2003 Base Owner

[Flacco92]

Hi there,

Just wanted to introduce myself. I've owned a black 2003 base since 2012. Got it with around 85k on it I believe. It's getting close to 180k now. Been an excellent car and am probably going to get a second one soon as my wife and I can't share with our jobs anymore.

I found this forum originally a few months ago when I was trying to figure out how to fix the AC clutch... Which I did successfully with some very helpful write-ups.

Now that this thing is starting to get up there in miles, I want to learn more about any common issues or general long-term maintenance I should start planning to do. If you can redirect me to any threads regarding general long-term maintenance that would be great!

Things I've done since owning it:

Replaced Starter (160k-ish)
Replaced Alternator (165k-ish)
Replaced AC Clutch Assembly (175k)
Replaced Serpentine Belt (145k-ish)
Replaced Blend Door Actuator (175k)
Replaced Battery (175k)
Replaced Front Disc Brake Pads 3x
Replaced Front Disc Brake Rotors once
Replaced 20 lug nuts once
Replaced Rear Drum Brake Pads once (150k-ish)
Replaced Cabin Air Filter
Regular Oil Changes every 3000 miles
Replaced Engine Air Filter twice I think

Starting to leak oil a little bit out of one of the main seals. It uses about 1/2 quart of oil between changes, not too bad, just keep it topped off. I have learned a lot about how to work on cars since I've done everything myself when it's broken down. I would like to continue to perform all jobs that I'm capable of.

Thanks!

[KingKrab65]

Welcome aboard. This is a great forum and awesome commentators with lots of help and experience to offer.

You might try this out. It has helped me out greatly in the past.

viewtopic.php?f=20&t=44875&p=509500&hil ... er#p509500

Hope it helps you out.

[zbyers]

Welcome to the best forum on the internet. Feel free to post some pictures of your Vibe!

Random side note...Any relation to Joe?

[Flacco92]

Thanks, this is super helpful! Definitely need to replace brake fluid, and probably calipers while I’m at it.

And I wish, lol. I am a chef and it was the first nickname the guys in the kitchen gave me, cause it basically means ‘skinny white guy’ en Español.

[tpollauf]

Welcome to GenVibe. Glad you eventually found us here. Sounds like you have a good one too! Any rust or corrosion issues yet? Are you located where it's subjected to nasty winter weather? Update profile for us. Visit here often

[Flacco92]

No issues. I bought the car in Michigan, so that’s pretty surprising. Just had to replace brake rotors and lug nuts when I did the brakes for the first time. It’s been a west coast car ever since.

What am I missing on my profile that I should add?

And I’ll upload some pics soon! Is it better to post a photobucket link or embed directly in the thread?

[tpollauf]

What am I missing on my profile that I should add?

Location (see my profile) ... unless you're in a witness protection program and need to hide under a rock! We like to know members whereabouts especially if "on hands" help would be needed and one of us just happens to be close to you.