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Pontiac Vibe

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Comments

  • pacermanpacerman Member Posts: 62
    Don't they usually have the red button sale in the fall???
  • fear_hopefear_hope Member Posts: 90
    Pros: Toyota reliability, gas mileage, price, high seating position, fun-to-drive, sporty and stylish good looks, outstanding fit and finish, comfortable seats, attractive interior (esp. in dark charcoal), cargo versatility, back and front passenger seats fold completely flat, carpeted mats standard throughout, ample rear leg-room, and a cool back-lighted dash. :shades:

    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. :cry:
    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; :( interior hardware is exposed, bolts securing back seats to floor look particularly tacky; red dash lights at night are annoying, need option to change to grey (like speedometer and odometer).
    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! :)
  • ronald711ronald711 Member Posts: 44
    I know some people said the emergency brake lever seemes a little long, and I agree, just curious, I know its easy to chane this out if you take the center console out by the 4 bolts, but does anyone make a shorter armed one that you could swap out? Im sure this is rare, but I had hope to at least ask.
  • ronald711ronald711 Member Posts: 44
    I had a quick question, I would like to get a sunroof in my Vibe possibly if available, but I know a lot come with the moons and tunes package, I personally have no problems with the base stereo in the base vibe. I know your suppose to get a subwoofer, where is this located? I dont want to take away storage space in the cargo area. Also do you loose your map lights with a sunroof or are they still on the rear view mirror? Reason I ask is the wiring may be affected with the install of the moonroof and some cars loose maplight options. Is the moonroof operated up on the ceiling or by the side console left of the steering column? Thanks everyone. I should be close to my purchasing decision by the end of this week.
  • nanc3nanc3 Member Posts: 8
    The subwoofer is located in the right rear of the cargo area. If you look at the picture on the Pontiac web site that has the water ski, you see a hollowed-out area in the "wheel well" above the yellow rope. With the Monsoon speakers, that area is not hollowed out and that's where the subwoofer is. However they did take away that little bit of floor space directly behind that (where the end of the rope bundle is.)
    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.
  • ronald711ronald711 Member Posts: 44
    I was able to have the pontiac dealer give me edmunds pricing on my vehicle which is 600 $$ more then 3 other dealers quoted me. The vehicle I got the supplier pricing through my employer, but they are not going to say its suppliers, in order to give me $2000 in rebates, its a base vibe with the power package (cruise, power, locks) and also got ABS with tire monitor. This is all I wanted, its MSRP was $19,2 something, Supplier pricing was like 18,218 (from memory) and the discounts brought it down to under $15,218 plus tax license, I have it written down somewhere else, but does this sound like a good buy?
  • steine13steine13 Member Posts: 2,825
    Yeah, it sounds like a great buy, but where the heck do the $2000 in rebates come from???

    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
  • aravind406aravind406 Member Posts: 4
    Hi 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
  • cl2cl2 Member Posts: 1
    I am a trying to find out what part of Onstar Pontiac "throws in."
    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.
  • davestoydavestoy Member Posts: 1
    Is there any way to increase the sound of the turn signal clicking,other than buying a hearing aid.
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    And also the LAM Group Contribution. What doe it meam????
  • jifarif2jifarif2 Member Posts: 1
    I recently bought a used 2003 Vibe. I'm lovin the car, its just missing a few cosmetic pieces. I'd like to see about getting them without going through the dealer at thouse prices.

