Search found 226 matches

by j42.snyder
Thu Jan 12, 2017 7:44 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: 2009+ Vibe Oil Consumption?
Replies: 20
Views: 9500

Re: 2009+ Vibe Oil Consumption?

On the 2.4 I thought I heard there was an issue with a hole in the piston under the oil rings that could plug up and prevent the oil from draining back like it should. I'm pretty sure the previous generation 1.8 suffered the same issue - and I remember hearing of something similar on older Saturn en...
by j42.snyder
Thu Jan 12, 2017 6:38 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: 2009+ Vibe Oil Consumption?
Replies: 20
Views: 9500

Re: 2009+ Vibe Oil Consumption?

Mine was built late Feb. 2009. I had no consumption issues until exactly after the warranty was up (160,000km). I never pushed it too far between changes or anything either - about 3 months or 8,000km (5,000 miles). Now it will consume approximately a quart in 3000 miles - depending on driving condi...
by j42.snyder
Thu Jan 12, 2017 6:00 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Unknown Squeaking noise coming from front driver's side
Replies: 1
Views: 1071

Re: Unknown Squeaking noise coming from front driver's side

Are you very sure the dust shield isn't contacting anything? I had a similar noise on another vehicle in the family that drove me nuts until I found it. On that one, there was a very small shield in front of the ball joint that perhaps I had grabbed accidentally when pulling the rotor off and bent s...
by j42.snyder
Wed Apr 16, 2014 5:27 pm
Forum: Tech Info & Do-It-Yourself Info
Topic: 2009+ TPMS disable
Replies: 18
Views: 15746

Re: 2009+ TPMS disable

I'm very sorry I didn't respond earlier! Typically I try to read through the active topics daily, but must have missed that day! I noticed on my phone a few days ago, but I can't properly respond on there - so I had to wait until I had time on my computer to log in... I'm not sure why it wouldn't wo...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:52 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: A/C Question
Replies: 6
Views: 1227

Re: A/C Question

Thanks j42snyder for the reassurance that my inattention will not result in a compromised a/c unit. Does the "42" mean you were born in in 42? That's my year of birth. Jake - I see that you're also a fan of Douglas Adams. I'm sure you'll know where the "42" came from then - The ...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:27 pm
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?
Replies: 9
Views: 2105

Re: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?

Yes - it can definitely be a messy job! Not only during, but for a while afterwards it's going to drip - especially during warmer weather. Park over cardboard, gravel, or grass for a couple of days if possible. It's not supposed to stain, but I wouldn't test that claim. Outdoors is a must, unless it...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:11 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: 2009 2.4 5 Speed Mait. Questions
Replies: 8
Views: 1435

Re: 2009 2.4 5 Speed Mait. Questions

I know that the appearance of oil isn't a really technical way to tell when it needs to be changed, but mine most definitely looks like it's ready by the 5,000 mile (8k km on my odo) mark. Personally, pushing it past that is being abusive in my books - at least on these particular engines (2.4 that ...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 6:58 pm
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?
Replies: 9
Views: 2105

Re: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?

I use Krown's product and do it myself. I've known the guys that run the Krown locally here for over 20 years now. I buy the product by the pail, and use my own spray gun to apply it. I wish they'd just give me a break on the price! Fortunately, it only takes a bit over a liter to do the whole car p...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:44 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: 2009 2.4 5 Speed Mait. Questions
Replies: 8
Views: 1435

Re: 2009 2.4 5 Speed Mait. Questions

Coolant wasn't mentioned, which definitely shouldn't be overlooked! Be sure to use either Toyota SLLP or a compatible fluid for newer Asian vehicles. It should be pre-mixed, and pink in color. Brake fluid probably wouldn't hurt either if it wasn't touched when the brakes were done. No power steering...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:28 am
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?
Replies: 9
Views: 2105

Re: 2010 Vibe - need rust protection?

In my area, I don't think any vehicle is impervious to rust and corrosion. We have frequent freeze/thaw cycles, lots of salt and calcium chloride brine sprayed on the roads, and plenty of moisture the rest of the year to help keep things going. I've thoroughly kept mine sprayed since new to hopefull...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 20, 2014 7:08 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: A/C Question
Replies: 6
Views: 1227

Re: A/C Question

Actually the A/C will not engage once the outside temp approaches freezing. As the last reply mentioned, less moisture can be held in the air as the temperature drops, so the need is also reduced for the drying effect as it gets colder. I believe that moisture would simply freeze on the coils if ope...
by j42.snyder
Fri Oct 11, 2013 7:36 pm
Forum: Handling, Suspension, & Brakes
Topic: OESpectrum Strut Review! 09 Vibe!
Replies: 6
Views: 2051

Re: OESpectrum Strut Review! 09 Vibe!

