2003 Saturn Ion Sporadic starting problems

LACHAN24

MEMBER
2003 SATURN ION

Electrical problem
2003 Saturn Ion 4 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic

My 2003 Ion, has a starting problem. It is hard to explain, because it is probably so simple. It will act like it is going to turn over, but other times, won't do anything but you can wait an hour or so, and then go back and it will start right up and run and will not give you a problem the rest of the day, or week. It is always on the initial cold start up. It seems to be worse in the colder weather, and if you wait until the day warms up, then it will crank right up and run. I have replaced the battery, the starter, the ignition module. I have had the cables checked and cleaned from the battery up to the starter, but am still having the same problem.

1 Reply

BRIAN 1

MECHANIC
1,030 POSTS

Follow this info,

follow this info,Subject:
No Crank or No Start, DTC B2960 and/or B3033 Set (Replace Ignition Switch)

Models:
2003-2006 Saturn ION

Built Up To and Including VIN Breakpoint 6Z147837

Supercede:

This bulletin is being revised to modify the Correction Information. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 04-08-45-005C (Section 08 - Body and Accessories).

Condition

Some customers may comment that their vehicle will not start. This comment is referred to as "no crank, no start with complete power."

Additional customer comments may be as follows:

A clicking noise may be noticed when the key is first turned to the START position, but no noise is heard after the initial start attempt.

The "Security" light may flash immediately after trying to start the car along with the message "Service Vehicle" in the Driver Information Center.

The vehicle may not start for at least 10 minutes after the first attempt to start the vehicle. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) B2960 and or B3033 may be set in history in the BCM.

Cause

When the key is rotated from RUN to START there is a voltage signal sent to the BCM that goes through the PASSLOCK resistor in the ignition switch. This voltage signal may have an early ignition switch bounce (when going from RUN to START that the BCM interprets as a failure in the PASSLOCK system and disables the starting circuit.

Correction

Using the chart shown, verify that the ignition switch has been replaced at least once using P/N 10392423. After replacement of the ignition switch or replacement and reprogramming of the BCM, perform the 30-Minute Learn Procedure found in Programming Theft Deterrent System Components.
post back with any other questions.