Search found 548 matches

by Mark
Wed Jul 20, 2022 4:20 pm
Forum: For Sale/Wanted
Topic: 2003 Pontiac vibe parts for sale
Replies: 6
Views: 1381

Re: 2003 Pontiac vibe parts for sale

I would buy the hood, but also need to know where it's located. Shipping could easily be more than double what the hood costs.
by Mark
Mon Jul 18, 2022 4:47 pm
Forum: Wheels & Tires
Topic: 225/55R16’s on 2008 Vibe
Replies: 2
Views: 857

Re: 225/55R16’s on 2008 Vibe

I went with 205/60R16 on mine, about the same extra sidewall without the extra width. I'd worry about 225/55 rubbing the fender liners, but if you have the clearance go for it. https://www.tacomaworld.com/data/tirecalc/imagestats/205x55xR16-205x60xR16.png https://www.tacomaworld.com/data/tirecalc/im...
by Mark
Sun Jul 17, 2022 11:52 am
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: New Member - Spark Plugs question
Replies: 4
Views: 902

Re: New Member - Spark Plugs question

It would be really easy to pull a plug and check it, but on the other hand since you already have the new ones on hand you might as well put them in. I have no idea how hard they'll be to get out, make sure to remove them when the engine is cold. I use a 5/8" spark plug socket with 9" exte...
by Mark
Sun Jul 03, 2022 1:36 pm
Forum: Off Topic
Topic: Coronavirus
Replies: 98
Views: 29712

Re: Coronavirus

I get my second Pfizer booster in two weeks. Was going to get it last Friday but I have sinus surgery on the 5th and the Dr wanted me to wait.
by Mark
Sat Jun 25, 2022 9:16 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Power Steering Fluid
Replies: 2
Views: 544

Re: Power Steering Fluid

The manual for my 04 and 05 both specify Dexron-III

Haven't done a flush, I just suck what I can out of the reservoir with a bulb baster and add fresh to replace it.
by Mark
Thu Jun 09, 2022 5:34 pm
Forum: Exterior
Topic: What is this called?
Replies: 4
Views: 652

Re: What is this called?

It inserts from the back. If you look you will see four small tabs that the insert clips on to, two on the top and two on the bottom of the opening. Easy to reach from under the bumper, stick the top onto the top two clips, the secure the bottom. I applied a little Lexel adhesive along the top and b...
by Mark
Thu Jun 09, 2022 4:16 pm
Forum: Exterior
Topic: What is this called?
Replies: 4
Views: 652

Re: What is this called?

Passenger side grill insert. I just replaced my 05 driver's side one today with this one: https://www.ebay.com/itm/232797642202?_trkparms=amclksrc%3DITM%26aid%3D111001%26algo%3DREC.SEED%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908105057%26meid%3D17b8256309ca4f3f862d7d2b0d0b83ae%26pid%3D100675%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D9%26sd%3...
by Mark
Tue May 24, 2022 1:37 pm
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Hey all.. New here with a 2005 base and radio issue..
Replies: 4
Views: 829

Re: Hey all.. New here with a 2005 base and radio issue..

2nd the bluetooth FM transmitter, I have one in all three Vibes. You can get them on Amazon for 15-20 bucks, but it's really a crap shoot finding a good one. It's either that or just replace the radio, but I wasn't aware that the antenna is powered off the head unit, that's really good to know.
by Mark
Sun May 22, 2022 12:56 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Coolant - 2009 Pontiac Vibe
Replies: 6
Views: 2092

Re: Coolant - 2009 Pontiac Vibe

Yesterday I decided to do a drain and fill on Frosty, at 200k I don't really want to have it flushed. The coolant in the reservoir looked pretty red, and what was draining out looked pretty red too. So I let it drain and went and picked up a couple jugs of Peak Asian red from Auto Zone. Closed the d...
by Mark
Fri May 06, 2022 5:09 pm
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Drivers side headlight bulb replacement!
Replies: 6
Views: 1323

Re: Drivers side headlight bulb replacement!

I can get it without disconnecting or removing the battery, but I have to remove the hold-down and move the battery as far back as it will go. Then I can get the bulb out and new one in.
by Mark
Sat Feb 26, 2022 2:52 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: How many miles on your Vibes?
Replies: 1043
Views: 1415473

Re: How many miles on your Vibes?

Hit a major milestone (mileagestone? milestoneage? ) today. I bought Frosty in 06 with 38k on it. I realize that 200k is trivial for some Vibers on here, but it was still pretty cool. Most miles I've ever managed to put on a car.

