New member looking into buying my first Vibe :)

[cythraul]

Hi everyone,I'm thinking of getting a Vibe as a family car.Looks like the 2003-2005's with 100-150k would be in my price range.So my question, is there anything to look or ask for on these models? A quick survey of the forums posts does not indicate of any outstanding or systemic issues but I prefer to ask before getting one and discover flaws after. For example, on my gen1 MPV, the timing belt, the rear pneumatic suspension and rust on the rear fenders were a problem. Anything on the Vibe side? I think I already spotted that some rust on the doors handles could be a problem... I've seen two since a few days that had bad spots...Also, I was surprised to discover that these were available in AWD. Being a MPV 98 4WD owner, I was trilled. Tho, I know it adds complexity to the mechanic. Any recommendation for or against?Thanks crowd! cyth

[star_deceiver]

Being AWDless has never affected me (with proper winter tires, of course!)Basic things with any used car purchase: Maintenance records, major repairs, reciepts to prove maintenance was done. If you're getting a GT check to see if the clutch was ever replaced, they have been known to give out early. Watch the AWD rear end, as lack of oil chages can cause problems. The sunroof drains have a habit of getting clogged, same with the AC drain which results in wet carpets.Good luck with the hunt!

[808 Vibes]

Welcome. I recommend a Neptune. LOL Neither of ours have any rust on the handles or anywhere else, and one doesn't even have a garage to protect it from salt air (just a roof over it)

[CAMOGIRL]

I don't have any rust on my 03. As far as AWD goes, if it's important to you, go for it, but I'll tell you, I jumped from a Jeep Cherokee right into my front wheel drive Vibe in the middle of a nice snowy winter and I never looked back, except when I used to park literally ON the snow piles in the parking lots... I'll miss that. Also, I did not sacrifice any interior area really. I can pack the same amount of stuff/people into the Vibe for trips as the Cherokee. BONUS is that the roof rack is easier for me to reach because it's lower to the ground lol.

[cythraul]

Thanks for the replies!Well.. the more I look into this car, the least worries I have.It won't be a GT that 's much is certain as my wife vetoed that it will be an automatic. Even tho, manuals are cheaper, more economical and more widespread. She learned manual on my Jetta 92 so I understand. I'll certainly check the maintenance record and have it fully inspected and cleaned. I realize now from reading what I can from you and the rest the forum that AWD is not a necessity but the fuel mileage cost is rather low compared to other type of vehicles (8.3 > 9.1, IIRC). Nothing compared to a manual tho (7.7).Since I posted, I stumbled on a 2003 AWD with unfortunately a bit more mileage that I was aiming for (163km) but between my wife and I, we only do about 10k a year so I figure that mileage won't be a problem for a loooong time. thanks again!EDIT: star_deceiver, by rear end on the AWD, I assume you refer to the rear differential. I understand that if the oil was never changed it could cause problems but what can I check? I mean, if the gears are worn, until it starts creating problems like vibration and all, there's nothing you can check... no?

[star_deceiver]

Quote, originally posted by cythraul »I understand that if the oil was never changed it could cause problems but what can I check? I mean, if the gears are worn, until it starts creating problems like vibration and all, there's nothing you can check... no?See if any of the records indicate a rear diff fluid change. Take the car to a dirt road and excersise the awd (turn the traction control off if so equipped).If you hear and feel nothing, then nothings probably wrong so happy motoring!

[cythraul]

Well, everyone, seems like it won't be an AWD. I've seen two and each had a leak at the rear diff. The first one was bad. It was soaked. I figure that my price range does not permit me to find a AWD that had TLC. Seems like the Vibe has a tendency to get stoned-chipped just on top of the windshield. With our northern (Montreal, Canada) weather and salt, rust gets in and crawls under the windshield rubber.Repairing that damage without removing the windshield is doomed to failure and even the best body shop won't guarantee me that rust won't come back if it already went thru... It's also a spot impossible to treat regularly with anti-corrosion oil/grease/wax (whatever your preference. So, everyone looking for a Vibe, be on the lookout for that problem! cyth