudden loss of steering assist in the subject vehicles.
RQ10004GENERAL MOTORS CORP.12/15/2010Electric Power Steering Failure
 Odi has received 633 complaints alleging sudden loss of power assist to the steering in model year (my) 2004-2007 saturn ion vehicles manufactured and sold by general motors corporation (gm). four complaints alleged that the increased steering efforts contributed to a crash, with one reporting an injury.more than one third of the subject vehicle complaints have been received in the past six months.in january, 2010, odi opened preliminary evaluation pe10-005 to investigate the sudden loss of power steering assist in my 2005 through 2010 chevrolet cobalt vehicles.in april 2010, in response to an odi information request letter for pe10-005, gm provided odi with complaint and warranty information related to eps loss of assist for saturn ion vehicles for the same my's.at that time, gm had identified 638 complaints and 1,444 warranty claims for loss of eps assist repairs for my 2005 through 2007 saturn ion vehicles.the complaints included 7 crash claims with information indicating an eps fault occurred, including 2 incidents involving a total of 3 injury allegations.in march 2010, gm recalled approximately 1.05 million chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5 vehicles to correct a defect in the eps system.the recalled vehicles were manufactured with a substantially similar eps system as the subject vehicles.in the defect notification letter for 10v-073, gm stated that the recalled vehicles may experience a sudden loss of assist that could occur at any time while driving and that if power steering was lost the vehicle would revert to manual steering mode but would require increased steering effort from the driver.a recall query has been opened to assess the frequency, scope and safety consequences of sudden loss of steering assist in the subject vehicles.
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
RQ10004GENERAL MOTORS LLC12/15/201010/05/2011Electric Power Steering Failure
 Odi has received 846 complaints and gm identified 3,489 reports alleging sudden loss of steering power assist in model year (my) 2004 through 2007 saturn ion vehicles manufactured and sold by general motors corporation (gm).sixteen of these complaints alleged that the eps warning lamp had illuminated before or during the loss of steering assist and the increased steering effort contributed to a crash. two of the gm crash claims indicated that the driver was injured in the crash. in a previous preliminary evaluation pe10-005, odi investigated the sudden loss of power steering assist in my 2005 through 2010 chevrolet cobalt vehicles. in may 2011, in response to an odi information request letter for rq10-004, gm provided odi with complaint, warranty and eps system information related to eps loss of assist for the saturn ion and peer vehicles pontiac g6 and chevrolet malibu. in that response, gm indicated that the eps system used in the subject vehicles was the same as that used in the my2005 to 2010 chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5. in march 2010, gm recalled approximately 1.05 million chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5 vehicles (nhtsa recall no. 10v-073) to correct a defect with the eps assist motor. the defect identified was described as a buildup of brush debris mixed with oily material on the eps electric motor armature which causes the motor to stop functioning; the same problem identified in the current subject vehicles.odi has duplicated this failure in both a chevrolet cobalt and saturn ion previously tested at the vehicle research and test center (vrtc). in the defect notification letter for the previously recalled cobalt and g5 vehicles, gm stated that the vehicles may experience a sudden loss of assist that could occur at any time while driving and that if power steering was lost the vehicle would revert to manual steering mode and would require increased steering effort from the driver.odi believes that, depending on driving circumstances this increase in steering effort could result in some loss of control and a crash.this investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea11-014) to further assess the frequency, scope and safety consequences of a sudden loss of steering assist in the subject vehicles.
EA11014GENERAL MOTORS LLC09/29/2011Electric Power Steering Failure
 Odi has received 846 complaints and gm identified 3,489 reports alleging sudden loss of power steering assist in model year (my) 2004 through 2007 saturn ion vehicles manufactured and sold by general motors corporation (gm).sixteen of these complaints alleged that the eps warning lamp had illuminated before or during the loss of steering assist and the increased steering effort contributed to a crash. two of the gm crash claims indicated that the driver was injured in the crash. in a previous preliminary evaluation pe10-005, odi investigated the sudden loss of power steering assist in my 2005 through 2010 chevrolet cobalt vehicles.in may 2011, in response to an odi information request letter for rq10-004, gm provided odi with complaint, warranty and eps system information related to eps loss of assist for the saturn ion and peer vehicles pontiac g6 and chevrolet malibu. in that response, gm indicated that the eps system used in the subject vehicles was the same as that used in the my2005 to 2010 chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5. in march 2010, gm recalled approximately 1.05 million chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5 vehicles (nhtsa recall no. 10v-073) to correct a defect with the eps assist motor. the defect identified was described as a buildup of brush debris mixed with oily material on the eps electric motor armature which causes the motor to stop functioning; the same problem identified in the current subject vehicles.odi has duplicated this failure in both a chevrolet cobalt and saturn ion previously tested at the vehicle research and test center (vrtc). in the defect notification letter for the previously recalled cobalt and g5 vehicles, gm stated that the vehicles may experience a sudden loss of assist that could occur at any time while driving and that if power steering was lost the vehicle would revert to manual steering mode and would require increased steering effort from the driver.odi believes that, depending on driving circumstances this increase in steering effort could result in some loss of control and a crash.an engineering analysis has been opened to further assess the frequency, scope and safety consequences of a sudden loss of steering assist in the subject vehicles.
RQ10004GENERAL MOTORS CORP.12/15/2010Electric Power Steering Failure
 Odi has received 633 complaints alleging sudden loss of power assist to the steering in model year (my) 2004-2007 saturn ion vehicles manufactured and sold by general motors corporation (gm). four complaints alleged that the increased steering efforts contributed to a crash, with one reporting an injury.more than one third of the subject vehicle complaints have been received in the past six months.in january, 2010, odi opened preliminary evaluation pe10-005 to investigate the sudden loss of power steering assist in my 2005 through 2010 chevrolet cobalt vehicles.in april 2010, in response to an odi information request letter for pe10-005, gm provided odi with complaint and warranty information related to eps loss of assist for saturn ion vehicles for the same my's.at that time, gm had identified 638 complaints and 1,444 warranty claims for loss of eps assist repairs for my 2005 through 2007 saturn ion vehicles.the complaints included 7 crash claims with information indicating an eps fault occurred, including 2 incidents involving a total of 3 injury allegations.in march 2010, gm recalled approximately 1.05 million chevrolet cobalt and pontiac g5 vehicles to correct a defect in the eps system.the recalled vehicles were manufactured with a substantially similar eps system as the subject vehicles.in the defect notification letter for 10v-073, gm stated that the recalled vehicles may experience a sudden loss of assist that could occur at any time while driving and that if power steering was lost the vehicle would revert to manual steering mode but would require increased steering effort from the driver.a recall query has been opened to assess the frequency, scope and safety consequences of sudden loss of steering assist in the subject vehicles.

Consumer Complaints

Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STEERING
02/17/2013174000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 10 mph and attempting a turn, the steering wheel was engaged however, the vehicle would not turn. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection. the vehicle was not diagnosed for the failure or repaired. the manufacturer was notified but provided no assistance. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 174,000. kmj
02/17/2013174000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 10 mph, the steering wheel failed.the contact stated that he turned the steering wheel but the vehicle would not turn. the vehicle was towed to the dealer for inspection but they never diagnosed it. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified but provided no assistance. the failure mileage was 174,000. ap
02/04/20131
 I was driving on the interstate at 65 mph and the power steering light came on and the steering wheel clicked and became stiff. there was no prior indication that anything was wrong. i could no longer turn right and left turns were almost impossible. the brakes started having trouble as well. i almost got in accident because the right side was not working. then when i made it to a spot and turned the car on and off it was working again. then about 30 min later it did the same thing again. i had some check the fluid and it was fine and so was the belt. also, my left indicator will not work. i have taken it to the dealer and several mechanics and it keeps melting the socket. *tr
07/12/20121520001
 My power assist steering will go out suddenly when driving. at first it only happened occasionally but now it is happening more often. i have been told by the dealer that it will cost over $1500 to replace. i have also been told that this is a common problem with ions from that year, but that there is not a recall. *tr
07/12/2012152000
 My power assist steering will go out suddenly when driving. at first it only happened occassionally but now it is happening more often. i have been told by the dealer that it will cost over $1500 to replace. i have also been told that this is a common problem with ions from that year, but that there is not a recall.
10/22/2012139400
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that she took her vehicle in for an inspection to an independent mechanic. after the inspection was done they advised her that the steering column needed to be replaced due to how loose the wheel was when it was coming down from the lift. after the contact left the shop and was driving at low speeds, she noticed that the vehicle would pull to the right, it was difficult to make left turns and would be extremely easy to make a right turns. the vehicle was not repaired for the steering column. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure and current mileages were approximately 139,400. tb
09/27/2012242201
 Traveling on an interstate at 65 mph we heard a tone indicating something was wrong, steering became difficult and we noticed that the power steering indicator light was on. the power steering was gone and it became very hard to steer and was unable to quickly maneuver. we pulled over, turned off the car and then restarted it and the power steering came back on. same thing happened again after traveling a few miles. we were able to get home and now the power steering shuts down every few minutes. car is unsafe on public roads in regards to being able to make quick maneuvers and could lead to accidents and injuries. clearly a manufacturing problem not normal wear and tear. chev. & pont. cars with same equipment and complaints were recalled. saturns should be also. there is an open action number of ea11014. *tr
09/27/201224220
 Traveling on an interstate at 65 mph we heard a tone indicating something was wrong, steering became difficult and we noticed that the power steering indicator light was on. the power steering was gone and it became very hard to steer and was unable to quickly maneuver. we pulled over, turned off the car and then restarted it and the power steering came back on. same thing happened again after traveling a few miles. we were able to get home and now the power steering shuts down every few minutes. car is unsafe on public roads in regards to being able to make quick maneuvers and could lead to accidents and injuries. clearly a manufacturing problem not normal wear and tear. chev. & pont. cars with same equipment and complaints were recalled. saturns should be also. there is an open action number of ea11014.
07/20/2012106000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 60 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and the warning chime began to sound. after shutting the engine off and restarting the vehicle, the steering functioned normally. the failure recurred one month later. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing or repairs. the approximate failure mileage was 106,000.
09/20/201275755
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion-3. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the power steering assist failed and the steering wheel became inoperable. the contact managed to exit the roadway without incident however, experienced extreme difficulty in turning the steering wheel. the dealer was notified of the failure who advised that the repair was not under recall and offered no additional assistance. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 75,755. and the current mileage was 75,756.
07/20/2012106000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 60 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and the warning chime began to sound. after shutting the engine off and restarting the vehicle, the steering functioned normally. the failure recurred one month later. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing or repairs. the approximate failure mileage was 106,000. kmj
09/20/201275755
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion-3. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the power steering assist failed and the steering wheel became inoperable. the contact managed to exit the roadway without incident however, experienced extreme difficulty in turning the steering wheel. the dealer was notified of the failure who advised that the repair was not under recall and offered no additional assistance. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 75,755. and the current mileage was 75,756. kmj
07/20/2012106000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 60 mph the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and the warning chime began to sound. after shutting the engine off and restarting the vehicle the steering functioned normally. the failure occurred a second time approximately a month a later. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage 106,000. da
09/20/201275755
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion-3. the contact stated that while driving 50 mph, the power steering assist failed and the steering wheel became inoperable. the contact managed to exit the roadway without incident however, experienced extreme difficulty in turning the steering wheel. the dealer was notified of the failure who advised that the repair was not under recall and offered no additional assistance. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 75,755. and the current mileage was 75,756. kmj
09/20/201275755
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion-3. the contact stated that while driving at 50 mph the vehicle power steering was stalled and was inoperable. the contact managed the vehicle and exited out the road. the vehicle power steering was not able to turn at all and no warning lights were illuminated at all. the dealer was notified of the failure who stated that the vehicle repaired was not under any recall or warranty and offered no additional assistance. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 75,755. and the current mileage was 75,756. lg
06/01/2010800001
 Power steering message came up. very hard to steer no power assist. turned off car, restarted and power steering is back. this has been an on going event since 6/2010. *tr
06/01/201080000
 Power steering message came up. very hard to steer no power assist. turned off car, restarted and power steering is back. this has been an on going event since 6/2010.
08/08/20121481581
 Today 8/8/12, i jumped into my 2004 saturn ion at 5pm after work & immediately noticed that i could not turn my wheel as i exited the parking lot, i had to swerve hard to my right to by avoid a collision with two cars from the opposite direction. i was terrified! my display showed pwr str i had never seen that before, i left my car diagonally parked, since it would not move went for assistance, a passerby looked under my hood for a while then turned my car on and the display was back to mileage and my wheel was working fine!! i drove my car home and immediately started to do some research to find out what it could be and how i could fix it, i find out that their is a known problem with the power steering! i have not received any letters at all. my car has been reliable up until now. it has close to 150k mil (mileage is an estimate on this form) since this appears to be a gm problem, what are my options? thank you *tr
08/08/2012148158
 Today 8/8/12, i jumped into my 2004 saturn ion at 5pm after work & immediately noticed that i could not turn my wheel as i exited the parking lot, i had to swerve hard to my right to by avoid a collison with two cars from the opposite direction. i was terrified! my display showed pwr str i had never seen that before, i left my car diagonally parked, since it would not move went for assistance, a passerby looked under my hood for a while then turned my car on and the display was back to mileage and my wheel was working fine!! i drove my car home and immediatley started to do some research to find out what it could be and how i could fix it, i find out that their is a known problem with the power steering! i have not received any letters at all. my car has been reliable up until now. it has close to 150k mil (mileage is an estimate on this form) since this appears to be a gm problem, what are my options? thank you
05/17/2012820001
 I was driving in an alley at approximately 10 mph when i suddenly lost my power steering (i was alerted with a message). upon restarting the car, the power steering returned. since this initial incident, my car has lost the power steering on multiple occasions, in multiple scenarios and at multiple different speeds. it has failed on the freeway multiple times, forcing me to pull over on the shoulder and compromise my safety. i would estimate the power steering has failed no less than 20 times since may 17th (it is now august 7th). this defect is not only unacceptable, it is extremely unsafe. *tr
08/08/2012148158
 Today 8/8/12, i jumped into my 2004 saturn ion at 5pm after work & immediately noticed that i could not turn my wheel as i exited the parking lot, i had to swerve hard to my right to by avoid a collison with two cars from the opposite direction. i was terrified! my display showed pwr str i had never seen that before, i left my car diagonally parked, since it would not move went for assistance, a passerby looked under my hood for a while then turned my car on and the display was back to mileage and my wheel was working fine!! i drove my car home and immediatley started to do some research to find out what it could be and how i could fix it, i find out that their is a known problem with the power steering! i have not received any letters at all. my car has been reliable up until now. it has close to 150k mil (mileage is an estimate on this form) since this appears to be a gm problem, what are my options? thank you
05/17/2012820001
 I was driving in an alley at approximately 10 mph when i suddenly lost my power steering (i was alerted with a message). upon restarting the car, the power steering returned. since this initial incident, my car has lost the power steering on multiple occasions, in multiple scenarios and at multiple different speeds. it has failed on the freeway multiple times, forcing me to pull over on the shoulder and compromise my safety. i would estimate the power steering has failed no less than 20 times since may 17th (it is now august 7th). this defect is not only unacceptable, it is extremely unsafe. *tr
05/17/201282000
 I was driving in an alley at approximately 10 mph when i suddenly lost my power steering (i was alerted with a message). upon restarting the car, the power steering returned. since this initial incident, my car has lost the power steering on multiple occassions, in multiple scenarios and at multiple different speeds. it has failed on the freeway multiple times, forcing me to pull over on the shoulder and compromise my safety. i would estimate the power steering has failed no less than 20 times since may 17th (it is now august 7th). this defect is not only unacceptable, it is extremely unsafe.
