Did you recently take on (or consider) a loan of 84 months or longer on a car purchase?
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A reporter would like to speak with you about your experience; please reach out to PR@Edmunds.com by 7/25 for details.
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Cons: Driver comfort - Steering wheel is too far away for comfort, needs telescoping wheel to adjust for proper driving position; hump on right side of driver’s side floor, not enough room to rest a larger foot for comfort; headrests need to be moved back, some seat adjustment positions push head forward causing neck discomfort; shifter blocks heat/air controls when in “Park;” A/C does not get cold enough on 90+ degree days, have to keep it on High the entire ride.
Convenience - poor radio reception in rural areas; A/C outlet cover and position limits use, only very old type plugs will fit into it! Cup holders are too small for larger bottles and cups and are in an awkward position (moving parking brake to flood area would expand console space); silly little coin holder under parking brake – useless; no rear storage compartments or back of seat storage pockets.
Appearance - paint is very thin with very little clear coat, scratches easily;
Operation - engine and exhaust are both loud; outside mirrors are small and do not breakaway; spoiler hangs down under front decreasing ground clearance.
Despite the Vibe's weaknesses I really like the car. If you (like I was) are looking for a sporty alternative to an SUV that is reliable, gets good gas milage, has a moon roof, premium stereo and ABS with a price tag under $20K, THIS IS IT!
There is a small amplifier mounted under the passenger seat.
With the sunroof, there is a panel in front of the sunroof on the ceiling. It has the controls for the sunroof (tilt and slide) and a large light, and a push-button for the light. There are no map lights in the mirror. I think if you get OnStar you must have the sunroof because the OnStar controls are in the mirror, and therefore the map light needs to be in the sunroof control panel.
I recommend going for the package. It's my first sunroof and it makes me feel a little bit "cooler" (showing my age)! I also could care less about the upgraded sound but I have teenagers and they tell me it sounds OK, better than the old car with 6 non-brand name (GM) speakers, no subwoofer.
The "cash back" amounts to $500 according to the Pontiac web site -- and they ought to know -- plus there may be another $500 in conquest money floating around... $2k would be right good...
-Mathias
There is a 500 usd bonus cash, 500 usd for not using their financing and 1000 usd conquest. thus the 2000 usd.
Also, I am being quoted edmunds invoice price for my options for 2006 vibe but 400 usd advertising fees is being added. i am balking on it. what do u ppl think? did u have to pay any fees above the edmunds invoice. am in california. please do reply
thanks
aravind
Edmunds.com has the following information: Potential buyers should seriously consider getting the Preferred package as it adds power windows, locks and mirrors; cruise control; and keyless entry. There's also a Sun and Sound package with a power sunroof and an upgraded audio system. Order both, and Pontiac will throw in OnStar.
Since Onstar comes with a year's service what part is Pontiac "throwing in"? Thanks for any help. All calls and emails to Pontiac have given me no help.
The cargo cover in the back hatch area is missing one hook on one corner and is pretty ragged.
The moon roof is missing the shade that slides back and forth inside the vehicle. While the glass is tinted, its still really bright!
If anyone has any knowledge or ideas of where to get these items at a good price I would appreciate it. I am a first time buyer, in a huge and terrifying 5 year contract and would like to keep the car nice.
Thank you!
Jeff
RoyNC
I'm buying a used Vibe for my sister. I'm car savvy, worked as a mechanic but for VW. I just want to know what problems / concerns did you have with your Vibe, please list even minor concerns. Also as of your knowledge, what is made by Toyota, what is made by GM? I know the engine and the tranny are from Toyota, right?
Thanks!
1. no telescoping steering or pedals, making it difficult for a tall driver to get comfortable.
2. the worst paint job in the history of automaking
3. headlamp covers which become pitted from road debris
4. rear drum brakes (who though of that one??)
5. difficult to manipulate dials which are obstructed by the gear shifter when in park
6. poor visibility out the rear window
7. hard to clean carpet and seat fabric
8. very noisy engine
It is possible that #7 has been corrected. I have not looked at a Vibe since buying mine. While I love Toyota quality, I went with a Maxx for my next car; I think it is a much better car and value. Also, if you don't get the AWD, you don't get independent suspension for the rear. That makes the other models a bit less pleasurable to drive in my opinion. If you need a hatch, I think the Maxx is a better choice. If you need basic transportation, I also would look elsewhere. The Vibe is an OK car. It does nothing special, but it should last a good long time. Best of luck with your choice.
Always like to have fresh reports from the field!
I can either take it or leave it. Problem is trying to find one equipped with all three of these things is next to impossible, unless you order one.
Thanks for an advice.
George
They predict 10000 less deaths and 250,000 less injuries per year if every car had VSA. Don't know what it costs on the Vibe but probably worth ever penny. My 2003 Vibe does not have it but 2007 Camry does.
I'd get it in my next car if it was available especially if you're where it snows.
George
Why? Read the Maxx steering problem posts. Same with Cobalts.
Thanks,
Steve
The Malibu Maxx, which seems to be a popular car to cross-shop, didn't have any passenger handle, so it's out.
-Steve-
Thanks,
gmhounddog
When seated in the drivers seat of my wife's 06 Vibe, and looking out the windsheild in front of the passenger side, it appears like you are looking through the old type "carnival glass". I have never had this problem in any other vehicle I've owned... :confuse:
Edit: Just got this reply:
>>> terrraque@yahoo.com (reading confirmation): 554 delivery error: dd Sorry your message to terrraque@yahoo.com cannot be delivered. This account has been disabled or discontinued [#102]. - mta504.mail.mud.yahoo.com
Does anyone out there have any idea if the 2008 replacement
for the Toyota Matrix will also be rebadged as a Pontiac, as with the Toyota Matrix/Pontiac Vibe cousins? I've been reading up on what the Vibe has to offer now and it seems a pity that this machine will discontinued soon, but such is progress.
Any 4-1-1? :confuse:
Cheers...
Peace! <- :shades: --
http://www.gminsidenews.com/index.php?page=Future_Product_Guide