'05 Vibe - Likes & Dislikes

lloydp21 · Post by **lloydp21** » Wed Aug 17, 2005 11:49 pm

After a bit less than a week w/my Platinum Vibe, I have a list of what I like and the very few things I dislike. How about you?LIkes:Looks, ride, peppiness, and fuel economyAlso storage space for my golf clubs and push cartDislikes:Center armrest too blasted low to be of useSteering wheel could sure use telescoping'05 Platinum Vibe, A/T, Moon 'n Tunes, Power Package

GMJAP · Post by **GMJAP** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:15 am

You can get a higher armrest with storage compartment. See the following thread:http://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=17934

BOZACK · Post by **BOZACK** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:20 am

I agree withe the dislike for the steering wheel. I wish it telescoped also. The switch forn the climate control fan speed would be better if it was on the left instead of the middle. With the car in park(automatic) the shifter gets in the way. Wish the sun visor was wider.I like the storage and the sizeof the interior. Love the gas milage.And I like the front grill design better than the old front grill design.

lloydp21 · Post by **lloydp21** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:55 am

Thanks for the link. I'll be ordering that very soon.Currently I'm using a small pillow and that is less than wonderful.

lloydp21 · Post by **lloydp21** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 12:59 am

Yep, my arms are too short for my legs, and coupled with the lack of a good center armrest just don't get it.

BlueCrush · Post by **BlueCrush** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 1:18 am

Steering wheel is my biggest gripe as well. Otherwise, I love it!I replace my center storage with the higher one as well.

GMJAP · Post by **GMJAP** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 1:27 am

I must admit also that I found the steering wheel vs pedal placement uncomfortable when I first got my Vibe. I couldn't find the right position for the seat- it seemed too close to the pedals or too far from the wheel.However, now that I've been driving it regularly for quite a while, it feels fine to me. Hopefully you'll find you get used to it and it becomes more comfortable...

hjwii · Post by **hjwii** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 1:46 am

Likes:Utility; gas milage (35 mpg or so; but that's at 65); nifty needles that light up before the rest of the dash; the folding front seat w/ the plastic back - sheer genius; the thermometer; the overall driving experience - it's a fun lil car to drive...Dislikes:PAINT; no auto locking doors (I have the 5sp); no BEEP when I lock the car; it would be nice if all the buttons on the dash and door lit up; and real map lights for those of us with the moonroof...Still, I love my lil car...hjwii2005 Neptune, 5sp, M/T, pwr pkg, leather, ABS, and, most importantly, my Sirius radio...

BOZACK · Post by **BOZACK** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 4:32 am

Quote, originally posted by GMJAP Â»I must admit also that I found the steering wheel vs pedal placement uncomfortable when I first got my Vibe. I couldn't find the right position for the seat- it seemed too close to the pedals or too far from the wheel.However, now that I've been driving it regularly for quite a while, it feels fine to me. Hopefully you'll find you get used to it and it becomes more comfortable...I have gotten used to the driving position. But when I am traveling for a long time on the highway for a long time it would be nice to stretch out. If the steering wheel telescoped I could get into several different positions helping my stretch and take some stress off other body parts.

GMJAP · Post by **GMJAP** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 5:34 am

Quote, originally posted by BOZACK Â»I have gotten used to the driving position. But when I am traveling for a long time on the highway for a long time it would be nice to stretch out. If the steering wheel telescoped I could get into several different positions helping my stretch and take some stress off other body parts.Haven't done a long roadtrip in the Vibe yet, but I see what you're saying. It does help to change positions every so often. I'll see how it goes driving to the SouthCentral meet in Oct. (I'm also curious to see what my mileage will be like)

jwalcik · Post by **jwalcik** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 7:33 am

i have to agree that i'd like the armrest to be a bit taller. at some point i'll either be calling some junkyards or ordering the replacement lid for the center console.it took me a while to find the right "spot" as far as adjusting the driver's seat. now that i've found it though, i did a 14 hour trip in one day without too much discomfort. i've got really long arms and legs though (i'm 6'2"), so i kind of like the steering wheel where it's at.

