2003 Saturn Ion Unidentifiable Problem

DAWN1449

MEMBER
2003 SATURN ION
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
115,500 MILES

My ion is tempermentally not starting. For example, this morning on my way to work I stopped at the store. The entire drive into town the car was running fine. No odd sounds or feelings, nothing. Went into the store, purchased my item and back to the car to continue my morning journey. Turned the key and NOTHING. The radio came on, the heater, etc. But nothing under the hood. Waited a few minutes and turned the key again. This time it turned over, but wouldn't catch. Waited a few more minutes and turned the key again. This time it caught, but couldn't stay running regardless of me pumping the gas pedal. Waited a few more minutes and then tried again. This time it started, stayed running and brought me the rest of the way to the office. Runs like nothing ever happened, like nothing is wrong with it. I just don't understand it. I've NEVER experienced anything like it. Took it to my mechanic a couple weeks back and he changed the starter, assuming that was the problem. This has happened three times since that work was complete. Any suggestions?

1 Reply

SATURNTECH9

MECHANIC
30,869 POSTS

I would get ur money back unless u agreed to try replacing that starter.U need to get ur body control module codes read if u have a b2960 and or b3033 then u need to change ur ignition switch it has ur passlock sensor this happens especially when cold when it doesn't start with a bad ignition switch usually. The switchs are easy to change and there alot cheaper then a starter. Let me know what u find.