🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Saturn

Model:

ION

Year:

2006

Generation:

First Generation (2003-2007)

Chassis Code:

GM Delta Platform

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Entry-level compact car, positioned as an affordable and fuel-efficient option in the American market.

Competitors:

Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cobalt, Dodge Neon.

Key Selling Points:

Unique polymer body panels (dent-resistant), distinctive styling (for its time), available in sedan and coupe body styles, competitive pricing.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Steering, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Chassis, Diagnostic Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Online Software, equivalent to over 2000 printed pages)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software (Web-based access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (including timing, seals, gaskets), Engine Control System (ECM, sensors, actuators), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Power Steering System, Suspension (front and rear), Brakes (hydraulic, ABS), Wheel Alignment, Drive Axles, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch System, Electrical Distribution System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Body Control Module (BCM), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Power Windows, Power Locks, Wiper System, Cruise Control System, Safety Systems (Airbags), Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Troubleshooting

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Diagnosis, Component Removal and Installation, System Adjustments, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Diagnostic Tree Charts, Exploded Views, Specifications and Data

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic to advanced repairs, including diagnostic procedures, component-level troubleshooting, and complete rebuilds. OE (Original Equipment) licensed information ensures factory-level accuracy.

📊 Manual Specifications

Platform Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet with Internet Connection and Web Browser

Access Duration:

1 Year Subscription (Discounts available for renewal)

Data Source:

Licensed OE (Original Equipment) Materials

Searchability:

Fully Searchable Text

Key Features:

Instant Access, Bookmark Functionality, Printable Sections, Graphical Illustrations and Diagrams

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LDA (1.8L Ecotec L)

Engine Description:

1.8L DOHC Inline 4-cylinder

Horsepower:

124 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

122 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Ignition Type:

Coil-on-plug

Emission Control:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II)

Bore X Stroke:

80.5 mm x 88.2 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Engine Oil Capacity With Filter:

4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters)

Coolant Capacity:

6.8 US quarts (6.4 liters)

Timing Drive:

Timing Chain

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Type Opt:

4-Speed Automatic (GM 4T45-E)

Automatic Transmission Features:

Electronically controlled, torque converter lock-up clutch

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron VI (or Dexron III H for older spec, consult manual for precise recommendation)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GM Synchromesh Manual Transmission Fluid (or equivalent API GL-4 specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length Sedan:

175.4 inches (4455 mm)

Length Coupe:

174.6 inches (4435 mm)

Width:

67.0 inches (1702 mm)

Height Sedan:

56.7 inches (1440 mm)

Height Coupe:

54.6 inches (1387 mm)

Wheelbase:

103.2 inches (2621 mm)

Curb Weight Sedan Auto:

2,850 lbs (1293 kg)

Curb Weight Coupe Manual:

2,790 lbs (1266 kg)

Cargo Volume Sedan:

13.7 cu ft (388 L)

Cargo Volume Coupe:

10.4 cu ft (294 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Driver Impact:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:

★★★★☆ (4/5 Stars)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:

Good

IIHS Side Impact:

Acceptable

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (optional on some trims)

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Side-Impact Airbags (optional), Front and Rear Crumple Zones, Polymer Body Panels (impact absorption)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional MP3 compatibility, available premium audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control. Limited driver assistance technologies by modern standards.

Connectivity Options:

OnStar (optional, subscription-based service for navigation, diagnostics, and emergency assistance).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended for this interval)

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (with platinum or iridium plugs)

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 (API certified)

Coolant Type:

Dex-Cool (Orange colored, silicate-free, extended life coolant)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Issues:

Suspension components (ball joints, control arm bushings), power steering pump leaks, occasional EGR valve issues, potential for rodent damage to wiring harnesses due to soy-based insulation, transmission solenoid issues on automatics.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Positioning:

Saturn was GM's brand introduced in the early 1990s to compete with Japanese imports, emphasizing fuel efficiency, innovative materials (polymer body panels), and a customer-focused approach.

Model Introduction:

The Saturn ION replaced the Saturn S-Series. It was built on GM's global Delta platform.

Production Years:

2002-2007

Manufacturing Location:

Spring Hill, Tennessee, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Jdpowers Initial Quality:

Mixed reviews in J.D. Power Initial Quality studies; often ranked below segment leaders but improved over its production run.

Kbb Value:

Generally considered a good value in the used car market due to depreciation, but resale value is not as strong as some competitors.