I'd be curious to know whether anyone on here has driven a newer Matrix to compare how it rides vs. a Vibe. Consumer Reports made statements about it having a decent ride, which I found difficult to believe based on my experience with the Vibe. Smooth and compliant it is not... Maybe these Monroe sh...
by j42.snyder
Fri Oct 11, 2013 7:23 pm
Forum: Tech Info & Do-It-Yourself Info
Topic: 2009+ TPMS disable
Replies: 18
Views: 15746

Re: 2009+ TPMS disable

WORKED LIKE A CHARM! I didn't even bother pulling the module out, I was able to snake my hand and pop the harness out. Getting the resistor to go into the connector was a bit of a struggle but I was able to get it in there. The light doesn't even come on when I key on now! I am not planning on putt...
by j42.snyder
Fri Oct 11, 2013 7:06 pm
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: 2005 Ac runs with Ac switch off
Replies: 10
Views: 1958

Re: 2005 Ac runs with Ac switch off

There is a mod you can do that's quite simple on the 2003 to 2008's. From what I remember, you just need to get behind the HVAC controls and unplug one connector. I believe it's a single yellow wire that connects in parallel with the A/C button up higher on the dash. Once unplugged, the car will no ...
by j42.snyder
Mon May 06, 2013 3:20 pm
Forum: Exterior
Topic: Removing 09+ Vibe Tail Lights
Replies: 10
Views: 3742

Re: Removing 09+ Vibe Tail Lights

I'm quite sure that all of the retaining bolts are accessible from inside the car. On the passenger side, that access may be a bit tight if your car came with a sub - mine did not, so I'm just guessing on that one. I remember going through there when running my connections for trailer lighting, and ...
by j42.snyder
Mon May 06, 2013 3:17 pm
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: Michelin Harmony
Replies: 3
Views: 1202

Re: Michelin Harmony

They will fit fine - just the speed rating is likely lower, like S or T. Some shops won't install different speed ratings from what the car was specified for when new. Higher speed rated tires generally have stiffer sidewalls for better handling. I use R rated winter tires without issue here. As lon...
by j42.snyder
Sat Apr 13, 2013 9:42 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Just hit 170k on my 09 GT
Replies: 12
Views: 2284

Re: Just hit 170k on my 09 GT

I'm just curious - any oil consumption yet? I have yet to see any with mine, but my brother has seen a bit with his starting around 70,000 miles. Nothing too extreme from what he's told me - but definitely needs to add about a quart between normal change intervals. I've read that this can be a poten...
by j42.snyder
Sat Apr 13, 2013 9:28 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: 2009 Vibe Speed Sensitive Power Steering Failure
Replies: 23
Views: 6217

Re: 2009 Vibe Speed Sensitive Power Steering Failure

I don't recall seeing this posted previously either. Does the steering light come on when the failure occurs? Please keep us updated, as it's good info for future reference. Hopefully the fix doesn't end up being too expensive! At least there should potentially be a number of used parts available if...
by j42.snyder
Sat Apr 13, 2013 9:22 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: one more "vs" ? - GT vs. AWD (2009)
Replies: 10
Views: 1633

Re: one more "vs" ? - GT vs. AWD (2009)

I must admit that the only powertrain combination I did not test drive was the 2009 AWD. I found that the 1.8's were adequate for normal daily use, but felt that they were clearly having to work notably harder to accelerate once adding a bit of a load - such as passengers. Because I sometimes tow be...
by j42.snyder
Thu Dec 13, 2012 4:43 pm
Forum: GenVibe Garage
Topic: star_deceiver's new ride
Replies: 55
Views: 13317

Re: star_deceiver's new ride

They would fit - the 1.8 bolt pattern is the same all the way through! Only the 2.4's that are different. I think they'd look good on a white one too! By the way - nice looking ride! I was wondering what Chevy was offering that you'd be trading the Vibe for. I noticed your post about the "final...
by j42.snyder
Fri Nov 23, 2012 6:46 pm
Forum: Tech Info & Do-It-Yourself Info
Topic: 2009+ TPMS disable
Replies: 18
Views: 15746

