Call from GM

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 4:03 am

I got a call today from GM asking if I would like to attend a meeting with the Vibe engineers to discuss the Vibe. It's in Tarrytown, NY (about 110 miles and 2 hrs away). They'll pay $100. I'm seriously considering going because I'd like to get a chance to voice my opinion and because my Nova was built at the Tarrytown, NY assembly plant. Should I go? Has anyone else ever gone to one of these? I seem to remember somebody going to one I think in Detroit or Chicago.

Vibe · Post by **Vibe** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 8:44 am

Scott-----By all means GO. I have read most of your postings and some of your responses to mine and you seem like a very knowledgeable person when it comes to the subject of Vibes.What I wouldn't give to be in your shoes. If you don't go e mail me and I will give you my phone # to pass on to them. Thanks James (Vibe)

d_m_kolb · Post by **d_m_kolb** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 11:23 pm

hmm how can I put this, uuummmmm GO! Have fun. Full details when you return would be nice of course.

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 11:23 pm

Here's my list so far (it will grow as suggestions are given):Problems: - auto headlight sensor position - red lighting on gauges tough to read in bright sunlight and with sunglasses (made worse by auto headlights dimming the gauges) - no way to disable the auto headlights - moonroof mid-close stop - power outlets shuts off with vehicle (lighter and console outlets) - instrument cluster squeaks - rear window washer sprayer is useless - cheep feeling parking brake handle - cheap latch on storage bin under shifter - why is the lighter and 115V switch illuminated green instead of red like the rest of the instrument cluster? - hard/rough arm rests - wimpy Asian horn - rear of hood collects water and dirtSuggestions: - add a V6 option (possibilities: GM: 3.1, 3.4, 3.8; Toyota: Tundra 3.4, Avalon 3.0, Solara 3.0) - turbo option - supercharger option - use parking lamps for DRL's instead of headlights - more steering wheel tilt and add telescoping - make window tint on all windows behind driver an option (similar to minivans and SUV's) - add tint to top of windshield - add ability for driver to operate all windows when lock is on - more gauges (voltmeter and oil pressure) - 2-door Vibe (with Saturn-style, rear-hinged, half doors) - removable roof rack lateral bars - ability to lock the doors with the key fob without all the doors being closed - add a tone when the low fuel light goes on - more warning on the low fuel light (only 2 gallons now) - more interior color options (light grey) - the 6-sp sequential (clutchless) manual from the MR2 for the GT - XM Satellite radio option like other Pontiacs - ETS (Enhanced Traction System) option with an automatic like on other Pontiacs - SCV (Speed Compensating Volume) option like other Pontiacs - an overhead console (with garage door opener and sunglass holders) - a compass in the dash or in the overhad console - a power outlet in the cargo area - need more accessories - tell the Pontiac engineers and the other Vibe owners about http://www.genvibe.com - only driver window switch is lit at night. The other 3 should have lights as well. Also, add lights to the remote mirror control, dimmer control and door lock switches.

rasermon · Post by **rasermon** » Sat Oct 12, 2002 11:35 pm

Hi Scott, I agree with (Vibe). You put together a nice list that covers it all. Have fun if you can GO.

Vibe · Post by **Vibe** » Sun Oct 13, 2002 12:04 am

Sounds like a good list to me. I would suggest printing several threads on given topics so they can see that many other people share your views.I agree regarding amp and oil pressure gauge.Take Care-- James

Post by **NSimkins** » Sun Oct 13, 2002 12:08 am

The entire Pet Peeve? thread would be nice to print out. I am assuming you did get some of your list topics from that thread.

baltimore17 · Post by **baltimore17** » Sun Oct 13, 2002 7:33 am

Couple of more things:Traction control option. My 93 Saturn did it with the antilock brake sensors and cooperation between the engine and transmission computers. Total material cost went to a switch and an indicator light. All else software (and it even detects hydroplaning at speed).Downhill downshift/engine braking logic in the transmission software. Again, the Saturn had it 10 years ago.Rear disk brakes as option for base vibe.Subwoofer option.And, if a few marketing guys are hanging around, ask 'em for a light gray or beige interior color option for the ****pit.

