TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

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NSimkins
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TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

Post by NSimkins »

I know there is another thread on this topic (see here), but I was recommended to make a new repost of this topic to reaffirm or discover new items of discussion. Remember, your posts are read by GM! I'd really like to read some input from the 2004 Vibe owners since many fine tuning has taken place since the first 2003 Vibe rolled out of the factory.TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the VibeFeel free to reiterate what has already been brought to attention in the previous post as well.Fire away!
Geo
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by Geo »

I don't have a list per se, but here's some things that I learned from the rally that bugged me about the Vibe:No chrome door handles No rear disc brakes for AWD/BaseWindow(Except for Driver window) and door lock controls don't have lighting at nightNo leather shift lever for us automatic users! Darn, that's all I can think of. I love everything else, I'll rack my brain later on.Who's next?
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by canadavibegt »

Nicer 17" rims... Maybe a choice of a few styles. A littler lower from the factory.Lights in the vanity mirrors....Sunshade (tint) in the front windshield....Hard rear cargo cover...A real horn.... beep beep!!!!!More exotic colors......Everything else I like
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mrgrn
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (canadavibegt)

Post by mrgrn »

Thicker paint, it is wafer thin? (removed)! I have a lease and i will have to have the whole thing painted before returning.
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Devlop
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

Post by Devlop »

Thicker padding on the center console would be nice. I rest my elbow there a lot and it gets sore. Larger sun visors would be nice too. I realized the hard way that they were too small. One last thing, I hate the safety feature the moonroof has when it closes. If someone is dumb enough to have their hand in the way, then too bad. I hate having to let the button go and then hitting it again after half way closing it. If I think of more I'll post.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by bckersey »

My top 10 dislikes10.Paint9.Paint8.Paint7.Paint6.Paint5.Paint4.Paint3.Paint2.Paint1.PaintI have more stone chips on the hood/front bumper of my Vibe (4200 miles) than I did on my 1995 Grand Prix (99,000 miles). It's utterly ridiculous in my opinion. They're not even small chips either. The poor paint is my only gripe with this car. I wish GM would give us a new paint job or compensation of some sort, but I know there is no way in hell that will ever happen.
DavidPIL
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by DavidPIL »

In no particular order...1. Wish you could raise the power windows after the vehicle has been shut off without having to put the key in and acc-on. (I'm apparently too used to not having power windows at all)2. Parking break lever too close to the cup holders, or vise versa.3. Wished the Resume on the cruise would still resume after shifting4. Power driver's seat5. Moon roof availability w/17" wheels (this was apparently changed for '04)6. Oil/Battery gauge7. Better placement of light sensor8. Telescoping steering column9. Lower RPM at peak torque (GT) (Also changed in '04)10. Automatic pilot (I can dream, can't I?)DaveGT, Abyss, Mono-tone (but there sure isn't anything mono about that paint), 17's
msmyer
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (canadavibegt)

Post by msmyer »

1. THE PAINT!2. Harder plastic on the cargo area (maybe a factory cargo mat)3. The back windows go down all the way!4. Offering factory window tinting!5. Lights in the vanity mirrors (agreed)6. The horn7. Better training to dealerships on general knowledge and being more personable!AND8. THE PAINT!
‘03 Vibe with 317k and still going.............................

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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

Post by joatmon »

- The paint does chip too easily.- The interior fusebox is awful to work with. It shouldn't hurt to change a fuse.- Plasic on dashboard top scratches too easily- The AUX button on the stock stereo should be functional, maybe even RCA inputs- The horn is embarrassing- Add a way to select whether the power outlets stay on when ignition off.- Don't know if it's a problem in the 04's, but the 03's had a lot of rattles, especially in the dash.- there's no place to securely tie a canoe to the roof without messing up both bumpers.- GM Dealers need to be better trained on selling and servicing this Toyota vehicle.- and of couse, double the MPG.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (bckersey)

Post by Geo »

Oh yea.Let me add: PAINT PAINT3,600 miles and I already have 2 small chips in my hood! 90,000 miles on my '98 Jeep Cherokee and there's 3 in that - and the paint looks a lot thicker as well.So yea, I'm experiencing the paint problems now as well - #1 on my list it shall become!
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (joatmon)

Post by msmyer »

quote:maybe even RCA inputsYeah...good idea!quote:and of couse, double the MPG.I think your asking for a bit much!
‘03 Vibe with 317k and still going.............................