05/05/201090000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 60 mph, the power steering warning lamp illuminated and the steering wheel seized. the contact mentioned that she had to stop and restart the vehicle in order for it to operate as normal. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 126,623.
05/05/201090000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 60 mph, the power steering warning lamp illuminated and the steering wheel seized. the contact mentioned that she had to stop and restart the vehicle in order for it to operate as normal. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, who was unable to duplicate the failure. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 126,623. sm.
05/05/201090000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving 60 mph the power steering warning lamp illuminated and the steering wheel locked. the contact mentioned that she had to stop and restart the vehicle in order for it to go back to normal. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to duplicate the failure. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 90,000 and the current mileage was 126,623. pm
09/02/20111000001
 Driver was turning right after stopping at a traffic light. vehicle failed to turn immediately and rammed into the median. driver was diagnosed with a concussion at medical facility. in 2008, power steering went out on vehicle - a warning would sound and the pwr str message would flash. dealer replaced steering column. vehicle was repaired and is currently in use. power steering again went out, same symptoms, on july 20, 2012. currently the power steering is not working. *tr
09/02/2011100000
 Driver was turning right after stopping at a traffic light. vehicle failed to turn immediately and rammed into the median. driver was diagnosed with a concussion at medical facility. in 2008, power steering went out on vehicle - a warning would sound and the pwr str message would flash. dealer replaced steering column. vehicle was repaired and is currently in use. power steering again went out, same symptoms, on july 20, 2012. currently the power steering is not working.
06/01/200970000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the steering failed and the steering wheel was difficult to turn. in addition, the steering wheel pulled the vehicle to the right. the power steering light illuminated while the failure occurred. the failure was experienced numerous times. the dealer replaced the power steering motor three times, but the failure was not corrected. the steering continued to fail and pulled to the right. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the dealer stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 70,000 and the current mileage was 110,000.
06/01/200970000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the steering failed and the steering wheel was difficult to turn. in addition, the steering wheel pulled the vehicle to the right. the power steering light illuminated while the failure occurred. the failure was experienced numerous times. the dealer replaced the power steering motor three times, but the failure was not corrected. the steering continued to fail and pulled to the right. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the dealer stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 70,000 and the current mileage was 110,000. sm.
06/01/200970000
 Tl-the contact 2004 owns a saturn ion. the contact stated that the steering failed. the steering was hard to turn and pulled to the right. the power steering light illuminated while the failure occurred. the failure was experienced numerous times. the dealer replaced the power steering motor three times but the failure was not corrected. the steering continued to fail and pulled to the right. the vehicle was taken back to the dealer advised that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the manufacture was made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 70,000 and the current mileage was 110,000. li
06/06/201270000
 Power steering went out and pwr str notice was displayed. changed fuse but that didn't fix it. i found the nhtsa rq10004 investigation in an internet search. i am the original owner of this saturn ion redline. i did not receive the letter from saturn about this issue as reported in various internet articles/ blogs.
10/29/2011138000
 Shortly after buying this vehicle, i have had numerous failures of the power assist steering system. at any speed, at any time, pwr str dis displayed on the obd display, simultaneously as the motor stopped functioning, forcing me to unexpectedly manually steer the car until the ignition was cycled and the system reset. sometimes this happens 1-7 times a day. i have personally came close to having a single car accident due to power assist failure while curving. there are no other previous failures of the steering equipment leading up to this issue.
02/15/201175000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact was driving 70 mph when the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel and the steering wheel seized. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the electronic power assist was failing. the failure mileage was 75,000 and the current mileage was 90,000.
02/15/201175000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact was driving 70 mph when the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel and the steering wheel seized. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the electronic power assist was failing. the failure mileage was 75,000 and the current mileage was 90,000. sm.
02/15/201175000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering failed on the vehicle. the contact was traveling 70 mph when the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel and the steering failed. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was told the electronic power assist was failing. the failure mileage was 75,000 and the current mileage was 90,000.rl
11/09/201199500
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving 35 mph the power steering failed and as a result the steering wheel became difficult to turn. the power steering warning lamp illuminated immediately after the failure occurred. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to diagnose the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 99,500 and the current mileage was 112,394.
11/09/201199500
 Tl - the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving 35 mph the power steering failed and as a result the steering wheel became difficult to turn. the power steering warning lamp illuminated immediately after the failure occurred. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who was unable to diagnose the failure. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 99,500 and the current mileage was 112,394. rvk
04/28/201278000
 Power steering warning light came on in this vehicle while at the same time power steering control failed. manual steering was used until the vehicle came to a stop and upon restarting, power steering returned.
04/20/2012139000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 30 mph, a warning chime sounded inside of the vehicle as the vehicle suddenly experienced a loss of power. the contact maneuvered to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. the engine was restarted and the vehicle was driven cautiously because of the difficulty in maneuvering the steering wheel. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 139,000. the vin was unavailable. kmj
04/20/2012139000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 30 mph, there was a chime which sounded inside of the vehicle and suddenly a loss of power occurred. the contact maneuvered to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. the engine was restarted and the vehicle was driven cautiously because of the difficulty in maneuvering the steering wheel. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the problem. the approximate failure mileage was 139,000. the vin was unavailable. js
04/09/201273000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering assist would fail sporadically and without warning. the vehicle was not diagnosed by the dealer and no repairs were been made to the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 73,000. kmj
04/09/201273000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. when driving at any speed the contact noticed that the power steering will suddenly stop functioning without warning. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer and no repairs have been made to the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 73,000. bml
03/29/201280000
 I am not exactly sure on the dates of when we noticed the problems. so far i have had serious problems with my 04 ion's front suspension, the cheaply made plastic wiper linkages that break easy while driving down the road making it difficult and dangerous while driving in rain, the ignition lock cylinder has been replaced 3 times so far because the part fails and you cannot start your car, and most recently i went to my local dealer to ask about a clunking noise it makes when going over any bumps to find out that there is a bulletin for a known steering linkage or steering motor (eps) problem. i was told that on these cars the steering links/motor have tendancy to break! if that is to happen while driving down the road it could result in death! i've also done some searching online and found many forums/articles with others having the same problems with this specific make/model. one comment i read the person said this car is a death trap! mine and many other's 04 saturn ion's have alot of known yet serious issues but saturn still has no recalls for this car!! somebody please help fix this problem! -concerned/frusturated saturn owner.
06/01/2011130000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 70 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the contact shut off and restart the vehicle as the steering wheel reset independently. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostics. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could possibly have been related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 130,000. kmj
03/29/201280000
 I am not exactly sure on the dates of when we noticed the problems. so far i have had serious problems with my 04 ion's front suspension, the cheaply made plastic wiper linkages that break easy while driving down the road making it difficult and dangerous while driving in rain, the ignition lock cylinder has been replaced 3 times so far because the part fails and you cannot start your car, and most recently i went to my local dealer to ask about a clunking noise it makes when going over any bumps to find out that there is a bulletin for a known steering linkage or steering motor (eps) problem. i was told that on these cars the steering links/motor have tendancy to break! if that is to happen while driving down the road it could result in death! i've also done some searching online and found many forums/articles with others having the same problems with this specific make/model. one comment i read the person said this car is a death trap! mine and many other's 04 saturn ion's have alot of known yet serious issues but saturn still has no recalls for this car!! somebody please help fix this problem! -concerned/frusturated saturn owner.
06/01/2011130000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 70 mph the steering became difficult to maneuver. the contact was able to stop the vehicle on the shoulder of the road and restart it. the vehicle regained steering. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 130,000. ds
03/29/201280000
 I am not exactly sure on the dates of when we noticed the problems. so far i have had serious problems with my 04 ion's front suspension, the cheaply made plastic wiper linkages that break easy while driving down the road making it difficult and dangerous while driving in rain, the ignition lock cylinder has been replaced 3 times so far because the part fails and you cannot start your car, and most recently i went to my local dealer to ask about a clunking noise it makes when going over any bumps to find out that there is a bulletin for a known steering linkage or steering motor (eps) problem. i was told that on these cars the steering links/motor have tendancy to break! if that is to happen while driving down the road it could result in death! i've also done some searching online and found many forums/articles with others having the same problems with this specific make/model. one comment i read the person said this car is a death trap! mine and many other's 04 saturn ion's have alot of known yet serious issues but saturn still has no recalls for this car!! somebody please help fix this problem! -concerned/frusturated saturn owner.
06/01/2011130000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 70 mph the steering became difficult to maneuver. the contact was able to stop the vehicle on the shoulder of the road and restart it. the vehicle regained steering. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 130,000. ds
09/01/2011140000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 50 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the contact shut the vehicle off and after restarting, the vehicle regained power steering abilities. the failure recurred intermittently. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. the mechanic stated to the contact that the failure was electrical but did not provide a complete diagnostic. the contact referenced a technical service bulletin under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could possibly have been related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
03/29/201280000
 I am not exactly sure on the dates of when we noticed the problems. so far i have had serious problems with my 04 ion's front suspension, the cheaply made plastic wiper linkages that break easy while driving down the road making it difficult and dangerous while driving in rain, the ignition lock cylinder has been replaced 3 times so far because the part fails and you cannot start your car, and most recently i went to my local dealer to ask about a clunking noise it makes when going over any bumps to find out that there is a bulletin for a known steering linkage or steering motor (eps) problem. i was told that on these cars the steering links/motor have tendancy to break! if that is to happen while driving down the road it could result in death! i've also done some searching online and found many forums/articles with others having the same problems with this specific make/model. one comment i read the person said this car is a death trap! mine and many other's 04 saturn ion's have alot of known yet serious issues but saturn still has no recalls for this car!! somebody please help fix this problem! -concerned/frusturated saturn owner.
06/01/2011130000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 70 mph the steering became difficult to maneuver. the contact was able to stop the vehicle on the shoulder of the road and restart it. the vehicle regained steering. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 130,000. ds
09/01/2011140000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 50 mph, the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the contact shut the vehicle off and after restarting, the vehicle regained power steering abilities. the failure recurred intermittently. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel and the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. the mechanic stated to the contact that the failure was electrical but did not provide a complete diagnostic. the contact referenced a technical service bulletin under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could possibly have been related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000. kmj
09/01/2011140000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 50 mph the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the contact stopped the vehicle on the shoulder of the road. after restarting the vehicle it regained power steering. the failure occurred intermittently. the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. the mechanic stated the failure was electrical but did not provide a complete diagnostic. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000. ds
01/22/2012137000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering seized while driving 35 mph. the vehicle was turned off and once restarted, the steering would resets independently. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who stated that the power steering was automatic and he was unable to repair the failure. the contact was then referred to the dealer. the manufacturer was notified of the failure who advised the contact there were no recalls and offered no further assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 137,000. kmj
09/01/2011140000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 50 mph the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the contact stopped the vehicle on the shoulder of the road. after restarting the vehicle it regained power steering. the failure occurred intermittently. the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. the mechanic stated the failure was electrical but did not provide a complete diagnostic. there was an investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 140,000. ds
01/22/2012137000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering locked while driving 35 mph. the vehicle was turned off and on and the steering would resets itself. it would be very diffuclt to also steer the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to a mechanic who stated the steering was automatic and he cannot repair the failure. the vehicle would have to go to the dealer for the repairs. the manufacturer was notified who stated there are no recalls or warranty and offered no other assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 137,000. mw
02/10/2010105000
 While we were driving down the interstate at 75 mph, the power steering in our 2004 saturn ion suddenly failed. as we were lucky enough to have been driving down a straight stretch of road, we were able to avoid an accident that likely could have occured if we had been turning. upon returning home, i proceeded to check the 3 fuses associated with the power steering system only to discover that all were fine. it apperas to be the electronic motor itself that failed. this is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. at the time our steering failed, my 3 month old daughter was in the car. does someone need to die before gm is held accountable? please issue a recall so this serious problem can be fixed. it may be a numbers game to some, but to the rest of us it is our safety!
07/09/201091000
 Power steering failed on its own while traveling 75 miles per hour on the freeway. since the steering has failed ever time the vehicle is used. i have had near miss accidents on severasl occasions due to this problem. this problem is well known to the manufacturer, including the safety risk, yet no recall has been issued.
11/15/2011113926
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that as the vehicle was started, the steering wheel had become extremely difficult to turn. the dealer was contacted who advised that there were no recalls for the vehicle. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 113,926.
