As the owner of a Saturn Ion Sedan, you want to ensure that your car's fuel system runs smoothly. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your owners manual and pay attention to any warning lights that come on as you drive. In addition, be aware of other sounds and signals that point to potential fuel system problems.
Identify your Saturn Ion's engine type--a 2.2L L4, 2.4L L4 or a 2.0L Supercharged--by looking at the eighth character of your car's VIN (vehicle identification number). If it's an "F," you have a 2.2L L4 engine; a "B" indicates a 2.4L L4 type; and a "P" identifies the 2.0L Supercharged.
Buy the correct octane level based on your Saturn Ion's classification. Cars with the 2.2L L4 engine can get by with regular unleaded gas with at least an 87 level. Ions with either the 2.4L L4 or 2.0L Supercharged need to use premium unleaded fuel with an octane of 91 or higher.
Keep an appropriate amount of gas in your tank at all times for optimal efficiency and operation. Fill-up immediately whenever the "LOW FUEL" light displays. This means you only have 1.5 gallons of gas left.
Use caution when you refuel. Don't smoke, run the engine, spill the gas or leave the pump unattended when filling up. Secure the Saturn Ion's cap tightly when you're done to prevent the "CHECK GAS CAP" or "CHECK ENGINE" lights from appearing.
Stop the car whenever the "CHECK ENGINE" light comes on, which points to potential fuel, ignition and emission problems. If the light is steady, the gas cap may be the wrong type, loose or missing. Try tightening the cap and then restart the car. If the light doesn't disappear, it's a more serious problem.
Pay attention to any knocking sounds you hear. A light noise or "spark knock" means you're not using the right fuel type. It'll stop as soon as you switch to the correct one. If it's a heavier sound and you're already using at least an 87 octane fuel, your engine needs service.
Inspect the Saturn Ion's fuel for dirt or moisture whenever the engine sounds irregular or rough. Other possible causes are a clogged air filter or a problem with the fuel pump.
Troubleshoot the carburetor's choke or plate, if the engine is hot and won't start. You could also just be out of gas.
Check and change your oil regularly to prevent damage to your fuel system and engine. The owner's manual recommends checking it each time you refuel. If the oil dipstick is at or below the minimum mark, you need to add more. Whenever your "CHG OIL" light appears on the instrument panel, change the oil.
Monitor your Saturn Ion's fuel efficiency. If you get consistent low gas mileage, clean the carburetor and replace the air filter, if your car's fuel system includes these components. If the problem continues, check to see if the choke is defective.
Follow the Saturn Ion's fuel system maintenance schedule. Every 25,000 miles, inspect your fuel system for damage or leaks. Also change your engine fuel filter at the 100,000 mile marker.
Perform any repairs discovered in your periodic fuel system inspection. In addition to the fuel filter, these actions can also include replacing the fuel injector and pump in models with these components.
