FaultScore

FaultScore report

2004 Saturn ION problems

Owners have filed 1,124 complaints about the 2004 Saturn ION with NHTSA between 2004 and 2025. The largest single group is the electrical system. Across this model's run it ranks 2 of 5 worst.

C

FaultScore 50/100

Higher is worse. Measured against the other years of the Saturn ION.

How this is worked out

The numbers

1,124

Complaints

78

Crashes reported

6

Fires reported

37

Injuries reported

3 complaints report a death.

70,000 mi

Median mileage at failure

Half of reported failures happened before this

22%

Failed under 36,000 miles

Inside a typical bumper-to-bumper warranty

What kind of bad

The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.

Complaint volume 51 vs 50 Severity 57 vs 50 Early failure 37 vs 50
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 51
Against the median year of the Saturn ION. 50 means typical for this model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 57
11% of these complaints involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of 9.7%.
Early failure — 37
22% of failures with a mileage on record happened under 36,000 miles, against a national rate of 29%.

How 2004 compares with every other Saturn ION

Click any bar to open that year's report.

Complaints filed with NHTSA, by model year. Bar colour is the FaultScore grade: A B C D F ungraded

What breaks on a 2004 Saturn ION

Every complaint is filed against a part. Follow any row for the complaints about that part alone.

Electrical System 353 31.4%

10 crashes, 3 fires · median 52,000 mi

Steering 350 31.1%

16 crashes, 1 fires · median 86,000 mi

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 64,000 mi

Median failure at 82,000 miles

0 crashes, 1 fires · median 102,500 mi

Airbags 52 4.6%

30 crashes, 0 fires · median 55,000 mi

Lights 27 2.4%

1 crashes, 1 fires · median 55,600 mi

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 93,000 mi

Median failure at 58,500 miles

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 73,000 mi

Suspension 19 1.7%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 41,500 mi

Brakes 19 1.7%

4 crashes, 0 fires · median 60,000 mi

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 61,000 mi

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 41,000 mi

Wheels 10 0.9%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 123,762 mi

Stability & Traction Control 7 0.6%

1 crashes, 0 fires · median 131,000 mi

Tires 6 0.5%

Median failure at 16,000 miles

Doors, Latches & Locks 5 0.4%

Median failure at 37,553 miles

Seat Belts 5 0.4%

3 crashes, 0 fires · median 179,756 mi

Seats 2 0.2%

2 crashes, 0 fires · median 10,700 mi

Child Seats 1 0.1%

Exactly what failed

NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.

Ignition 47 26.9%
Switch 44 25.1%
Automatic Transmission 23 13.1%
Control Module 14 8.0%
Turn Signal 14 8.0%
Electric Power Assist System 13 7.4%
Engine 11 6.3%
Frontal 9 5.1%

When it fails

Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all complaints include one.

Under 1,000 miles 22 2.5%
1,000 – 9,999 miles 67 7.6%
10,000 – 24,999 miles 54 6.2%
25,000 – 49,999 miles 145 16.6%
50,000 – 74,999 miles 170 19.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles 149 17.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles 194 22.1%
150,000+ miles 75 8.6%

When owners complained

A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single owner can see from inside their own car.

Jan 2004 peak 47 Nov 2025

NHTSA investigations into the 2004 Saturn ION

An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.

EA11014 Opened 29 Sep 2011 Closed 15 Apr 2014 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Electric Power Steering Failure

On March 31, 2014, General Motors Company (GM) submitted a Defect Information Report (DIR) to NHTSA describing a safety defect that may result in a sudden loss of power steering assist in approximately 1,340,447 model year (MY) 2004 through 2010 vehicles equipped with electric power steering (EPS), including 334,728 MY 2004 through 2007 Saturn ION vehicles that are the subject of EA11-014.GM has assigned the recall number N140115.The NHTSA recall number is 14V-153.According to the DIR, if power steering assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Center and a chime sounds...

RQ10004 Opened 15 Dec 2010 Closed 5 Oct 2011 STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

Electric Power Steering Failure

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

EA04035 Opened 22 Dec 2004 Closed 20 Oct 2005 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILURE

THE COMBINATION FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL IN MY 2003 SATURN ION COUPES EXPERIENCED SIGNIFICANT EARLY-LIFE FAILURES DUE TO VARIOUS BULB QUALITY ISSUES DUE TO INADEQUATE DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE.THIS PROBLEM TREND APPEARS TO HAVE DISAPPEARED AFTER THE FALL OF 2003.THE CHANGE OF LEAD WIRE MATERIAL NEAR THE START OF MY 2004 VEHICLE PRODUCTION APPEARS TO HAVE REDUCED THE FAILURE RATE FOR MY 2004 SATURN ION COUPES.ALTHOUGH OPERATING TEMPERATURES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES' LAMP ASSEMBLIES ARE BELOW THE SOCKET MATERIAL MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE SPECIFICATION, THEY ARE ONLY SLIGHTLY BELOW THE SPECIFICATION.IN DECEMB...