11/15/2011113926
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that as the vehicle was started, the steering wheel had become extremely difficult to turn. the dealer was contacted who advised that there were no recalls for the vehicle. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 113,926. kmj
11/15/2011113926
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated as the engine was started the steering wheel was very hard to turn and he could not control the vehicle. the dealer was notified who stated there was no recall only a warranty issue and his vehicle was not qualified due to the mileage was over 100,000. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 113,926. mw
11/10/2011101314
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering failed and the vehicle began pulling hard to the right with the illumination of the power steering warning light. the vehicle was not inspected or repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 101,314. kmj
11/10/2011101314
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering went out and the vehicle started pulling hard to the right. the contact stated the failure occurred after the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle had not been inspected. the failure mileage and current mileages were 101,314.rl
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.
06/01/2011160343
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 40 mph, the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. the failure recurred intermittently when driving at various speeds but would happen more often when driving at highway speeds. the vehicle was not repaired. there was a concurrent investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could have been related to the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 160,343.
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.
06/01/2011160343
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 40 mph, the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. the failure recurred intermittently when driving at various speeds but would happen more often when driving at highway speeds. the vehicle was not repaired. there was a concurrent investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could have been related to the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 160,343.
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.
06/01/2011160343
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 40 mph, the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic but the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. the failure recurred intermittently when driving at various speeds but would happen more often when driving at highway speeds. the vehicle was not repaired. there was a concurrent investigation under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that could have been related to the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 160,343. kmj
06/01/2011160343
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at approximately 40 mph the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. the mechanic was unable to diagnose the failure. the failure occurred intermittently at different speeds but would happen more often at highway speeds. the vehicle was not repaired. there was an investigation open under nhtsa action number: ea11014 (steering:electric power assist system) that may be related to the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 160,343. ds
10/15/201166606
 When pulling out of a parking space, the power steering failed. before leaving the parking space i inspected the belt- it was intact- and the ground underneath the vehicle- there was no fluid loss. steering the car out of the parking space required great effort. proceeding on the road, the power assist seemed to return. i pulled into a parking lot where the power assist seemed to be working fine with a sharp left turn, but not at all on a sharp right turn. futher along the road, when making a right turn, the power assist seemed to operate normally. also normal power assist was experience on a left turn. i operated the vehicle for several more short trips, stopping and restarting the vehcle- the problem did not repeat itself, but i have read online and in news reports that this has been a problem for other saturn owners.
09/15/2009101817
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while reversing from a driveway, the power steering system malfunctioned causing the steering wheel to become stiff. the contact shut the vehicle off and restarted it and the power steering system was reset to normal. the contact called the dealer and the dealer advised the contact to bring the vehicle in for inspection. the contact did not take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnosis or repairs. the failure mileage was 101,817.
09/15/2009101817
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while reversing from a driveway, the power steering system malfunctioned causing the steering wheel to become stiff. the contact shut the vehicle off and restarted it and the power steering system was reset to normal. the contact called the dealer and the dealer advised the contact to bring the vehicle in for inspection. the contact did not take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnosis or repairs. the failure mileage was 101,817. kmj
09/19/201158383
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving various speeds, a warning bell would sound and the steering wheel seized. he turned the vehicle off, restarted it and the steering wheel began to function normally. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 58,383.
09/19/201158383
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving various speeds, a warning bell would sound and the steering wheel seized. he turned the vehicle off, restarted it and the steering wheel began to function normally. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 58,383. rvk
09/19/201158383
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, a warning bell would sound and the steering wheel would seize. he would shut the vehicle off and upon restart the steering would function as normal. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 58,383. sm.
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.
09/01/2011145000
 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
09/01/2011145000
 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.
08/15/2011108400
 While driving my saturn ion 2004 the power steering light in the dashboard came on while i was engaging in a curve on highway 15, i was barely able to control the vehicle no to crash on the concrete middle divider and had to immobilize the vehicle, stop the engine and restart it in order to get the power steering to work again. this has happen to me few time per year over the last 3 years but now i am afraid for my life and it is happening more and more frequently.
06/11/2011103000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering would fail after the warning light illuminated. the steering wheel would then become very difficult to manuever. the vehicle had not been inspected by a dealer, nor had it been repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was approximately 103,000. sm.
06/11/2011103000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving at various speeds the power steering would after the warning light would illuminate. the steering would then become very difficult to manuever. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the manufacturer has not been contacted. the failure mileage was approximately 103,000. tb
04/06/2011108000
 Tl - the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving the power steering light illuminated and it becomes hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to a local shop who diagnosed that the steering module was defective and needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offered any assistance since the vehicle was declared salvage. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 108,000. pm
05/01/201090000
 2004 saturn ion with 118k miles. the power steering will go out at least a couple of times a week at random times. this began to occur when the vehicle had about 90k miles but gm refused to repair. when it originally happen it would occur about once a month but now has progressed to a constant ocurrence. the on board screen next to gauges will show pwr steer and beep loudly. this means the power steering has gone out. can occurr at any speed or road type. car will become difficult to manouver. the only way to get the power steering back is to restart the car by turning it off and back on. it is unsafe to drive the vehicle without the power steering.
07/01/201187000
 Electronic assist power steering fails without any warning. steering becomes very difficult if not impossible for some people which could lead to loss of control.
07/01/2011113900
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving approximately 60 mph the vehicle suddenly stalled. she noticed that the power steering warning illuminated after the failure occurred. the contact was able to restart the vehicle and drive it to the dealer. the dealer advised her that the power steering assist system needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure and current miles were approximately 113,900. rk
07/01/201187000
 Electronic assist power steering fails without any warning. steering becomes very difficult if not impossible for some people which could lead to loss of control.
07/01/2011113900
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 60 mph when the vehicle suddenly stalled. she noticed that the power steering warning illuminated after the failure. the vehicle was able to restart and was taken to a dealer. they advised her that the power steering assist system needed to be replaced. the manufacturer has not been contacted. the failure and current mileages were approximately 113,900. tb
07/01/201187000
 Electronic assist power steering fails without any warning. steering becomes very difficult if not impossible for some people which could lead to loss of control.
07/01/2011113900
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 60 mph when the vehicle suddenly stalled. she noticed that the power steering warning illuminated after the failure. the vehicle was able to restart and was taken to a dealer. they advised her that the power steering assist system needed to be replaced. the manufacturer has not been contacted. the failure and current mileages were approximately 113,900. tb
07/01/201187000
 Electronic assist power steering fails without any warning. steering becomes very difficult if not impossible for some people which could lead to loss of control.
07/01/2011113900
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 60 mph when the vehicle suddenly stalled. she noticed that the power steering warning illuminated after the failure. the vehicle was able to restart and was taken to a dealer. they advised her that the power steering assist system needed to be replaced. the manufacturer has not been contacted. the failure and current mileages were approximately 113,900. tb
06/21/201161000
 2004 saturn ion 2 power steering failure
04/11/201180112
 Driving down the road and power steering quit working. was very hard to control. i had my two kids in the back and did everything to keep from going into the other lane.
04/01/2011147000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 15 mph the vehicle pulled to the left vigorously and the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact pulled the steering wheel to the right and it began to function normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing because it was not covered by a warranty. the manufacturer was contacted and stated they could not assist with repairs. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000.
04/11/201180112
 Driving down the road and power steering quit working. was very hard to control. i had my two kids in the back and did everything to keep from going into the other lane.
04/01/2011147000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 15 mph the vehicle pulled to the left vigorously and the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact pulled the steering wheel to the right and it began to function normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing because it was not covered by a warranty. the manufacturer was contacted and stated they could not assist with repairs. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000.
04/11/201180112
 Driving down the road and power steering quit working. was very hard to control. i had my two kids in the back and did everything to keep from going into the other lane.
04/01/2011147000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 15 mph the vehicle pulled to the left vigorously and the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact pulled the steering wheel to the right and it began to function normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing because it was not covered by a warranty. the manufacturer was contacted and stated they could not assist with repairs. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000.
04/01/2011147000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 15 mph the vehicle pulled to the left vigorously and the power steering light illuminated on the dash board. the contact stated he pulled the steering wheel to the right and the power steering functioned again. the failure occurs intermittently. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer because it was not covered by warranty. the manufacturer was contacted and stated they could not assist with repairs. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 147,000. ds
03/17/201188000
 I lost my power steering and the pwr str warning light came on while driving on the interstate. when i safely exited, i read the owner's manual and it said this requires immediate service. i went directly to a firestone dealer but they were near closing and could not put it on diagnostics and asked me to return in the morning. however, when they started the car, the warning light was off and the power steering ability returned. i researched this online and it seems this is the same problem that prompted gm to recall other gm vehicles in march 2010, but not the saturns. while the problem may be temporarily resolved by replacing 2 fuses, the ultimate solution is to replace the steering column motor which is a rather expensive item. i believe the saturns should have been included in that recall gm issued.
03/17/2011116000
 I own a saturn ion 2004 and i am experiencing loss of power steering while driving on the highway. gm recall should include all saturn ions regardless of mileage, because of the magnitude of this issue. the saturn ions should not be allowed on the highways because of this safety risk.
03/17/201188000
 I lost my power steering and the pwr str warning light came on while driving on the interstate. when i safely exited, i read the owner's manual and it said this requires immediate service. i went directly to a firestone dealer but they were near closing and could not put it on diagnostics and asked me to return in the morning. however, when they started the car, the warning light was off and the power steering ability returned. i researched this online and it seems this is the same problem that prompted gm to recall other gm vehicles in march 2010, but not the saturns. while the problem may be temporarily resolved by replacing 2 fuses, the ultimate solution is to replace the steering column motor which is a rather expensive item. i believe the saturns should have been included in that recall gm issued.
03/17/2011116000
 I own a saturn ion 2004 and i am experiencing loss of power steering while driving on the highway. gm recall should include all saturn ions regardless of mileage, because of the magnitude of this issue. the saturn ions should not be allowed on the highways because of this safety risk.
03/17/201188000
 I lost my power steering and the pwr str warning light came on while driving on the interstate. when i safely exited, i read the owner's manual and it said this requires immediate service. i went directly to a firestone dealer but they were near closing and could not put it on diagnostics and asked me to return in the morning. however, when they started the car, the warning light was off and the power steering ability returned. i researched this online and it seems this is the same problem that prompted gm to recall other gm vehicles in march 2010, but not the saturns. while the problem may be temporarily resolved by replacing 2 fuses, the ultimate solution is to replace the steering column motor which is a rather expensive item. i believe the saturns should have been included in that recall gm issued.
03/17/2011116000
 I own a saturn ion 2004 and i am experiencing loss of power steering while driving on the highway. gm recall should include all saturn ions regardless of mileage, because of the magnitude of this issue. the saturn ions should not be allowed on the highways because of this safety risk.
08/04/2010105000
 My 2004 saturn ion is having issues with the power steering going out while i drive the vehicle. after turning the car off and back on, it resets it, as it is electric power steering, but the problem persists and keeps getting worse. it will turn off about 10 times in a mile on average. i have done research on the issue and it has caused 14 deaths in other instances. after calling the dealer, they say it is not a recall, and will not help me out. a few gm cars like the cobalt have the same issues all covered under warranty and have the exact same power steering moter and steering column. i am in the process to find the partsand replacde them, but the dealer is not willing to help in this matter. here is a link on a discussion forum for this topic. http://vlane.com/discuss-topic/1695/saturn-ion-power-steering-issues
02/14/201180000
 While driving the car under normal conditions i suddenly lost power steering nearly causing an accident.
02/03/201141000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 20 mph the power steering light illuminated and the steering wheel locked up. the contact lost all power steering and the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic. the mechanic could not diagnose the failure. the failure occurred a second time. the vehicle was taken back to the mechanic. the mechanic stated the steering and motor module needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 41,000. ds
01/31/201186479
 My wife was driving down the road and her power steering went out on her 2004 saturn ion. this made it very difficult to steer. my wife was driving at approx. 65 mph on the highway. it was very dangerous. i have researched this and found a lot of people with the same issue. gm needs to do a recall. apparently my wife's car has the same steering as the chevy cobalt which was recalled for the very same thing. what about all the consumers that don't know they are driving this car and that their steering can go out on them at any moment.? this is a serious issue!
01/24/201180125
 This complain has to do with a saturn 2004 ion, my steering wheel was not working at all, it was hard to make left and right turns, as driving with a steering wheel that is hard to move is really dangerous. thank god i was not driving to a far place, but i have been online checking the recalls on the saturn ion 2004, and i cannot believe that a company will not recall these cars, i know that is a loss on money but honestly is going to be your fault if someone gets hurts while driving with defects on the saturns, they will be sued . so dont think about the money , think about the lifes of people that are letting you know that this car is defective, so if something does happened to me, i will sued this company .
12/01/2010145000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. the power steering goes out while driving. this is seriously dangerous. gm claims that the car can still be driven with extra effort. thats bull!!!! i am a 200 pound 6ft tall man. and i cannot steer the car into into a drive way to exit the roadway when this happens. if my wife was driving the vehicle this could cause a serious accident. i purchased this car used with 96000 miles on it. how does the sorry excuse for a recall from gm help me?!!!!! 10 year or 100k mile. my car now has 150k miles on it. please make gm do a full recall on these very dangerous vehicles.
12/24/201085000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the steering would suddenly become difficlut to maneuver when turning. no warning have appeared on the instrumental panel. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 85,000. the vin was unavailble. tb
12/01/2010145000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. the power steering goes out while driving. this is seriously dangerous. gm claims that the car can still be driven with extra effort. thats bull!!!! i am a 200 pound 6ft tall man. and i cannot steer the car into into a drive way to exit the roadway when this happens. if my wife was driving the vehicle this could cause a serious accident. i purchased this car used with 96000 miles on it. how does the sorry excuse for a recall from gm help me?!!!!! 10 year or 100k mile. my car now has 150k miles on it. please make gm do a full recall on these very dangerous vehicles.
