2004 Saturn ION 2 review from North America

Ignition switch failure - or not. I've had mine replaced twice, and although it only cost $150 each time, I still feel it was unnecessary. Like most people I thought it was the battery, but after taking it to the dealership, they simply said they needed to replace the ignition switch and they wouldn't give me any details. Being a female, they probably assumed I didn't care to know the details, but after reading these posts, it looks like they just really wanted my money, and I may have never needed a new ignition switch. I mean, how does an ignition switch go out twice in 5 years?

Next, I have, to this day, a hard time getting my key to turn in the ignition, even after the ignition switch was replaced. I have to wiggle it, take it out, put it in, wiggle it some more and then it will turn. I've tried to get my friends to try it, to see if maybe it was just me. Nope. They have an even harder time starting my car. This problem almost happens to me daily. I've just gotten used to it, but it's awfully annoying.

And third, my front turn signal lamp went out. This part was ACTUALLY recalled back in 2004 and the dealership replaced it for free when I took it in years ago. Now it's happened again. I replaced the bulb to no avail. I'm afraid the dealership won't fix it AGAIN for free, even though it has been recalled. I've scheduled an appointment, we'll see how it goes.

The car runs and handles reasonably well.

It's spacious inside, with lots of headroom. Huge trunk.

It's awfully loud in the cabin, especially while driving on the highway. I'm assuming this is because most of the car is made of plastic.

I wish it had more cup holders.

I like the fact that my car tells me when it needs an oil change. I just hope it knows what's best.