PE04061 Opened 17 Aug 2004 Closed 22 Dec 2004 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL FAILURE

ON NOVEMBER 16, 2004, GM NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL OF 178,798 MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 AND 2004 SATURN ION SEDAN VEHICLES FOR INOPERATIVE FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL BULBS.GM STATED THAT TEMPERATURES IN THE LAMP ASSEMBLY EXCEED THE MATERIAL SPECIFICATION FOR THE BULB SOCKETS AND BULB BASE SLEEVES, WHICH CAUSE DEFORMATION.THE DEFORMED SOCKETS CAN CAUSE LOSS OF BULB AND SOCKET CONTACT.THE DEFORMED SLEEVES CAN CAUSE STRESS CRACKS TO FORM ON THE BULB THAT CAN LEAD TO PREMATURE BULB FAILURE.THE RECALL REMEDY IS TO REPLACE THE FRONT TURN SIGNAL/DRL BULBS AND INSPECT FOR VOLTAGE-REDUC...

Recalls on the 2004 Saturn ION

A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous enough to fix for free — however old the car is.

United States — NHTSA

14E021000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.

Risk: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.

14V171000

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.

Risk: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.

14V153000

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.

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

14V047000

AIR BAGS

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392

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

09E012000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

04V547000

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TURN SIGNAL

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

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

04V281000

FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

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

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

04V002000

STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS

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

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

Canada — Transport Canada

Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not always mirror the American ones.

Recall 2014126 367,972 units in Canada

Other

On certain vehicles, a defect may allow the ignition key to be removed from the ignition switch when the key is not in the "Off" position. This could result in unintended vehicle movement if the transmission is not in the "park" position (automatic transmission) or not in the reverse gear with the parking brake engaged (manual transmission), and increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will replace the ignition lock cylinder and/or ignition key.

Recall 2014104 157,423 units in Canada

Steering

Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving. If the power steering assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Centre and a chime sounds to inform the driver. Steering control can be maintained, as the vehicle will revert to a manual steering mode, but will require greater driver effort. The sudden change in steering may increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or property damage. Correction: Dealers will affect repairs as necessary. Note: This recall supersedes recalls 2010447 and 2012331. Vehicles having already been repaired under the previous campaigns do not require re-inspection.

Recall 2014060 82,514 units in Canada

Electrical

On certain vehicles, a defect in the ignition switch could allow the switch to move out of the "run" position if the key ring is carrying added weight and the vehicle goes off-road or is subjected to some other jarring event. The timing of the key movement out of the “run” position, relative to the activation of the sensing algorithm of the crash event, may result in the airbags not deploying, increasing the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will replace the ignition switch. Note: Until the correction is performed, all items should be removed from the key ring. Note: This is an expansion of recall 2014-038.

Recall 2010447 86,345 units in Canada

Steering

Certain vehicles equipped with electric power steering may experience a sudden loss of power steering assist that could occur at any time while driving. If the power steering assist is lost, a message is displayed on the Driver Information Centre and a chime sounds to inform the driver. Typically, at the next ignition cycle, power assist is regained and the Driver Information Centre message will be off. Steering control can be maintained, as the vehicle will revert to a manual steering mode, but would require greater driver effort at low vehicle speeds, which could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Vehicles will receive a special extended warranty coverage of 10 years/240,000 km from first registration. Under this special coverage program, vehicles which experience this condition will have the electric power steering motor replaced.

Recall 2004401 18,512 units in Canada

Lights And Instruments

On certain vehicles, the turn signal/daytime running lamp (DRL) bulb on either front side can become inoperative because of inadequate contact between the bulb and socket. If a front turn signal lamp is inoperative, others may react slowly to a turning vehicle and a crash could occur. Correction: Dealers will replace the DRL/turn signal bulb on both the left and right front side.

Recall 2004191 45 units in Canada

Fuel System

On certain Saturn Ion Red Line vehicles equipped with the supercharged 2.0L engine, the fuel feed pipe may crack near the fuel rail, which would result in a fuel leak and a noticeable fuel odour around the vehicle. If an ignition source is present, a fire could result. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel pipe assembly.

Recall 2003345 12,823 units in Canada

Fuel System

On certain vehicles, the fuel filter assembly may corrode prematurely on the exterior surface. If corrosion on the exterior surface of the fuel filter assembly progresses to the point of creating a hole in the shell, fuel droplets would form and drop to the ground. There would be a noticeable fuel odour around the vehicle. If an ignition source is present, a fire could result. Correction: Dealers will replace the fuel filter assembly.