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ragingfish
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by ragingfish »

Here are my thoughts. And I had to think long and hard as to what really needs change...and these are in no particular order, of course.1. Paint Durability: This seems to be a clear concern across the board. The paint chips and scratches far too easily. After only 15,000 miles, my car looks worse than my friend's VW with 75,000 miles. It's really aggrevating. And upsetting too. I try SO hard to keep my car looking it's best, but the horrible scratches in the paint are just ridiculous. Same thing with the cladding on the two-tone models too. They scratch far too easily.2. Courtsey Lighting: The interior lighting is pretty bad...doesn't light much at all. Need more floor-directed lighting, and the ceiling lights need to be brighter, or better placed. Very poor lighting for night time...3. Sunroof Controls: My sunfire had great controls. Press open once, it vents. Press open again, it automatically opens to the full-open position. Then hold down close to close it. None of this hold open to open, and hold down to close, but then it stops halfway, and hold down again to do it. What's THAT all about? Crazy Toyota engineering I bet...4. Door-based control lighting: Door controls have no lighting at all! Can't tell where any buttons are after dark without trial and error...every button should be backlit. Windows, locks, you name it, it should be backlit.5. Twilight Sentinel: What a mess! This sensor is outta control. Definitely gotta fix that. Either reposition the sensor, add additional sensors that all have to agree on the amount of light to kick in, or just make the sensitivity adjustable by the end user so they can pick how sensitive they want it.6.110V Outlet: This is GREAT! I love it! But can you give it a higher capacity? So I can use like a George Forman Grill, a mini fridge, or a hairdryer, something more than 100 watts? And make one accessibly in the cargo area for when you're at your destination and wanna party outta the back of your car...7. Part Supply Issues: How could it take 2-3 weeks to get a MOTOR for a WINDOW??? Don't expect customers to quietly accept a multi-week wait for parts, no matter how big or small they are! Fix it now, before you REALLY start hearing some noise...8. Dashboard Visibility: Kinda hard to see the dashboard during the daytime...ESPECIALLY with sunglasses on!!! Definitely need to work on that...though I haven't tested the 04 dash, maybe the new color scheme corrected that?9. Headlights: Optional HID? Please? The stock bulbs are absurdly "weak." People love that hotter color temperature!10. Parking Brake: The thing barely travels before it's engaged. Give it more travel so you feel like it's engaging. Make it easier to release too. I'm personally a fan of pedal-based parking brakes...[Revised by ragingfish 7/22/2003, 12:53 AM EST]
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

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mwebb
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (msmyer)

Post by mwebb »

A few of the things I dislike have already been said so I will second them: No particular order1 The fuse box is very difficult to deal with2 Get rid of daytime running lights! SO annoying!3 Ciggarette plug adapters that have constant power, not just power when the car is on4 THE PAINT Chips like no other!5 No dot matrix on the front windshied (apparently to help block sun) I personally do not think it works- enables me from getting tint up there6 Lights on the visor mirrors7 Change the wimpy sounding horn!Likes:1 Practicality and sportiness in one!2 Lots of Storage!3 Styling!
18in Kaizer PHX II wheels / Toyo Tires / Tint2 way pager system alarm/remote starter2 Eclipse 12's / Eclipse HURemoved cross bars / Custom SBReflective red badge overlays / Red Vent Covers Pics Soon Billet Grill /LED underbodysFront tint / Windshield vinyl My Vibe - http://www.cardomain.com/id/webbsvibe
vibe03
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (mwebb)

Post by vibe03 »

Is Heated Side Mirrors already mentioned?Hand brake -move it, especially the coin holder that was underneat the hand brake, very hard to get to. -small thing.Can we have the moons and tunes then the navigation as well.Supercharger for the AWD.Outlet on the back.Full spare tire, instead of a donut.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (mrgrn)