Frosty · Post by **Frosty** » Mon Oct 14, 2002 8:18 am

Added the following to the Pet Peeve List: Since I am late to this post I searched and was suprised that the hard concrete arm rests didn't get mentioned. My bride made a black pillow for the center one and secured it with velcro. Much nicer. We will make one for the doors as well.

vibe owner · Post by **vibe owner** » Mon Oct 14, 2002 10:37 am

I agree with many of Scotts peeves. See what I did about the lights-related stuff at http://vibeowner.home.attbi.com

vibe owner · Post by **vibe owner** » Mon Oct 14, 2002 10:40 am

One more (trivial) peeve. The (standard) radio is off. I put in a CD and play it. Eject the CD and the radio is on(!?)

Stands Alone · Post by **Stands Alone** » Mon Oct 14, 2002 1:16 pm

GO ! If I was that close, they wouldn't have to pay me. But seeing as how they are,....by all means go. Have a blast. Looks like all the suggestions are covered very well. Good Luck !

Yoda · Post by **Yoda** » Mon Oct 14, 2002 9:22 pm

Sorry if this is dumb - I just joined. Been out driving my 4 day old GT / Abyss. Just found your website. The 2003 MR2 comes with a version of this engine and is available with a 6-sp sequential (clutchless) manual. I'd wonder if they could offer that in a Vibe GT. Congratulations on your opportunity - I liked your other ideas. We should start a pool on what kind of answers you're likely to get.

yank dini · Post by **yank dini** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 3:50 am

Yes go go!!!!If you have one in Detroit. Let me know. Only 10 min away from the REN-CEN (GM HQ)

ragingfish · Post by **ragingfish** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 10:55 am

Not a bad list...I would also recommend the following:*XM Satellite radio should be an option! If ANY pontiac should have this option, it HAS to be the vibe!*Offer ETS (Enhanced Traction System) with an automatic...it comes with the Sunfire, the Grand Am, and the Grand Prix...Vibe should have it too.*Offer SCV (Speed Compensating Volume), which allows you to set the radio to increase and decrease the volume relative to the speed of the vehicle. Again, a feature on the sunfire radios.*The back of the car should be shaped differently as to allow a greater field of view in the rearview mirror. It's very difficult, at times, to see what's going on behind the vehicle.*I absolutely agree the Twilight Sentinel sensor is in a horrible location. I don't know about other states, but in NJ, that's exactly where the inspection stickers go. Thus, the sensor is blocked, meaning the lights are always on, and the dashboard is impossible to read.*The front washer fluid jets seem almost TOO strong. They shoot out the stuff so fast, it flies right off and over the car. They should put out more "mist" than "streams" to get better coverage.*When raising the seat, it seems like it starts to kind of "dump" you forward as it gets higher. There should be a level adjustment so you can level it off...perhaps a power seat option as part of the power package?*The sunroof on the sunfires had a different kind of opening mechanism. If you pressed open once, it titled the glass up to vent. If you pressed it again, it had express open, and opened all the way. You would then hold it down to close it. I don't know what the deal is with this half-closing ****, but it's ridiculous, and makes no sense at all. Other than that, I love my car!!! Thanks for speaking up for us!

friendlyben · Post by **friendlyben** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 11:44 am

example: volkswagon has a catalog that owners receive that has all aftermarket accessories avaliable. including body kits, exhaust, wheels, etc. it would be nice to have something like this available for the vibe and the matrix. or how about having gm develop something for the vibe instead of toyota coming up with everything!ie:trd stuff

ragingfish · Post by **ragingfish** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 12:01 pm

I forgot one MAJOR problem. THE HORN IS HORRENDOUS!!!! I tell you, I had to use it a few times to get people's attention, and they NEVER hear it!!! It sounds like a kid on a tricycle! That horn has GOT to GO!!!

