2004 Saturn Ion starting problems

DAWNCLARK40

MEMBER
2004 SATURN ION
4 CYL
MANUAL
75,000 MILES

My car has been doing the same thing, I also own a 2004 saturn ion. However it does it now when its not cold. Its been doing it since ive had the car in 2008. It use to be only once a morning thing not throughout the day, but recently I had me stuck at two difference locations when I was out. Now the picture of the car with the lock is on and car reads "vehicle service".I believe its the ignition switch or someting with the passlock code. Or is that the same thing. Desperately looking for answers asap. Thanks everyone!

1 Reply

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

The pass lock sensor is in the ignition switch and that is the most likely cause of your problem. You can ethier try replacing the ignition switch there about 22 on amazon or 50 at auto zone if you shop around there different prices. There is esy to replace then you just haveto relearn the pass lock sensor. If it was my car I would just change the ignition switch since its so common for them to go bad. If you want to make sure its the switch take it to a shop that can read your body control module codes and if you have a B2960 and or a B3033 then you have a bad ignition switch. But if you replace the switch yourself it will cost more to have the body control module scanned for codes then replace the switch if you shopped around for the switch. Also if its doing it when its cold thats the time the switch fails more often the bulletine on it says 40 degrees or colder. Let me know what you find.