2005 Saturn Ion

The 2005 Saturn Ion was a compact car available as a sedan or coupe (Quad Coupe). Engine options included a 2.2L Ecotec I4 engine producing 140 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L Supercharged Ecotec I4 engine producing 205 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often liked the Ion’s unique rear-hinged rear doors on the Quad Coupe and its fuel economy. Common complaints included lackluster interior quality, unrefined ride, and some reliability concerns.

Engine

2.2L Ecotec I4

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, sometimes leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not monitored closely. Blue smoke from the exhaust can be a symptom.
  • Solution: Replacing piston rings or the entire engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a check engine light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Supercharged Ecotec I4

• Supercharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whining noise from the supercharger, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Supercharger rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Possible stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Shifter Cable Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into gear, especially 1st or reverse. Loose or sloppy shifter feel.
  • Solution: Shifter cable replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Strut mount replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replacement of rear springs and/or shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Ignition Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, loss of electrical power, or difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Ignition switch replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, power windows, or door locks.
  • Solution: BCM replacement or reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Bulb Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight bulb frequently burning out.
  • Solution: Replacement of headlight bulb.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $50
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handle breaking or becoming difficult to use, especially in cold weather.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard material, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate or operating slowly.
  • Solution: Power window regulator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Saturn Ion has several common issues, ranging from moderate to severe. Engine problems, particularly oil consumption in the 2.2L and supercharger issues in the 2.0L, can be costly to address. Transmission problems can also be expensive. Electrical issues, suspension issues, and interior issues are also prevalent but generally less expensive to repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and have the vehicle inspected before purchase.