04Frosty-200k.jpg
04Frosty-200k.jpg (435.43 KiB) Viewed 85027 times
by Mark
Sat Feb 26, 2022 12:45 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022
Replies: 8
Views: 829

Re: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022

The engine's normal operating temperature is 185ºF - 195ºF, and whether your oil is 0w-30 or 10w-30, it's still 30w at normal operating temperature. Whether the ambient air temperature is 0ºF or 100ºF isn't really relevant, because at that temp the engine is "cold" relative to normal opera...
by Mark
Sat Feb 26, 2022 8:38 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022
Replies: 8
Views: 829

Re: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022

If it helps, Mazda lists 0w20 for my wife's Mazda5. However, the instructions for _Mexico_ list 5w20. We're in Houston, so we're a lot closer to Mexico than to Canada, where they specify 0w20. Like I said, I would continue to run 0w-xx year round no matter where I was. Alaska, Wyoming, Houston, Mex...
by Mark
Sat Feb 26, 2022 7:42 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022
Replies: 8
Views: 829

Re: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022

You can't judge an oil's life or performance based simply on its color and the fact that you think it's dirty. Send a sample of your 5000 mile "dirty" oil in for an analysis and I think you'll be surprised at the results, you probably have about 10,000 more miles left on it. Blackstone's s...
by Mark
Fri Feb 25, 2022 8:11 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022
Replies: 8
Views: 829

Re: Perspective on oils - Feb, 2022

I use 0w-30 Mobil-1 full synthetic in all three Vibes, and would use the same oil year round if I lived in the deep south or even Ecuador. My wife's Honda calls for 0w-20, and I use 5w-40 diesel motor oil in my truck, but only because 0w-40 diesel oil is hard to come by locally. Not brand loyal real...
by Mark
Fri Feb 25, 2022 7:54 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: Name your favorite oil filter
Replies: 8
Views: 1625

Re: Name your favorite oil filter

I ONLY use NAPA Platinum oil filters, which are made by WIX. I used NAPA Gold filters (also WIX) for years, and switched to Platinum when I switched to full synthetic oil many years ago. I have never had one leak or work loose ever. I oil the seal and tighten hand tight, and never need a tool or wre...
by Mark
Wed Feb 02, 2022 7:33 pm
Forum: Off Topic
Topic: Coronavirus
Replies: 98
Views: 29712

Re: Coronavirus

I ordered 4 the first day the site was active and got them last Saturday, Jan 29. Wish all of gubmint was that efficient, except for the IRS.
by Mark
Sat Jan 29, 2022 7:42 pm
Forum: Handling, Suspension, & Brakes
Topic: How hard is it to replace front struts?
Replies: 17
Views: 3832

Re: How hard is it to replace front struts?

Last year after I bought my 04 back from my daughter I discovered how bad the struts were the first time I drove it. I paid my tire shop about $1100 to have all four replaced with Monroe Quick struts. I don't remember the breakdown on the parts vs labor, but it was well worth it to me to have someon...
by Mark
Sat Jan 29, 2022 5:51 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Steelies over Alloys.
Replies: 6
Views: 750

Re: Steelies over Alloys.

For me it would be a no-brainer to keep both and put winter tires on the steel wheels and all-season on the alloys. But, I don't live in Houston so there's that. I like the look of the alloys better, and you don't have wheel covers to deal with and try to replace if you lose one.
by Mark
Wed Jan 26, 2022 2:46 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Roof Rack/cross bars for 2006 Vibe?
Replies: 7
Views: 985

Re: Roof Rack/cross bars for 2006 Vibe?

I have two sets of them up in the rafters of my garage I think. I know there's at least one up there. I could probably be talked into selling one set.
by Mark
Tue Jan 25, 2022 5:30 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Would you have engine replaced on 2005 Vibe?
Replies: 8
Views: 1710

Re: Would you have engine replaced on 2005 Vibe?

Paint/lacquer thinner takes up oil spills in one shot. Pour it on the stain, wait a couple of minutes and wipe it up with blue shop towels.