2009+ TPMS disable

I don't believe anyone else on here has posted a way to keep the TPMS light "OFF" other than simply putting a piece of tape over it. I did some searching on a RAV4 forum, and found a solution. All it requires is a 3.3 kOhm resistor. 1/4 watt or 1/2 watt will work fine. The TPMS "compu...
by j42.snyder
Tue Sep 18, 2012 7:45 pm
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: TPMS sensors and aftermarket wheels
Replies: 19
Views: 4603

Re: TPMS sensors and aftermarket wheels

We tend to get a fair bit of ice around here, as the temperature often swings from just above to just below freezing. Often there's a nice layer of ice hiding under fresh snow on the roads making intersections interesting. We occasionally get colder snaps (I think the lowest I've seen the Vibe's tem...
by j42.snyder
Tue Sep 18, 2012 7:35 pm
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: Maintenance Calendar
Replies: 3
Views: 1274

Re: Maintenance Calendar

Some maintenance requirements will vary depending on driving habits and usage too. For the auto transmission - these transmissions use Toyota WS fluid only. I wouldn't be too worried about the "3 times" system unless it looked unusually dark or smelled strange. I drained mine and refilled ...
by j42.snyder
Tue Sep 18, 2012 6:57 pm
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: TPMS sensors and aftermarket wheels
Replies: 19
Views: 4603

Re: TPMS sensors and aftermarket wheels

Don't forget to get your tires studded! I'm in St. Catharines too, and as he said in the original post - we can't run studded tires here. That's why I went with Blizzaks when I bought mine. They were expensive (4 tires and new steel rims over $900!), but I've been happy with them so far. I'm really...
by j42.snyder
Sat Jul 14, 2012 6:15 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: The Official "What's Your Gas Mileage?" Thread
Replies: 634
Views: 925603

Re: The Official "What's Your Gas Mileage?" Thread

Remember - I have the 2.4 1SB, not your light weight 1SA 1.8 manual... Technically I should be able to do that - but once the gage reads "E", I don't like to push it quite as far as you have. I don't really trust it, nor do I want to purposefully run out. I think yesterday I went about 675...
by j42.snyder
Sat Jul 14, 2012 6:21 am
Forum: Interior
Topic: the vibe can haul........
Replies: 227
Views: 179857

Re: the vibe can haul........

I'd like to see a photo of the effect of that load on the rear suspension! Mine's seen its fair share of loads too. I don't think I posted these - but this was last year on a dump run. I'm not sure what the weight was, but the guy in the truck beside me couldn't believe how much stuff kept coming ou...
by j42.snyder
Sat Jul 14, 2012 6:09 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Disabling the DRL on 09 Vibe
Replies: 17
Views: 5186

Re: Disabling the DRL on 09 Vibe

Read through this thread:
viewtopic.php?f=18&t=28390" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
by j42.snyder
Sat Jul 14, 2012 5:56 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: The Official "What's Your Gas Mileage?" Thread
Replies: 634
Views: 925603

Re: The Official "What's Your Gas Mileage?" Thread

Not to rain on anyone's parade - but I'm pretty sure I've got the best average mileage with a 2.4 (auto) from anyone on here. From what I can tell, I've only been beaten by one or two 1.8L's on Fuelly for the 2009-10 models. My overall average since new has been 31.9MPG over about 67,000 miles and 2...
by j42.snyder
Sun Jun 10, 2012 6:55 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: How does running A/C affect your MPG's?
Replies: 11
Views: 2552

Re: How does running A/C affect your MPG's?

10-15% seems about right from my findings. When mine does get used, it's typically been on my drive home from work - virtually never in the morning going in. On tanks when I've used it daily for the trip home, I see about a 5-7% drop compared to average (technically I measure an increase in consumpt...
by j42.snyder
Fri May 25, 2012 7:00 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2.4 Direct Shift Mode 5 Spd Auto 2010 GT
Replies: 6
Views: 2055

Re: 2.4 Direct Shift Mode 5 Spd Auto 2010 GT

The 2.4 and transmision setup in your car is no different from what's in my base - your differences are all suspension and trim. 5 is an option to select of course - it IS a 5 speed transmission. Why wouldn't you want the ability to select "5" rather than have to pop it back over to "...
by j42.snyder
Fri May 25, 2012 12:26 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2009 2.4L mpg
Replies: 39
Views: 12848

