Search found 53 matches

by vibrtor
Sat Jun 07, 2008 7:20 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Stock Radio question about the Aux CD button
Replies: 5
Views: 2117

Re: Stock Radio question about the Aux CD button (marc555)

Is there an auxbox with a usb port to allow me to connect my flash drive to play my mp3's? Or do I need an an adapter cable to connect to the auxbox? Or is there another way to do this using the cd/aux button ('05 w/M&T and XM)?
by vibrtor
Sat Jun 07, 2008 6:30 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: (Joli)

See my further comments on the JVC in the Radio Upgrade topic. I returned the unit to Crutchfield - absolutely no hassle and they paid return shipping. Kudos to them - they're a good outfit to do business with. Not the cheapest place, but, in situations like this, it's worth the added expense. Most ...
by vibrtor
Sat Jun 07, 2008 6:09 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Radio upgrade
Replies: 2
Views: 1224

Re: Radio upgrade (kunkstyle)

Spent a lot of time investigating aftermarket HU's. Even bought one - JVC KW-XG700 DD unit. Very disappointed. Terrible glare from display - couldn't even see it except at night. (Now I know why Pontiac put a non-glare, polarized lens in their radio, although, when I wear my polarized sunglasses, th...
by vibrtor
Fri Jun 06, 2008 3:01 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Radio upgrade
Replies: 2
Views: 1224

Radio upgrade

Want to replace my '05 HU ( single CD, M&T, XM) with an '06-'08 MP3 with M&T (XM not a priority). Spoke with the dealer who contacted Delco. Delco says it won't operate in my car due to incompatibility with the VIN. I didn't think the VIN made any difference on these cars. Yet when they repl...
by vibrtor
Thu Jun 05, 2008 6:11 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: (Joli)

Just installed the JVC radio. Big problem - the display lens is so reflective, I can't see the display. And the display isn't bright enough in the daylight either. Now I know why Pontiac put a polarized lens on the factory unit. I would think you're having the same problem.
by vibrtor
Wed May 28, 2008 11:34 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (Joli)

Thanks for the info. I'm pretty much sold on the unit. I don't think there's anything better out there in a DDin radio. Even tho the Clarion includes an XM tuner, I don't subscribe to XM, so it's no biggie. My factory unit has XM too. May try to sell it.
by vibrtor
Wed May 28, 2008 11:30 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (Joli)

OOoooooo, that's purty. Red buttons go well with the rest of the dash.
by vibrtor
Wed May 28, 2008 6:10 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (Joli)

I stumbled on a photo of the JVC last night - pure luck (see attachment). But I'd still like to see pics of yours in the Vibe. I'm familiar with all the connections/mods that have to be made. A few questions: 1. When you connect the orange/White (illumination) wire on the HU to the blk/wht(?) wire o...
by vibrtor
Tue May 27, 2008 12:21 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (Joli)

Would really like to see pics of the unit in the car. I'm torn between the JVC and the Clarion DUZ385SAT.
by vibrtor
Mon May 26, 2008 6:18 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: New Double Din HU Installed!
Replies: 18
Views: 6580

Re: New Double Din HU Installed! (hambox)

This is one of two HU's I'm considering. The other is a JVC KW-XG700. Both get high ratings from Crutchfield owner feedback. I like the simpler operation of the JVC, but dislike the red buttons (my eyes have a problem with red - blurry). But you've got a real nice unit there. And it's a good deal wi...
by vibrtor
Thu May 15, 2008 2:54 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (Joli)

Are you referring to the JVC or the Panasonic HU? Have you had any problems leaving the flash drive plugged in when you start the car and the source is set on USB? (In another posting, I'd noted that mfrs' user manuals say to not start the car with the flash drive connected).
by vibrtor
Thu May 15, 2008 2:45 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: HU with usb port
Replies: 9
Views: 1980

Re: HU with usb port (kunkstyle)

That's what I was hoping to hear. I figured, as long as the radio isn't set to USB when it's started, there's no problem.
by vibrtor
Wed May 14, 2008 10:38 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: HU with usb port
Replies: 9
Views: 1980

Re: HU with usb port (vibrtor)

JVC customer support said starting the car with the flash drive installed may destroy the data (via a voltage spike(?)). I would think, as long as the HU source is not set on USB, there wouldn't be a problem. I never had a problem with my desktop or laptop when the usb port was turned off via "...
by vibrtor
Wed May 14, 2008 5:05 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: HU with usb port
Replies: 9
Views: 1980

