I have an automatic 4-door 2006 Saturn Ion 3 with 50,000 miles. Lately it has not been starting when it rains. The radio will come on, but the engine does nothing. I have made sure that the car was in park and have made sure the steering wheel was not locked. I also had OnStar run a diagnostic check with no success. Any fix suggestions?
Are you saying when you turn the key NOTHING happens? Or does the starter crank the engine but it doesn’t start? It makes a difference.
When I turn the key, nothing happens in regards to the engine. The radio, lights, etc turn on.
I should add that the weather might have something to do with it. It all started when it turned cold in Western MD. Also, after I have problems, if I leave it alone for about 5 minutes, it starts fine with no problems. So, no mechanic will work on a working car and I feel silly to have it towed when it will start after a bit of time.
Thanks for help/suggestions.
Is the car possibly still under warranty? It’s only a year old. If it is still under warranty, take it to a Saturn dealer.
If it starts after 5 minutes, then the cold and/or wet are not necessarily the problem, because it didn’t get any warmer or dryer in 5 minutes. I’m guessing there is a loose electrical connection somewhere in the starter circuit. Intermittent problems like this are the most difficult to find, since, as you say, once it starts everything is fine.
If you have two ignition keys, try the spare and see if that makes any difference.
No warranty. I’m over in mileage from working out of town. However, I have tried both keys, with no success. I guess my only fix is to take it into the shop. Thank you.