Looking to purchase a 2003 Vibe..anything I should look for?

[mbz321]

New member here really interested in replacing my aging Nissan 200sx with a Vibe. I came across this one at the local lot

2003 Vibe in the rare 'Envy Green' color. 105,xxx miles. Dealer wants 5,500, which is oddly under KBB's value. Exterior is in pretty good condition with a few small scrapes in the plastic and a very unnoticeable, small dent on one side by the bumper. Inside is clean.

Before I go and test drive, do you guys think this is a good deal? Is there anything I should be on the lookout for mechanically, etc.? Thanks!

Some pics I took since the dealer failed to include any online:
http://tinypic.com/r/2uot9nt/5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://tinypic.com/r/96m6w0/5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://tinypic.com/r/v3gly1/5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://tinypic.com/r/10i5qh2/5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Doug14]

is it an auto or manual? the 03 vibe base is prone to transmission issues due to a bearing failure so be careful of that

[mbz321]

It's an Auto...and ugh transmission issues...that's why I'm dumping my current Nissan..worn bearings in the trans.

[Doug14]

Yeah gotta love that haha. You should be fine with an auto though

[zythr]

There were some issues with oil use on some engines. If you just have to test out this car, make sure/ask about the oil issue and if it has the new dipstick,, the original read too low, which could mean the engine was "starved" for some oil.


FYI- Depending on how long you would own the car, if you buy, the ODO will top out at 299,999 k/miles. There is no fix, expect to replace the odo/cluster.

[mbz321]

Well, this car was still sitting on the lot, and they lowered the price a lot, so it's mine now! Will post some better pics soon. The dealer detailed it up a bit before purchase. Now only if it wasn't so hot out here so I can get started doing some basic fix-ups on it (like disabling the DRL's...).

[Doug14]

Congrats! glad you got it!

[mbz321]

Quick Pic in the blistering sun:
(I'm gussing this is/was not "factory" tint on the windows?)

I'm already amazed at all the cargo storage spots...looks like the dealer forgot about the small rectangular spot behind the rear seats though..as I found a rusty can of fix-a-flat and some smelly work gloves .

[Rayven01]

Congrats! That olive shade of green isn't everyone's cup of tea so that color is pretty rare I think. First one I've seen.

[jake75]

Color might have contributed to the relatively low price. I don't think any years ever had factory tinted windows - Vibe or Matrix.
[There might be a slight tint.] I actually prefer it that way.

[ColonelPanic]

Congrats! Envy Vibes were awesome.

I've only seen one in real life -- a GT that's been running around town since new.

[tef1964]

LOVE that colour! I really wanted it. I bought a 2003 AWD VIBE new in 2003. Still running great (except I did have to rebuild the transmission....). I ended up with blue...what was available on the lot. I am.....envious....

[vibenvy]

I'd drive a monotone Envy Vibe for sure ! There's a two-tone Envy Vibe that I see every so often around here. My mom actually talked to the owner at the gas station one time. He said he loved his Vibe and commented on how it's easy to spot in a parking lot, especially in the winter !