Post by MrRich »

quote:I have a lease and i will have to have the whole thing painted before returning.You have to repaint the whole car?Did the dealer tell you that?
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (mwebb)

Post by dmitri »

1. Steering wheel is in a very uncomfortable position...have to drive with arms extended at all times to steer.2. Stop interior vibrations on the GT when the rpms get higher. 3. The clutch on the GT doesnt grab properly, kind of winds out.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by philndz »

PEDAL PARKING BRAKES????.....i hope i sense sarcasm....lets give it 18 wheels and a trailer too and throw in about 16 gears too.....YUK!...i would stay far from any car w/ foot-brake...........oh and not cool for hill starts (manual tranny) or handbrake turns
2003 Shadow Vibe Base 5spd - 53,000 MilesFlowmaster 60 series exhaust - Short Ram Intake SystemKonig Kaliber 17x7 Rims w/ 225-45-17 Kumho Ecsta 711's - Hotchkis Springs - Progress Rear anti-sway Bar My Vibe is FOR SALE: $8900
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (nobody imparticular)

Post by philndz »

the horn blows nuts!!....but i did install a full size spare and i also have a power outlet w/ some capable wattage in my trunk....so im not complaining.hmmmnnn....leaving power to the cig.lighter....all the time?...bad....anybody w/ a radar detector or a phone charger will slowly drain power out of an already TOO SMALL BATTERY.....thats another discussion!!
2003 Shadow Vibe Base 5spd - 53,000 MilesFlowmaster 60 series exhaust - Short Ram Intake SystemKonig Kaliber 17x7 Rims w/ 225-45-17 Kumho Ecsta 711's - Hotchkis Springs - Progress Rear anti-sway Bar My Vibe is FOR SALE: $8900
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by VibeSalsa »

There are my dislikes: The lack of power of the battery (310 CCA) when we live in a cold climate area... These cars were certainly not beeing tested at -40°F !!! And don't forget to plug the block heater... Still no answers from GM and my dealer about that complain... The poor location and sensibility of the automatic head lights sensor... The sound system that is unable to read MP3's. The horn (but I already changed it....) The paint The OnStar system that in unavailable in the Vibe...
2003 Base Vibe, Salsa, 5-speed, Power PackageLow pitch hornPic of my Vibe
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (philndz)

Post by ragingfish »

quote:PEDAL PARKING BRAKES????.....i hope i sense sarcasm....lets give it 18 wheels and a trailer too and throw in about 16 gears too.....YUK!...i would stay far from any car w/ foot-brake...........What's the big deal? I like it when you push the pedal all the way in to engage it, and push it again to release it...much easier to release IMHO than a handbrake...
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by millster »

quote:What's the big deal? I like it when you push the pedal all the way in to engage it, and push it again to release it...much easier to release IMHO than a handbrake...I agree to a point. They are easier to set and release, a little more logical even. But, they take up a lot of space in an already crowded footwell. Also, I use the handbrake a lot on hills to help get moving without rolling backwards. It's possible with a foot-style brake, but not nearly as convenient in my opinion.
-Millster-
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (millster)

Post by ragingfish »

quote:I agree to a point. They are easier to set and release, a little more logical even. But, they take up a lot of space in an already crowded footwell. Also, I use the handbrake a lot on hills to help get moving without rolling backwards. It's possible with a foot-style brake, but not nearly as convenient in my opinion.True -- it's crowded, especially with a manual...
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

2009 PONTIAC G8
3.6L V6 (256 HP @ 6300 rpm, 248 ft-lbs. @ 2100 rpm)
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by philndz »

i guess being that i drive the 5spd it is very easy being located right next to the shifter...where my hand will be anyways. but still...cars are meant to have handbrakes....just seems right
2003 Shadow Vibe Base 5spd - 53,000 MilesFlowmaster 60 series exhaust - Short Ram Intake SystemKonig Kaliber 17x7 Rims w/ 225-45-17 Kumho Ecsta 711's - Hotchkis Springs - Progress Rear anti-sway Bar My Vibe is FOR SALE: $8900
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (philndz)