12/24/201085000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the steering would suddenly become difficlut to maneuver when turning. no warning have appeared on the instrumental panel. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 85,000. the vin was unavailble. tb
12/01/2010145000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. the power steering goes out while driving. this is seriously dangerous. gm claims that the car can still be driven with extra effort. thats bull!!!! i am a 200 pound 6ft tall man. and i cannot steer the car into into a drive way to exit the roadway when this happens. if my wife was driving the vehicle this could cause a serious accident. i purchased this car used with 96000 miles on it. how does the sorry excuse for a recall from gm help me?!!!!! 10 year or 100k mile. my car now has 150k miles on it. please make gm do a full recall on these very dangerous vehicles.
12/24/201085000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the steering would suddenly become difficlut to maneuver when turning. no warning have appeared on the instrumental panel. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 85,000. the vin was unavailble. tb
12/01/2010145000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. the power steering goes out while driving. this is seriously dangerous. gm claims that the car can still be driven with extra effort. thats bull!!!! i am a 200 pound 6ft tall man. and i cannot steer the car into into a drive way to exit the roadway when this happens. if my wife was driving the vehicle this could cause a serious accident. i purchased this car used with 96000 miles on it. how does the sorry excuse for a recall from gm help me?!!!!! 10 year or 100k mile. my car now has 150k miles on it. please make gm do a full recall on these very dangerous vehicles.
12/24/201085000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the steering would suddenly become difficlut to maneuver when turning. no warning have appeared on the instrumental panel. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 85,000. the vin was unavailble. tb
12/01/2010145000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion. the power steering goes out while driving. this is seriously dangerous. gm claims that the car can still be driven with extra effort. thats bull!!!! i am a 200 pound 6ft tall man. and i cannot steer the car into into a drive way to exit the roadway when this happens. if my wife was driving the vehicle this could cause a serious accident. i purchased this car used with 96000 miles on it. how does the sorry excuse for a recall from gm help me?!!!!! 10 year or 100k mile. my car now has 150k miles on it. please make gm do a full recall on these very dangerous vehicles.
12/24/201085000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph the steering would suddenly become difficlut to maneuver when turning. no warning have appeared on the instrumental panel. the vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer nor has it been repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 85,000. the vin was unavailble. tb
12/20/201069500
 I was running errands, stopped to get gas (car was working fine), when i pulled out of the gas station i heard the warning chimes and the dash flashed pwr str. immediately it was difficult to make any turns, but still possible. i pulled into a parking lot, turned off the car and waited a minute, turned it back on. for about 10 seconds the steering felt fine and i had no warning chimes or lights, then as i pulled out into the street, the chimes and the pwr str warning came back and i was on my own again. i drove the vehicle home and later in the evening tried to see if it was just a fluke, but once the vehicle was started i immediately had the warning. this just happened for the first time yesterday so i have not had it repaired yet.
06/01/2010100000
 When parallel parking or parking in a conventional space, steering becomes difficult. at first it was every couple of months, now it is becoming multiple times within a month. it last happened about a week ago. while this is an intermittent problem, it is a problem none the less. typically occurs after cranking the steering wheel to pull into a parking spot or out of a parking spot. its as if there is no power steering when maneuvering the steering wheel. this is not a problem resulting from resistance from a curb, nor is it from lack of the vehicle moving. this has happened while in reverse and backing. this has happened while in drive and moving forward. typically coincides with a full crank of the steering wheel to the left. this is an issue which i am unable to duplicate on a deliberate attempt of duplication. this leads me to believe it to be an intermittent issue. i was teaching a friend how to drive in my car, and he was saying that the wheel was very difficult to turn. at first i thought he was just going through the trials and tribulations of a person learning to drive. seeing him labor more over the wheel in order to get it to turn. i had him stop the car and i switched with him. i started the car and attempted to parallel park. i encountered the same issue as him while attempting to park. this was the first time it happened.
12/20/201069500
 I was running errands, stopped to get gas (car was working fine), when i pulled out of the gas station i heard the warning chimes and the dash flashed pwr str. immediately it was difficult to make any turns, but still possible. i pulled into a parking lot, turned off the car and waited a minute, turned it back on. for about 10 seconds the steering felt fine and i had no warning chimes or lights, then as i pulled out into the street, the chimes and the pwr str warning came back and i was on my own again. i drove the vehicle home and later in the evening tried to see if it was just a fluke, but once the vehicle was started i immediately had the warning. this just happened for the first time yesterday so i have not had it repaired yet.
06/01/2010100000
 When parallel parking or parking in a conventional space, steering becomes difficult. at first it was every couple of months, now it is becoming multiple times within a month. it last happened about a week ago. while this is an intermittent problem, it is a problem none the less. typically occurs after cranking the steering wheel to pull into a parking spot or out of a parking spot. its as if there is no power steering when maneuvering the steering wheel. this is not a problem resulting from resistance from a curb, nor is it from lack of the vehicle moving. this has happened while in reverse and backing. this has happened while in drive and moving forward. typically coincides with a full crank of the steering wheel to the left. this is an issue which i am unable to duplicate on a deliberate attempt of duplication. this leads me to believe it to be an intermittent issue. i was teaching a friend how to drive in my car, and he was saying that the wheel was very difficult to turn. at first i thought he was just going through the trials and tribulations of a person learning to drive. seeing him labor more over the wheel in order to get it to turn. i had him stop the car and i switched with him. i started the car and attempted to parallel park. i encountered the same issue as him while attempting to park. this was the first time it happened.
10/18/201046754
 I have a sudden loss of power steering and my steering wheel gets hard after driving for so long and in the message center pwr str comes on. in the morning due to the cold weather my car will not start and will say service vehicle. i don't know if it's due to the fact that my car has sudden loss of power steering.
11/28/201077000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes in and out on the vehicle. the contact stated the power steering light will come on then steering goes out, then the light will go off and the steering comes back. the dealer inspected the vehicle and stated the power steering pump is internal and needed to be replaced. the vin did not go trhough at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage and current mileages was 77000.rl
10/18/201046754
 I have a sudden loss of power steering and my steering wheel gets hard after driving for so long and in the message center pwr str comes on. in the morning due to the cold weather my car will not start and will say service vehicle. i don't know if it's due to the fact that my car has sudden loss of power steering.
11/28/201077000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes in and out on the vehicle. the contact stated the power steering light will come on then steering goes out, then the light will go off and the steering comes back. the dealer inspected the vehicle and stated the power steering pump is internal and needed to be replaced. the vin did not go trhough at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage and current mileages was 77000.rl
10/18/201046754
 I have a sudden loss of power steering and my steering wheel gets hard after driving for so long and in the message center pwr str comes on. in the morning due to the cold weather my car will not start and will say service vehicle. i don't know if it's due to the fact that my car has sudden loss of power steering.
11/28/201077000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes in and out on the vehicle. the contact stated the power steering light will come on then steering goes out, then the light will go off and the steering comes back. the dealer inspected the vehicle and stated the power steering pump is internal and needed to be replaced. the vin did not go trhough at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage and current mileages was 77000.rl
11/15/2010119800
 I was driving my 2004 saturn ion vin# 1g8ag52f74z193905. and the powersteering gave out 2 years ago a couple times but i didnt think it was a big deal cause it didnt happen again untill a couple days ago and it is now it does intermittently . i know the power steering for the ion is all electric so i looked online and noticed there are thousands of complaints for the same problem. the dealer wants to charge 1000 dollars to repair it and in my opinion a defect. if you could please have someone check into this issue
09/03/2009138000
 Tl- the contact owns 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes out on the vehicle at any time without warning. the contact has to turn the vehicle on and back on for the steering to come back. the dealer stated there is a recall on the chevy cobalt for that year and it uses the same part, but the saturn is not under recall. the contact was not sure when the failure started to occur. the vin was not available at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage unknown, but the current mileage was 138000.rl
10/22/201060000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion and the power steering keeps going off in my car. the car will ding annd a message will flash then all the sudden you cant turn the wheel. this happens repeatedly.
09/03/2009138000
 Tl- the contact owns 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes out on the vehicle at any time without warning. the contact has to turn the vehicle on and back on for the steering to come back. the dealer stated there is a recall on the chevy cobalt for that year and it uses the same part, but the saturn is not under recall. the contact was not sure when the failure started to occur. the vin was not available at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage unknown, but the current mileage was 138000.rl
10/22/201060000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion and the power steering keeps going off in my car. the car will ding annd a message will flash then all the sudden you cant turn the wheel. this happens repeatedly.
09/03/2009138000
 Tl- the contact owns 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated the power steering goes out on the vehicle at any time without warning. the contact has to turn the vehicle on and back on for the steering to come back. the dealer stated there is a recall on the chevy cobalt for that year and it uses the same part, but the saturn is not under recall. the contact was not sure when the failure started to occur. the vin was not available at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage unknown, but the current mileage was 138000.rl
10/22/201060000
 I have a 2004 saturn ion and the power steering keeps going off in my car. the car will ding annd a message will flash then all the sudden you cant turn the wheel. this happens repeatedly.
03/01/200870000
 Power steering in 2004 saturn ion intermittently goes out unexpectedly and stays off untill car is turned off and turned back on. this happens almost every time i drive the car. i am a small person, i cannot drive the car safely when the power steering goes out. this causes me to have to pull over on the side of roads to restart car, or i will even restart the car at a stoplight if i have the opportunity. this is the only transportation i have and i cannot afford the costly repairs i have been researching to fix this problem. in my research i have also found that many many others are having this exact problem with their saturn ion power steering.
04/08/2010108000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while 35 mph the power steering light will flash on the dashboard and the power steering will malfunction making the vehicle very difficult to steer. the contact stated this happens randomly. the contact received a letter regarding the special warranty coverage up to 100,000 mile for the power steering but the contacts vehicle is not covered due to miles on the vehicle. the contact has not taken the vehicle to a dealer at this time. the contact stated the loss of power steering could cause a crash. the contact mileage was 108,000. jo
03/01/200870000
 Power steering in 2004 saturn ion intermittently goes out unexpectedly and stays off untill car is turned off and turned back on. this happens almost every time i drive the car. i am a small person, i cannot drive the car safely when the power steering goes out. this causes me to have to pull over on the side of roads to restart car, or i will even restart the car at a stoplight if i have the opportunity. this is the only transportation i have and i cannot afford the costly repairs i have been researching to fix this problem. in my research i have also found that many many others are having this exact problem with their saturn ion power steering.
04/08/2010108000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while 35 mph the power steering light will flash on the dashboard and the power steering will malfunction making the vehicle very difficult to steer. the contact stated this happens randomly. the contact received a letter regarding the special warranty coverage up to 100,000 mile for the power steering but the contacts vehicle is not covered due to miles on the vehicle. the contact has not taken the vehicle to a dealer at this time. the contact stated the loss of power steering could cause a crash. the contact mileage was 108,000. jo
03/01/200870000
 Power steering in 2004 saturn ion intermittently goes out unexpectedly and stays off untill car is turned off and turned back on. this happens almost every time i drive the car. i am a small person, i cannot drive the car safely when the power steering goes out. this causes me to have to pull over on the side of roads to restart car, or i will even restart the car at a stoplight if i have the opportunity. this is the only transportation i have and i cannot afford the costly repairs i have been researching to fix this problem. in my research i have also found that many many others are having this exact problem with their saturn ion power steering.
04/08/2010108000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while 35 mph the power steering light will flash on the dashboard and the power steering will malfunction making the vehicle very difficult to steer. the contact stated this happens randomly. the contact received a letter regarding the special warranty coverage up to 100,000 mile for the power steering but the contacts vehicle is not covered due to miles on the vehicle. the contact has not taken the vehicle to a dealer at this time. the contact stated the loss of power steering could cause a crash. the contact mileage was 108,000. jo
03/01/200870000
 Power steering in 2004 saturn ion intermittently goes out unexpectedly and stays off untill car is turned off and turned back on. this happens almost every time i drive the car. i am a small person, i cannot drive the car safely when the power steering goes out. this causes me to have to pull over on the side of roads to restart car, or i will even restart the car at a stoplight if i have the opportunity. this is the only transportation i have and i cannot afford the costly repairs i have been researching to fix this problem. in my research i have also found that many many others are having this exact problem with their saturn ion power steering.
04/08/2010108000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while 35 mph the power steering light will flash on the dashboard and the power steering will malfunction making the vehicle very difficult to steer. the contact stated this happens randomly. the contact received a letter regarding the special warranty coverage up to 100,000 mile for the power steering but the contacts vehicle is not covered due to miles on the vehicle. the contact has not taken the vehicle to a dealer at this time. the contact stated the loss of power steering could cause a crash. the contact mileage was 108,000. jo
09/02/201069872
 Car has 70000 miles, power steering goes on and off, intermittently, sometimes shuts off completely. fuses were replaced, the motor seems to be bad, as hundreds of other saturn customers are complaining about the same issue.
09/17/2010118000
 I was driving with my daughter in my 2004 saturn ion and the power steering light came appeared. i lost power steering immediately. it took all my strength to turn my vehicle around and make it home safely. i immediatly researched the problem and found numerous complaints online. i contacted customer service and they said that there was a special policy in place for the problem to be repaired but because my vehicle was over 100,000 miles (118,000) it would be an out of pocket expense.
09/02/201069872
 Car has 70000 miles, power steering goes on and off, intermittently, sometimes shuts off completely. fuses were replaced, the motor seems to be bad, as hundreds of other saturn customers are complaining about the same issue.
09/17/2010118000
 I was driving with my daughter in my 2004 saturn ion and the power steering light came appeared. i lost power steering immediately. it took all my strength to turn my vehicle around and make it home safely. i immediatly researched the problem and found numerous complaints online. i contacted customer service and they said that there was a special policy in place for the problem to be repaired but because my vehicle was over 100,000 miles (118,000) it would be an out of pocket expense.
09/02/201069872
 Car has 70000 miles, power steering goes on and off, intermittently, sometimes shuts off completely. fuses were replaced, the motor seems to be bad, as hundreds of other saturn customers are complaining about the same issue.
