2003 Saturn ION 2 from North America - Comments

The latch on the hood broke within the first 4 months that I owned the car. They fixed it with no problem and covered all the costs.

There is a problem with the steering wheel making a grinding noise. There is, apparently, a rubber ring around the bottom of the steering wheel that rubs against the steering column, making a really loud noise. I've taken it in 3 times and they still haven't fixed it. Every time I go there they tell me they're doing something different, but it never works. First, they "greased up the steering column shaft." This worked for about 2 weeks, and then the noise came back. Then they told me they "adjusted the steering column", which I later found out isn't even possible. Obviously, this didn't work. Finally they greased up the steering column with a "new" grease. Once again, it didn't work. I'm extremely annoyed with the situation and feel as though I'm going to just have to live with my new car making this obnoxious noise. I suppose I'll just keep the radio loud. I've also discovered through investigation of my own that the problem has been an issue with many people and could quite possibly be considered a defect in the car, according to one mechanic I spoke with.

It is extremely easy to stain the seats. Even water makes marks on the upholstery.

It's a very peppy little car and I like the way it handles.

Three strikes and your out... They should give you another car. Look into this.

I have had the same problems with the service department not fixing the problem right the first time. I have taken my car in three times for the same problem.

I have had a 2004 Ion for about a year and the same problem you have listed above has happened to me. I hear a weird sound coming from my steering wheel area when I turn sharp at slow speeds (say, pulling into a parking spot). My steering feels fine, and the noise doesn't happen at normal driving speeds or turning around corners. It only happens when I am preparing to park (both in forward and in reverse). It is very annoying because I do not know if it is a serious problem, or something minor. Thanks to your comment, however, I am a little more reassured that it is a simple lubrication defect and nothing mechanically defective that could cause damage or an accident.

I have the same noise in my 2003Ion with the steering.

I have also had a broken bushing in the front end, a replacement of the heater module, replacement of wiring harness for exterior lights blowing all the time, and now I have to take it in again this morning with a loud clunking noise in the front end and when I step on the brake pedal a very loud clicking noise. I don't feel that this was on of Saturn's best efforts in quality when they designed and built this car.

I have a 2004 Ion and have a clicking/popping noise when I turn at low speeds. The problem seems to be worse in colder weather, and better when it is warm. I haven't been able to take it to the dealer to have the problem checked out, but other non-dealer mechanics have told me they have no idea what it is.