HU with usb port

I've been researching aftermarket HU's with front usb port and am finding that the manufacturer states that you should not start the vehicle with the flash drive installed.This means you have to take it out and reinsert it each time you start the car. This seems totally illogical to me. It's like ha...
by vibrtor
Wed May 14, 2008 2:41 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (vibrtor)

I should clarify something. I'm not after an HU with all the bells and whistles. I'm mainly after a unit with a front USB port for my flash drive. DVD capability not desired and satellite not a priority. I use my flash drive thru an fm modulator now and it's adequate, but features and sound quality ...
by vibrtor
Wed May 14, 2008 2:03 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (nygiantzz1)

I think you're misunderstanding something, guys - I'm not getting the HD at Walmart, just the harness/antenna adapter kit and the dash kit there. Beach Audio has the radio for $182 including shipping. However, having just checked their return policy, I'm not going to get it there either.How about th...
by vibrtor
Tue May 13, 2008 6:12 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Re: Aftermarket Radio (nygiantzz1)

Yep, it's a nice unit and Crutchfield is a good outfit. But I can purchase it for about $70 less (incl. shipping) than Crutchfield. The harness/antenna adapter is at Walmart for 7.50 and the faceplate kit is $6 online (not even sure if it's needed). Installation is not at all difficult, so I'm savin...
by vibrtor
Tue May 13, 2008 5:49 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Aftermarket Radio
Replies: 23
Views: 5476

Aftermarket Radio

Came across this HU. Looks pretty nice, good specs, excellent user reviews. Has anyone purchased this unit. Would appreciate feedback. [IMG][/IMG] http://www.crutchfield.com/App...GX700
by vibrtor
Thu May 08, 2008 4:09 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack?
Replies: 12
Views: 3133

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (w8_4_me)

Sorry guy - haven't browsed the site in awhile. The FM modulator at WalMart has been updated with a remote control now included (saw it a few days ago. It's in the audio dept of many stores.
by vibrtor
Tue Apr 08, 2008 3:37 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack?
Replies: 12
Views: 3133

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (Eloi)

This is the most expedient and least costly way to use your flash drive in the factory radio. I have one of these and it's performed reasonably well for what it cost. http://www.walmart.com/catalog...56678
by vibrtor
Tue Apr 08, 2008 3:14 am
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: Vibe Tires
Replies: 20
Views: 4213

Re: Vibe Tires (agksimon)

I have the opposite problem - my tires won't wear out. I have the Eagle RSA's, 33k on them and they still have 50% of the freakin' tread left. Their longevity may be due to the fact that I live in FL - the roads here are a lot kinder to tires. Rotate them every 8-10k. Other than that, they're the wo...
by vibrtor
Fri Oct 19, 2007 2:00 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: '06/07 radio
Replies: 1
Views: 777

Re: '06/07 radio (vibrtor)

Forgot one thing - also have XM which I don't use. I don't think they make an MP3 with XM and M&T anyway, do they?
by vibrtor
Fri Oct 19, 2007 1:58 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: '06/07 radio
Replies: 1
Views: 777

'06/07 radio

Have an '05 with M&T. Want to replace it with an MP3 unit. Will the '06/07 US8 radio work with the M&T. Are the plugs the same?
by vibrtor
Fri Oct 19, 2007 1:50 am
Forum: Latest News
Topic: MPG
Replies: 7
Views: 2776

Re: MPG (VivaVibe)

29 vs 30 locally is inconsequential. How you get 40 hwy piques my curiosity. The engine revs too high at 75mph. (If you go much slower than that, you're a roadkill here). I wish they'd put a 5 speed auto in the car. We'd all be getting 40+. I imagine if I replaced the $%&!* OEM Goodyear tires I'...
by vibrtor
Mon Oct 15, 2007 8:15 am
Forum: Interior
Topic: A/C STINKS!
Replies: 11
Views: 2331

Re: A/C STINKS! (jkm311)

I've had an ongoing problem with the "stink". Just replaced the cabin filter...and it still stinks. Dealer hit it with some stuff - lasts for a few days, then it stinks again. It's very frustrating.
by vibrtor
Mon Oct 15, 2007 8:04 am
Forum: Latest News
Topic: MPG
Replies: 7
Views: 2776

Re: MPG (vibrtor)

One more thing: Keep the tires at 32 psi or better although more than 32 can make for a rough ride. Low tire pressure will really suck up mileage.
by vibrtor
Mon Oct 15, 2007 7:58 am
Forum: Latest News
Topic: MPG
Replies: 7
Views: 2776

