Seats and Restraint Systems........................... 1-1
Front Seats
............................................... 1-2
Rear Seats
............................................... 1-9
Safety Belts
.............................................1-10
Child Restraints
.......................................1-30
Airbag System
.........................................1-49
Restraint System Check
............................1-59
Features and Controls..................................... 2-1
Keys
........................................................ 2-2
Doors and Locks
....................................... 2-7
Windows
.................................................2-13
Theft-Deterrent Systems
............................2-15
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
...........2-16
Mirrors
....................................................2-31
OnStar
®System
......................................2-38
Storage Areas
.........................................2-39
Sunroof
..................................................2-41
Instrument Panel............................................. 3-1
Instrument Panel Overview
.......................... 3-4
Climate Controls
......................................3-18
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
........3-25
Message Center
.......................................3-39
Audio System(s)
.......................................3-44Driving Your Vehicle....................................... 4-1
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle
..... 4-2
Towing
...................................................4-34
Service and Appearance Care.......................... 5-1
Service
..................................................... 5-3
Fuel
......................................................... 5-5
Checking Things Under the Hood
...............5-10
Headlamp Aiming
.....................................5-46
Bulb Replacement
....................................5-47
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
.........5-55
Tires
......................................................5-56
Appearance Care
.....................................5-83
Vehicle Identi cation
.................................5-92
Electrical System
......................................5-93
Capacities and Speci cations
...................5-100
Maintenance Schedule..................................... 6-1
Maintenance Schedule
................................ 6-2
Customer Assistance and Information.............. 7-1
Customer Assistance and Information
........... 7-2
Reporting Safety Defects
............................ 7-8
Index.................................................................1
2005 Saturn ION Owner ManualM
ProCarManuals.com
Adding Equipment to Your
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
Q:If I add a luggage carrier or sunroof to the roof
of my vehicle, will it keep the roof-mounted side
impact airbags from working properly?
A:As long as the luggage carrier or sunroof is
properly installed so that the vehicle’s basic
structure is not changed, it is not likely to keep the
roof-mounted side impact airbags from working
properly in a crash.
Restraint System Check
Checking the Restraint Systems
Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light
and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors
and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other
loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see
anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing
its job, have it repaired.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt
is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Also look for any opened or broken airbag covers, and
have them repaired or replaced. (The airbag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
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Keys...............................................................2-2
Remote Keyless Entry System.........................2-3
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation...........2-4
Doors and Locks.............................................2-7
Door Locks....................................................2-7
Power Door Locks..........................................2-8
Delayed Locking.............................................2-8
Programmable Automatic Door Locks................2-8
Rear Door Security Locks................................2-9
Lockout Protection..........................................2-9
Rear Doors (Coupe)......................................2-10
Trunk..........................................................2-10
Windows........................................................2-13
Manual Windows..........................................2-13
Power Windows............................................2-14
Sun Visors...................................................2-14
Theft-Deterrent Systems..................................2-15
Passlock
®....................................................2-16
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle................2-16
New Vehicle Break-In....................................2-16
Ignition Positions..........................................2-17
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)...................2-19
Starting the Engine.......................................2-19
Automatic Transaxle Operation.......................2-21
Manual Transaxle Operation...........................2-24
Parking Brake..............................................2-26Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle)......2-27
Shifting Out of Park (P).................................2-28
Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle).........2-29
Parking Over Things That Burn.......................2-29
Engine Exhaust............................................2-30
Running the Engine While Parked...................2-30
Mirrors...........................................................2-31
Manual Rearview Mirror.................................2-31
Manual Rearview Mirror with OnStar
®..............2-31
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
with OnStar
®, Compass and
Temperature Display..................................2-32
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with
Compass and Temperature Display..............2-34
Outside Remote Control Mirror.......................2-36
Outside Power Mirrors...................................2-37
Outside Convex Mirror...................................2-37
OnStar
®System.............................................2-38
Storage Areas................................................2-39
Glove Box...................................................2-39
Cupholder(s)................................................2-39
Center Console Storage Area.........................2-39
Roof Rack System........................................2-40
Convenience Net..........................................2-40
Sunroof.........................................................2-41
Section 2 Features and Controls
2-1
ProCarManuals.com
Sunroof
If the vehicle has a
sunroof, the switch that
operates it is located
on the headliner between
the map lamps.
The sunroof will only operate while the ignition is on, or
turned to ACC, or if Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
is active. SeeRetained Accessory Power (RAP) on
page 2-19.Press the sunroof switch rearward to open the sunroof
to the vent position. If the sunshade is closed, it will
open automatically when the sunroof is vented
or opened.
To close the sunroof, press the switch forward and hold
it until the sunroof is closed. The sunroof will stop if
the switch is released. Close the sunshade by hand.
The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if
the vehicle has an electrical failure.
Notice:If you force the sunshade forward of the
sliding glass panel, damage will occur and the
sunroof may not open or close properly. Always
close the glass panel before closing the sunshade.
