The 2006 Saturn Ion, part of Saturn's small car lineup, aimed to offer a different ownership experience. Available as a sedan and a coupe (Quad Coupe with rear-hinged doors), the Ion was produced from 2003 to 2007. Key trims included the Ion 2 and Ion 3. New pricing ranged approximately from $11,000 to $16,000. It stood out for its dent-resistant polymer body panels and center-mounted instrument panel, although those features didn't translate into widespread popularity.
The Good
The 2006 Saturn Ion offered decent fuel efficiency, appealing to practical buyers seeking affordability at the pump. Its relatively low price made it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals. While not a performance powerhouse, its zippy Ecotec engine provided adequate power for daily driving. Emotionally, some may appreciate the quirky design elements like the center-mounted gauges and Quad Coupe door layout.
The Bad
The 2006 Saturn Ion suffered from subpar interior materials, unrefined handling, and below-average build quality. Watch out for potential issues with the power steering, especially the electronic power steering (EPS) system. Reliability concerns, particularly related to the engine and transmission, are also something to be aware of. The center-mounted gauges took some getting used to, and its unconventional design wasn't universally loved.
2006 Saturn Ion: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4
- Horsepower: 140 hp @ 5600 rpm
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 24-26 mpg (depending on transmission)
- Highway: 32-36 mpg (depending on transmission)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 9-10 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Ion 2: Base model, typically includes air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- Ion 3: Upgraded model, often featuring cruise control, upgraded audio system, and sometimes alloy wheels.
- Transmissions:
- 5-speed manual
- 4-speed automatic
- Other Notable Features:
- Dent-resistant polymer body panels
- Center-mounted instrument panel
- Available Quad Coupe configuration (rear-hinged doors)
2006 Saturn Ion Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Saturn |
| Model | ION |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SPRING HILL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2805 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L26 |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $12,825 |
| Invoice Price | $11,799 |
| Delivery Charges | $565 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Saturn Ion Have?
The 2006 Saturn Ion has been known for several frequently reported problems. A common issue is with the electronic power steering (EPS) system, which can experience failures and result in loss of power steering assist, making the car harder to steer. Other issues include problems with the engine, such as excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues, particularly in higher mileage vehicles.
Transmission problems, including rough shifting and premature failure, have also been reported. The interior build quality is often criticized, with complaints about rattling and cheap materials. Recalls have been issued for various issues, including problems with the ignition switch and fuel system components. Long-term reliability is a significant concern, with many owners reporting frequent repairs and maintenance needs as the car ages. Owners should pay close attention to the EPS system, transmission fluid levels, and engine maintenance to mitigate potential problems. Specific model years might exhibit variations in the frequency of certain issues, but overall, the 2006 Ion is considered less reliable than some of its competitors. Checking for any outstanding recalls is crucial before purchasing a used model.
Transmission problems, including rough shifting and premature failure, have also been reported. The interior build quality is often criticized, with complaints about rattling and cheap materials. Recalls have been issued for various issues, including problems with the ignition switch and fuel system components. Long-term reliability is a significant concern, with many owners reporting frequent repairs and maintenance needs as the car ages. Owners should pay close attention to the EPS system, transmission fluid levels, and engine maintenance to mitigate potential problems. Specific model years might exhibit variations in the frequency of certain issues, but overall, the 2006 Ion is considered less reliable than some of its competitors. Checking for any outstanding recalls is crucial before purchasing a used model.
How long will the 2006 Saturn Ion last?
With diligent maintenance, a 2006 Saturn Ion can potentially reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles. However, this is heavily dependent on consistent upkeep and timely repairs. Many Ions begin experiencing more frequent and costly repairs after the 10-year mark or around 120,000 miles. Key weaknesses that emerge over time include engine issues (like oil leaks and timing chain wear), transmission problems, and electronic component failures, particularly with the EPS system. Rust can also become a concern in regions with harsh winters. Regular oil changes, transmission servicing, and prompt attention to any warning signs are essential for maximizing its lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 Saturn Ion offered a fairly basic level of technology for its time. Standard features included a basic AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims might have included an upgraded audio system with satellite radio capability. Driver-assistance features were minimal, with standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) being one of the primary safety features. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available.
