Arm Rest Console

[tjdean01]

The arm rest console is too low on our 2008 base. I've seen some people talking about using the "old" console cover or a "2 stage" console cover but I can't find more info on this. Would either of these mods give me the extra 2-3" in height so our arms reach down to the console? If not, what is the purpose of using the console from previous years?

Whether I get another console lid or not, I need to increase height. I have some ideas about hard foam with adhesive, soft foam with adhesive on that, and wrapping it in black fabric. But that's not a great fix. Might as well just use a pillow. Any suggestions?

[joatmon]

I can't remember how thick the single lid is, but I just measured and the two piece lid is 3.75 inches thick. As ,much time as I've spent in a Vibe, I still have no idea how much I use the armrest as an armrest, probably a lot more than I realize, but I like the two piece lid for the extra little storage area it provides.

[Mark]

I've bought two consoles from junk yards, one for my 08 and then another for my 05 from a local junk yard from '04's and both also had the 12v outlet and harness. Both times I took the outlet, harness and double lid and threw the console away. Replacing the lid is a two screw operation, replacing the entire console is 4 10mm bolt operation.

And after driving my 04 for many years not having the armrest was very noticeable, and I really missed the top level storage for gum, pen, etc.

[ckeltner]

I bought these oversized office chair armrest covers and they work perfectly. I wanted something that would both raise the level but I also provide a cushion because it looked as if the double armrest was still made of that uncomfortable hard plastic. I ended up stacking these one on top of the other and the band seems to hold them in place nicely. Not bad for $9.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LX ... UTF8&psc=1

[zbyers]

I do have a double arm rest laying around I can part with if you need it.

[ZZvroom]

I'm just starting out with my new 2003GT.

One thing I see up front is the handbrake is too short or the console lid too long; I have to open it to use the brake.
Any solutions out there?

[zbyers]

I'm just starting out with my new 2003GT.

One thing I see up front is the handbrake is too short or the console lid too long; I have to open it to use the brake.
Any solutions out there?

Do you have pics of the console lid in yours and/or of the e-brake handle. As far as I know, there is sufficient room. However, it is an awkward angle, especially if you have a drink in the cup holders.

[Cookie]

I have an 07 base model that had a single lid armrest. I found a 03 Toyota Matrix XRS in the junkyard with the clamshell armrest which I swapped into my vibe. It definitely raises up the height of the armrest and the added storage space is really nice. Not too sure on the the amount of height I gained but it feels better.