Post by ragingfish »

To each his own.
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

2009 PONTIAC G8
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by Vibe Rater »

More durable paint finish please.More and speedier availability in Canada please. 4-6 months is an insult.
Vibe
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

Post by Vibe »

PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!! GET RID OF THAT WHIMPY HORN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am embarresed to blow it,besides no body can hear it in their car with their radio cranked. Besides it sounds faggy!!! James (Vibe)
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by Toasted7 »

Most have been listed already, but I will add mine to the mix.- PAINT... better paint! (as we all have found out) I have white paint and only about 8000 miles. I have BIG chips in the paint on the hood from rocks and such and it shows up really bad on the lighter color- Better plastic trim on the two tone Vibes or maybe just a stronger more rugged kind of plastic so it doesn't shred at the slightest touch- Cup holders (maybe bigger, I was not happy when I found that I couldn't put a big slam of Code Red in my cup holder)- Hard Cargo Cover or maybe one that is able to roll up instead of just hooking on the cargo hooks (my parents had a Saturn that had a roll-up cargo cover and it was really nice to get it out of the way)- Harder plastic in the cargo area (it can scratch VERY easily)- Upper Dash area is extremely prone to scratches and smudges (and I don't use that area to store things as another post accused me of)- Sun Visors need to be BIGGER and better, maybe with lights and with the pull out tinted extensions- Better upper window tint on the windshield and not all that "dot matrix" crap- A better rear window washer jet, not one that just runs down the back window. Maybe one that actually sprays if that is possible- Center console armrest needs to be softer, my elbow gets really sore when it is resting there after driving for a while- A light in the glovebox so you can actually see what is in there- Door console controls (all of them) need to have backlights so you can see what the heck you are doing at night- A one-touch button for the moon/sun roof to open it- A better stock sound system for the extra cash... I wasn't too impressed with the "tunes" side of the Moon and Tunes package. I assumed that the extra two speakers would have actually made a noticeable difference I think that is around 10 or so, maybe a few extras... might have more to post later if I can think of 'em
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (Toasted7)

Post by ragingfish »

My dad's GA has the washer fluid nozzles ON the blades, so when you spray, it sprays right udner them, and gets everything clean....They should do that on the back window...
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

2009 PONTIAC G8
3.6L V6 (256 HP @ 6300 rpm, 248 ft-lbs. @ 2100 rpm)
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by Triton »

Sounds like everyone has everything covered. My biggest quirk about the car is no lighting behind the controls on the door and the mirror control. Besides that, it's little things like the horn and the cup holder size. A light in the glove box would be nice also. Make 17" wheels available with the moonroof and the DVD navigation system available with it as well.
***SOLD***2003 Vibe GT Monotone Neptune - Inaugural October 2004 Vibe of the Month***SOLD***

Now the proud owner of Titanium Silver 2012 Kia Optima SX
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by cibomatto »

I have nothing extra to add but my dislikes/changes I would like to see are:1) The Horn is extremely PATHETIC... I think people laugh at me when I beep it2) The Rear-bumper protector should be standard3) Paint around the driver controls(Window and lock controls) chips too easy4) Option to disable DRL.. I can recognize its value for having it but it is not always needed-----Given all of that I LOVE the Vibe... My next new purchase will most likely be a Vibe.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (msmyer)

Post by joatmon »

quote:and of course, double the MPG.I think your asking for a bit much! I agree and I know it won't happen, I wanted to let the GM folks know that there are some people who value high MPG. Vibe (base 5 speed) gets the best MPG in the entire 2003 GM product line (according to fueleconomy.gov) I've been getting about the rated numbers, but always want more.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (joatmon)

Post by Shadow Realm »