    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
  • roy15roy15 Member Posts: 16
    I recomend the Matrix because my Pontiac dealer is always reluctant to do warranty work. I always end up talking to somone in sales to lean on the service department.
    RoyNC
  • fear_hopefear_hope Member Posts: 90
    I own a Vibe and the dealer I go to bends over backward to make sure my car is serviced. They check out every complaint and want my complete satisfaction. Maybe you should try another dealership!
  • PF_FlyerPF_Flyer Member Posts: 9,372
    The last couple of posts about new Vibe purchases have been moved to the New Vibe Owners - Give Us Your Report discussion.
  • automan12automan12 Member Posts: 10
    Hi everyone,
    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! :)
  • maxx4memaxx4me Member Posts: 1,340
    I believe the whole car (except the Delco radio) is Denso (Toyota), although I did have Delco brake pads put on last year. For arguement's sake, the car is a Corolla. You can put your trust in its drive train. My complaints on my 2003 Vibe AWD are:

    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.
  • mikey00mikey00 Member Posts: 462
    I don't think you will be disappointed with a used Vibe or Maxx. Both are recommended buys by Consumer Reports, although the Vibe does come out ahead on the overall rating. The Maxx has ride and acceleration going for it while the Vibe is a clear winner on braking, reliability, front seat comfort and fuel ecomomy. The paint is ,however, an issue with the Vibe. It looks great when new but is more prone to scratches and chips than any other car I have ever owned. Being that you are buying used, the chips and scratches should already be there and work to your advantage on price. I went with the Vibe for style, the Maxx looked like my grandfathers station wagon.
  • PF_FlyerPF_Flyer Member Posts: 9,372
    Next time you head out and test drive a Vibe, be sure to post your review in the Pontiac Vibe Test Drive - What Did You Think? discussion.

    Always like to have fresh reports from the field! ;)
  • PF_FlyerPF_Flyer Member Posts: 9,372
    Posts with question on the Vibe stereo, MP3's, CD players, etc. have been moved to the new Pontiac Vibe: Audio & Entertainment Questions discussion.
  • bporter1bporter1 Member Posts: 229
    George, If I decide to buy a 2007 Vibe,the two must haves for me are ABS and Side Impact Airbags. As for Stabilitrak?
    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.
  • n2hon2ho Member Posts: 5
    I am ordering a Vibe, and side impact air bags and curtain in my view is important. Many people said that ABS is a good safety feature also. I don't know about stability control, still hesitating.
    Thanks for an advice.
    George
  • vonnyvoncevonnyvonce Member Posts: 129
    For what it is worth the Feds are requiring Stabilitrack or whatever a particular brand calls it on all new cars by 2010 or something like that.

    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.
  • n2hon2ho Member Posts: 5
    I ordered today 2007 Vibe with ABS, stabilitrack and side airbags + rear and front head curtain. VSA on Vibe cost $495, ABS - $525, and side airbags $745 (all prices - MSRP). We live in New York (Long Island) and have some snow.
    George
  • superfuddsuperfudd Member Posts: 1
    Vibe or Maxx? get the Vibe!
    Why? Read the Maxx steering problem posts. Same with Cobalts.
  • secretariat73secretariat73 Member Posts: 47
    My wife (who is disabled) and I are looking at several small-medium hatch designs, including the Vibe. Can anyone tell me for certain if the Vibe has a handle on the ceiling inside the passenger door? As she needs this to help with entry and exit, this one feature is a deal-breaker.

    Thanks,
    Steve
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    My base Vibe has a ceiling handle on the passenger side only. My Ford Escape has two on the passenger side. My wife likes that.
  • secretariat73secretariat73 Member Posts: 47
    Thanks. We rented an Escape a few months ago, but didn't remember the locations of the handles (except that the car was OK for her, and there is a handle on the pillar, which we just saw in a parking lot tonight and saw the pillar handle).

    The Malibu Maxx, which seems to be a popular car to cross-shop, didn't have any passenger handle, so it's out.

