Hello,
My car the past three years is a smooth running 2009 Vibe, base version front wheel drive, manual transmission, 1.8L engine now with 85,000 miles which I am planning to never sell. I am very happy with the Vibe design and driving experience so will make repairs as needed over the coming years rather than ever looking to buy any other car. Location is Mid-Atlantic area.
(a) Radiator
What is the proper coolant fluid to use with the 2009 1.8L engine ?
I recently had the radiator completely flushed then filled with Dexcool because the mechanic said to use the fluid specified in the owner's manual. I assume it is okay because of not being mixed with other types of coolant. What coolant will be best to use after the next radiator flush ?
(b) Manual transmission
What are the best fluids to install for each of these goals: best lubrication and long tranny life, best gas mileage, and quietest operation ?
I assume the manual tranny maintenance is to completely drain out the old fluid then install new fluid rather than flushing like an automatic transmission. Does the manual tranny have a filter to replace ? Note --- please reply with information about maintaining a ~manual~ tranny rather than automatic tranny.
(c) Engine
What are the best fluids to install for each of these goals: best lubrication and long engine life, best gas mileage, and quietest operation ?
Also, what oil filter ? Current oil is fossil fuel Pennzoil and as far as I know the car has never had synthetic oil.
(d) Spark plugs
What spark plugs to use, and what gap distance ?
(e) What are the most common Vibe parts needing maintenance other than the basic upkeep mentioned above ?
Advice will be much appreciated to enjoy this car for a long, long time !
Kevin