MPG

Hey Gang,For those of you complaining of lousy gas mileage, try a couple things:1. Lose the lead foot. I realize the Vibe is hurting in the hp dept, but save it for when you really need it - like getting onto the interstate. 2. Use synthetic oil, even if it's WalMart's brand. It makes a difference. ...
by vibrtor
Thu Jul 12, 2007 1:38 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Replacement factory radio
Replies: 4
Views: 1433

Re: (northvibe)

Had the radio replaced this morning. Turns out that when the factory radio is replaced, they do have to program the VIN into the unit or it won't work. I guess that's the reason for the blinky-light - it's stating that, "I won't work in your car unless you do some very basic programming." ...
by vibrtor
Thu Jul 12, 2007 1:25 am
Forum: Latest News
Topic: 2008 Vibe
Replies: 34
Views: 9895

2008 Vibe

Just saw an '08 Vibe this morning at the dealer. Just happened to be the same color as mine - Platinum with grey cladding. It's identical to the '05-'07. Not one bit of change. The only way you can tell it's an '08 is by the VIN (or the window sticker) . This is really disappointing. Maybe GM will b...
by vibrtor
Thu Jul 05, 2007 10:39 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Replacement factory radio
Replies: 4
Views: 1433

Replacement factory radio

The dealer is replacing my defective unit with a new one. The service manager claims there's time-consuming programming to be done on the new unit to make it operable. I told them that, as far as I know, no such thing is required. He said it's due to the theftlock feature. I then proceded to tell hi...
by vibrtor
Sun Jul 01, 2007 8:57 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: MP3 radio
Replies: 0
Views: 718

MP3 radio

Currently have '05 with RDs/EQ/etc, XM and M&T. I want MP3 capability. Will the '06 US8 option work or will I lose the XM feature? If not, which Vibe radio has MP3, XM and M&T?
by vibrtor
Thu Aug 24, 2006 7:46 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: What do you use to listen to music the most while in your car?
Replies: 34
Views: 6231

Re: What do you use to listen to music the most while in your car? (BlueCrush)

FM modulator with USB input. Have 1Gb flash drive with 250 songs playing thru the radio...and NO commercials. And....since they're songs I picked, I LIKE ALL OF THEM!!
by vibrtor
Mon Jul 10, 2006 12:48 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Mileage with a/c
Replies: 19
Views: 3117

Re: (vibrtor)

Well, my trip got postponed for at least a month, so in the meantime, I'm gonna insulate the refrigerant line. Anything will help in FL, although since I moved from Ft. Myers to Gainesville, the heat isn't as intense. It's consistently in the 90's, but lower humidity. And it actually cools down at n...
by vibrtor
Fri Jul 07, 2006 12:37 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Bosch Platinum +4 & K&N Air Filter
Replies: 10
Views: 2161

Re: Bosch Platinum +4 & K&N Air Filter (BlueVibeGirl)

Bought K&N filter. Used for about 1000 miles of mixed driving - absolutely no change in mileage or power. In fact, my mileage dropped some. Returned to retailer for refund (K&N has full customer satisfaction warranty)
by vibrtor
Wed Jun 28, 2006 1:50 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Mileage with a/c
Replies: 19
Views: 3117

Re: Re: (Mase)

You're right. And Toyota verified that (Pontiac, again, didn't know s---). And since it's been so stinkin' hot and humid here lately, and since a lot of my driving has been local with high blower speed, I guess the mileage drop has to be expected. We'll see what happens on the trip next week.
by vibrtor
Tue Jun 27, 2006 11:58 pm
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Mileage with a/c
Replies: 19
Views: 3117

Re: (northvibe)

Thanks for the response from everyone. The a/c mod won't affect mileage, since the compressor is running all the time, until you turn off the a/c (unless Toyota has a design I don't know about). I talked to the local Toyota dealer about the situation and, at first, he said that was a big drop, since...
by vibrtor
Tue Jun 27, 2006 6:30 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Mileage with a/c
Replies: 19
Views: 3117

Re: (zionzr2)

Zionzr2, you must live up north. If I do as you suggest, I'll be reduced to a puddle on the seat....I live in FL.
by vibrtor
Tue Jun 27, 2006 1:05 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Mileage with a/c
Replies: 19
Views: 3117

Mileage with a/c

Need some feedback on mileage drop with a/c running. I've had 3-4 mpg drop in mixed driving, which seems excessive and I'm not an aggressive driver.
by vibrtor
Fri Jun 09, 2006 3:34 am
Forum: Exterior
Topic: Cladding repair
Replies: 2
Views: 694