redlava · Post by **redlava** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 9:04 am

I felt the uncomfortableness of the steering wheel and pedals and armrest when I sold my nice roomy truck. After about a month or two the interior became very comfortable. My (removed) and legs still get tired on long trips, but that is expected. My father ended up buying my old truck so I still get to sit in it every once in a while and I find it to be uncomfortable now. I still have the same gripes about it as most of you. I just wish the armrest was padded. I wish all of the controls in the doors lighted up and I wish there was a light in the glove box. Oh yeah and an extra 200 horseys under the hood.

binary · Post by **binary** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 9:21 am

Likes: driving experience - doesn't feel like a wagon. Peppy 4cyl doesn't leave me missing my 3.0L Duratec V-6 very often.Styling: props to pontiac for keeping the styling tasteful and not tuner.Factory Monsoon: I have to admit, I was more than happy with this OEM stereo.Economy: Yeah, I'm diggin' the 35mpg...Dash: I love the cockpit controls and visual feedback of those wicked backlit guages.Dead peddle: Manuals w/o the DP are lame.Power window controls: I like the toggle switch like controls over the rocker buttons - take up less room on the doors.Factory exhuast: I get asked a lot if it's after market because of it's sound - not your typical muffled putt putt.Cargo: The plastic backs and cargo area are awesome! Props to anyone who had to fight the "carpet everything" crowd. The tiedown rails and rings are a thing of genius. The cargo cubby holes are perfect for stashing bungies.Temp gauge: simple, convienient add-on that is useful in everyday life. Good call.110v outlet: A little weak, but strong enough for laptop or similar devices. Very handy.Okay, now for the things that irked me:Dislikes:Auto Headlights / DRLs - its just me, but it feels like a dunce cap. Mod'ed to fix: I drive with my driving lights on and markers... more visable front and back now.Tires: Eagles from Goodyear are cheap, lack grip, and like to squeek on starts... lame. Although much better than the Continentals many of you suffered through - from what I hear.Decontenting: The '05's lost a lot of extras that the original vibes had... that's lame. 2nd power outlet in side the console, taller console arm rest, cross bars on the racks, illuminated dash 12v outlet - missing anything else?Lack of real map lights for moonroof owners.Moon roof that stops 1/2 way. (saftey feature? Only for the truely stupid - another dunce cap)12v outlets shut off on key off - lame. Make it intelligent, turn off the acc. ports when the battery gets low. Modding this soon.Front end style change: I like both original and '05 vibe looks, but the grills should be color matched or black. Grey just looks funky. And the plastic black lower grills are wide open for large rocks and huge bugs to slam into my radiator and a/c unit...Lack of power outlets in the rear: 110v and/or 12v would be nice for camping, bike pumps, just chillin' with a powered cooler in the trunk.Weak battery: even the oem for '05 is a bit under powered - again getting by with just enough - isn't enough. For as lean as these engines run - they need a fast start with a very hot spark, or it takes too long to start. More CCA please!Most of these dislikes I can fix - but shouldn't have to. Granted it's not a top shelf luxury sports wagon... so I'll be glad to save a crapton of cash and do it myself.I also am about 6'2" and find the seating to be comfortable, I've gotten used to everything except the console.

BOZACK · Post by **BOZACK** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 1:28 pm

I forgot to include the cargo area floor and tie down system in my likes. It was fantastic to have it on my camping trip. also like the multiple D-hooks and cubby holes.

