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2003 Vibe GT VVT issues and more

Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 9:58 am
by Oldetree
The biggest issue is the VVT, check engine came on, and it appears to be the "First bank" of VVT, which I believe means the first piston in an i4 engine? I was wondering if anyone here has tried to repair the VVT and if they had any tips, or if I shouldn't even bother and just take it in. Also, is it a big enough problem that I shouldn't drive it until it's fixed?

Smaller things:
The engine will only start with the clutch in full, yet my car has a remote start???
There is no emergency brake, should I install one myself or give it to a mechanic?
I pulled apart the broken rear wiper gearbox and found the plastic gear that wore away, can I find just that gear anywhere?
Is it OK to run the car just under the redline once it heats up properly?

Re: 2003 Vibe GT VVT issues and more

Posted: Fri Jan 19, 2018 12:16 pm
by jolt
Did you read through this post? viewtopic.php?t=34751

If this is plugged or restricted, you will have problems. What was the code you got if it?

Some more reading: https://community.cartalk.com/t/toyota- ... vity/91977

Re: 2003 Vibe GT VVT issues and more

Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2018 2:02 pm
by runningslow
Oldetree wrote:Smaller things:
The engine will only start with the clutch in full, yet my car has a remote start???
There is no emergency brake, should I install one myself or give it to a mechanic?
I pulled apart the broken rear wiper gearbox and found the plastic gear that wore away, can I find just that gear anywhere?
Is it OK to run the car just under the redline once it heats up properly?
I've got nothing for you on your primary issue, but as for the others...
First of all, that remote starter is not factory and from guys I've talked to, most shops won't install them in manual transmission cars. That being said, as I understand it, there are two different schools of thought for remote starters in manual cars. First, if it was a system that was intended to use with an automatic, it should probably be wired up so that it will only start with the parking (aka emergency) brake engaged. The other approach is for Manual Safe starters that make you do a little dance each time you shut off the car so that the car will know its safe to start next time. Both situations would require the parking brake to be engaged.

So, does your car not have even have a parking brake or does it just not work? I've heard from many people say that the parking brake on 1st Gen GTs is terrible. Thankfully, I haven't had any issues with mine, yet. If the lever is there, pull on it and see if you get a "brake" light to turn on in your cluster. If it comes on, put the car in neutral and try to start it with the remote. Block the wheels if you have to prevent it from rolling. DO NOT TRY TO START THE CAR WITH IT IN GEAR.

As for the broken wiper gearbox, I would just suggest trying to grab a complete replacement out of a junkyard car. Highly unlikely you'll be able to source a replacement gear, so it'll be easier to replace whole. I can't imagine the whole unit would cost too much used. Around me, using an app/website like Row52 is great for finding parts cars.

Re: 2003 Vibe GT VVT issues and more

Posted: Tue Jan 30, 2018 2:58 pm
by Caretaker
not sure if your rear wiper part is contained in this diagram, but I thought I'd send it along nonetheless. After clicking on the link below, select the right most of the two graphics boxes to show the entire assembly. From Conicelli Auto:

https://parts.conicellitoyotaofconshoho ... dhcw%3D%3D