My BiL gave me that tip years ago after I did my first self oil change on my new diesel pickup. Three gallons of warm oil comes out really fast.
by Mark
Mon Jan 03, 2022 6:05 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

The seller did replace the first one that failed, and that one is still working so far, but they had taken down the listing by the time the second one failed. The replacement coil from the original seller failed yesterday. So that's five bad coils now from that dealer. I hope I have better luck wit...
by Mark
Wed Dec 29, 2021 12:33 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Confession of an ex-Viber
Replies: 27
Views: 5915

Re: Confession of an ex-Viber

Its a token thing, but I miss the two lid center console armrest in the 03-04 Vibes. Not enough to fabricate that into the forester, but that was a nice feature I didn't appreciate until it was gone. One of the first things I did when I bought my 08 was to go and find a center console from an 04 in...
by Mark
Thu Dec 09, 2021 4:24 pm
Forum: Off Topic
Topic: Coronavirus
Replies: 98
Views: 29712

Re: Coronavirus

This Covid stuff started out as a respiratory disease, but then at some point along the line it mutated into a IQ test.

I got my booster and flu shots back in September. Still disappointed that I can't pick up my car keys just by walking past them.
by Mark
Tue Dec 07, 2021 7:20 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

The seller did replace the first one that failed, and that one is still working so far, but they had taken down the listing by the time the second one failed.
by Mark
Mon Dec 06, 2021 4:18 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

Drove to the grocery store this afternoon, car was running just fine, about a 4.5 mile trip. Came out 15 minutes later and started it up, very rough idle. Wasn't sure if it was a miss or not, but suspected it probably was. I have my code reader in the car, but it's 20º here today with a 15-20 mph wi...
by Mark
Sat Dec 04, 2021 9:06 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

I have found that an ECU reset has fixed various rough and low idle issues, and I always reset mine when I clean the MAF sensor.

Not sure what that has to do with a bad coil, though.
by Mark
Sat Nov 20, 2021 3:29 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

Third one went this morning. Was on my way to Home Depot and gas station, I knew I was down to 1-2 gallons in the tank, so at first I thought maybe I was running out or it was starting to suck air, but after a few minutes I recognized the miss and then got the CEL. Filled up and the CEL was off agai...
by Mark
Fri Oct 29, 2021 3:39 pm
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: 2007 Vibe first stalling, then rough idle, now won't start
Replies: 11
Views: 1331

Re: 2007 Vibe first stalling, then rough idle, now won't start

Can you elaborate on the difference between "cranking" and "turning over"? Because to me they're one and the same. The initial behavior sounds mostly like a fuel problem, like bad/dirty gas or maybe a clogged fuel filter. And a really dumb, like "is it plugged in?" type...
by Mark
Mon Oct 25, 2021 6:59 pm
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: Unlocking w/ keyfob "declining"
Replies: 4
Views: 1037

Re: Unlocking w/ keyfob "declining"

Open the fob and take the card out and see if just pressing the switch buttons does anything. If you changed the battery and didn't get the card fully reseated in the fob the buttons might not be contacting the switch buttons. This happened to me not that long ago, I replaced a fob battery and then ...
by Mark
Sun Oct 24, 2021 4:59 pm
Forum: Testing 1..2..3
Topic: test1
Replies: 21
Views: 6808

Re: test1

.........icle?
by Mark
Sun Oct 24, 2021 4:59 pm
Forum: Testing 1..2..3
Topic: test1
Replies: 21
Views: 6808

Re: test1

Test.............................
by Mark
Sat Oct 23, 2021 12:24 pm
Forum: Maintenance Bay
Topic: Unlocking w/ keyfob "declining"
Replies: 4
Views: 1037

Re: Unlocking w/ keyfob "declining"

I would try this procedure to reprogram them. Not sure if it will help, but worth a shot. https://forums.genvibe.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=1102#p531312 I suggest reading through it a couple times before you start to make sure you know the steps. It's important to follow the steps exactly, ...
by Mark
Fri Oct 15, 2021 2:14 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

Another one bites the dust. Got a CEL and misfiring this morning, went back home and my scanner said P0304. Replaced the #4 coil and it's running smooth again. Probably too late for a warranty replacement now, but I'll ask anyway.
by Mark
Sun Oct 10, 2021 1:49 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: keyless entry
Replies: 8
Views: 2183

Re: keyless entry

I was hoping I could search and find a secret handshake sequence to disable this feature. Some open-close-open-key on-key off-close-key on thing maybe. My 04 is 30 seconds just like zbyers says, but the 05 and 08 don't have it. Used to drive me nuts, now I just deal with it. I used to bike commute m...
by Mark
Thu Sep 16, 2021 5:23 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

It took him a couple days to respond to me, then he just said that he could send a replacement if I wanted. I replied to that and never got another email or shipping notice or anything, so I said screw it and ordered one from another vendor. Then after 10 days or so the replacement showed up. My onl...
by Mark
Wed Sep 15, 2021 6:33 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