    -Steve-
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    I have both the Escape and the Vibe. I got the Vibe for 38 mpg vs 24 mpg with the Escape (V6 4wd). I really like the Escape better. My wife loves the handles.
  • pacermanpacerman Member Posts: 62
    whats your MPG with the Escape??I really wasn't looking at an Escape, but it seems one can get a very low miler with v6 4x4, 2005 for the same price as an awd 2006 vibe. Course the Vibe does get better mileage but the Escape is pretty nice and can at least tow 2000#......... :surprise:
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    I seem to average better milage than most folks so your milage may vary. I average about 24 on 100% highway driving with the Escape compared to 38 mpg with similar driving with the Vibe. I have a 2001 V6 4x4 Escape. Folks that drive the Escape mostly city don't do near as well but I imagine it is similar with the Vibe. I do very little city driving so I don't have a figure for that.
  • pacermanpacerman Member Posts: 62
    Thats bang on for Kanadian Gov't tests, they say (for a 2005) 4x4 Escape V6, auto .... 21 town and 29 hwy (imp mpg) (add 5 mpg to US mpg)to get Kanadian MPG :)
  • robbiegrobbieg Member Posts: 350
    My wife is pregnant with our first child. We have a pretty big dog (basically he won't fit in the back seat with the baby) and we were wondering if the Vibe is big enough for the baby, the dog and the stroller? Really don't want to get a big suv or a minivan. Thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    There is no more room in the backseat in the Vibe than any other small vehicle. "If" the dog and stroller can fit in the cargo area it should be OK. I say "if" because I don't know the size of the dog and stroller.
  • gmhounddoggmhounddog Member Posts: 1
    I have been haveing difficulty finding Ventvisors for our Pontiac Vibe here in Vancouver, BC. These are optional third party shades for over the top of the driver and passenger windows. There are two manufacturers I know of, Weathertech (mounts in window channel) and Ventvisor (tape). I can have the Ventvisor ordered for about $90 for the set but would prefer the ones that mount in the window channels. Does anyone know the best place and prices to get these?

    Thanks,
    gmhounddog
  • rjg6rjg6 Member Posts: 2
    I bought the Weathertech brand via the internet for my wifes 06 Vibe last year. I would highly recomend that brand. Try this link: link title
  • rjg6rjg6 Member Posts: 2
    Has anyone else noticed any problems with the quality of the windsheild glass in the 06 Vibe?
    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:
  • dudleyrdudleyr Member Posts: 3,469
    The glass is defective, have it replaced under warrenty.
  • itzaluluitzalulu Member Posts: 2
    I have a 2003 with 90,000 miles. What's your opinion on trading it for a 2000 Mercury Sable with 33,000 driven by my little ol'mom? I love my vibe and it's had regular oil changes. How much longer will it live???
  • ke4yyd2ke4yyd2 Member Posts: 6
    With reasonable care you could expect 300,000 miles especially if that is mostly highway milage.
  • itzaluluitzalulu Member Posts: 2
    Thank you!!
  • mbjdljmbjdlj Member Posts: 2
    Can anyone with experience state what to expect in reliability, performance and mileage difference when you have all wheel drive?
  • caliberchiccaliberchic Member Posts: 402
    Try asking Here too :)
  • gurabitagurabita Member Posts: 3
    I Bought my '05 Vibe a year a go and I am having brake problems already. Is it normal to get brakes done on the car so early on. Or has anyone else had the same problem with the brakes.
  • mikey00mikey00 Member Posts: 462
    Brake wear is mostly determined by mileage not year of car. How many miles on your Vibe?
  • pacermanpacerman Member Posts: 62
    What "problems"?? Pulsing pedal , pads worn out, rotors worn out, warped, pedal going to the floor??And again how many miles?:confuse:
  • arizonavibegirarizonavibegir Member Posts: 3
    Do you still have the directions for a remote start install? If so email me at terrraque@yahoo.com
  • mikey00mikey00 Member Posts: 462
    Done.

    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
  • aladdinsanealaddinsane Member Posts: 182
    Hello all...

    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: --
  • mikey00mikey00 Member Posts: 462
    Looks like there will be a 2008 Vibe. Here is a link to GM Inside News:
    http://www.gminsidenews.com/index.php?page=Future_Product_Guide
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