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 12:14 pm

quote:*The front washer fluid jets seem almost TOO strong. They shoot out the stuff so fast, it flies right off and over the car. They should put out more "mist" than "streams" to get better coverage.I disagree. I think the front jets are the best I've ever had on a car (that didn't have wet arms). They may seem too strong when driving slow but at 60+ mph they shoot great. Less power never gets high enough on the windshield at highway speeds.quote:*When raising the seat, it seems like it starts to kind of "dump" you forward as it gets higher. There should be a level adjustment so you can level it off...perhaps a power seat option as part of the power package?I think it was designed specifically to do that: tilt the seat, not really raise it, but adding the ability to raise as well as tilt would be nice.

baltimore17 · Post by **baltimore17** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 12:22 pm

quote:*The front washer fluid jets seem almost TOO strong. They shoot out the stuff so fast, it flies right off and over the car. They should put out more "mist" than "streams" to get better coverage.That's not a bug, it's a feature! It's for nailing the guy in the black BMW hugging your back bumper in rush hour traffic.

ragingfish · Post by **ragingfish** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 12:26 pm

You are SO RIGHT!!!!!Thanks for reminding me of that!!!

old man winter · Post by **old man winter** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 9:23 pm

What....................GO!The GT should have the option of an AWD. Leather with heated seats.............maybe a high end model with all the toys. I have a Momo in the WRX............nice touch.

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Tue Oct 15, 2002 9:46 pm

I got the call back last night and my scheduled meeting time is set (10/27 @ 9:00 am). It seems that I will get a private meeting with the Vibe designers and engineers along with a group meeting with other Vibe owners and the Vibe designers and engineers and the so I hope to voice our concerns/ideas well and they will be taken seriously.Don't worry, I will print out and take with me all the various threads about pet peeves and ideas we all have come up.

Vibe Rater · Post by **Vibe Rater** » Wed Oct 16, 2002 2:04 am

Please ask why the AWD Vibe has lower horsepower than the base. It should have more, shouldn't it? Thanks.

ragingfish · Post by **ragingfish** » Wed Oct 16, 2002 2:26 am

My guess is that because the engine has to work on four wheels instead of two, it needs more power to do the extra work...also, I'm guessing, you can't have a engine with too many ponies when it's driving four wheels. But I reall don't know cars, I'm simply speculating.

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Wed Oct 16, 2002 2:33 am

From what I've read the AWD engine (123-hp) is no different than the base engine (130-hp). The reason for the lower HP rating is due to a more restrictive exhaust required to clear the drive system for the rear wheels. I don't know this for sure but I believe it to be true.

ironchef · Post by **ironchef** » Wed Oct 16, 2002 4:15 am

I agree with the request for removeable crossbars on the roof rack, but I'd like the see it taken a step further. When I was in France last spring I rented a really nice midsize (for Europe) Peugot 703(?). The roof rack came completely off with by twisting out four knobs that threaded into holes in the body. The holes themselves were recessed and could be covered with little sliding panels to protect them. Simple, clever and effective.I've got a feeling that the rack probably costs me half an mpg. I do want it, I just don't need it 98% of the time.The headlight sensor/DRL issue also bugs me in a weird way. If it's going to turn on the headlights full blast because it's dark, turn on the all the lights. As the days get shorter I leave work while it's light out but by the time I pull in my driveway I'm driving at night with _just_ my headlights on. It may be trivial but when I'm pulled over for it I'll feel like an idiot. A less abrasive fabric on the arm rest would be welcome.A coffee (latte) colored interior would save me some cleaning.All cup holders should be removeable and dishwasher safe - this seems so obvious I don't know why it hasn't happened yet.Chirp the horn or beep something on lock with the remote, on a sunny day or from the wrong angle you don't see the lights.A compass in the dash or an o/h console (with garage door opener holder) instead of a $1600 nav option.A 12v power outlet in the cargo area and one accessible to the back seat on the rear of the console.Rear washer dispenser needs rethinking.Better rear arm to cover more glass.All in all these are minor items, more along the lines of tweaks rather than error corrections. I'm very happy with the car, pat them on the back for the 60-80 mph acceleration (something I use a lot on the freeway) and everything else they did right. They took a chance on a unique vehicle and actually got almost all of it right.Larry