That eBay seller sent a replacement after I contacted them and no more issues so far. I also bought a spare from a different eBay seller. I keep the spare in one of the rear boxes behind the wheel well, along with a ratchet and 10mm socket. Funny that after almost 200k trouble free miles I replace t...
by Mark
Wed Sep 08, 2021 7:27 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: My garage burned, taking my Vibe and Toyota Celica
Replies: 8
Views: 1039

Re: My garage burned, taking my Vibe and Toyota Celica

Wow, this is a depressing thread. So sorry about the loss of your cars and other property, and your insurance woes. Good Vibes are still out there and can be found if you want to look. Probably not a 2005 with 52k, but a few years ago I got a 2005 Moon & Tune one-owner with 101k on it. Paid $450...
by Mark
Wed Aug 25, 2021 4:37 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: How do I contact moderators for a request? Tried the "Contact us" below
Replies: 18
Views: 2621

Re: It appears Moderators do not check the forum or do not respond to request for help

Also, just to be clear, I also wouldn't expected the mods to release another person's personal info. Although I would have at least expected a mod/admin to come on and say that themselves. If someone contacted me out of the blue because a mod on this or any other forum had provided my email or othe...
by Mark
Sat Aug 07, 2021 6:18 pm
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Poor acceleration
Replies: 14
Views: 1976

Re: Poor acceleration

We can rule that out then, LOL (L M A O was removed)

Sorry, got nothing else.
by Mark
Sat Aug 07, 2021 8:07 am
Forum: Problems & Warranty Issues
Topic: Poor acceleration
Replies: 14
Views: 1976

Re: Poor acceleration

some one mentioned crappy gas, as I know now the GT uses premium gas only, "Premium" =/ quality, just higher octane. I found out about Top Tier gas years ago and have run nothing but in all my cars ever since. It's made a huge difference in engine performance over the past 10-12 years. If...
by Mark
Fri Aug 06, 2021 11:50 am
Forum: Exterior
Topic: 03-08 Vibe Exterior-Rocker Molding Clip
Replies: 4
Views: 1471

Re: 03-08 Vibe Exterior-Rocker Molding Clip

Hard to tell for sure from that drawing, but if you have a NAPA close by you can take one there and match it. The one in your pic is easy to find at most part stores, especially if you take one with you to match size.
by Mark
Wed Jul 28, 2021 7:00 pm
Forum: The Vibe Lounge
Topic: Air Recirculation Actuator
Replies: 37
Views: 9711

Re: Air Recirculation Actuator

The actuator in Frosty has been thumping for awhile now. I've looked at it and just really, really don't want to have to try to get my hand in there to replace it.
by Mark
Sat Jul 17, 2021 4:15 pm
Forum: The Others
Topic: Blue Oyster Cult: Ahead of their time
Replies: 4
Views: 1235

Re: Blue Oyster Cult: Ahead of their time

Seriously??? L-M-*-O was bleeped?
by Mark
Sat Jul 17, 2021 3:37 pm
Forum: The Others
Topic: Blue Oyster Cult: Ahead of their time
Replies: 4
Views: 1235

Re: Blue Oyster Cult: Ahead of their time

(removed), good one joatmon, thanks for the lolz
by Mark
Thu Jul 08, 2021 4:10 pm
Forum: Audio, Electronics, Electrical
Topic: Programming New Remotes:
Replies: 34
Views: 15246

Re: Programming New Remotes:

Just fwiw, the two fobs I got off Amazon for my 04 have panic buttons and they programmed just fine using the procedure above. And the panic button works too.
by Mark
Sat May 29, 2021 8:15 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

Yeah, hopefully it's just bad luck with the one coil. I contacted the seller and they said they would mail a replacement. But now I'm nervous about the others too, and I'll probably keep a 10mm socket, code reader and spare coil in the car just in case.
by Mark
Fri May 28, 2021 3:05 pm
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: 2004 base ignition coils
Replies: 32
Views: 4340

Re: 2004 base ignition coils

Welp, the first of the new coils failed this morning after 1,060 miles. It started missing shortly after I left the house and threw a CEL so I turned back and checked and sure enough Cyl 1 coil failure. Fortunately I hadn't taken the trash from the garage out and was able to dig the old ones out and...
by Mark
Wed May 19, 2021 10:30 am
Forum: Engine & Transmission
Topic: LSD? Yay or Nay?
Replies: 6
Views: 1334

Re: LSD? Yay or Nay?

Ohh, that LSD! My bad.