CarRecallWatchThe 2004 Saturn ION has 8 safety recalls on file with NHTSA.
Owners have filed 898 complaints with NHTSA, including 51 crashes, 4 fires, 35 injuries.
The most-reported problem area is Electrical System (353 reports).
2004 Saturn ION recalls
Most common 2004 Saturn ION problems
Problem areas named in the 898 complaints owners filed with NHTSA.
| Problem area | Reports |
|---|---|
| Electrical System | 353 |
| Steering | 350 |
| Power Train | 60 |
| Air Bags | 52 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 36 |
| Engine And Engine Cooling | 34 |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 27 |
| Exterior Lighting | 26 |
| Engine | 23 |
| Unknown Or Other | 20 |
What owners report
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?
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.
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?
Airbags did not deploy
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.
2004 Saturn ION questions
Does the 2004 Saturn ION have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 8 safety recalls for the 2004 Saturn ION: Electrical System:Ignition; Steering:Electric Power Assist System; Air Bags; Electrical System:Ignition:Switch; Exterior Lighting:Turn Signal; Fuel System, Other:Delivery:Fuel Pump. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Saturn ION?
Based on 898 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported problem areas are Electrical System (353), Steering (350), Power Train (60).
How do I check if a recall on my 2004 Saturn ION has been fixed?
Enter your 17-character VIN in our VIN recall check. It shows open recalls that have not been repaired on your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are normally free at an authorized dealer.