MiamiVibe · Post by **MiamiVibe** » Sat Oct 19, 2002 5:27 am

There is one thing that nobody seems to have noticed or hasn't mentioned but the chrome on the door seems like a bad idea. First of all it easily scratches. My driver side one looks horrible, and my passenger side one is catching up quickly. I don't know if its because you haven't had your Vibes that long (10,000 miles on mine already), or maybe its just the way my leg rest exactly on the chrome while am driving. Or maybe its the Florida heat. Anyway I took it back to the dealer and they said they would only replace it once. Don't know how much of this is true. But if anyone else had this problem speak up, cause it feels weird being the only one with the problem. And also I feel that the Overdrive button is a bit sensitive, I've turned it off a couple of times by mistake while driving anyone else had this problem? Besides that the Vibe is one of the best cars that Pontiac as come out with in a while.

Vibe · Post by **Vibe** » Sat Oct 19, 2002 4:38 pm

I can certianly agree with you on the overdrive button. Had to train myself not to hit it while shifting. Move the button down on the surface where P RNDL1 are located. James

cohocarl · Post by **cohocarl** » Sat Oct 19, 2002 7:55 pm

Scott, How about Pontiac selling the TRD accessories/parts. All they'd have to do is put on a pontiac sticker on them. Thanks,Carl

MiamiVibe · Post by **MiamiVibe** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 6:43 am

No chance on that every happening. GM only likes to make performance parts for their V8 engines

d_m_kolb · Post by **d_m_kolb** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 9:36 am

Tell them all about genvibe.com! Ask the designers to take a look at the site. They would have all their questions answered. The other Vibe owners would probably enjoy the site and they must like their vehicles if willing to talk with Pontiac about them.Thanks Nova

Vibe · Post by **Vibe** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 3:25 pm

Great Idea !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

tmcdonald · Post by **tmcdonald** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 6:11 pm

telescopic steering wheelV6traction controlGood Luck!!!

neptunevibeawd · Post by **neptunevibeawd** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 11:05 pm

Someone needs to let Pontiac know they have a ton of potential in the Vibe. If I am correct, GM has said they want to focus on performance upgrades and drawing younger buyers. HELLO............they have that with the vibe, Pontiac needs to have it where Vibe owners can buy performance upgrades (i.e. supercharger or turbocharger) at the Pontiac dealer and have them put them on. Advantage for Pontiac and dealers is the extra money they get from installs and we get upgrades that won't void our warranty. If they do that and bring out lots of goodie, alot of people will look at a Pontiac

NovaResource · Post by **NovaResource** » Mon Oct 21, 2002 11:30 pm

quote:Tell them all about genvibe.com! Ask the designers to take a look at the site. They would have all their questions answered. The other Vibe owners would probably enjoy the site and they must like their vehicles if willing to talk with Pontiac about them.Will do!

moondawg · Post by **moondawg** » Tue Oct 22, 2002 9:25 pm

Go!I live about ten minutes away from Tarrytown.Beautiful part of New York State. I don't have a Vibe,yet...but,planning on buying one soon! Good Luck!

Cubanpete · Post by **Cubanpete** » Sun Nov 03, 2002 3:28 am

The Vibe GT should have been available in an AWD drive option as well as in Automatic TransmisionThe MR2 Cluthless package sounds awesome, I would buy another oneif that option would be a standard in the GT

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