New town new vibe - need your opinion

[LightTrails]

Hello All!

Recently moved from Monterey, California to Denver, Colorado in September 2013 and in January I bought a 2003 AWD Vibe with 62k miles.

The car came with studded Arctic Claw snow tires and they have definitely come in handy as this is my first winter in Denver and my first time driving in the snow. However, they are noisy! Very soon I will be in the market for some new tires so if anybody has any suggestions, I'm all ears.

I had it checked by a mechanic who drives a Matrix and he said it looked very clean despite a replaced front bumper and hood from a minor accident. However, in a few thousand miles I will need to get new brakes.

Any suggestions regarding a drain or flush of the original transmission fluid?

I've been getting anywhere from 26-31 mpg and I drive about 50/50 - freeway/city. I know this is a great car and I love its versatility. Any and all suggestions are appreciated. I look forward to being an active member of this community!

[Caretaker]

Yes. First, congrats on your move to Denver. What a great town. I think you are quite lucky. Second, never flush a transmission that you inherited unless you know the car's full maintenance history. However, in your case, at only 62,000 miles, you are still within the acceptable window (barely) to have it flushed for the first time with Toyota type IV fluid (in your model year). I had mine done at a Toyota dealership to ensure I would get the proper fluid for my model year. Also, consider taking your car to Sears and have the brake fluid flushed out in case it had not been done. It is only $35 there.

[tpollauf]

Welcome to GenVibe Congrats on your recent purchase and looks like you got a real gem there. Low mileage for an 11 year old Vibe! I can't comment much about any maintenance due yet as I own the 2nd gen models and drive very little. Just wanted to welcome you.

[trb]

Welcome! Vibe looks good, I agree. I drained and refilled my son's trans fluid a few miles later than you are planning, and it looked pretty good. The owner's manual says to change it every 60,000 miles I believe, so I'll keep it on that schedule, and hopefully we can get many more miles from it.

[vibenvy]

Welcome to GenVibe! Thanks for posting pictures of your Vibe right away! I see it is the best color !

[lannvouivre]

Welcome! Vibe looks good, I agree. I drained and refilled my son's trans fluid a few miles later than you are planning, and it looked pretty good. The owner's manual says to change it every 60,000 miles I believe, so I'll keep it on that schedule, and hopefully we can get many more miles from it.

Then 30,000 miles if in hot, dusty, heavy stop-and-go, or towing conditions.