Re: 2009 2.4L mpg

Still pretty happy with mine for mileage. Click on the Fuelly link in my signature to see all my stats since new. Every single tank recorded! Overall economy is only slightly worse than my previous Sunfire, which was a bare bones manual transmission car with no A/C or power anything (like SD's 1SA V...
by j42.snyder
Fri May 25, 2012 12:20 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2.4 Direct Shift Mode 5 Spd Auto 2010 GT
Replies: 6
Views: 2055

Re: 2.4 Direct Shift Mode 5 Spd Auto 2010 GT

I have had my 2009 2.4L Vibe since new. I also test drove another and found it to work exactly the same way. The "S" setting only limits the HIGHEST gear it can use - otherwise it operates fully automatically - although supposedly in a "sportier" fashion, although I fail to notic...
by j42.snyder
Fri May 18, 2012 5:37 pm
Forum: Off Topic
Topic: Onstar, meet Minority Report
Replies: 5
Views: 1815

Re: Onstar, meet Minority Report

Pulling the fuse located in the underhood box labelled "MAYDAY" will also shut down OnStar and darken the mirror buttons, with no other effects. Mine's been out for over 2 years now. That way if you ever so choose to re-enable it, or sell the car, it's easy to put right back. This is on 20...
by j42.snyder
Mon May 07, 2012 6:00 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Is your Vibe used commercially?
Replies: 9
Views: 2383

Re: Is your Vibe used commercially?

Mine may not see official commercial use - but it gets its regular share of carting stuff around. Just this past weekend, one day it was filled up with a couple of 8' fence posts, some 8' 2X4's, and a whole pile of 6' fencing slats. The next day it made an out of town run with all of the audio equip...
by j42.snyder
Mon May 07, 2012 5:50 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2.4L auto trans performance question when lifting throttle
Replies: 6
Views: 1204

Re: 2.4L auto trans performance question when lifting thrott

I think your transmission is operating as intended - we've had a couple of brief discussions on this on here in the past. It's probably because of the fuel cutoff when the throttle is closed that makes it so apparent. Although I haven't driven it enough recently to directly comment on its decelerati...
by j42.snyder
Mon May 07, 2012 5:44 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: 2009 Vibe, saying hello, asking a question
Replies: 12
Views: 2268

Re: 2009 Vibe, saying hello, asking a question

I think it really depends on what you're used to driving. I think as the car gets more miles (or kilometers) on it, the ride is slowly improving - or I'm getting more used to it. I also found it very harsh and "bouncy" at first - very "trucky" compared to the Sunfire I had before...
by j42.snyder
Sat Apr 07, 2012 11:33 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Timing Belt Replacement interval 2.4?
Replies: 2
Views: 2357

No timing belt used - chain driven. Chains do not specify a change interval for routine maintenance. Most should not require replacement under "normal" usage - although nothing lasts forever! I have not heard of any common issues with chains on these engines. They've been around since abou...
by j42.snyder
Wed Apr 04, 2012 12:49 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2009 Vibe (Dexcool or Toyota Pink)
Replies: 24
Views: 7985

Re: (DocDoug)

Sorry - yes I was referring to the automatic transmission fluid specified. I haven't heard anything about the manual transmission fluid specification being wrong. I seem to recall however that it does call for a fairly heavy oil for that - so I'd probably stick with a synthetic replacement to avoid ...
by j42.snyder
Mon Apr 02, 2012 12:55 pm
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: Tire pressure on an 09 GT
Replies: 9
Views: 2385

Maybe try checking it with a different gauge too just to see how it compares. I bought a cheaper dial type gauge once that read about 5PSI too high! I haven't trusted cheap gauges since.I was keeping my winter tires around 34, but I've found that the centers are worn about 1/32" more than the o...
by j42.snyder
Mon Apr 02, 2012 12:45 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2009 Vibe (Dexcool or Toyota Pink)
Replies: 24
Views: 7985

The manuals specify Toyota Type IV transmission fluid, but 2009+ (and maybe older) all use Toyota WS. There are a few generic fluids out there that claim to meet WS spec, but I figured it was easiest to just buy it directly from Toyota. I expect to get the coolant there as well when it's due for a c...
by j42.snyder
Tue Mar 06, 2012 1:07 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: New Member, Hit 100K today on my 2010 Vibe GT.
Replies: 15
Views: 2201