Recall 2003344 6,178 units in Canada

Electrical

Certain vehicles do not comply with the requirements of CMVSS 118. The power windows and/or sunroof may be operable after the ignition has been turned to the "OFF" position and the front passenger door is opened. If unsupervised children are left unattended in the vehicle and operate the power windows or sunroof, there is an increased risk of personal injury to the child. Correction: Dealers will upgrade the Body Control Module (BSM) calibration.

Recalls cover specific build ranges, so check your own vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or, in Canada, Transport Canada.

Complaints that involved harm

Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.

Bay City, MI Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

Airbags did not deploy

NHTSA complaint #11528201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC Crash

AIR BAGS

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

NHTSA complaint #11131268 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC Crash

STEERING

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

NHTSA complaint #11131268 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC Crash

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

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

NHTSA complaint #11131268 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, DC Crash

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

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

NHTSA complaint #11131268 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 150,000 miles Memphis, TN Crash

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THE STEERING ABILITY WAS LOST AND THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN. THERE WAS NO WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED, BUT WAS NOT TOTALED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED ALL STAR CHEVROLET OF OLIVE BRANCH AT 678-829-0246 (LOCATED AT 7240 CRAFT-GOODMAN RD, OLIVE BRANCH, MS 38654) AND WAS INFORMED TO BRING THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOP. THE CONTACT ASKED THE TECHNICIAN TO ASSIST WITH TOWING, BUT THE TECHNICIAN DID NOT HELP. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150,000.

NHTSA complaint #11131545 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

The most recent complaints

In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.

Lafayette, IN

STEERING

The car doesn't always want to release the key. I have to stick my finger up in the column to push the little button to release it which is not convenient at all. It seems to do it if the wheels aren't completely straight. But still even with the steering wheel straight, sometimes it wont come out if its on a slight hill. Ive had a new key made and it makes no difference, no check engine light and auto technician said the ignition looks fine. Ive read tons of reports like this on the 2004 saturn ion 2-why isn't this being addressed?

NHTSA complaint #11696981 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 230,000 miles Sacramento, CA

AIR BAGS

The contact owns a 2004 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the contact stated that the key was stuck in the ignition. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the ignition switch and the ignition lock cylinder; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System) and 14V171000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.

NHTSA complaint #11530643 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 230,000 miles Sacramento, CA

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2004 Saturn Ion. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the contact stated that the key was stuck in the ignition. The failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who replaced the ignition switch and the ignition lock cylinder; however, the failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V047000 (Air Bags, Electrical System) and 14V171000 (Electrical System). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 230,000.

NHTSA complaint #11530643 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Sioux Falls, SD

VISIBILITY/WIPER

The drivers side windshield wiper linkage failed at the junction of the metal rod and the plastic wiper mount causing the wiper to stop working. And the wiper arms are almost impossible to remove, even with a puller. Obviously this condition is a safety issue, and other GM vehicles have been recalled for the same issue. Why not the 2004 Saturn Ion?

NHTSA complaint #11528394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bay City, MI Crash 1 injured

AIR BAGS

Airbags did not deploy

NHTSA complaint #11528201 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Niles, MI

STEERING

The contact owns a 2004 Saturn Ion. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, excessive force was needed to maneuver the steering wheel on several occasions. The power steering assist warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that he replaced the electric power steering motor; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer or independent mechanic for additional diagnostic test or repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA complaint #11497233 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Las Vegas, NV

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11446156 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Fergus Falls, MN

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

Hi I am a kind of new owner of an 04 saturn ion, this is actually the second complaint I've filled out. Last July I had a mechanic friend look at my fuel filter and he had said the fuel line needed to be cut off becuase of how rusted on to the original fuel filter I'd got it with was and I didn't believe him so I replace it myself and when I got it off I had cleaned up the metal fuel line the best I could and put a new filter on. Well now it leaks gas right where the hook up is and very strong fuel smells come from there too, I've gotten numerous comments about how un safe that is to be driving it but I need to have a way to work and then someone had mentioned to check for recalls and I seen on there that this car did have a recall for faulty fuel filter gas lines. If you could get back to me as soon as possible about an inspection if needed or whatever else you'd need on my behalf. Please and thank you for your time

NHTSA complaint #11432589 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Fergus Falls, MN

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

TRIED TAKING FUEL FILTER OFF LAST JULY TOOK A WHOLE WEEKEND OF USING PENATRATING OIL AND FREEZE OFF THEN I FINALLY GOT THE TABS TO COME LOOSE, I THOUGHT MAYBE I MESSED UP THE NEW FILTER OR DIDNT GET ENOUGH RUST OFF THE FUEL LINE AND THAT'S WHAT WAS CAUSING THE STRONG SMELL OF GAS ND POOR PERFORMANCE BUT CHANGED IT AGAIN AND STILL THAT SAME PROBLEM BUT NOW THERES A LEAK. THE CAR WAS ON BACK TIRE RAMPS THE GIRL FUEL FILTER CHANGE THEN THE 2ND ONE WAS DONE WITH A HOIST AND CURRENTLY THIS CAR IS THE ONLY THING I CAN COUNT ON TO MAKE IT TO WORK, THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME AND CONSIDERATION.