Vibe Venturer · Post by **Vibe Venturer** » Thu Aug 18, 2005 11:32 pm

I agree that the driving position takes some getting used to. I have manual locks and I really wish there were the old school push down stalk type lock, rather than that rocker switch style. I really wish there was a push down lock on the hatch rather than having to use the key to lock it. Makes me wish I got power locks.My Vibe is getting 36 mpg with 70% 70-75 mph in that mix. I am so stoked. Great car!

jameyfreeman · Post by **jameyfreeman** » Wed Aug 24, 2005 12:56 pm

I have had my 05GT since june, it's got 2500 miles on it, immediate dislikes include:1. No crossbars included with luggage rails and accesory option is bike or ski rack when I need to throw a kayak on top.2.No power driver seat with leather package, and lack of heat&air in seat3.No ram air on Gt, 4.parking brake and cup holders are fighting for the same space (elevate the cup holders and level out brake handle)5. Lack of rear AC vents.6. Lack of bumper protector on rear bumper top at hatch access.7. Lets make side impact airbags standard.8. Lack of accessories. Of course the things to like about the vibe are numerous so i could go on and on...but i won't I'll just say it's incredibly fun to drive.

vibe-anator · Post by **vibe-anator** » Thu Aug 25, 2005 3:49 pm

Likes:MPGoutside tempstorage space in back sits a little higher than a car.110v outletDislikes: no glove box lightNo lights for seeing storage comparments either by shifter of left side of steering wheelNo electronic compass on mirror or headlinerNo crossrails on luggage rackNo vanity lights on visorspower window switches DO NOT have lights to locate them in dark (tiny red or whatever color)

ragingfish · Post by **ragingfish** » Thu Aug 25, 2005 5:36 pm

Quote, originally posted by jameyfreeman Â»lack of heat&air in seatThis is a feature still missing from many luxury cars. It certainly has no place in an entry level model IMHO.Quote Â»3.No ram air on Gt, It's a 4. Ram air? This ain't yo GTO bro...Quote Â»5. Lack of rear AC vents.Under each seat.Quote Â»6. Lack of bumper protector on rear bumper top at hatch access.Available accessory.

binary · Post by **binary** » Thu Aug 25, 2005 6:35 pm

Quote, originally posted by vibe-anator Â»Likes:MPGoutside tempstorage space in back sits a little higher than a car.110v outletDislikes: no glove box lightNo lights for seeing storage comparments either by shifter of left side of steering wheelNo electronic compass on mirror or headlinerNo crossrails on luggage rackNo vanity lights on visorspower window switches DO NOT have lights to locate them in dark (tiny red or whatever color)I agree with your list of lack of stratigicaly placed lighting...

jasonvibe · Post by **jasonvibe** » Fri Oct 14, 2005 5:41 am

I agree with Binary on the dislikes. BUT here is one I think no one noticed. Unlike the doors. These are not clear coat painted around the hatch area of the body or the hatch inself on the inside. Which is a cheap way of saving a few dollars in paint and 20 seconds during the build. All surfaces that face or can face the sun and rain should be clear coated. My old GM had the area around the truck clear coated. But it was built in Detroit where they worry about rust. Not sunny Cal. Just my other 2 cents...

tahoan · Post by **tahoan** » Fri Oct 14, 2005 12:34 pm

Love my vibe, but since you are new, you should know the following:Seat belt alarm can be silenced with instruction on this site. Do a search.Bumpers are not painted with clear coat, so keep them really waxed or the bugs you hit will/can embed themselves and be a royal pain to remove.If you have a dog, or haul stuff on the plastic in the cargo area, this site tells you to be careful b/c it is easily scratched.bungee like cords are to tie down your flat tire inside the cargo area. Don't lose them. Since you have the moon and tunes pkg, the mats made for the cargo area don't fit right, b/c the cargo area footprint is different. When you wash your car, you will need to clean under the back hatch window, b/c lots of dust and stuff collects.I love all of the things you do (plus I love all of the compartments), but have none of the dislikes, b/c I am short 5'2". My problem is getting use to the blind spot I have on my passenger side rear. The visors are also too short for a short person like me.