I agree with most of all of these listed above.My List:1. Not bringing out the Vibe GXP for 20042. Not making the SLP type hood available as an option from the factory.3. 17"/18" option wheels.4. Not getting the S/C out for sale in the time alotted.5. Lights on the door controls (all of them)6. Cargo net package standard.7. Air Compressor built into the rear.8. Actually having a real HORN9. Rear window washer built into wiper arm10.Get me my SUPERCHARGER NOW!!!!!!!!!That's my top ten list!Shadow Realm
Abyss Monotone GT, 6 speed, Moon & Tunes, Power Group,and 16" Alloys. Soon you can see my Vibe GT at Shadowrealm's car pics but for now it is under construction!
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (Shadow Realm)

Post by VibeForWinter »

1) Need lights on the door controls2) One touch down on the front passenger window3) Acc. power after removing key until door is opened (the Corvette has spoiled me...)4) Leather interior option5) Forget about relocating the auto headlamp sensor, just get rid of it6) Cigarette lighter that is powered with the key off7) RCA inputs for the stock radio 8) Lighted vanity mirrors, and better quality material for the sunvisors9) Better paint10) Sport suspension option for the base modelAnd a "bonus" rant1) If I ever blow a fuse, I want the packaging engineer that that thought "here's a good place for the fuse panel" to come to my home and change it for me.
Bill H.Eastpointe, Michigan2003 Pontiac Vibe (wheels/tires and tunes are the only mods so far...)2000 Corvette (Extra oomph thanks to Agostino Racing Engines. Hide the women and children, it's fast, loud and looking for trouble...)1970 Corvette (Classic top down cruising. When it's running...)
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (philndz)

Post by MadBill »

quote:i guess being that i drive the 5spd it is very easy being located right next to the shifter...where my hand will be anyways. but still...cars are meant to have handbrakes....just seems rightAnother big reason is: HANDBRAKE TURNS! You come to a tight corner on snow, turn the wheel a tad, pop the HB for a sec and presto! instant 90 degree turn! (or 180, 360, etc. if you leave it on too long)
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (MadBill)

Post by etoop »

I've been looking at picking up a Vibe... but now that I found this website today... I'm a little worried.Sounds like the paint sucks...Not sure how serious the rattles are...all cars have rattles I guessBut it is roomy... has great MPG and is pretty sport....Oh what is a person to do... I don't like the paint issue with chips
~Eric2004 Base SalsaAutomaticTwo TonePower PackageM & T Package
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (etoop)

Post by ragingfish »

quote:I've been looking at picking up a Vibe... but now that I found this website today... I'm a little worried.Sounds like the paint sucks...Not sure how serious the rattles are...all cars have rattles I guessBut it is roomy... has great MPG and is pretty sport....Oh what is a person to do... I don't like the paint issue with chips There are a lot of owners on here who HAVEN"T Had paint problem...you need to take into consideration how many say they have (maybe 20) in relation to the total number of members (1000+). Plus, most cars out there today have less than decent finishes -- in the modern economy, manufacturers have to cut as many corners as they can to minimize cost. Reducing the paint thickness is one of those ways.Consider putting several (and I mean SEVERAL) coats of TRUE carnuba wax on the second you get it home...I read somewhere numerous layers of TRUE carnumba wax finish (not the kind of carnuba found in car wash solvents) can add much strength.
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

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etoop
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (ragingfish)

Post by etoop »

That is very true..... It just appears to be a lot of people. Vibes are so hard to find these days... There are only about 8 left in the Twin Cities metro area here in Minnesota.I haven't been able to find a thread for the differences in the 2003/2004 models... except for the side molding? Do you know of a post?
~Eric2004 Base SalsaAutomaticTwo TonePower PackageM & T Package
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (etoop)

Post by NSimkins »

quote:That is very true..... It just appears to be a lot of people. Vibes are so hard to find these days...Definitely on a per basis issue. I do notice it is a different type of durability than I am used to, but have not had any major problems to report myself. The purpose of this thread is to reaffirm areas for change, so the amount of posts of certain issues is sure to be seen by the appropriate people. I'm sure they are working to make the vehicle better all the time.. our input really helps!!quote:I haven't been able to find a thread for the differences in the 2003/2004 models... except for the side molding? Do you know of a post?Here's one post...http://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=4266
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (etoop)

Post by slbpsi63 »

