Still have a bookmark from 2006 about using a paperclip to jumpstart an old Saturn

2 comments

2 Comments

That paperclip trick only worked on specific Saturns with the plastic ignition housing, maybe 97-99 models tops. My 04 Vue laughed at it and left me stranded.

noahward15d ago

You said your 04 Vue left you stranded, and I think that might be part of the issue right there. In my experience, the paperclip trick was really only for the older S-series Saturns, like the SL, SC, and SW models that had that plastic ignition switch problem. The Vue is a totally different platform built on a Honda chassis, so the electronics and ignition system are nothing alike. Your mileage may vary, but I've seen people try that same trick on L-series and Ion models too and it never works. Definitely gotta know which car you're dealing with before you start jamming paperclips anywhere.