2005 Vibe base model
When it's cold out, it seems like it takes forever to get good heat from the vents, and to get up to operating temp via the gauge. Almost impossible from sitting idle. For instance, this morning:
14 degrees, I start it up at 6:30am. Let it run in the driveway until right around 6:45. When we get in it the gauge has barely moved, lukewarm heat, still freezing in the cabin. Drive two miles, half of which at around 50mph, the other half 35mph. Arrived at my fiancee's work and it's halfway or so to normal temps via the gauge. Halfway back home it reaches the halfway mark, normal reading on the gauge and the heat starts blazing and my son and I finally thaw out lol.
Once the car reaches operating temp we never lose heat, the gauge stays where it's supposed to be, etc. Blower blows great, and every thing else seems to be in working order, fluids are full, etc. My sister also owns a vibe and hers doesn't take as long. She lets hers warm up in the driveway and when she gets in it, it's ready to go.
I suspect the thermostat may be sticking open a little but my fiancee, seems to think it's "probably normal" and changing out the thermostat won't change anything. What are your thoughts? February marks the 2 year mark of ownership and the only thing we've done is change oil, cabin filter, air filter. No issues with the car except this slow to heat thing.