Update or not

[huskervibe]

I have a base '04 and I am considering a base '09. It does not have the power package but they are willing to add power windows/locks and cruise for $700. I am not sure of adding this aftermarket and the potential for future problems. The price would be 14,200 with this added. Any thoughts? This site has been a blessing, to see the community surrounding these great cars.

[808 Vibes]

Welcome That's still a really good price for a new car If they give you some kind of loyalty bonus and if you have GM card earnings, even better

[lovemyraffe]

Welcome!That's a great price.I thought about trading my '05 for a new '09, but I didn't think the '09 was as comfortable.

[huskervibe]

Thanks for the feedback. I think I will move on it. There are some definite differences in this newer model, some I like and some that I could do without. Here is my list.Like:Updated Standard Safety features (anti-lock brakes, side airbags, stability control)Ipod jackMore cupholdersMore refined-looking dashA little quieter and smootherDislikes:Steering is more vagueTransmission shifter (moves easily into 3)What other differences do others like and dislike?

[jake75]

Quote, originally posted by huskervibe »I have a base '04 and I am considering a base '09. It does not have the power package but they are willing to add power windows/locks and cruise for $700. I am not sure of adding this aftermarket and the potential for future problems. The price would be 14,200 with this added. Any thoughts? This site has been a blessing, to see the community surrounding these great cars. It is my understanding from posts here that the basic guts of cruise control is already there - just a matter of adding the control, so that should be o.k.Someone on here a long while ago had a post about a company that sold aftermarket keyless entry systems. I think the parts cost about $150. DOesn't sound too complicated.But if it were me I'd pass on the power window addition. There have been enough troubles with the factory installed ones.

[jake75]

Quote, originally posted by lovemyraffe »Welcome!That's a great price.I thought about trading my '05 for a new '09, but I didn't think the '09 was as comfortable.What makes the '09 more "comfortable" to me vs. my '03 are the added safety features, a new warranty so I don't have to worry about repairs for at least 3 more years, and the lack of need for any other routine servicing or wear part replacements for awhile - e.g. brakes, tires, struts etc. The '09 also seems to be quieter and have a better ride (tho the latter is subjective).Now I don't have to think about a replacement for many years (though knowing me I will in about 4 years), and I think the present deals are about as good as they will ever get.

[joatmon]

There were issues with the earlier model years with power windows. Something would get loose, the glass would hang on the way up, and the force of the motor could cause the glass to shatter. Hopefully that has been resolved int he later model years. Some of us have the earlier year Vibes with manual windows, and although we don't tend to shatter our glass winding it up, I'm still not convinced the underlying problem is limited to power windows.On mine, the driver glass, the one I use the most, will somethings hang a bit on the way up. The difference is that with manual windows, you feel the resistance, stop cranking, maybe back it down a bit, the glass settles in place and then is easy to roll the rest of the way up. With power windows, you don't get that tactile feedback, the motor just pushes through any resistance.But since they should have gotten this fixed in the newer models, I don't think power windows represent any predisposition to trouble. And you will want them if you don't get them, then before you know it you've run a couple hundred thousand miles up on the car and it just doesn't seem worth it to add them anymore, then you'll be thinking about how they will be a requirement on the next car you buy. I know and power locks are worth it, if for no other reason than no matter how many times you tell people to lock their door when they get out, people these days just can't relate to a car without power locks, and they just won't do it.

[ToolGuy]

I think you would be OK if these things were added. Just make sure ALL the items added, follow the same GM warranty. If not, then do not do it. Also, the dealer can't find you a car you want with these options, like a dealer trade from another dealer?

[jake75]

Quote, originally posted by ToolGuy »I think you would be OK if these things were added. Just make sure ALL the items added, follow the same GM warranty. If not, then do not do it. Also, the dealer can't find you a car you want with these options, like a dealer trade from another dealer?Probably not worth the drive, and it may be gone, but Chesrown.com (Delaware, OH) had a new '09 red 1.8L ac at power pkg for $14,930 after the loyalty rebate.[Though your dealer must really want to sell you a car if he is willing to install cruise, remote entry power door locks, and 4 power windows for $700 - that is a $950 option package.]

[AKLGT]

keep in mind that much of the aftermarket accessories are better built and quality than most OEM systems of the same. And for $700, that's a killer deal.

[huskervibe]

We ended up with a different vehicle. A red metallic with the power package. The aftermarket deal was too good to be true. He thought it would be $700 but in actuality, more like $1500. (plus, it would not have been covered on the factory warranty) It ended up good for me though. That falling through made him look bad and put the ball in my court. So, we will sign tomorrow for 14200. I'll post some pics soon.

[jake75]

Quote, originally posted by huskervibe »We ended up with a different vehicle. A red metallic with the power package. The aftermarket deal was too good to be true. He thought it would be $700 but in actuality, more like $1500. (plus, it would not have been covered on the factory warranty) It ended up good for me though. That falling through made him look bad and put the ball in my court. So, we will sign tomorrow for 14200. I'll post some pics soon. Super deal! And I like the red - wish my dealer had one when I bought in Jan.