Re: Cladding repair (ANO_Vibe)

I really don't want to paint all of the cladding - I like the tutone. I've done a lot of body repair in the past and fixing the blems on the rear bumper and lr quarter is not a problem. What is a problem is matching the color. I don't believe there's a GM color code for the unpainted cladding.
by vibrtor
Wed Jun 07, 2006 3:01 am
Forum: Exterior
Topic: Cladding repair
Replies: 2
Views: 694

Cladding repair

Has anyone tried any repair work on the grey cladding? I have some gouges and scuffs from the previous owner that I'd like to fix. And what paint do I use to refinish it.
by vibrtor
Wed Jun 07, 2006 2:48 am
Forum: Interior
Topic: Dashmat Installation
Replies: 13
Views: 2282

Re: Dashmat Installation (Vibetastic)

The small pieces of velcro that came with the dashmat won't harm your dash. You won't be removing it once you install it anyway. If you do choose to remove the mat, the residue from the velcro strips can be removed with a little aerosol brake parts cleaner on a cloth.
by vibrtor
Fri May 05, 2006 1:56 am
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: When a "hot start" issue might not be a "hot start" issue.
Replies: 11
Views: 2789

Re: When a "hot start" issue might not be a "hot start" issue. (Cougar Vibe)

There is a TSB on this problem. TSB 05-06-04-074 - hot soak issue. Resolution: new PCM
by vibrtor
Fri Apr 28, 2006 3:41 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options.
Replies: 10
Views: 2003

Re: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options. (PopeyeFAFL)

Just picked up a VRFM8 (on Ebay), after returning VRFM9 to Walmart. Two problems with the latter: 1) the LCD readout is very small, almost useless; 2)it wouldn't pick up my flash drive. The VRFM8 is $20 cheaper and has an LED readout for the channel - easier to see. It does the same thing as the mor...
by vibrtor
Tue Apr 11, 2006 11:25 pm
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options.
Replies: 10
Views: 2003

Re: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options. (PopeyeFAFL)

Just happened to be in Walmart last nite. They've got the VRFM9 - $50
by vibrtor
Tue Apr 11, 2006 2:56 am
Forum: Interior
Topic: Headrests
Replies: 0
Views: 504

Headrests

For those of you, like me, who find the headrests uncomfortable (too far forward), just take them out, turn them around and slide 'em back in. You wont be able to lock the height adjustment, but most people don't raise them anyhow. It's much more comfortable and doesn't look bad either. I also remov...
by vibrtor
Tue Apr 11, 2006 2:19 am
Forum: Interior
Topic: Cargo cover improvement possible?
Replies: 5
Views: 1303

Re: Cargo cover improvement possible? (thermometer)

I agree. I think that cover was a real copout on the part of Toyota/Pontiac. However, I don't believe it'd be too difficult to rig someting up using a standard grey window shade from Lowes, Home Depot or Walmart, especially since they can be cut to fit. Maybe I'll put that on my project list.
by vibrtor
Mon Apr 10, 2006 1:26 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options.
Replies: 10
Views: 2003

Re: MP3 on the cheap, what are my options. (PopeyeFAFL)

Go to this link: http://204.141.84.141/vr3_fmmod.php Roadmaster says the VRFM9 will be available at Walmart very shortly.
by vibrtor
Sun Apr 09, 2006 8:25 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Dash Power Point Outlet
Replies: 6
Views: 1842

Re: Dash Power Point Outlet (vibrtor)

OK, Gang - here's what we've got:Because of the circuit layout and the fact that the fuse is at the beginning of the circuit, finding a hot source while still maintaining a fused circuit was not in the cards. In addition, the line feeding the power outlet also feeds several other accessories, two of...
by vibrtor
Fri Apr 07, 2006 5:15 am
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Dash Power Point Outlet
Replies: 6
Views: 1842

Re: Dash Power Point Outlet (vibrtor)

I believe I've now got the solution to the problem. It's a fairly simple procedure. I'll work on it this weekend and post the results.
by vibrtor
Thu Apr 06, 2006 12:25 pm
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Dash Power Point Outlet
Replies: 6
Views: 1842

Re: Dash Power Point Outlet (vibrtor)

ATTENTION!! DON'T DO THIS MOD YET!! I found a glitch tonight. The line from that feed is powering up the clock display even when the ignition is off. In addition, the radio won't shut off unless you turn it off manually.I'll work on the situation tomorrow and repost.