nortsr · Post by **nortsr** » Fri Oct 14, 2005 10:33 pm

"the visors are too short for me" Why not purchase a visor add-on like thet sell at PepBoys, Auto Zone, Walmart...It is a one of those clip-on sun visor types???

binary · Post by **binary** » Sat Oct 15, 2005 2:43 pm

Quote, originally posted by jasonvibe Â»I agree with Binary on the dislikes. BUT here is one I think no one noticed. Unlike the doors. These are not clear coat painted around the hatch area of the body or the hatch inself on the inside. Which is a cheap way of saving a few dollars in paint and 20 seconds during the build. Yep, I don't think my hatch was painted all the way. I take it the primer color is grey?

BOZACK · Post by **BOZACK** » Sat Oct 15, 2005 3:44 pm

I dislike that the cup holders are two different sizes. The lower one is smaller. (removed).

mcgusto82 · Post by **mcgusto82** » Sun Oct 16, 2005 2:03 am

i HATE the fac that there isn't a lock on the glove box.dislikes:no strut assisted hood. (plan to fix that)no WINDOW control panel backlight (fixed)weak interior lighting.no auto function for the sunroof open and close switch. (sunroof takes for ever to close)loves:storage area.side pockets in the backpeppyness for a 130 hp englooks. comfortable seats.

mcgusto82 · Post by **mcgusto82** » Sun Oct 16, 2005 2:05 am

p.s. other than the key. there isn;'t a simgle theft detterent device on a 2004. i know it's optional, but come on????

Raven · Post by **Raven** » Sun Oct 16, 2005 9:34 am

My '06 has no pocket on the back of the driver's seat, which sucks. Does the '05 still have one?

mcgusto82 · Post by **mcgusto82** » Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:24 am

another thing. the fuel low warning light is at the bottom of the gauge display. i can only see it when i lift to look at it. plan to fix this too.

binary · Post by **binary** » Sun Oct 16, 2005 10:56 am

Quote, originally posted by Sunny Â»My '06 has no pocket on the back of the driver's seat, which sucks. Does the '05 still have one?Nope... but I'm glad, my last car had one, and it collected a lot of junk from the 8 year old passenger I typically have in the back seat.

jasonvibe · Post by **jasonvibe** » Mon Oct 17, 2005 8:16 am

my rear mat fit perfectly w/ moon and tunes. Mine is a factory mat that came witht he car. On the window sticker it was a $50 option.

stevo2000 · Post by **stevo2000** » Tue Oct 18, 2005 2:18 am

Likes: It's a nice little car, solid, roomy and performs/handles well.Dislikes: The thing that I dislike most is that the front Seats are too rigid, high and very limited in adjustment.Center Armrest is too low, had to replace it with one from earlier model, purchased on EBay.Roof Rack cross bars were missing and factory bars not available to purchase. Had to buy used ones from earlier model on EBay.Can't add a CD Changer or AUX, if you have Factory XM.Simple Plastic items, such as side skirts and/or spoilers way over-priced.

jasonvibe · Post by **jasonvibe** » Tue Oct 18, 2005 10:50 am

Binary said he wanted primer grey. Just look at the none cleared coated sections on a platinum....very grey with metal flakes...

GMJAP · Post by **GMJAP** » Tue Oct 18, 2005 2:50 pm

Quote, originally posted by jasonvibe Â»my rear mat fit perfectly w/ moon and tunes. Mine is a factory mat that came witht he car. On the window sticker it was a $50 option.There are 2 different mats - one for the M&T, one for the regular.Quote, originally posted by mcgusto82 Â»no WINDOW control panel backlight (fixed)Never saw a finished pic of this. Does the light just shine through the cracks around the switches?

mcgusto82 · Post by **mcgusto82** » Wed Oct 19, 2005 12:40 am

Quote, originally posted by GMJAP Â»There are 2 different mats - one for the M&T, one for the regular.Never saw a finished pic of this. Does the light just shine through the cracks around the switches?yeah, i got the light going thru the cracks around the switches. looks decent. reason i never got to post pictures, is because the light seems to be too dim to show up on both my digital cams.it is bright to the naked eye though.