Safety features included dual front airbags and side-impact airbags were optional. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. For frontal crash tests, the Ion typically received ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars. Side-impact crash test ratings were generally lower, often around 3 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and the Ion's ratings were typically marginal to acceptable. The lack of modern safety technology and somewhat underwhelming crash-test results are important considerations for safety-conscious buyers. Optional features could include things like power sunroof, remote keyless entry, and upgraded wheels.
Safety features included dual front airbags and side-impact airbags were optional. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. For frontal crash tests, the Ion typically received ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars. Side-impact crash test ratings were generally lower, often around 3 stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and the Ion's ratings were typically marginal to acceptable. The lack of modern safety technology and somewhat underwhelming crash-test results are important considerations for safety-conscious buyers. Optional features could include things like power sunroof, remote keyless entry, and upgraded wheels.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black
Silver Nickel Metallic
Sport Red
Pacific Blue Metallic
Sandstone Metallic
Yellow
Interior Colors
Gray
Tan
2006 Saturn Ion Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2006 Saturn Ion was priced in the range of $11,000 to $16,000, depending on the trim level and options. As a used car in today's market, the price can range dramatically, typically from $1,000 to $4,000, contingent upon condition, mileage, and location. The Ion has experienced significant depreciation due to its age, reliability concerns, and the Saturn brand's demise. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and whether it has any outstanding recalls or known issues. Low mileage, a clean title, and documented maintenance records will command a higher price, but even then, values remain low compared to competitors.
2006 Saturn Ion Cost of Ownership
The 2006 Saturn Ion generally has affordable insurance rates due to its age and lower market value. Fuel costs are relatively low thanks to its decent fuel economy. However, maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average, especially as the car ages and requires more frequent attention. Parts availability can sometimes be an issue due to Saturn's discontinued brand status, potentially increasing repair expenses. Overall, while initial costs are low, the potential for higher repair bills can make long-term ownership less economical than some other options.
2006 Saturn Ion Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
13 gallons
City Mileage
21 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
29 miles/gallon
2006 Saturn Ion Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2006 Saturn Ion Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
Recall date
2009-10-29
Recall no.
09v419000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt and Saturn ION Vehicles Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Arizona and Nevada; and Model Year 2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, Pontiac G5 and Saturn ION Vehicles Originally Sold IN or Currently Registered IN THE States OF Arizona, California, Florida, Nevada and Texas. THE Plastic Supply or Return Port ON THE Modular Reservoir Assembly MAY Crack. IF Either OF These Ports Develops A Crack, Fuel Will Leak From THE Area. IF THE Crack Becomes Large Enough, Fuel MAY BE Observed Dripping Onto THE Ground and Vehicle Performance MAY BE Affected.
Consequence
Fuel Leakage, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Pump Module Free OF Charge. A Special Coverage Will BE Implemented IN THE Same Time Frame FOR Model Year 2006 Vehicles Registered IN Alabama, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, NEW Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas and Model Year 2007 Vehicles Registered IN: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, NEW Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina and Tennessee. THE Safety Recall IS Expected TO Begin ON or Before February 4, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876 and Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
GM Recall NO. 090226.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2014-02-10
Recall no.
14v047000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2014-02-10
Recall no.
14v047000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence
IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:electric Power Assist System
Recall date
2014-03-31
Recall no.
14v153000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (Non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. IN THE Affected Vehicles, There MAY BE A Sudden Loss OF Electric Power Steering (eps) Assist That Could Occur AT ANY Time While Driving.
Consequence
IF Power Steering Assist IS Lost, Greater Driver Effort Would BE Required TO Steer THE Vehicle AT Low Speeds, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Perform ONE OF Four Bulletins. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. GM Expects TO Send AN Interim Notification Around MAY 28, 2014. When Parts ARE Available, Owners Will BE Mailed A Second Letter TO Come IN TO Have THE Applicable Bulletin Applied. Bulletin 14115 Covers Model Year 2004-2007 Saturn Ion, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalts. Dealers Will Replace THE EPS Motor. Bulletin 14116 Covers Model Year 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From March 1, 2008, Through June 27, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE Torque Sensor Assembly. Bulletin 14117 Covers Model Year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From February 1, 2008, Through February 28, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE Torque Sensor Assembly and EPS Motor Controller Unit. Bulletin 14118 Covers Model Year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura Built From October 1, 2007, Through January 31, 2008. Dealers Will Replace THE EPS Motor Controller Unit. THE Recall Began ON July 17, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N140115. Note: GM Bulletin Number 14119 Will BE Implemented FOR Model Year 2006-2008 and Early Production OF 2009 Chevrolet HHR (Non-turbo) and Model Year 2003 Saturn ION TO Provide EPS Motor Replacement FOR THE Life OF THE Vehicle.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date
2014-04-10
Recall no.