09/17/2010118000
 I was driving with my daughter in my 2004 saturn ion and the power steering light came appeared. i lost power steering immediately. it took all my strength to turn my vehicle around and make it home safely. i immediatly researched the problem and found numerous complaints online. i contacted customer service and they said that there was a special policy in place for the problem to be repaired but because my vehicle was over 100,000 miles (118,000) it would be an out of pocket expense.
08/16/201083000
 My engine light was on for about 2 weeks. it would come on and go off. i was on my way to the lake one day and was driving down a curvy road an my power steering went out! it took all that i had to manually turn the wheel so i would not go off the road and down the hills side! the power steering will go out after a lot of turning. i have found that if you shut the car off that it will reset it's self, but this is still very dangerous and needs something done about it. a week ago i received a letter in the mail saying that if i had this problem that it could be fixed at any gm dealer, but when i made my oppointment they said that they couldn't fix it becuase my car is prior salvaged and this is not a recall! i can not afford to replace this it will cost $600 to $1000 to fix the problem. the economy is bad enough we can't afford to pay or need to be paying for gm's mistakes. this is a very dangerous problem an it needs to be taking care of!
05/17/200980000
 While driving on a straight road the power sreerning light came on and heard a chime sound. this was around 80,000 miles on the vehicle. turned car off and back on. everything seemed to work fine after that. now i have about 123,000 miles on my car and there is a service bulletin for my saturn ion but no recall. so nothing has been done to fix the problem. chevy cobalts have the same part , but they have an active recall on that vehicle
08/16/201083000
 My engine light was on for about 2 weeks. it would come on and go off. i was on my way to the lake one day and was driving down a curvy road an my power steering went out! it took all that i had to manually turn the wheel so i would not go off the road and down the hills side! the power steering will go out after a lot of turning. i have found that if you shut the car off that it will reset it's self, but this is still very dangerous and needs something done about it. a week ago i received a letter in the mail saying that if i had this problem that it could be fixed at any gm dealer, but when i made my oppointment they said that they couldn't fix it becuase my car is prior salvaged and this is not a recall! i can not afford to replace this it will cost $600 to $1000 to fix the problem. the economy is bad enough we can't afford to pay or need to be paying for gm's mistakes. this is a very dangerous problem an it needs to be taking care of!
05/17/200980000
 While driving on a straight road the power sreerning light came on and heard a chime sound. this was around 80,000 miles on the vehicle. turned car off and back on. everything seemed to work fine after that. now i have about 123,000 miles on my car and there is a service bulletin for my saturn ion but no recall. so nothing has been done to fix the problem. chevy cobalts have the same part , but they have an active recall on that vehicle
08/28/201045020
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 15mph she began to smell smoke and the vehicle became hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that the power steering motor and column needed to be replaced at her expense. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 45,020. rd
05/22/2010119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 65 mph he heard a chiming noise from the dashboard and the power steering light illuminated on the dashboard. he stated he lost all power steering. he stated he continue to drive with difficult to his destination. four hours later he return to the vehicle and the power steering worked as normal. the failure has occured twice. he took the vehicle to a local mechanic and the electronic power steering module was replaced. he stated he had it replace because he would not be able to handle the vehicle traveling thru the mountains on the way home. the contact stated he received a letter from the manufacture stating that they have had this failure with other 2004 ions. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 123,000. vwb
08/28/201045020
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 15mph she began to smell smoke and the vehicle became hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that the power steering motor and column needed to be replaced at her expense. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 45,020. rd
05/22/2010119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 65 mph he heard a chiming noise from the dashboard and the power steering light illuminated on the dashboard. he stated he lost all power steering. he stated he continue to drive with difficult to his destination. four hours later he return to the vehicle and the power steering worked as normal. the failure has occured twice. he took the vehicle to a local mechanic and the electronic power steering module was replaced. he stated he had it replace because he would not be able to handle the vehicle traveling thru the mountains on the way home. the contact stated he received a letter from the manufacture stating that they have had this failure with other 2004 ions. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 123,000. vwb
08/28/201045020
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving approximately 15mph she began to smell smoke and the vehicle became hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and they stated that the power steering motor and column needed to be replaced at her expense. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 45,020. rd
05/22/2010119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 65 mph he heard a chiming noise from the dashboard and the power steering light illuminated on the dashboard. he stated he lost all power steering. he stated he continue to drive with difficult to his destination. four hours later he return to the vehicle and the power steering worked as normal. the failure has occured twice. he took the vehicle to a local mechanic and the electronic power steering module was replaced. he stated he had it replace because he would not be able to handle the vehicle traveling thru the mountains on the way home. the contact stated he received a letter from the manufacture stating that they have had this failure with other 2004 ions. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 123,000. vwb
08/05/201080000
 Saturn notified me in august of 2010 that they are extending the warranty on my 2004 saturn ion for the electric power steering to 10 year or 100,000 miles. my complaint is that the part went out a few years ago and thousands of miles ago. my car is now over 100,000 miles. had i been informed before the intitial warranty ran out, i would've had it fixed. now they tell me they will not cover the defective part.
07/20/2010100000
 Power steering light and sound pops up on dash. power steering goes out. very scary. at highway speed not too bad unless you are trying to evade an accident or something in the road. at low speed very, very, very difficult to maneuver turns or around objects in the road including children and pets. turn car off, turn back on and steering returns for a while and then happen again, and again.
05/22/2010119000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 65 mph he heard a chiming noise from the dashboard and the power steering light illuminated on the dashboard. he stated he lost all power steering. he stated he continue to drive with difficult to his destination. four hours later he return to the vehicle and the power steering worked as normal. the failure has occured twice. he took the vehicle to a local mechanic and the electronic power steering module was replaced. he stated he had it replace because he would not be able to handle the vehicle traveling thru the mountains on the way home. the contact stated he received a letter from the manufacture stating that they have had this failure with other 2004 ions. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 123,000. vwb
08/05/201080000
 Saturn notified me in august of 2010 that they are extending the warranty on my 2004 saturn ion for the electric power steering to 10 year or 100,000 miles. my complaint is that the part went out a few years ago and thousands of miles ago. my car is now over 100,000 miles. had i been informed before the intitial warranty ran out, i would've had it fixed. now they tell me they will not cover the defective part.
07/20/2010100000
 Power steering light and sound pops up on dash. power steering goes out. very scary. at highway speed not too bad unless you are trying to evade an accident or something in the road. at low speed very, very, very difficult to maneuver turns or around objects in the road including children and pets. turn car off, turn back on and steering returns for a while and then happen again, and again.
08/05/201080000
 Saturn notified me in august of 2010 that they are extending the warranty on my 2004 saturn ion for the electric power steering to 10 year or 100,000 miles. my complaint is that the part went out a few years ago and thousands of miles ago. my car is now over 100,000 miles. had i been informed before the intitial warranty ran out, i would've had it fixed. now they tell me they will not cover the defective part.
07/20/2010100000
 Power steering light and sound pops up on dash. power steering goes out. very scary. at highway speed not too bad unless you are trying to evade an accident or something in the road. at low speed very, very, very difficult to maneuver turns or around objects in the road including children and pets. turn car off, turn back on and steering returns for a while and then happen again, and again.
03/14/2010
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving the power steering shuts off and the owner had no control of the steering. the failure has happened numerous times. when the vehicle is turned off and then back on the steering will function normally for a while. the dealer stated the steering column was defective and needed to be replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. the current mileage was 175,000. rd
07/20/2010100000
 Power steering light and sound pops up on dash. power steering goes out. very scary. at highway speed not too bad unless you are trying to evade an accident or something in the road. at low speed very, very, very difficult to maneuver turns or around objects in the road including children and pets. turn car off, turn back on and steering returns for a while and then happen again, and again.
03/14/2010
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving the power steering shuts off and the owner had no control of the steering. the failure has happened numerous times. when the vehicle is turned off and then back on the steering will function normally for a while. the dealer stated the steering column was defective and needed to be replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. the current mileage was 175,000. rd
08/20/201067330
 While driving for less than 5 minutes, the car dinged and the pwr str light came on. i was unable to turn the wheel without considerable effort. drove home at about 30 miles per hour and had extreme difficulty turning the wheel. this is very dangerous! i could barely turn the wheel at all and was concerned for my safety!
03/05/200860000
 Power steering went out in 2004 saturn ion after the warranty had expired (2008). took it to dealership and they said it would be $1000. could not afford it and began looking online for other alternative. found many others with the same problem. contacted saturn by phone, mail, signed petitions. nothing was ever done. recently found out gm recalled the same part for the chevy cobalt, but not saturn. finally seen where you could take the saturn in and they would fix it for free. i found out online, saturn never sent me notification. when i took it in they said i had 2,000 miles over what the special warranty would cover. contacted they saturn customer service, they opened an investigation and called me back to say there was nothing they could do due to the 2,000 miles and when i asked for someone higher i was told there was nowhere higher this was gm's final decision but i should pay for the repairs because this was a hazard. i asked again for a supervisor or anyone else higher than her she again said there was no one higher and this was gm's final decision and remained on the line silent then finally disconnected the call. i do not understand how they can refuse to let me talk to someone higher and furthermore refuse to cover a manufactors defective part.
03/14/2010
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving the power steering shuts off and the owner had no control of the steering. the failure has happened numerous times. when the vehicle is turned off and then back on the steering will function normally for a while. the dealer stated the steering column was defective and needed to be replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. the current mileage was 175,000. rd
08/20/201067330
 While driving for less than 5 minutes, the car dinged and the pwr str light came on. i was unable to turn the wheel without considerable effort. drove home at about 30 miles per hour and had extreme difficulty turning the wheel. this is very dangerous! i could barely turn the wheel at all and was concerned for my safety!
03/05/200860000
 Power steering went out in 2004 saturn ion after the warranty had expired (2008). took it to dealership and they said it would be $1000. could not afford it and began looking online for other alternative. found many others with the same problem. contacted saturn by phone, mail, signed petitions. nothing was ever done. recently found out gm recalled the same part for the chevy cobalt, but not saturn. finally seen where you could take the saturn in and they would fix it for free. i found out online, saturn never sent me notification. when i took it in they said i had 2,000 miles over what the special warranty would cover. contacted they saturn customer service, they opened an investigation and called me back to say there was nothing they could do due to the 2,000 miles and when i asked for someone higher i was told there was nowhere higher this was gm's final decision but i should pay for the repairs because this was a hazard. i asked again for a supervisor or anyone else higher than her she again said there was no one higher and this was gm's final decision and remained on the line silent then finally disconnected the call. i do not understand how they can refuse to let me talk to someone higher and furthermore refuse to cover a manufactors defective part.
03/14/2010
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving the power steering shuts off and the owner had no control of the steering. the failure has happened numerous times. when the vehicle is turned off and then back on the steering will function normally for a while. the dealer stated the steering column was defective and needed to be replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was unknown. the current mileage was 175,000. rd
08/20/201067330
 While driving for less than 5 minutes, the car dinged and the pwr str light came on. i was unable to turn the wheel without considerable effort. drove home at about 30 miles per hour and had extreme difficulty turning the wheel. this is very dangerous! i could barely turn the wheel at all and was concerned for my safety!
03/05/200860000
 Power steering went out in 2004 saturn ion after the warranty had expired (2008). took it to dealership and they said it would be $1000. could not afford it and began looking online for other alternative. found many others with the same problem. contacted saturn by phone, mail, signed petitions. nothing was ever done. recently found out gm recalled the same part for the chevy cobalt, but not saturn. finally seen where you could take the saturn in and they would fix it for free. i found out online, saturn never sent me notification. when i took it in they said i had 2,000 miles over what the special warranty would cover. contacted they saturn customer service, they opened an investigation and called me back to say there was nothing they could do due to the 2,000 miles and when i asked for someone higher i was told there was nowhere higher this was gm's final decision but i should pay for the repairs because this was a hazard. i asked again for a supervisor or anyone else higher than her she again said there was no one higher and this was gm's final decision and remained on the line silent then finally disconnected the call. i do not understand how they can refuse to let me talk to someone higher and furthermore refuse to cover a manufactors defective part.
08/20/201067330
 While driving for less than 5 minutes, the car dinged and the pwr str light came on. i was unable to turn the wheel without considerable effort. drove home at about 30 miles per hour and had extreme difficulty turning the wheel. this is very dangerous! i could barely turn the wheel at all and was concerned for my safety!
03/05/200860000
 Power steering went out in 2004 saturn ion after the warranty had expired (2008). took it to dealership and they said it would be $1000. could not afford it and began looking online for other alternative. found many others with the same problem. contacted saturn by phone, mail, signed petitions. nothing was ever done. recently found out gm recalled the same part for the chevy cobalt, but not saturn. finally seen where you could take the saturn in and they would fix it for free. i found out online, saturn never sent me notification. when i took it in they said i had 2,000 miles over what the special warranty would cover. contacted they saturn customer service, they opened an investigation and called me back to say there was nothing they could do due to the 2,000 miles and when i asked for someone higher i was told there was nowhere higher this was gm's final decision but i should pay for the repairs because this was a hazard. i asked again for a supervisor or anyone else higher than her she again said there was no one higher and this was gm's final decision and remained on the line silent then finally disconnected the call. i do not understand how they can refuse to let me talk to someone higher and furthermore refuse to cover a manufactors defective part.
08/24/200621000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving approximately 25-30 mph the vehicle lost power steering. she stated the vehicle became very difficult to steer and she has to hold on to the shifter and the steering wheel. the contact stated her vehicle was manual. the contact has taken the vehicle to three local mechanics and they advised her that the steering column needs replacing and has referred her to the dealer. the vehicle has not been taken to an authorized dealer for this failure. the contact stated the failure was intermittent at first but know she has no power steering. she also stated while driving the vehicle locks into gear and she can not shift out of gear. the contact stated this failure happened at 9,000 miles. the vehicle was taken to the dealer thirty seven times for this failure and they have replace wires but the failure continues. the dealer has never did a diagnostic because the contact will not pay $500.00 for the cost of the diagnostic. the failure mileage was 21,000 and the current mileage was 83,000. vwb
06/19/201097027
 Electric power steering system failure in my 2004 saturn ion. power steering system stops working and steering becomes very hard and heavy. it occurs daily since 6-19-10. called dealer who informed me that no recall has been made by saturn even though same problem has caused a recall of chevy cobalt, which uses the same electric part (motor) and has experienced same problems.