jasonvibe · Post by **jasonvibe** » Thu Oct 20, 2005 12:27 pm

I just noticed on my AWD Platinum, that the silver on the front bumper has smaller metal flakes than the body. Most noticable in low light conditions. When the body appears brighter than the bumper. They must have painted them in 2 different locations prior to assembly. Another California goof...

njvibe · Post by **njvibe** » Fri Oct 21, 2005 5:58 am

The storage compartment door on the dash to the left of the steering wheel. Mine is useless - if I put anything at all in it then it flops open when I hit the smallest bump.Does everyone have this problem?

binary · Post by **binary** » Sat Oct 22, 2005 12:34 am

Quote, originally posted by njvibe Â»The storage compartment door on the dash to the left of the steering wheel. Mine is useless - if I put anything at all in it then it flops open when I hit the smallest bump.Does everyone have this problem?Common complaint that is resolved by bending a small metal piece out a bit on the back of the drawer. It holds my sunglasses or cell phone just fine after adjustment. Search the forum - and you'll find it.

jasonvibe · Post by **jasonvibe** » Sat Oct 22, 2005 3:52 am

I noticed my left storage closes and opens very easy. I noticed the tab. I will bend it when the door doesn't stay closed...not till then.

NascarXprt · Post by **NascarXprt** » Sat Oct 22, 2005 4:58 am

i dont like the new front facia, in the front doors where the plastic crome plated strip is in the 03-04's is only a piece of plastic.

BEACH · Post by **BEACH** » Fri Oct 28, 2005 1:10 pm

The one thing that comes to mind of a dislike is the side view mirrors. Not real good visability. Other then that LOVE THIS CAR!

BOZACK · Post by **BOZACK** » Fri Oct 28, 2005 3:30 pm

When you find the side view mirrors sweet spot they have excelent picture. I think the shape of the cover is what causes the miss allinment.

binary · Post by **binary** » Tue Nov 01, 2005 12:21 pm

Quote, originally posted by BOZACK Â»When you find the side view mirrors sweet spot they have excelent picture. I think the shape of the cover is what causes the miss allinment.Common issue I found that I tried to align my mirrors with the contours of the body - which would aim them too high...So I had to get willingly aim farther down - and ignore the slope, which looks like the mirrors are aimed way to low... but work great now that I'm used to the view in them.

BigMac · Post by **BigMac** » Wed Nov 02, 2005 3:11 am

If you adjust your mirrors just beyond where you see your own car (there's no need to see your car, you're in it!), the visibility is very nice, and you won't have any issues with it looking wrong according to the slope of your own car.

GatorGirl · Post by **GatorGirl** » Wed Nov 09, 2005 9:27 am

The one thing that bugs me to death is the dome light is too dim. I have the worst time trying to find anything in my car once it gets dark. I actually bought a small flashlight because I can't see a darn thing come dusk. I wish there was a light in the glovebox and on vanity mirrors too. The only other complaint I have is using the key to lock the hatch. I wish there was a button to push to lock it other than using the key. I so miss my keyless entry. I may have to invest in having that installed.It was funny reading how so many people have had issues with getting used to the seat vs peddle vs steering wheel. I thought it was just me. It took a few weeks to get used to but now I don't notice it anymore. I love the storage, folding seats and the fact I sit higher than my old car. The Vibe seems like a small SUV but with great gas milage. 2005 base model- Moonstone

binary · Post by **binary** » Thu Nov 10, 2005 5:06 am

Quote, originally posted by BigMac Â»If you adjust your mirrors just beyond where you see your own car (there's no need to see your car, you're in it!), the visibility is very nice, and you won't have any issues with it looking wrong according to the slope of your own car.I set my mirrors so that I can see my car slightly on the side of the reflection - as a reference. It's just the way I am...