14v171000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet Hhr, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position.
Consequence
IF THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position, THE Vehicle Could Roll Away: (A) FOR AN Automatic Transmission, IF THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "park" Position; or (B) FOR A Manual Transmission, IF THE Parking Brake IS NOT Engaged and THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "reverse" Position. This Potential FOR Rollaway Increases THE Risk FOR A Crash and Occupant or Pedestrian Injuries.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Defective Ignition Cylinder and Have NOT Previously HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Cylinder and CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Redesigned Ignition Cylinder or HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Chevrolet Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac Owners AT 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn Owners AT 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' Number FOR This Recall IS 14113 FOR THE Ignition Lock Cylinder and KEY Replacement, and 14133 FOR Only KEY Replacements. Note: Until A Vehicle HAS Been Remedied, Owners and Operators ARE Advised That When Exiting, TO BE Sure That THE Vehicle IS IN "park," or IN THE Case OF A Manual Transmission, That THE Vehicle IS IN THE "reverse" Position and THE Parking Brake IS Engaged.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date
2014-04-30
Recall no.
14e021000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Uci-Fram Group IS Recalling Certain Ls1328 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1328, Duralast Ls1328, Airtex 1s6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and Ls1497 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1497, Duralast Ls1497, Airtex 1s10961, and Carquest 53-27967, FOR USE ON Various General Motors Model and Model Year Vehicles During Repair and Replacement OF THE Original Ignition Switch. THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Affected Ignition Switches TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine and Disabling THE AIR Bags.
Consequence
IF THE Ignition Switch Moves From THE RUN Position TO Accessory, THE Car Would Stall and THE AIR Bags Will NOT Deploy IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury TO THE Occupants.
Remedy
Uci-Fram Group HAS Notified ITS Purchasers TO Quarantine and Return All Inventory. ANY Switches Already Installed IN Vehicles Will BE Replaced BY GM Dealers AS Part OF Nhtsa Recall 14v-047, Free OF Charge. Uci-fram's Purchasers Should Contact Uci-fram Group AT 1-800-890-2075. GM Vehicle Owners Requiring Additional Information ON That Recall Campaign Should Contact GM AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (saturn).
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2006 Saturn Ion Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 Saturn Ion is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Saturn Ion Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2006 Saturn Ion competed with vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, and Mazda3. In terms of performance, the Ion was adequate but not exceptional, lagging behind the more engaging driving dynamics of the Mazda3 and the refined feel of the Civic. Feature-wise, it offered a similar level of basic equipment but lacked the advanced technology and premium options available in some rivals. Reliability was a significant weak point for the Ion, with numerous reported issues compared to the Corolla and Civic, known for their dependability. While the Ion's initial price was competitive, its depreciation and potential repair costs make it less attractive in the long run.
Alternatives to consider include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for their superior reliability and resale value, the Mazda3 for its sporty handling, and even a slightly newer Ford Focus, which offered a more refined driving experience. Considering the age of these vehicles, focusing on condition and maintenance history is crucial, but overall, the Civic and Corolla represent more reliable and well-rounded choices compared to the 2006 Saturn Ion.
Alternatives to consider include the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for their superior reliability and resale value, the Mazda3 for its sporty handling, and even a slightly newer Ford Focus, which offered a more refined driving experience. Considering the age of these vehicles, focusing on condition and maintenance history is crucial, but overall, the Civic and Corolla represent more reliable and well-rounded choices compared to the 2006 Saturn Ion.
Ranks #1919 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1919 | 2006 Saturn Ion | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Saturn Ion a Good Sedan?
The 2006 Saturn Ion is best suited for budget-conscious buyers seeking inexpensive transportation and who are willing to accept potential reliability risks. It might be worthwhile if found in exceptionally good condition with low mileage and a verifiable maintenance history. However, due to its age and potential for costly repairs, it's generally not recommended unless the price is very low and you're prepared for potential maintenance needs. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. Considering the availability of more reliable and refined alternatives in the used market, exploring other options is advisable unless the Ion's price is significantly lower than comparable vehicles.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.