NHTSA complaint #11398818 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 85,000 miles Mesa, AZ

STEERING

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

NHTSA complaint #11390624 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 85,000 miles Mesa, AZ

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11390624 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 167,573 miles Orlando, FL

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11378021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 138,000 miles Manton, MI

STEERING

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

NHTSA complaint #11377365 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 172,639 miles Merritt Island, FL

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDOWS ROLLED UP AND DOWN INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL FUEL OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,639.

NHTSA complaint #11325424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 172,639 miles Merritt Island, FL

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDOWS ROLLED UP AND DOWN INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL FUEL OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,639.

NHTSA complaint #11325424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 172,639 miles Merritt Island, FL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNDISCLOSED SPEED, THE VEHICLE LOSS POWER STEERING WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. ADDITIONALLY, THE WINDOWS ROLLED UP AND DOWN INDEPENDENTLY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL FUEL OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED HOWEVER, THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO THE LOCAL DEALER TO HAVE THE VEHICLE DIAGNOSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 172,639.

NHTSA complaint #11325424 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Pigeon Forge, TN

WHEELS

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

NHTSA complaint #11322453 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Pigeon Forge, TN

STEERING

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

NHTSA complaint #11322453 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 159,000 miles SAN Diego, CA

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

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

NHTSA complaint #11319583 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 244,000 miles Hollywood, FL

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING ASSIST FAILED TO FUNCTION AS DESIGNED INTERMITTENTLY WHICH CAUSED DIFFICULTY WHILE ATTEMPTING TO MANEUVER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO VERA CADILLAC LOCATED AT (300 S UNIVERSITY DR, PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33025, (954) 417-8998) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE OR RETRIEVE A FAULT CODE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 244,000.

NHTSA complaint #11318552 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Methuen, MA

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

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

NHTSA complaint #11317140 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 100,000 miles Springfield, MO

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

WHEN PLACING THE VEHICLE IN PARK, IT WILL NOT ALWAYS REGISTER THAT IT IS PARK; THEREFORE, IT WILL NOT RELEASE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. AFTER MULTIPLE ATTEMPTS OF MOVING THE GEAR SHIFT FROM DRIVE TO PARK, IT WILL EVENTUALLY ALLOW THE KEY TO BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION. IT STARTED WITH JUST A FEW DAYS A WEEK, BUT IS NOW HAPPENING AT LEAST ONE TIME A DAY.

NHTSA complaint #11258409 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 115,000 miles Iron Mountain, MI

STEERING

I RECENTLY BOUGHT A 2004 SATURN ION 1 FROM A PRIVATE PARTY. I WAS NOT AWARE THAT THERE IS A RECALL ON THE THE ELECRTIC POWER STEERING ASSIST. THE DEALER IN MY AREA SAYS THE RECALL HAS EXPIRED AND THEY ARE REFUSING TO FIX IT. I BOUGHT THIS CAR MAY 2019 USED EVERY DOLLAR I HAD TO BUY IT. IM A SINGLE MOTHER OF 4, I LIVE IN A SMALL TOWN THERE IS NOTHING FOR JOBS HERE. I WORK PART TIME AT A FAST FOOD RESTURANT AND CAN BARLEY AFFORD TO FEED MY FAMILY. I JUST SPENT 2000.00 ON THIS CAR AND CANT RISK DRIVING IT NOW THAT THIS IS AN ISSUE. I HAVE KIDS TO GET BACK AND FORTH TO SCHOOL AND A JOB TO REPORT TO EVERYDAY I NEED MY CAR FIXED ASAP.

NHTSA complaint #11255013 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 17,800 miles Morristown, NJ

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. WHILE DRIVING, THE POWER STEERING ASSIST WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN WITHOUT POWER STEERING ABILITY TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED SCHUMACHER CHEVROLET OF DENVILLE (LOCATED AT 281 US-46 E, DENVILLE, NJ 07834, (973) 644-7584) TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VIN WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V153000 (STEERING). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 17,800.

NHTSA complaint #11221011 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 147,000 miles Cliston, CO

STEERING

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 SATURN ION. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V153000 (STEERING). WHILE REVERSING, THE CHECK POWER STEERING WARNING MESSAGE ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE SEIZED AND THE ENGINE FAILED TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 147,000.

NHTSA complaint #11207896 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.