New Vibe Owner-Phoenix AZ

[JCurtis126]

Hi! I've recently acquired a 2006 Vibe Base. Just over 160k miles.

I'm working my way through the most common issues of the Year/Model.

Original issues/symptoms/repairs as follows:

-Rough/agressive idle shuddering when gears engaged (idling around 750-800RPM)
--This was reduced by about 50% when I changed the
spark plugs.

-Spark plug replacement led to discovery of oil leak in ignition coils.
--Tomorrow the valve cover gasket replacement happens.

-Whopping 13MPG (no typo--I said 13)
--Replaced PCV valve and noticed dramatic increase in
MPG, offhand guess is recovery of close to 10-12MPG on
highway. MPG is still not where it should be, but
other repairs should put it in the right range.
--Both air filters were replaced but old ones weren't too bad
--MAF cleaning to be done tomorrow with valve gasket

-Dome light will only light if I press it against the ceiling... Hard (no matter if set to On or Door, makes no difference)
--Going to pop lens to check for loose wiring

-Backyard DIY window tint gone horribly wrong on all windows and hatch glass - looking in rearview is like trying to see through bubble wrap.. Good luck...

-Drivers sun visor cannot be put down without knocking rearview totally sideways

-Hatch glass support arm only holds glass up long enough to trick you into leaning in before it slams down and splits the back of your head open

-Dead passenger side view mirror

The remaining issues are petty cosmetics, or just personal preference items.

[Transylvania]

Welcome and post a few pics when ready. You'll enjoy this vehicle for many years!

[andrewclaus]

I had few of the same minor problems on my '07 when I got it three years ago with 150K miles.

The mirror is easy to pivot out of the way of the visors.

The dome lights had dirty contacts in the switches.

The passenger side mirror was easy to replace for about $25, as long as it's black.

With a minor tune up (MAF and throttle body cleaned, new air filter), I got and continue to get smooth idle and 40+ mpg on lower speed highways, mid-30s at 75+ mph interstate speeds.

I also replaced coolant, AT fluid, and brake fluid. None looked like it had ever been changed and I had no maintenance records. I pulled plugs and they looked fine, no oil in wells.

Eventually I put in all new struts. It needed them.

If you need any plastic body trim clips, PM me and I'll send you some, but in a few weeks when I get home.

Good luck with your Vibe, and welcome to the forum.

[JCurtis126]

Hey Andrew,

With my rearview, it's actually been removed (I'm assuming to replace windshield at some point, AZ is definitely hard on glass) and reinstalled about 1.5 inches off-center LOL

After I finish today's repairs/replacements, I'll take some photos.

Fair warning though.... I'm working with a full-on diamond in the rough LOL Exterior condition of this Vibe is leaning way closer to ****bucket than anything I've seen while combing this site for the last few weeks.