New '10 Vibe owner Intro + Maintenace and HVAC Q's

[weirdly]

Wow, it’s great to find GenVibe! What an awesome resource.

I recently bought a used, stock, 2010 Vibe 2.4L in red with approx. 64k miles from a private party. Just got it a few days ago. Things seems fine so far. I have been reading through tons of threads and have a few questions.

Since I do not have service records, and do not know what was performed, besides a recent oil change, I am wondering what maintenance members would suggest. Transmission and brake fluid? Also wondering how to get the best MPG with the 2.4L.

I do notice an occasional exhaust fumes smell when I run the car, but this seem to be getting better. Also the oil reading is approx. 1 inch above the max line on the dipstick, BUT according to forums, this seems normal and nothing to worry about.

Engine air filter looks clean, but the cabin air filter was a real mess and I replaced it. I seriously think a mouse was trapped in there. When I replaced it I noticed a hole in the fabric just above the cabin air filter door (see attached photo). Perhaps the mouse chewed it?

I am wondering what this hole will effect? My guess is that when the fresh air vent is on, it will be pulling in more cabin air than it would if the hole wasn't there.
Any idea how I can fix it? I can’t seem to find a replacement part. Maybe some duct tape?

What about the MAF sensor? Is it worth cleaning as a preventive measure? I checked the forums but couldn’t find a how-to posting.

Lastly, as I am not much of a DIYer (but willing to tinker), where do you get your car serviced? I was thinking of taking it to a GMC or Toyota dealer for the next oil change to take advantage of their “free-inspection”. (Can you take it to a Toyota dealer?)

Thanks everyone!

-Weirdly

[Rayven01]

Welcome! Be sure to post pics and let us know where you're located, we like that kind of thing around here.

Since I do not have service records, and do not know what was performed, besides a recent oil change, I am wondering what maintenance members would suggest. Transmission and brake fluid? Also wondering how to get the best MPG with the 2.4L.

Transmission fluid (I'm assuming automatic here) is up to you. It's not supposed to require service at all, but most here will still change it. I changed mine at 100,000 miles and it was still fairly red, though with plenty of wear particles. Unless you're having issues with brake fade, you're probably fine to wait on the brake fluid until it needs pads. Coolant and spark plugs will probably last until 100-120k assuming the factory are still in there. You might want to inspect the serpentine belt for cracks if you haven't already, at 3-4 years old it may be getting worn.

I am wondering what this hole will effect? My guess is that when the fresh air vent is on, it will be pulling in more cabin air than it would if the hole wasn't there.
Any idea how I can fix it? I can’t seem to find a replacement part. Maybe some duct tape?

I'd guess the same, and probably go with the duct tape. I'm betting the part only comes as a full (expensive) assembly. You know, I don't think I've ever actually used duct tape on a duct!

What about the MAF sensor? Is it worth cleaning as a preventive measure? I checked the forums but couldn’t find a how-to posting.

This is what you want. Opinions vary on the effectiveness. Some people insist it does nothing and some swear by it. I cleaned mine and didn't notice much difference.

Lastly, as I am not much of a DIYer (but willing to tinker), where do you get your car serviced? I was thinking of taking it to a GMC or Toyota dealer for the next oil change to take advantage of their “free-inspection”. (Can you take it to a Toyota dealer?)

I can't afford the prices the dealer charges and have learned a lot about routine maintenance since I got mine (mostly due to this awesome forum) so I've chosen to start doing routine stuff myself. For major work I take it to a trusted mechanic. As for the Toyota dealer, it depends on the dealer. Some are more than happy to (as long as it's not warranty work) and some won't do it. If your local Toyota dealer is a good one and is willing I would recommend it over the GM dealer. The internals are all Toyota and they know a lot more about it than the GM dealer will.

[09vGT]

I've had the exhaust fumes smell since I've had the car, which I bought in July of '09. Dealer could smell it but they had no solution. It comes and goes, but it seems to be much worse in the winter.

My local Toyota dealer, who apparently sucks, said, "I don't work on no Pontiacs" in the biggest hick voice I've heard. I hung up. I prefer my local GM dealer, though, thats just my preference.

I had my transmission fluid changed at 100,000 and I've gone through one set of brakes and 2 or 3 sets of tires; along with an alignment or two. I have 107,XXX miles now.

I don't know how much they actually inspect on their "free inspection" as my tires (on the info sheet) still show they have a lot of tread when I KNOW that is not true. One tire is much better than the rest, being replaced due to the tire failing and getting it replaced under warranty. It has several thousand miles less than the others.

[Rayven01]

Just to chime in on it, I've never noticed an exhaust smell in mine.

[tpollauf]

Also wondering how to get the best MPG with the 2.4L.

Get rid of your "slushbox" and get a manual tranny But seriously, drive at a relaxed level, where possible. Your driving habits REALLY determine your true MPG's

Oh ..................... Welcome to GenVibe, and you have the BEST color also of the 2nd gen Vibes Post pictures soon & location. Welcome to the family

[vibenvy]

Welcome to GenVibe! I have cleaned the MAF sensor on both our 2009 GTs a couple times so far and it does seem to slightly improve idle, etc. but it does not really make a huge difference. The way I look at it is, cleaning it isn't going to hurt anything, so you may as well give it a shot. You may be surprised by the outcome!

As far as gas mileage goes, here are a few important tips that I follow: 1. Make sure all 4 tires are properly inflated (should be 32 PSI per the sticker on the driver's side door jamb). 2. Keep up with routine maintenance i.e. oil changes, making sure the air filter is cleaned/replaced, etc. 3. Keep your RPMs under 3000 when accelerating. 4. Keep unnecessary items (weight) out of the vehicle. My mom and I average 26-28 MPG with 50/50 driving. I have gotten as high as 33.9 MPG with 100% highway. We do have K&N CAIs on both our Vibes which have netted an additional 1-2 MPG so you may want to consider getting one for your 2.4L to help boost your mileage a little more.

As others have said, we love pictures around here, so be sure and post some when you get a chance !