I hate my car. Should I sell or not?

[ChaiTeaLatte]

I have a complicated question. Or at least every mechanic seems to think it’s complicated.

I have a 2003 Saturn Ion it’s part of the GM recall. I had that part; ignition switch replaced 3 times. I kept having problems starting the car. Time after time. I had the ignition module fixed twice as well. Starter twice. Ignition coil twice. This was all from my car not starting. Also, all within 2 years and only putting 20,000 miles on the car in those 2 years. Also, it didn’t start a month ago and I had it jumped. Started been running well since.

You’re wondering. Why didn’t you get rid of the car? Because I didn’t want to sell someone my problem. I didn’t feel comfortable selling it knowing it had this chronic problem. After all, I like living. Don't want someone coming to find me because I sold them my problem.

So here’s the question. Can this ignition switch recall fix this problem? Can it cause your car to not start? Is all of this connected or should I trade this thing in?

I will trade it in and tell them about the problem and feel ok with that… I really can't afford another bill though. But if I'm going to be shelling out on repairs I just might have to take on a note.

What to do?

[jtbirchfield]

Well a recall is free of charge, you just bring the car into the dealership and they will replace it for you for free. The ignition switch could be the problem but that would only make it so the car would not crank over, if that is your problem.

[maxwillis]

Sell it

[SierraB]

Check itself if the ignition switch itself is hot to the touch, this indicates there could be a problem with the electrical system connected to the switch.

[canakin]

The ignition switch recall is surrounding the fact that the key "detent plunger" was not strong enough to hold the key in the on/run position. It would often lose contact and shut the car off or slip to the accessories position. This caused unintended stalling, stopping, or even worse, in an accident it would shut off the computers needed for airbags.

From what I know (and that may not be a lot) your starting issues are not related to the recalled ignition switch. If the car turned on and the tried to turn over, then the switch did it's simple job. The problem is elsewhere.

As far as keeping the car, that is up to you. If it is and has been working fine for awhile and it's paid for, then consider keeping until you feel the repair headaches are not worth it. In the meantime, take all extras off the ignition key ring to keep any of the recall ignition problems to a minimum.

[Dave B.]

Sell it or trade it. Search the classifieds for a good, clean Honda Accord or Civic. You'll save enough in fuel and repairs to pay for your note.

Just my two cents...

Dave B.

[Joshaha]

Trust me all thoughs little thing u hate u will miss so i say not