1-9 PAINT 10. Then I would suggest the fog lights work withhout having the lights on. NO DRL either.
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (etoop)

Post by joatmon »

quote:I've been looking at picking up a Vibe... but now that I found this website today... I'm a little worried.Keep in mind tht a lot of the people who have posted their gripes and lists of things that they feel could be improved are also the same ones who think that overall the car is really great. I posted my list, but nothing on the list makes me want a different car.
ragingfish
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (joatmon)

Post by ragingfish »

agreed
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

2009 PONTIAC G8
3.6L V6 (256 HP @ 6300 rpm, 248 ft-lbs. @ 2100 rpm)
NSimkins
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (joatmon)

Post by NSimkins »

quote:Keep in mind tht a lot of the people who have posted their gripes and lists of things that they feel could be improved are also the same ones who think that overall the car is really great. I posted my list, but nothing on the list makes me want a different car. Well spoken! I would say this is the case for many posters on this and similar threads.
micheles_bad_vibe
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vi

Post by micheles_bad_vibe »

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Last edited by micheles_bad_vibe on Wed May 09, 2012 1:59 pm, edited 1 time in total.
NovaResource
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe

Post by NovaResource »

Here are my top 10 dislikes and top 10 suggestions (in no particular order):Dislikes:1 - auto headlight sensor position (also, no way to disable the auto headlights if desired)2 - power outlets shut off with vehicle (both the dash and console outlets)3 - instrument cluster squeaks (and other rattles)4 - rear window washer sprayer is poor (make all 3 wipers "wet arms")5 - hard/rough arm rests (console is hard, material on door panels is rough with little padding)6 - wimpy horn7 - door locks: unable to use fob with doors open; no auto lock/unlock when placed in gear/park (my '93 Sunbird did this)8 - low fuel warning light has no ring tone and comes on too late (only 2 gal in tank)9 - not all controls backlit (window switches, power lock switch, power mirror controls, dash lights dimmer control)10 - steering wheel needs more tilt and telescopingSuggestions:1 - add a V6 option (possibilities: GM: 3.1, 3.4, 3.8; Toyota: Tundra 3.4, Avalon 3.0, Solara 3.0)2 - make window tint on all windows behind driver an option (similar to minivans and SUV's)3 - add tint to top of windshield4 - add ability for driver to operate all windows when lock is on5 - more gauges (voltmeter and oil pressure)6 - make the roof rack cross bars easier to remove7 - make door unlock when handle is pulled (at least on front doors; my Chrysler minivan does this)8 - an overhead console on non-moonroof Vibes (with garage door opener and sunglass holders)9 - a compass in the dash or in the above mentioned overhead console10 - a power outlet in the cargo area that is powered all the timeOther thoughts: - I LOVE THIS CAR - The paint is a little thin but I haven't had a major problem. Not really worse than my other GM cars were. - I think non-AWD Vibes should be lowered slightly (1"). - add a V6 option. Superchargers and high powered/revving 4-cylinders are nice but I want 6 pistons. My old 3.1L '93 Sunbird would smoke a base Vibe and stay even with a GT. I miss that power and torque in my base Vibe (needed an auto for the wife). I'm hoping the S/C will solve that problem. Please get it out soon and don't price it so high. Remember, one of the reasons most owners purchased a Vibe was because of it's low price. We like value.
PhantomII
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by PhantomII »

