PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

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tinyfrogs
Posts: 16
Joined: Tue Jul 08, 2014 5:18 pm
Location: NC Triangle

PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by tinyfrogs »

Hi folks!

Thanks for adding me. I've been interested in finding a Vibe GT or Matrix XRS for a while. 30+ mpg in a fun-to-drive, RELIABLE wagohatch would be a great addition to our stable. A 2003 popped up recently with a high asking price and some cosmetic flaws, but less than 100k miles, so it has not yet sold (unlike another that sold the same day I found the advert, asking under 4k for a similar car).

I'm planning to check the current car out tonight with a mechanic buddy. Anything to look out for? My searches on this forum don't turn up much. Some recall issues, maybe clutch, transmission, and wheel bearings depending on how it was driven. Try to tell if the actually put 91 in it. Decide how bad the dings are and if they can be cheaply repaired. Anything else? Thanks.
Nasmfell
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Joined: Sat Jun 08, 2013 5:48 pm

Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by Nasmfell »

Hi, Usual used car checks, tires brakes, engine, transmission and body. Not many issues with the Vibe, also check to make sure any recalls have been done. Good luck.
tinyfrogs
Posts: 16
Joined: Tue Jul 08, 2014 5:18 pm
Location: NC Triangle

Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by tinyfrogs »

Mmmkay, test drive in the rain was fun. Took a mechanic buddy along. He said one dent is no biggie and he can pop it out in a few minutes. A poor repair on a door will be more work. Might leave it alone if I get the car. We think it might have a wheel bearing going on the passenger side. The shifter action is loose while not very "snicky". That might be typical on this car and would take some getting used to. Nice wheels and rims (not stock). His ask is dealership-type price for a near-clean condition. I will probably make an offer.
tinyfrogs
Posts: 16
Joined: Tue Jul 08, 2014 5:18 pm
Location: NC Triangle

Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by tinyfrogs »

Bought it. First things on list are DMV visit, oil change/fluids check, and then ordering an extra key fob and brass steering bushings. Good cleaning will come ASAP, probably starting during oil change.
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vibenvy
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Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by vibenvy »

Welcome to GenVibe! Glad to hear you ended up getting the GT! Be sure and post some pictures of it when you get a chance ;)!
Image
2009 Liquid Platinum Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
2009 Steel Blue Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
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ImUrOBGYN
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Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by ImUrOBGYN »

vibenvy wrote:Welcome to GenVibe! Glad to hear you ended up getting the GT! Be sure and post some pictures of it when you get a chance ;)!
^What this guy said!
I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered. - George Best
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vibenvy
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Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by vibenvy »

ImUrOBGYN wrote:
vibenvy wrote:Welcome to GenVibe! Glad to hear you ended up getting the GT! Be sure and post some pictures of it when you get a chance ;)!
^What this chick said!
Fixed it for ya :D!
Image
2009 Liquid Platinum Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
2009 Steel Blue Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
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ImUrOBGYN
Posts: 438
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Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by ImUrOBGYN »

Well, I find the word "chick" to be sexist and degrading...
...
...

:lol:

Kidding! And, I apologize. ^What that chick said! :D
I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered. - George Best
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vibenvy
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Location: Sandwich, IL

Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by vibenvy »

ImUrOBGYN wrote:Well, I find the word "chick" to be sexist and degrading...
...
...

:lol:

Kidding! And, I apologize. ^What that chick said! :D
:lol:

I'm used to it. I've been on car forums since 2002 and I have always been mistaken for a guy because I don't flaunt the fact I'm female. No worries ;)!
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2009 Liquid Platinum Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
2009 Steel Blue Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
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ImUrOBGYN
Posts: 438
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Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by ImUrOBGYN »

:twisted: Now, I know.... (I've got my creepy face on in case you need help envisioning. :) Ok, back to being creepy...)

:twisted:
I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered. - George Best
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vibenvy
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Joined: Wed Apr 15, 2009 5:38 am
Location: Sandwich, IL

Re: PPI'ing a 2003 Vibe GT: what to look out for?

Post by vibenvy »

ImUrOBGYN wrote::twisted: Now, I know.... (I've got my creepy face on in case you need help envisioning. :) Ok, back to being creepy...)

:twisted:
:lol:
Image
2009 Liquid Platinum Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
2009 Steel Blue Metallic Vibe GT - 5-Speed Auto – Garage
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