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.
01/01/20104600
 I have a 2004 saturn ion that has power steering issues. what happens is a tone will sound and a power steering warning will appear on the message window and then i lose the power steering. it then becomes very hard to control the car. this has happened on the freeway, in town and at stop lights. it is building in frequency going from once every few months to every few days. i have had to put my four ways on and block traffic because the only way to get the power steering back is to turn the car off and then wait at least 30 seconds and turn the car back on.
06/20/2010129000
 2004 saturn ion with intermittent power steering failure. happens randomly several times a week. car becomes very difficult to maneuver.
06/25/200930000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving the vehicle at 10 mph when exiting a ramp or turning, it is difficult to steer, the power steering has being going out intermittenly. it started about a year ago, and now it has been happening every day. the vehicle has not been taken to a dealer, the vehicle was taken to a mechanic a year ago, and they were unable to duplicate the failure. they said this vehicle has an electric base, and in order to repair it they would have to put in a new steering column. this work was not done. since this problem has reoccured the vehicle has not been taken back to a mechanic. the manufacturer has not been contacted. i provided him with the manufactrer number (1800) 553-6000. the failure mileage was 30, 00 and the current mileage was 40,500.....dwh
06/08/201067346
 Power steering fails when driving my satun ion 2
05/26/201039000
 2004 ion bought 2 months ago, power steering goes out almost every day. i have to sto on the side of the road and turn the car off and re-start it. to correct the failure would be a 1000 dollar cost. which i shouldnt have to replace when it's a new car to me..
06/12/201082000
 Power steering has went on my 2004 saturn ion. upon looking on the internet, i was flooded with similar problems. this is a major problem where people's lives are at risk. the chevy colbalt has been recalled for this same problem, and contains the same electric steering column. i don't understand how this has not yet been recalled and peoples live are at risk every day. i cannot afford to fix something like this that should never be a problem because of its health risks.
06/18/201065500
 Have a 2004 saturn ion electric power steering go out as you are driving hard to control car
06/12/2010102000
 Wife was driving home from work, and the power steering in her saturn ion just quit working making the car very difficult to steer. no one was hurt, but nearly caused an accident. my understanding from the dealer is that the electric motor on the steering column over heats and just stops working. very expensive to fix, and i also understand this is a common problem. shutting car off and re-starting makes it work again, but it has happed four other times since then.
11/08/200970000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that in november 2009 while traveling approximately 65mph the power steering on the vehicle failed. the failure continued to occur and recently it has gotten progressively worse. the power steering warning light illuminates before each failure. the vehicle was taken to a dealer and they stated the steering column needed to be replaced at a cost of approximately $900.00. saturn was also contacted and they stated that they could offer no assistance. the failure was approximately 70,000. the current mileage is approximately 94,000. rd
09/16/2008120000
 2004 saturn ion - power steering goes out while driving! has been happeing for over a year. if the car is restarted it comes back on for a short time then goes out again. unable to identify anything specifically causing the issue, happens at random.
06/07/201065232
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving she noticed a power steering warning light illuminated and the vehicle became very hard to steer. the owner got the vehicle to a gas station and turned it off. when she started it back up the steering functioned normally. the failure is getting progressively. the dealer was notified and they stated to bring it in for diagnostics at her expense. the failure and current mileage is approximately 65,232. rd
05/04/2010128000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while traveling 25 mph the contact noticed that the vehicle suddenly lost all power steering without warning. the vehicle has not been diagnosed and there were no prior warnings. the failure mileage was 128000 and the current mileage was 130000. bml
06/12/201039382
 Electric power steering in 2004 saturn ion 2 stops working intermittently. this situation has happened to my daughter several times for no apparent/specific reason.
04/25/2010175525
 While driving on the highway at 70 mph the power steering warning light came on and the electrical power steering quit working and the steering became extremely stiff. fortunately the vehicle was going straight and not on a turn since we were driving through the mountains. when the vehicle was shut off the power steering apparently reset itself and the vehicle worked fine for the next 20 miles where it happened again. it's becomes manual steering. it is the only vehicle we have and it is used to drive 17 miles one way to work six times a week. it happens at least twice a day. the dealer wants a fortune to fix something that should be on a recall.
06/08/201083433
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at any speed, the steering system loses power. the contact stated the failure had happened multiple times in a week. the contact spoke with the dealer who scheduled an appointment for repair. the vehicle had not been repaired. the current and failure miles were 83433. aa
06/08/201088300
 Tl-the driver owns a 2004 saturn ion2. while driving approximately 55mph the power steering light came on and the power steering failed. she coasted to the side of the road and turn the vehicle off. she turn the vehicle back on and the vehicle was fine. the contact stated she called the dealer and was told that the electronic power steering would need replacing at a cost of $994.00. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileage were 88,300. vwb
03/15/201070000
 Power steering will suddenly lock up and light will flash power string on dash. this occurs at 5 miles per hour up to 70 plus miles per hour on the interstate. extremely extremely hard to get off to side of road. then if you put in park and turn the car off and back on, the power steering will work for another 5 to 10 miles or so.
06/03/201080700
 Power steering fails while driving down the highway/road in my 2004 saturn ion 3. power steering indicator goes off when i loose the power steering.pull over and shut of car and restart everthing seems fine for a few miles then the problem starts over again. severe safety issue- especially when my wife is driving with the kids. after researching, finding out this is becoming a common problem- why no recall?
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.
05/26/200788000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving at 65 mph, the power steering malfunctioned. the power steering light illuminated before the failure occurred. the contact turned the vehicle off and restarted it; after restart, the power steering reset to normal. the contact planned to take the vehicle to an authorized dealership for diagnosis. the current and failure mileages were approximately 88,000.
05/03/201072000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact was driving approximately 10 mph into a parking lot. a chime sounded inside of the vehicle and the power steering warning light indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. the engine was turned off. the vehicle restarted and resumed normally for a period of ten minutes. the vehicle failure occurred repeatedly; and whenever in operation during warm weather temperatures. the authorized dealer was notified of the malfunction and stated there was not a recall for the defect. the vehicle had not been repaired at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage was 72,000. the vin was unavailable.
05/15/201055000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering light illuminated and the power steering failed suddenly. the contact turned off the vehicle and restarted it; after restart, the power steering functioned properly. the failure occurred twice. the vehicle had not been inspected or repaired at the time of the complaint. the current and failure mileages were approximately 55,000.
05/02/201068000
 2004 saturn ion. power steering goes out intermittently i have had near misses twice with it going out at low speeds extremely hard to turn. when car stops & is restarted power steering works again. i drive 10 mi to and from work usally happens in afternoon 4 out of 5 times.
03/10/201035000
 Driving on freeway through a bending tunnel and suddenly the power steering failed. very near collision with the tunnel wall. drove rest of the journey with no power steering. power steering returned on start-up. but then failed again the next day and is now, except for the first 10 seconds after turning on the ignition, does not work at all. $1200 repair estimate to replace power module. 2004 saturn ion with only 35,000 miles.
05/10/201092890
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated while driving at speeds of 65 mph, the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel immediately followed by a loss of power steering assist. the steering wheel became extremely hard and the contact had extreme difficulty in maintaining control of the vehicle. she was able to maneuver the vehicle off the roadway without incident and shut off the engine. when restarting, the vehicle was still without power steering assist. neither the dealer nor manufacturer had yet been contacted. this was the first incident of the failure in the vehicle. the failure and current mileages were 92,890.
10/22/2008
 My car ran fine until about 60,000 miles. then the power steering going. at first it was sporadic. it would go out and then come back on. pretty soon it got to be all the time. i have yet to get fixed. my mechanic told me it would cost $1,200.
12/22/2009
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at any speed, the power steering malfunctioned. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealership where the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. he then called the manufacturer who referred him to the dealership. the current mileage was 19,201. the failure mileage was unknown.
04/24/201066114
 The power steering signal show on dash display and power steering goes out. when the car is turn off and after few minutes is turn back on, power steering work fine again for some time. fuses are ok. this happen while you are driving and is very hard to get keep of the car. this had happend several times during the last year.
04/16/201079500
 During my drive home from work, i was slowing down for a red light, and the pwr str error light came on in my car immediately followed by my power steering giving out. i could hardly turn the wheel, but struggled with two hands to pull off the road and turn my car off. when i restarted it several minutes later, the error message was gone. i started driving again and the power steering returned. i made it home. the following monday i took the car to return to work where i planned to take it into the mechanic near there. again, as i was coming to an intersection and preparing to turn onto a busy highway, the error message came on again and my power steering completely gave out. i was extremely shaken up and forced the wheel to turn off to the side. again, by shutting off the engine temporarily, i was able to get it to work well enough to get to work. my mechanic observed the car and determined that this is an electronic steering problem. to fix it the entire steering column would need to be replaced. this has an estimated cost of $1,000 and needs to be done at a certified saturn dealer because of the software associated with the fix. this problem is exactly what was reported in the gm recall of compact cars to fix the power steering. the steering column parts are the same in the 2004 saturn ion 3, which is what i drive. yet, my car was not included in the recall. why? i am not able to drive my car until it is fixed. this is a serious safety hazzard, as i am barely strong enough to turn the wheel without the power steering. i was only lucky that this did not happen while i was in different places of my commute or the consequences could have been severe.
04/13/2010
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving 65 miles per hour the power steering failed. the contact spoke with the dealer who advised they will send the part to the contact to repair the vehicle. the current miles were 84000. the failure miles were not available. the vin was not available.
04/16/201079000
 I was taking coming off a ramp at 40 mph when the electric power steering failed. this happens frequently while the car is in motion. dealer says the module is beginning to fail.
04/13/2010150000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving at speeds of 30 mph downhill, the power steering failed. the power steering warning light illuminated momentarily on the warning panel. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was contacted. there were no repairs made to the vehicle. the approximate failure and current mileages were 150,000.
04/12/201068255
 While driving the automobile the power steering light comes on and the power steering fails. the car must be pulled over and turned off for 30 seconds, then re-started. this problem happens when outside temperatures get above 55-60 degrees f, and happens at least every 3rd time auto is driven. no repairs made at this time.
04/09/201030030
 While driving my power steering alarm on my dash came on and my power steering stopped working. i had to pull over and turn off the car. upon restarting the car the power steering was working. this happened three times within 30 minutes. it happened again several hours later and again two days later. i have not done anything about it because i am waiting to take it to a mechanic.
04/10/2010102000
 I was driving at a low speed, and the power steering suddenly went out on my 2004 saturn ion. i was able to turn the wheel into a parking lot. suprisingly, when i turned the car back on, the power steering system came on as well. i was able to drive it home, but i almost crashed. no warning. i have been researching online, and have found that other 2004 ion users have had similar problems, and while gm recalled this issue on cobalts, it's ignoring the saturn 2004 same issue
03/31/2010550001
 I am sending this as a worried son of a 2004 saturn ion 2 owner. my mother has called me several times asking about the steering on her car. she will be just driving down the highway and she hears a chime and sees a light on her dash indicating loss of power steering. when she restarts the car the issue goes away. also on march 31st 2010, this happened on her drive to work in city driving conditions, once again having to shut off her car to reset the steering twice in 5 miles. the part causing this is the same part that is being recalled in 1.3 million gm cars currently but the saturn ion is not on the list. i urgently ask you to include these cars on the recall. with very little trouble i have found many people on many message boards with the same issue my mother is having with her car. put your self in my place, imagine your mother who loves to go visit her family over 100mi from home as often as she can, driving on i-35 in minnesota to the minneapolis -st. paul at 65-70mph and having to pull over on an interstate several times per trip so she can turn off her car only to reset the power steering system. then having to safely merge back onto that interstate. i would hope you would be as worried as i am. if not your mother then what about you son/daughter, wife/husband or any one you know having to do the same thing, all because of a part that is already being recalled in other cars. god forbid she get into an accident and gets hurt or worse having to deal with this issue. i do know that my children will not be in that car until the problem is fixed. i understand an accident can happen to anyone at anytime but it should not be caused by a known faulty part. too many people have already been effected with toyota's issues, lets not let this issue to cause the loss of any or any more injuries or deaths. *tr
03/31/201046000
 1. driving car normally - drove about 1/2 mile 2. power steering went out -- received message pwr str similar to recall chevy cobalt recall id#10v073000 3. the failure did not correct
03/31/201093000
 While driving on the freeway at 60 mph, my 2004 saturn ion iii lost its power steering. the car chimed at me and displayed a pwr str message. the car instantly became much more difficult to control, especially in turns and at lower speeds. i was able to make it to work. when i restarted my car later in the day, the power steering was working again. based on a brief online search, this problem appears to be common with the saturn ions. it is my understanding that the ion has the same power steering motor/module as the chevy cobalt. a recall has recently been announced for the cobalt's power steering issue.
11/15/200958000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that while driving at speeds of 30 mph, the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel, immediately followed by a loss of power steering control. the contact was able to maneuver the vehicle off of the road. the engine was shut off and restated. the power steering resumed normal operation. the driver stated that the failure would occur intermittently. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 58,000 and the current mileage was 68,000.
03/23/2010107000
 Power steering becomes intermittent with no warning stops working at anytime. i got to doing some reading and found out that it is very common with this car and upon further research found that the power steering motor is the same onsaturn ion as on the colbolt and g5 that gm has already recalled
03/25/201033152
 Power steering on 2004 saturn ion goes out 2-3 times per week while driving since dec 09. i must pull the car off to the side of the road, stop, and restart the engine in order for the power steering to reset. i have verified that the fuzes controlling the electric power steering motor are serviceable - they have never blown or needed to be replaced. i am concerned an accident will occur while driving due to loss of power steering.
