2004 Saturn ION 1 review from North America
"Best bang for the buck"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The stock windshield wipers streak so I had to buy some after market. The stock tires are awful in all weather conditions – they are the lowest rated tires for that vehicle. I bought Michelin Harmony tires to replace them. Had a few issues with grease in the steering column, and there was a latch that was broken in the trunk. Other than that it has all been general maintenance and warranty recalls.
General comments?
I got it new for $13,000 Canadian after taxes and other expenses.. My friend works at the dealership and got me the deal.
It has been rear ended by a Jetta and run into a cable guardrail by an old man. The Jetta was almost unrecognizable, the Ion was still drivable and the damage was barely noticeable. The guard rail messed up the paint on the front right bumper, but other than that there was no damage.
I have had many loads of lumber, and pieces of furniture in it. I only wish the passenger seat would lean all the way forward, or back.
It has made it through many road trips and a daily 2 hour commute, year round.
I have had it off road on occasion. It was unavoidable, and I was pleasantly surprised that it made it. My friends Colorado got stuck and I had to rescue him.
Recommended reviews
| The 2004 Saturn Ion is stylish and affordable, yet odd and misleading |
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| Good deal |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2004 |
| Year of manufacture | 2004 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L Ecotech Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 8 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 65000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Oldsmobile Cutlass |
| Date of Entry | 28th July, 2006 |