2003-2007 Saturn Ion: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation Saturn Ion includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Saturn Ion .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
Water (condensate) from the A/C housing leaks onto the passenger floor requiring a 90-degree elbow installed on the drain hose. (2003)
Blower motor:
The blower motor may make a clicking, ticking, chirping noise requiring a replacement motor cover. (2003-04)
Climate control:
The ventilation system knobs may be hard to turn, or may not turn, and the airflow seems inadequate because some of the foam (gaskets) falls off and jams the HVAC doors. (2003)
Coolant leak:
If the engine loses coolant and there are no leaks, the cylinder head probably has casting porosity and will have to be replaced. (2003-04)
Engine stalling:
The engine may start then stall, or the engine may rev unexpectedly even with no throttle input requiring the PCM (engine computer) to be reprogrammed. (2003)
Exhaust system:
Exhaust manifold bolts work loose causing noise that may be misdiagnosed as lifter tap. (2002-04)
Sunroof/moonroof:
If the sunroof stops working, it may require replacing the blown fuse in the body control module. (2003-04)
Turn signal:
If the turn signals behave abnormally (front blink slower than the rear or the indicators on the dash) when using a cell phone plugged into the power outlet, a capacitor must be spliced into the circuit. (2003)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $510 |
| Alternator | $640 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,950 |
| Brakes | $600 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $0 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $2,325 |
| Exhaust System | $375 |
| Radiator | $425 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,105 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $650 |
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