Going to buy a Vibe, any problems to look for?

[smwoodruff0908]

Hi everyone! New to the forum, and I'm going to buy my first Vibe. I was reading around on here a little bit, and I'm going to look for signs of water damage or smell by the pass. side footwell, and I know about the battery problems (although I have a heated garage, so that won't affect me too much). I was wondering if there are any other problems I should watch for, or anything that wears easily, or easily breaks, that I should watch for when I'm shopping around? I understand all cars can have flaws with any part, but are there any inherent with the Vibe in specific? Thanks for all your help, and I look forward to being a member here.-Steve

[keithvibe]

welcome If you looking at a GT version. The clutch seems to be the weak point. If you looking at AWD, the rear differential if not mantained. squeaks in the dashboard all trim levels. Cats, seem to also be an issue and O2 sensors.comon guys. what did i miss?

[northvibe]

2003 and maybe some 04's had the cat. converter smell so just check the vin with a gm dealer to see if that was replaced.gt model -like keithvibe said the clutch is weak, make sure "lift" works properly at the high rpms.awd - make sure the rear transaxle is in good condition and depending on miles had oil replaced.otherwise you can do what I do when buying used cars, take it to you mechanic and for around 80-100 they will take the car and look it over fully for any issues. When I got my vibe my mechanic found a pin hole leak in the cv boot, so i had that replaced under warranty. also just make sure it shifts right and that all the functions work, like the rear wiper and squirter fogs, etc. Welcome and good luck on finding a vibe!