OK, most things have been covered but I will restate my worst gripes.-Horn, what horn?!? I thought I electrocuted a mosquito!!!!!-Hard center armrest!! I drive 80 miles a day through the city to work and my elbow is killing me by the time I get to work.-Light sentinel, enough said.-No bass on the Tunes package, the base stereo sounds better in that department. No, I am not looking for head rattling bass just enough to compliment the volume that they system is capable of.-Crome on doors comes off.-Rattles in the doors when the temps are below 40F-Terrible battery, I generate more power pushing in the clutch pedal!!! Dealer wont do anything, but on some really cold days my car would hardly start. I will have to fork over the money for a decent one unless someone pursuades Pontiac to replace ones in the cold climates.-Plastic in storage area does scratch too easily, especially the back of the front passenger seat.Don't get me wrong though, I love this car!! I don't have paint problems, other than orange peel in a few minor places that buffed out easily enough. however I have gone through two fog lights due to cracked lenses. The seats are comfortable, and I find the driving position comfortable (I'm 6'2") save the center armrest. I like the fabric, leather is either too cold or hot depending upon the season here . The storage is great, and the car is fun to drive!! I have always had a thing for red lighting also . I see all the gripes as minor and first year glitches. I have had my car for a little over a year and those are the big gripes. Still need to get my stereo replaced due to the scratching sound when playing some CD's but don't get by the dealer very often. It seems like Pontiac employees read the threads and hopefully they will take our advice and fix as many as feasible.
If you think cars are fun,Strap on a pair of J-79's sometime Deron LewisVolunteer Crew ChiefF-4C Phantom IIMinnesota Air National Guard MuseumBase Vibe, Moon and Tunes, Satellite
red
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by red »

some suggestions to make a good car even better!!1. tilt/telescopic steering wheel2. cloth covered, LARGER, sunvisors with extenders (you know, like GM makes !!!)3. have the heater blow more heat/cold towards feet (we need that in the colder climates).4. PAINT TOO THIN5. cloth on back doors/chrome pull handles.6. padding on door rests and an extension for the console lid.7. supercharger for awd would be AWESOME!!! 8. better sound insulation on the floor panels to tone down road noise.9. more PONTIAC performance accessories (short rams/cai's/headers, e.g.)10. KEEP MAKING THE VIBE THE BEST PONTIAC ALIVE !! good things...love its looks and how it carries all my stuffthe sound is gggrrreeeaaatttt!solid, this has got to be the most solid gm i have ever owned.easy to park, turns on a dimeit has a personality, which is more than i can say for alot of carsthe seats dont kill my backi enjoy driving it and get withdrawals if i dont..handles good for an inexpensive awdgood heater at way below 0*love the red lighting (i know, gone now ! but i like it anyway!)best handling awd i've driven since i can remeberit FEELS very safe to be inITS A PONTIAC !!
meathead333
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (red)

Post by meathead333 »

i agree with ya, but if the car were tha perfect with all the stuff people want and improvements, i bet the price would go way up. then again, itd be worth it
My myspace.com profile My 73' Bronco Cardomain page
ragingfish
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (meathead333)

Post by ragingfish »

quote:i agree with ya, but if the car were tha perfect with all the stuff people want and improvements, i bet the price would go way up. then again, itd be worth itIf the car were perfect, exist it would not, for perfection is not attainable.
YES!I still visit GenVibe periodically. I have not forgotten about my "original" family over here!

2009 PONTIAC G8
3.6L V6 (256 HP @ 6300 rpm, 248 ft-lbs. @ 2100 rpm)
cds22
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (NSimkins)

Post by cds22 »

Well so far I'm very happy with my Vibe but of course there is always room for improvement. My top 10 gripe list is:1. rattels, rattles and more rattles!2. paint chips too easily3. sunroof stops partway through closing so you have to push it twice4. steering wheel tilt barely does5. AWD needs more horse power6. unable to close power windows after the car is shut off (we have a toyota tundra that keeps power for windows for 2 minutes after the key is shut off, awesome!)7. lack of indicator light when AWD is engaged8. lack of real arm rests, especially on the doors9. roof rack is not long enough to accomodate large items (like canoes!, I have to add a third bar attached over the front doors)10. real tinting along the top of the windshield would be great
Carol2003 Vibe AWD, 2-tone Salsa, sunroof, 6 pack CD, security system
NovaResource
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Re: TOP 10 dislikes and/or things you could change on the Vibe (cds22)

Post by NovaResource »

quote:7. lack of indicator light when AWD is engagedAWD is engaged all the time, it's just that most of the time it's only driving the front wheels. A light telling you the rear are being driven is needless in an AWD system. You're thinking of a 4WD system where it's either on or off. The Vibe AWD is always on with the computer constantly varying the amount of power being sent to the rear wheels.
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