Re: New Member, Hit 100K today on my 2010 Vibe GT. (meanolgoat)

Wow - that's a fair commute you've got there! Glad I'm not driving that far with the gas prices around here! Cost me $56 to fill mine yesterday You don't have a timing belt on the 2.4. Both the 1.8 and 2.4 have chains that shouldn't require regular maintenance. Just keep an eye on the serpentine bel...
by j42.snyder
Sun Mar 04, 2012 12:32 pm
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: 2009 Vibe GT - Electrical / Computer problems ...
Replies: 7
Views: 3062

If you did the mod that allows you to disable the DRL's, you probably cut the power trigger wire going to the light control module. If this wire accidentally grounded (shorted) - it would likely trip a fuse - a 10A one if I remember correctly. Toyota uses a single circuit tied to ignition to act as ...
by j42.snyder
Fri Mar 02, 2012 10:24 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Manual or Automatic Transmission. Which do you prefer?
Replies: 57
Views: 17645

I think each transmission has its advantages and disadvantages.My first car was a manual ('77 Dodge Aspen R/T with 318 and 3+OD 4 speed), and it was a nightmare to own. The previous owner had apparently smoked the clutch, and then replaced it without machining the flywheel. After I owned it a while,...
by j42.snyder
Fri Mar 02, 2012 9:33 am
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: What did you do to your Vibe today?
Replies: 3701
Views: 6074491

I too like the look of those rims. Take a look at your tires though - are they mounted correctly? The side wall shown on the close-up appears to be the "inside" sidewall on the RSA's - but it's clearly facing the outside. They're not directional tires - but they are asymmetrical. The sidew...
by j42.snyder
Tue Feb 28, 2012 12:19 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: The Official "What's Your Gas Mileage?" Thread
Replies: 634
Views: 925603

My last fill-up was 7.7L/100km (30.6MPG U.S.) with about 70% of that being highway driving. It's been pretty consistent this year - my best being 7.2L/100km (32.6 MPG), and the worst being 8.0L/100km (29.5 MPG) when we actually had some deeper snow to plow through for a few days. Can't complain too ...
by j42.snyder
Tue Feb 28, 2012 12:11 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: The Official "Price You Paid For Gas" Thread
Replies: 1661
Views: 1532220

I'm rather envious of most of you still. So far this year, my average cost has been $4.61 per U.S. gallon, or $1.22/L for regular 87. My average cost per fill has been $48.58, and I've already spent $486 on gas just this year! I only drive when absolutely necessary, otherwise I walk - or I'd have sp...
by j42.snyder
Tue Feb 28, 2012 12:03 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Block heater cord
Replies: 2
Views: 1045

Re: Block heater cord (PMC)

What year is the Vibe? I know Canadian Tire can get them - I think they were around $30 when I looked it up before. When they had a sale on, I only paid around $40 for the heater with cord together! It works great. I don't know why the stealerships charge so much - all likely made by the same manufa...
by j42.snyder
Mon Feb 06, 2012 12:56 am
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: j42.snyder How much PSI you inflated to your Goodyear RSA?
Replies: 6
Views: 1711

Re: j42.snyder How much PSI you inflated to your Goodyear RSA? (cq358)

Sorry - usually check daily but must have missed this one!I typically try to keep them between 32 and 34. Even at that, I've noticed some very minimal cupping happening on the rear tires if left there for a period of time. The fronts seem to wear perfectly evenly. I'm guessing that the strange wear ...
by j42.snyder
Sat Feb 04, 2012 3:21 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Towing UHaul with 2003 Pontiac Vibe
Replies: 4
Views: 1354

I've seen someone else on here tow close to 2000 pounds with a 2009 1.8, and it seems to have been okay so far. The trailer you're looking at shows a empty weight of 850 pounds, and they're not much taller than the car. They're also narrow enough to easily see past with your side view mirrors. You'l...
by j42.snyder
Mon Jan 23, 2012 6:49 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Perfect driving record?
Replies: 18
Views: 3786

So far, no tickets (thank goodness!), and only insurance claim to date was from kids vandalizing my car when I was at work. That was in 1996. I've been licensed since 1989.I was rear ended once, but fortunately there was no damage. Miss those days of having durable steel bumpers... that was in my '7...