01/21/201019250
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion 3. the contact stated that while driving approximately 30 mph, the power steering light illuminated and then the vehicle lost power steering. she was able to drive the vehicle home and notified a local repair facility. the next morning, when she tried to drive the vehicle to the repair shop, the power steering functioned normally and the mechanic could not find anything wrong with the vehicle after inspecting it. a few months later, the same failure occurred and the power steering light illuminated and she lost power steering and control of the steering wheel. when she turned the vehicle off and restarted it the problem seemed to correct itself. she took the vehicle to a dealer who stated that she needed a power steering motor. the vehicle was not repaired when the complaint was filed. she had not called the manufacturer to-date. the current mileage was 19,318. the failure mileage was approximately 19,250.
04/18/2009150500
 At any speed the power steering goes out making it hard to steer at low speeds. my car is a 2004 saturn ion 2. this is a gm car and has the same problem as the recently recalled chevys and pontiacs. the problem started a year ago. the car has not been driven since august 2009. i have found numerous complaints online about this same problem an would like to have my car included in the recall. gm does know about this problem and in an email to its service agents said saturn ions were not included. why? this could have and may have already cused accidents. i would like some answers.
03/11/201043000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving 5 mph out of a parking space, he noticed that the power steering warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel. moments later, the contact noticed that the vehicle no longer had operable power steering. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealer. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 43,000.
03/09/2010863591
 My 2004 saturn ion has been loosing its power steering for the past 2 years. recently it has been happening more often during the times of extreme heat or when i try to do a 3 point turn. i have brought it 2 to different mechanics and they are not able to explain to me what and why its happening. i have been online and noticed a large amount of people with a similar issues. it happens at random times and at random speeds not usually the same time at any time. *tr
12/01/2009400001
 Power steering intermittently fails and steering becomes very difficult or impossible at low speeds. *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
12/01/2008610001
 Electric power steering failure on my 2004 saturn ion redline off & on for the last year & 6 months. it happens w/o warning on the freeway, around corners, & sometimes it goes out back to back many, many times in a row. this is the same recall as gm is having on their electric power steering motors, in fact the same part #. the chevy cobalt is the exact same power steering motor, in fact the same drivetrain. but for some reason the saturn is not mentioned in the recall. this needs to change. we have the same electric power steering motor with the same part # & the same danger as the other vehicles in this recall. *tr
10/30/2009900001
 The power steering fails in my 2004 saturn ion. the problem is random but happens frequently, without warning. oddly, it happens more often during warmer weather. the car becomes difficult to steer. i was told that the steering column needed replaced at a cost of $450 and that it would be a used column. *tr
03/02/2010550001
 1. power-steering goes out without any warning. 2. it happens sometimes 2-3 times a day and other days, only once. 3. if you turn ignition off an restart power-steering works until the power-steering fails again. the car is in the shop being fixed at this moment. it is not safe to drive. *tr
08/10/2009500001
 I have a 2004 saturn ion that the electric power steering pump gave out. it started in about 6 months ago and was working on and off and about a month ago it finally gave out completely. *tr
10/23/2009760003
 I drive a 2004 saturn ion. my car began losing power steering randomly. i would be driving and the power steering would stop. if i turned the car off and then cranked it again the power steering would work. this happened 2 or 3 times and then didn't happen again for 2 months. then, on a long car trip, the power steering began going out every mile or so. i had to have it towed to a saturn dealership to get the problem solved. *tr
01/05/2009320001
 While driving at multiple different speeds and different types of roads (anywhere from 15-65 mph, neighborhood streets to freeways) the power steering light would come on and then immediately after that the power steering would go out. we would have to restart the car to regain power steering. at first it happened about once a week, then multiple times a day (and then progressed to every time the steering wheel was moved at all). car was taken to saturn dealer for steering column replacement of the steering column that the dealer says was a known problem, but was not a recall issue. *tr
03/01/2010141000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion level 2. while driving 70 mph the power steering light flashed on the dashboard and the power steering malfunctioned. the contact pulled over and shut the vehicle off and then restarted it to reset the power steering. ten minutes after restarting the vehicle the power steering malfunctioned again. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and the dealer informed him that the electric assist motor needed to be replaced. the contact has not had the electric power assist replaced. the failure mileage was 141,000.
11/27/200930000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. intermittently the power steering failed when driving at various speeds. the vehicle was driven onto the emergency lane, turned off and on and it reset itself. the vehicle was taken to the dealer and was told to repair the failure he had to pay $2000. the manufacturer was called and told and advised the contact that the repair and cost were the same that the dealer stated. he then filed claim# 71-808240519 with the manufacturer. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 30,000.
10/01/20081
 I have a 2004 saturn ion with a bad power steering module. i read today that gm is recalling 1.3 million pontiac g5 and chevrolet cobalt vehicles for the same reason. the saturn ion has the same power steering module as those vehicles so i hope it is also recalled. events leading up to the failure is as follows: start the car, drive around for approximately 30 seconds, and the dash displays power steering and there is a chime sound indicating the power steering has failed. the power steering is not functional until the car is turned off, then started again, at which time there is another approximately 30 seconds before failure. this happens everytime the vehicle is started. we've brought it to the dealer and they want $800 to replace the module. so far we've just lived with it and stopped driving the car and decided to never buy gm again. if you search google for saturn ion power steering problems or saturn ion power steering recall there are thousands of complaints. *tr
10/17/2009500001
 Power steering disables randomly while driving in 2004 saturn ion. cycling ignition enables power steering again, but then it happens again. *tr
03/01/20101410001
 My gm 2004 saturn ion the power steering light comes on and the power steering goes out while driving ! if i turn my car off , it resets and works for a few minutes and goes back out. *tr
02/10/201076000
 Tl* the contact has a 2004 saturn ion 3. the contact stated that the vehicle has intermitent power steering failure. the steering wheel will lock up and make the vehicle unable to turn. the contact took the vehicle the dealer and was told that the steering column and the steering module need to be replaced, because it is an electrical problem. the failure mileage was 76000. the current mileage was 76112.
01/04/20101
 The power steering in my 2004 saturn ion continuously fails. it used to reset after turning the car off and restarting, but now it just fails after a few seconds. i have noticed online that there a alot of people with this problem. it is extremely dangerous. i have been quoted that this type of repair would be around $500. i don't have that kind of money. i believe an investigation should be started. *tr
01/30/2010740001
 Saturn ion 2004- spontaneous power steering outages. this car is a danger to the public in that without any warning the power steering fails on the vehicle. the entire steering column must be replaced although the actual motor is the reason for the failure. the cost of the repair is approximately $1100.00. after research this is a common problem that exists among these models and there is a potential for harm or death due to the failure of the power steering. this needs to be addressed immediately. a local news station announced this evening that the feds are investigating the chevrolet cobalt for the same issue- power steering failure. the same thing needs to be investigated related to the saturn ion before people start dying. *tr
01/30/2010300001
 My wife owns a 2004 saturn ion, only 50,000 miles. for about 3 years there has been an off and on problem with the power steering light coming on and the power steering stops working- once you turn car off and back on it starts working again momentarily- this is an electrical system. i've replaced the fuses and that did not correct the problem. currently the power steering will cut out at least a few times a week if not a few times a driving trip and it is getting to be very unsafe. if the power steering were to cut out on the free way during a sharp turn, i'm very concerned my 105 lb. wife could lose control and seriously hurt herself or others. i have read numerous message boards and this is a problem that saturn is aware of and is unwilling to do a recall- they just want to make more $$ buy charging over $1,000 to replace the steering column which in a lot of cases it sounds as if it could be a cheaper fix than what saturn wants to charge consumer for. bottom line is that a car with only 50,000 miles should not have this problem and saturn should be liable and correct these safety issues. what will it take for them a few deaths before they realize this needs to be corrected? *tr
08/08/20091
 Power steering goes out frequently on 2004 saturn ion. checked fuses, no problems with fuses. saturn wants to charge $100 just to diagnose the problem. can turn off car and restart - this resets the power steering but only for a little bit. sometimes it goes out constantly, sometimes not for a few hours or days. *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
08/28/2008770001
 Power steering keeps going out and in the winter sometimes does not want to start. the steering started about a year ago. happen once then not for months. now is a daily occurrence. i live 13 miles from my job. i goes out at least 4 times on the way. it would probably be more if i had more stop signs to restart the car at. i am a puny girl and is sometimes hard for me to strong arm the steering when it is not working. of course my warranty is past. now my problem is winter is coming, i have a 7 year old son that i have to take to the country at 5:30 in the morning to the sitters. i am worried to death about him being in the car with me if i have no power steering and this car decides to start sliding. i don't think it possible to steer out of a spin. how many complaints have to be made about this before something is done about an obvious manufacturer mistake. will it take people dieing? i hope to god not. so your answer to were there any deaths or injuries? is....not yet. please help!! *tr
10/02/2009770421
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving 65 mph he noticed that the vehicle suddenly lost all power steering. a local mechanic stated that the steering chip needed to be replaced. there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 77042. updated 02/1710 *bf the steering controller was replaced, however the problem continued. the consumer stated he would have to pay an additional $1000 to replace the main computer. updated 02/19/10
01/11/20091120001
 Experiencing continuous failure of the power steering in my '04 saturn ion. steering can lock up at any given time after start up and has done so on an every trip basis for the past 6 months. the dealership's diagnostic didn't find anything, but offered to replace the power steering column for almost $800; which as i have read doesn't guarantee fixing the problem. losing your power steering while driving is a safety issue and i feel that if this issue is prevalent in the ion series, saturn/gm should address it accordingly. *tr
08/08/2009600001
 2004 saturn ion quad coupe. 2.2l man. power steering fails seems to be random as to when it fails. repeated fails, usually multiple times in a day. makes driving the vehicle very difficult and if not expecting it can make for a close call. failure has not been correct as of this time. old part can be made available once repair is completed. *tr
08/04/2009860001
 My power-steering keeps going out on my 2004 saturn ion. the message center beeps and then the steering goes out. turn the car off and then back on and steering works. *tr
08/25/2009578071
 I drive a 2004 saturn ion. about two months ago my power steering started to go out at random times, however, when i would turn the car off and then back on it would be fine. i did bring it in to a mechanic and had it looked at. he found no error codes and no duplicate of the problem because it was at random times. a couple weeks ago it started to turn off a couple times a day. i finally brought it in again when it turned off on me on the freeway and i almost crashed when a big rig swerved. my mechanic was able to verify there was an issue with the power steering column & modular. that part was $560.53 (not including labor). further research into this part on my car with the help of my mechanic showed that this is a very common issue with my saturn make. however, the story does not end here. after replacement of this part my mechanic discovered the cause for the steering breaking. the motor in this column piece fries the whole modular. the replacement part for this was another $175.00. the saturn factory has plenty of steering columns in stock however because of the increase in demand for the replacement of the motor, the part was on back order for a couple of weeks. yes the whole process was frustrating and expensive but having power steering go out unexpectedly is very dangerous. someone should not have to die or be injured in an accident before a safety recall is forced upon saturn. *tr
08/22/2009597001
 The power steering in my 2004 saturn ion keeps going out. it usually occurs after it has rained, and it has also occurred after several minutes of driving. it is becoming more frequent, even when it is not raining. it appears that the motor for the power steering needs to be replaced. *tr
08/20/2009620001
 The power steering motor keeps going out on my 2004 saturn ion while i am driving it. it goes out almost every time i drive the car- sometimes while in the middle of a turn, making it very hard to steer. saturn will replace the steering column for about $1000 but after reading many many people online complain of the same issue i feel it should be a safety recall! *tr
08/06/2009350001
 Power steering light comes on,steering becomes nearly impossible,. trouble began around 2 months ago, now happens 2-3 times daily, very scary, as i travel a great deal on the highway. via internet searches, not an isolated incident, dealership quotes 800.00 to 1065.00 to replace entire steering column. have been advised, dealership charges this amount,to replace entire steering column, removes the bad component, then resells remainder of column for profit. the consumer needs to be protected, and these vehicles need to be recalled and steering columns replaced at no charge to consumer. brought my ion brand new in 2005(year end sale),so unbelievable that 4 years later,,routine maintenance maintained and 39,000 miles, this is happening. we(consumers that trusted saturn) need help in remedying this situation and shouldn't have to come out of pocket to do so!!! *tr
08/02/2009440001
 Power steering keeps going out. after car is stopped and key turned off and then back on the problem corrects itself. this happens sometimes once a day or ten times a day. cannot predict when it will happen. when it happens in the middle of a turn it is very hard to control car. have seen a lot of complaints on line similar to mine and wonder why there is not recall. *tr
07/28/2009500001
 I own a 2004 saturn ion that occasionally loses electrical power steering while driving. it started happening after they replaced my ignition a few months ago, which had known issues while starting in the cold. while driving down the highway, the pwr str light will sometimes appear and that is when the steering goes out. consumers should not have to pay for this repair because there are several posts out there on the web about this problem. it is a safety hazard that can cause accidents. *tr
07/16/2009550001
 My 2004 saturn ion 3's power steering keeps going out. often driving it for 10-15 miles, the power steering message will display on the message center and the power steering will go out immediately. this is extremely dangerous because at any time it will go out. it happens intermittently. it will cost 1600 dollars to get a new steering column from gm. if i drive it like it is, an accident will most likely occur. my car is only 5 years old, with 55,000 miles and i take good care of it. i am extremely upset by this which seems to be an issue that many 2004 ions have. *tr
05/29/2009657501
 While driving at any speed, the power steering warning messages comes on then there is no power steering. it can happen at any time and every time you drive the car. shut off the car then restart the power steering is back until it goes out again after a couple of miles. *tr
02/24/2009900001
 I purchased my 2004 saturn ion last june and the weekend after i drove it off the lot, the power steering went out. my stepfather looked at it and replaced the fuse for the power steering. it did not happen again until 5 months ago. at this point my warranty was over and the dealership would not fix it. the power steering fails everytime i go over 35mph, or it just fails for no reason. i have taken it to my mechanic and he has told me it will be $1,000.00 to fix and that the whole steering column needs to be replaced. i have yet to get it fixed. *tr
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
09/20/2006400001
 Electric power steering fails without notice. driving straight or turning and at different speeds. makes driving very dangerous. *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.
