2003 Saturn ION 1 review from North America

About 6 months into the ownership the car developed a 'clicking' sound in the front end. Dealer claimed they couldn't duplicate and didn't know what it was. Finally one year later the dealer duplicated the noise. Turns out these cars have a known problem with the sway bars. So the sway bar bushings and linkages were replaced under the (extended) warranty.

When the car was about a year and a half old, I had my mechanic give it a good once over in anticipation of my warranty expiring. The mechanic found that the rear shocks and front struts were leaking. These two items are excluded from the GM warranty. Beware!

A spot weld holding the muffler shield in place is broken.

In 2003 these cars had great reviews and a good price. However, my personal experience has been poor. The suspension items that required replacing should not be worn out with normal use after a year and a half of driving. In particular I find it shocking that the sway bar bushings and linkages required replacement 6 months after I purchased the car. I also believe that Saturn is using low quality parts for its cars. It is unheard of for a car this young to require new shocks and struts. The fact that these items are excluded from the GM warranty makes me think that the manufacturer is aware of the problem with its components.

The accelleration for this car is relatively good. However, I find that the shifter does not want to go into a gear when the car is first started in the morning. This has been a problem ever since the car was purchased.

The trunk in this car is really large. The split rear seats add to its size even more.