2-41
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Care of Your CDs
Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original cases
or other protective cases and away from direct
sunlight and dust. If the surface of a CD is soiled,
dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent
solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.
Be sure never to touch the side without writing when
handling CDs. Pick up CDs by grasping the outer edges
or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.
Care of the CD Player
The use of CD lens cleaners for CD players is not
advised, due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the
CD optics with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism.
Fixed Mast Antenna
The xed mast antenna can withstand most car washes
without being damaged. If the mast should ever
become slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the
mast is badly bent, replace it.
Check occasionally to make sure the mast is still
tightened to the antenna base located on the hood of
the vehicle. If tightening is required, tighten by hand.
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna
System
The XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is located on the roof
of your vehicle. Keep this antenna clear of snow and
ice build up for clear radio reception.
The performance of the XM™ system may be affected if
the sunroof is open.
Loading items onto the roof of your vehicle can interfere
with the performance of the XM™ system. Make sure
that the XM™ satellite antenna is not obstructed.
3-68
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Fuses Usage
HVAC Climate Control
CRUISECruise Control Module, Clutch Start
Switch
AIR BAGAirbags, Sensing and Diagnostic
Module (SDM)
WIPER SWWindshield Wipers and Washers,
Transaxle Shift Lock Control Switch
RADIO
(BATT1)Radio Receiver, Entertainment
Memory
ONSTAREntertainment, Mobile
Communications, OnStar
®
RADIO (ACC) Radio Receiver, Entertainment
IGN SW Ignition Switch
EPS Cruise Control Switches, EPS Unit
PWR OUTLET Auxiliary Power Outlet
SUN ROOF Power Sunroof, OnStar Mirror
Relay Usage
ALC/PARK
RELAYOnStar®, Radio, Instrument Panel
Cluster, Body Control Module (Entry
Control), Cigar Lighter, Headlamp
Switch, License Lamp
FUEL PUMP
RELAYFuel Pump
ACC RELAYPower Windows, Sunroof, Radio,
Wiper/Washer Switch, Accessory
Power Outlet
RUN RELAYClimate Control (HVAC Blower,
Control Heads)
5-95
ProCarManuals.com
Maintenance Footnotes
†The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the
California Air Resources Board has determined that the
failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify
the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to
the completion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however,
urge that all recommended maintenance services be
performed at the indicated intervals and the
maintenance be recorded.
(a)Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, cha ng, etc. Inspect
disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or
cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums,
wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.
(b)Visually inspect front and rear suspension and
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts or
signs of wear.
(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if
they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect
all pipes, ttings, and clamps; replace with genuine
Saturn parts as needed. To help ensure proper
operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and
pressure cap and cleaning the outside of the radiator
and air conditioning condenser is recommended at least
once a year.(d)Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking.
Replace wiper blades that appear worn or damaged
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages
are working properly. Look for any other loose or
damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything
that might keep a safety belt system from doing its
job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts
replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag
coverings, and have them repaired or replaced.
The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders, door hinges and
latches, hood hinges and latches, glove box hinges,
sunroof (if equipped), and any folding seat hardware.
More frequent lubrication may be required when
exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying silicone
grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make
them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
(g)Check system for interference or binding and
for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed.
Replace any components that have high effort or
excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator or cruise
control cables.
6-8
ProCarManuals.com
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Intercooler
System
(2.0L L4
Supercharged
engine)50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only DEX-COOL
®
Coolant.
Hydraulic Brake
SystemDelco
®Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake uid.
Windshield
WasherOptikleen
®Washer Solvent.
Parking Brake
Cable GuidesChassis Lubricant (GM Part No.
12377985, in Canada 88901242) or
lubricant meeting requirements of
NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Hydraulic
Clutch SystemDelco
®Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake uid (Saturn
Part No. 21013073).
Manual
Transaxle
(2.2L L4
engine)DEXRON
®-III Automatic
Transmission Fluid. Look for
“Approved for the H-Speci cation”
on the label.
Manual
Transaxle
(2.0L L4
Supercharged
engine)Manual Transmission Fluid
(Part No. 21018899).
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Automatic
TransaxleDEXRON
®-III Automatic
Transmission Fluid. Look for
“Approved for the H-Speci cation”
on the label.
Key Lock
CylindersMulti-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
Hood Latch
Assembly,
Secondary
Latch, Pivots,
Spring Anchor,
and Release
PawlLubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (Saturn
Part No. 21038869 or GM Part No.
U.S. 12346293, in Canada 992723)
or lubricant meeting requirements of
NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Hood, Trunk,
and Door
HingesMulti-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
Sunroof TrackLubriplate Lubricant Aerosol
(Saturn Part No. 21038869 or
GM Part No. U.S. 12346293, in
Canada 992723) or lubricant
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Weatherstrip
ConditioningDielectric Silicone Grease
(GM Part No. U.S. 12345579, in
Canada 992887).
6-15
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