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
01/15/2009600001
 On at least ten occasions the power steering on my 2004 saturn ion has failed. it does so without warning (there is no correlation between weather, time of day, or other such conditions) and it makes the car difficult to steer. one has to slow down to the point of a crawl in order to turn the steering wheel. this is especially dangerous on any freeway exits with a loop. last thursday it went out a total of four times over the course of one afternoon. it seemed to correct itself only after turning the car of and restarting. when i took it to the mechanic, he could not duplicate the problem and so advised me to take it to the dealer. after doing an online search it appears that mine is not the only case and that the solution can range from a small inexpensive repair to a rather expensive repair. *tr
03/01/2006400001
 The power steering on my 2004 saturn ion has been going out at least three times a day for the past two years. in order to reset it i need to turn my car off and restart it. i have taken it to a mechanic and he fixed the problem temporarily but said to fix it permanently i need to go to the dealership. i research over 20 cases of people that have the same problem with the same car on this site and carstats.com. there needs to be a recall on this issue. it is a safety issue because when you can't turn the while quickly you can't avoid accidents. it causes strain in the muscles of my shoulder and back. *tr
12/05/200880001
 Power steering unit failed with only 8,000 miles. *tr
07/15/2008240001
 Steering problem with my saturn ion 3 - while sitting in traffic waiting to make a left turn the power steering ceased. the dash board starts dinging and the words power steering start to flash. it is then impossible to turn the steering wheel to make the turn without turning the wheel forcefully. this has posed a serious condition because you are usually trying to make a turn in traffic. it also happened to my daughter and she got very frightened and did not know what to do. the steering wheel is even harder to turn than when cars did not actually have power steering. it has happened several times and i have not had it looked at yet. the car has to be shut off and restarted to correct the problem. the mileage on my saturn is only 25,000 miles. *tr
04/13/200880000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving less than 5 mph and attempting to parallel park, the steering wheel became difficult to turn. the failure was intermittent and became so bad that the contact would have to use both hands to make a normal turn. the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the cost to replace the entire electrical assist system was estimated between $600-$800. the failure mileage was 80,000 and current mileage was 101,000.
12/03/2008400001
 This has been a rare, sporadically, occurring problem that has plagued the car for over two years. on average about every three months the electric power steering fails while the car is running. in the last four months the incidence has increased to as much as three times per day and about four days per week. the failure occurs at any/all speeds. this obviously results in a sudden, extreme drag on the steering mechanism requiring greatly increased driver effort to turn the steering wheel. quick maneuvers or sharper turns are nearly impossible when the power steering fails. turning the car off and restarting restores the power steering. if this is attempted while the car is being driven, the steering lock could be engaged, resulting in an extremely dangerous condition. the dealer acknowledges no familiarity with this problem or of any bulletins regarding this issue, despite evidence from numerous internet postings by owners with similar complaints. upon my further discussions with service personnel at saturn dealers, they speculate that a roughly $1000 replacement of the steering column assembly, which contains sensors, electronics, and the power steering electric assist motor may solve the problem. to date such replacement has not been pursued due to inconclusive diagnosis and possible high costs. the vehicle in question is a 2004 saturn ion ii, purchased new. *tr
10/03/2005111899
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that when the vehicle and weather are too cold, the vehicle takes longer to start or will not start at all. the dealer stated that the oil that enters the engine does not heat up normally. the repair would cost $2,000. in addition, the power steering fails while the vehicle is in motion. the steering becomes very difficult to turn and must be done manually. the dealer stated that they would have to go into the steering column to repair the failure. the failure began a year after the vehicle was purchased and has become worse over the years. the failure mileage was 111,899.
05/09/200859000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving various speeds or while driving forward or turning, the steering fails intermittently. as a result, the vehicle becomes very difficult to steer. the vehicle has to be shut off and restarted in order for the steering to work properly. the vehicle has been taken to a dealer twice for this issue and they stated that the power steering motor is failing and needs to be replaced. therefore, the entire steering column would be replaced as well. the current mileage was 64,337 and failure mileage was 59,000.
08/16/2008360001
 While driving around a curve on a rural highway the power steering light came on and i lost my power steering. i was able to keep the car in the right lane and pulled over on the road and shut the car off. when i turned the car back on it was fine. power steering worked. one week later the same thing happened. i took the car to the saturn dealer and was told that the entire steering column had to be replaced at the tune of $900.00. this car is 3 1/2 years old and had 36,000 miles on it!! i complained to saturn and am awaiting to hear from their district specialist. luckily i was able to keep the car under control and nobody was hurt but how can this not be considered a safety issue. try going around a curve or turning a corner when your power steering goes out. *tr
01/15/2008500001
 The power steering will randomly go out on the car while at speeds above 40 mph causing the car to be tough to maneuver. once the car is turned off, the power steering is reset and will work for some amount of time. this makes the handling of the car unpredictable. *tr
07/10/2008362001
 Saturn ion 2 the electric power steering will stop functioning while driving creating a dangerous situation, the steering will get hard and almost impossible to steer. when the veh is turned off then on, it works ok then while driving a message comes on (power steering) then the pump disengages and it get hard to steer. this is happening on my saturn 2004 ion 2 with 36000 miles. i searched in the internet and there are hundreds of clients with the same problem where the electric power steering fails. please look into this matter. thank you. *tr
05/17/2008210001
 My mother owns a 2004 saturn ion. she complained that the power steering went out on her a couple of times and that she took it to the dealer. they didn't see anything wrong. i drove the car from virginia to new jersey and the power steering went out approx every 50 miles. when i turned the car off and back on it was fine for another 50 miles or less. we called the dealer - they asked if we were making a lot of turns - we weren't. it was a straight drive down 95. when we returned home, the car was again taken to the dealer . because my mom had an automatic starter put in, they said it was the way the 3rd party hooked it up that was interfering with the steering. they said the fixed the problem. 2 weeks later the power steering went out again. *tr
11/07/200776780309/26/2003
 Intermittently power steering warning light would appear on dash and power steering would stop working. this happened once one day and twice the second day when i called for an appointment with the service department of the dealer. the car is 4 years old and is no longer under warranty. the dealer replaced the electric power steering assembly at a cost of approximately $1200. when i was told that this just sometimes happens by the dealership, i could not understand why it was not considered a serious defect and recalled. i decided to look on the internet and found that it happens to saturn ions as well as other general motors vehicles. in my opinion, a 4 year old car should not just suddenly lose power steering. this could have resulted in tragedy. suppose a driver has to swerve to avoid an obstacle and the power steering fails at that moment. this is something which i believe gm is aware of and is choosing not to warn people about. i intend to make my voice heard in as many forums as possible. this is a very serious problem and i sincerely hope it can be addressed before even one person loses their life. *tr
04/23/200745326101/11/2007
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion 2. while driving 25 mph, the contact attempted to turn the wheel and it locked. the brakes failed and the vehicle crashed into a pole. the air bag deployed, but the driver was injured. saturn stated that the vehicle is not a defect. the vehicle was destroyed. the current and failure mileages were 45,326.
STEERING - COLUMN
11/03/200910000
 Tl*-the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact was driving approximately between 45-55 mph the power steering locked without warning, causing limited control in the steering of the vehicle. the vehicle was driven to the side of the road and the engine was turned off. when the vehicle restarted, the power steering functioned normal for a few moments and failure continued to occur. the dealer was notified and stated that the steering column would be replaced at the owner expense. the vehicle had not been repaired at the time of the complaint. the failure mileage was 10,000. the current mileage was 96,000.
01/11/200870000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that the power steering failed sporadically. the power steering warning light illuminated on the instrument panel immediately following the failure. the steering wheel became difficult to control. the contact stated that she had to shut the vehicle off and restart it in order to reset the power steering assist. prior to the recent failure, a year ago; the power steering column was replaced. there were no further repairs made to the vehicle. the failure mileage was 70,000 and the current mileage was 84,000. updated 05/11/10. *lj updated 6/1/10 *cn
03/17/200892000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. the contact stated that when driving at various speeds, the electric power steering would fail. if under 15 mph, it would be extremely hard to turn without the electric steering. when he turned the vehicle off and restarted it, the problem seemed to correct itself. the problem was intermittent at first but became more frequent over time to the point where it may happen 4-5 times while driving. the contact took the vehicle to the dealership several times and was told that the entire steering column needed to be replaced. he called the manufacturer and was told that they could not assist him because there was no recall. the vehicle had not been repaired at the time of the complaint. the current mileage was approximately 170,000. the failure mileage was approximately 92,000.
01/09/200965000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. while driving 70 mph, the power steering failed and the power steering light illuminated on the instrument panel. the contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle. once the engine was restarted, the vehicle performed normally. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, but they could not duplicate the failure. the mechanic stated that if the steering was failing, the entire steering column would have to be replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired and continues to fail. the manufacturer stated that no compensation would be provided because there were no recalls. the contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for further inspection. the failure mileage was 65,000 and current mileage was 77,000.
01/10/200810
 Power steering turns off while driving. comes back on if car is turned off and restarted. dealership charging @ $920.00 to replace steering column. numerous reports online of same issue. *tr
10/10/2007535001001/28/2004
 While driving on the highway, the power steering light would come on and i could barely steer the vehicle and i had to get off the highway immediately. after i pulled off the highway, i would turn the vehicle off and then turn it back on and i would proceed to my destination.*cn
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
02/11/200749000111/15/2005
 My 2004 saturn ion level 2 will not start when the temperature is cold. it does not happen every time but within the last 4 days it has happened 6 times. it is the passlock security system that will not allow fuel to go to the engine when the car does not send the correct message to the body control module. i have to wait 8-20 minutes for the cars security system to reset. hopefully, it will start after that time period. this problem is not being acknowledge by saturn because this is not a nationwide problem. it happens in the colder regions of america because of the ignition switch. i have been late several times to work because of this problem. i have not gone to have this problem fixed because i have read that it recurs even after parts and the ignition switch has been replaced. many people have been affected by this because of the colder temperatures that have come across america. this problem doesn't only effect 04 ions but also 03 and 05. saturn has changed the design of the system in newer models which is a sign that it is a problem. i have also heard that this problem is happening in many gm models. this should be looked into to protect consumers. finally, this problem has been occurring since october of 2006 for my car and it has happened over 30 times. *nm
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
02/07/2008400002004/14/2004
 Failure of the electric power steering system: i have owned my 2004 saturn ion since new and it has approximately 52,000 miles on it. i noticed about 2 months ago, the power steering system will turn off randomly. it started to happen very infrequently, less than once a day. now it happens many times in one trip. if i turn the ignition off and restart the car, it will work again, notwithstanding another failure. the dealer has quoted me 700 dollars to do the repair work. considering the car only has 52,000 miles on it and many others have experienced this same problem on the ion and other saturn models (from searches of various saturn forums), i find this to be unconscionable that saturn will not recall the item. this could cause a major problem for an unsuspecting person if it turns off in the middle of a cornering turn. the forces required to turn the wheels and the failed steering assist motor are more than expected. *tr
03/01/200745000365
 Since 45,000 miles the cars power steering will stop when driving and when the car is turned off and back on again the steering will work for a few miles. trouble code c0475 means to replace the steering column according to the tsb. car has 67,000 miles and i refuse to pay $1000 for a poorly designed gm part just ask they chevy malibu owners they are suffering from the same problem. *tr
08/06/200743300101/10/2004
 Power steering failed on my 2004 saturn ion while the car was in motion on a winding street. i was able to maintain control but a person of lesser strength would likely have crashed as the steering was extremely stiff. took car to dealership and the whole steering assembly required replacement at a cost of $1,079 plus #111 for a 2 day car rental. the auto was just out of the warranty period. dealer kept old parts. *tr
01/01/2005110012/29/2004
 Steering failure during static and very slow turning exercises. this is a consistent problem with the vehicle. we teach new drivers and re-train elderly drivers and this is a major issue for a training vehicle. the dealer has confirmed the problem. he performed the power steering diagnostic system check with the following results. since most occurrences of the dtc are caused by frequent static steering, such as parking maneuvers and high ambient temperatures, review the eps system with the customer toi determine the conditionsl under which the dtc set. the system reset which does not help. increasing the speed of the vehicle does that. the dealer has no cure. i think a manufacturer has a responsibility to provide a vehicle that can safely be operated upon a road way regardless of static steering or slow steering.
06/20/20044000104/02/2004
 Electronic assist steering system:ravaling at interstate speed - design flaw.esign flaw result - lost control of car due to sudden jerk of wheel to avoid collision with motorist coming into our lane. did 270 deg spin in heavy traffic. came to stop against median guardrail after crossing two lanes.peed 65 mph with trafic flow. misc. notes: 1) car occupants = 3ea. 2) it is predicted that this design flaw is serious enough that the public will be exposed to news reels detailing flaw resulting in deaths, saturn will be forced to recall. time to get busy to make recall effort reality.*ak
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
01/22/20055000106/01/2004
 Friday there was a snowfall. saturday morning, i drove my car on the highway and encountered severe difficulty handling the steering of the car. as i approached 40 miles per hour on the highway, the steering wheel began to shake violently. i could not get off the highway, so i tried to cope by speeding up and slowing down. three times, i almost crashed - twice into other cars, once into the highway barrier. the faster i went, the more violent the shaking. i was travelling from the university avenue entrance to 280 to 94 west to the 35w south. i got off at the first exit i could on 35w. the problem continued as i drove on the city streets. on tuesday i called saturn to have them fix my car. they informed me there were approximately 100 calls of this kind this weekend and that this was a result of snow getting into where the tire-wheel is. it was suggested i go to a car wash and thaw out the snow and was told they'd be happy to do that for me. part of why i chose this car is because they informed me that it has computerized handling that would facilitate my driving. obviously, i am dissatisfied. when the snow melted off, the car drove well. however, i live in mn, where there is snow half of the year. i was not informed that my car would have this happen. i cannot handle the car when the steering wheel shakes violently. i feel unsafe driving this car. i don't want it anymore. *ak
08/10/20046001
 While driving motor failed. this made it hard for the consumer to steer the vehicle. dealership was aware of the problem, but did not resolve the problem. *ak

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