2004 Saturn Ion: headlights failing or too dim

Filed Aug 12, 2014 · Electrical, Lights · 111,500 miles · MI · fire

While driving in pre-dawn hours (headlights & defrosters on), started smelling something melting or burning. Then instrument panel lights went out for a few seconds. Instrument panel lights then came back on & started flashing on & off really fast. At that same time, door locks started locking & unlocking repeatedly on their own. Burning & melting smell was getting stronger. As I was pulling over, I entered a more well-lit area and saw smoke accumulating inside car near roof & top of windshield. Shut car off immediately.

Filed Apr 12, 2009 · Acceleration, Engine · OH

I purchased vehicle in 2004 brand new. The car continues to have a high idle creating a very dangerous driving situation. I must reset the battery once a week to restore it to normal. It seems to be fine for a week and high idle comes back. I have difficulty starting the car in the cold winter months. I must turn the headlights on to warm up the battery before trying to start car. Saturn was no help. Now I am stuck with a lemon! Help!

Filed Jan 30, 2009 · Electrical, Lights · 118,000 miles · NY

After 5 years my 2004 saturn ion will not start when the temperature is below +10f. There is power ( new battery ) and no fuel issue ( clean fuel system and filter ), but after 10 to 15 minutes and a couple of hesitant engine turns, it starts. No one needs an unreliable vehicle where winter temps last several months. After replacing the anti-sway bar, both headlight assemblies as well as other annoying problems ( instrument lights out, cabin fan noisy ) I will never ever buy another saturn . I took the problem ( out of warranty of course ) to saturn of rochester and was told it was a faulty ignition switch, a common problem for this make and model year. Since it is not a safety issue, no recall was issued and I would have to pay at least $275 unless "something else" came up. Being late for work ( public safety and volunteer fireman ) or my wife and children is not an option for me. Please force gm to make the recall on this ignition part for the financially stressed new york consumers. Thank you.

Filed Sep 7, 2008 · Electrical, Lights · 60,000 miles · GA

In 2005 a recall was issued for the 2004 saturn ion front headlamps. I had the recalled parts replaced. For the past few months my left blinker has gone out about five times. I have replaced bulbs, had the dealer replace the sockets, and am now about to have the wiring harness replaced. The dealer said that no one else has had this problem. However, I have been researching the problem and have found hundreds of the same occurrences online and have seen other saturn ions around town with the same blinker out. I believe this problem is not normal wear and tear. I believe it is directly related to the 2005 recall.

Filed May 2, 2008 · Electrical · 20,000 miles · NH

Like many others I also had the problem with the ignition and it was repaired this past winter while my car is under warranty. At the same time they attempted to repair a strange grinding noise coming from my heater it has been replaced twice with no success in solving the issue and I was told by the dealer hey would not replace the item again. Also I had recently replace the right head light socket since it was overheating and melting, (which could have caused a fire) while the lights were on. I am also having issues with my power steering turning off and on while driving. Most of these issues I have found on here I hope someone is really looking into them cause saturn certainly made it clear that they didn't care.

Filed Sep 20, 2007 · Lights · 51,200 miles · AL

Tl*the contact owns a 2004 saturn ion. The contact has changed the driver side headlight bulbs 10 times, which prevented the turn signals from working also. The federal safety agency campaign id number 04v547000 (exterior lighting:turn signal) was referenced. She was informed that the recall repair was performed prior to the vehicle leaving the manufacturing plant, therefore it was her responsibility. After the contact threatened litigation, general motors repaired the drl jumper kit and the headlights are currently working properly. The purchase date was unknown. The current mileage was 55,000 and failure mileage was 51,200.