The problem
On certain passenger vehicles equipped with 2.2l l4 (l61) engines, a failure of the ignition control module May cause deterioration in idle quality, reduction in overall engine power, and the vehicle May be hard to start. Continued operation of the vehicle after such an ignition module failure will result in the "service engine soon" light flashing, and May lead to secondary failures of the catalytic converter, oxygen sensor, and exhaust resonator.
The risk
Failure of the resonator will cause increased exhaust noise. Prolonged operation of the vehicle following a resonator failure May lead to a fire.
The fix
Dealers will (1) replace the ignition control module, (2) replace the ignition control module and spark plugs, or (3) replace the ignition control module, spark plugs, and update the powertrain control module calibration. Owner notification began on August 4, 2003. Owners should contact Saturn at 1-800-553-6000, prompt 3.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 03V-231 (03V231000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 03033/03-C-06 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Electrical system › Ignition › Module |
| Report date | June 23, 2003 |
| Owners notified | July 1, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 239,993 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 03V-231 repair free?
Yes. Saturn dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will (1) replace the ignition control module, (2) replace the ignition control module and spark plugs, or (3) replace the ignition control module, spark plugs, and update the powertrain control module calibration.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 239,993 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.