First off, this is my first post, but I have been searching this forum for quite some time, and I owe it (at least partially) to you guys for helping me decide on buying a Vibe.
I've got a decent amount of questions regarding my Vibe, and keep in mind I'm not the most car-savvy guy out there, but I do know some stuff, so help me out by keeping replies on a simplistic level
First questions: How do I open my rear glass? It looks like it has a handle on the wiper area, and 2 shocks attached to the glass and upper plastic housing, but no matter what I try I can't open it. My friend said there should be a button to the left of the steering wheel, but all I have is the coin holder and what looks like a red light. I also read in the user manual that if you turn the key a certain way in the rear key hole, it'll unlock the glass, but I've had no luck with that.
Second: My check engine light came on yesterday. Car seems to be operating as normal. I had the code checked and it's a p0741. Could this be due to the recalled PCM? I called a local GM dealer and set up an appointment for Monday. If my PCM is good, what should I do next to remedy this CEL? I located my PCM and the number on it is "89661-02k41" Is that one included in the recalls?
Third: I bought this car with 131xxx miles on it, now it's close to 133k. I doubt the tranny fluid has ever been changed, as it looks extremely dark. I've heard so many varying statements/opinions on whether or not the fluid should be changed this late, and if it is to be changed, how to change it. Could anyone recommend the safest (even if it is more costly/tedious) thing to do, whether it be just a simple drain/refill, drain/refill process, or just leave it be?
Fourth: My coolant overflow tank is missing. I didn't realize until a week or so after purchase. The car doesn't seem to run hot, and the needle is always in the same place once it warms up (I can post a picture to compare it with others if needed. I just want to see if it runs hotter than others or not). So what's the best thing to do for a replacement? Find one from a scrapped vibe/(maybe matrix) or buy a "universal" one from a parts store. If I buy a universal, does anyone know which one will actually fit?
Fifth: The plastic panel on the driver's side floorboard, to the left of where I put my left foot (where I imagine the clutch would be) is missing. Dealer said he has one on order and will send it to me once he gets it. But it looks like there's a few loose/torn wires there, and if anyone has any ideas on what they might be to, I'd love to hear it. All the plastic connectors seem to be in place and intact, so I have no idea what they'd go to, but if someone wants to help me out, I'll gladly post a pic of that too.
Sixth: After-market cruise control. I've seen a few "plug-and-play" units, and I was wondering if they are too good to be true. I found one on Amazon for around $50 and supposedly fits my vibe. My car doesn't have cruise control, so I think it would be a nice add-on. Anyone have any experience with these?
I think that's all I have for now, but more questions will probably come up in the future. Thank you guys for all the help previous, and I look forward to what everyone has to say!