GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

01. How long do you warm up the engine before driving ?02. It is possible to install a Remote Start, where and how much would cost ?03. Are there any supports for GPS which could be attached on top of instrument panel ? (I see a "planar" surface next to CD area, on top of instrument panel) 04. I was playing at very low speed !!! with transmission shift, from D to 3 and it worked OK. Is this OK to shift while driving or for ANY Shift first car need to be stoped ?05. And I asked this before, how much do you press the acceleration for transmission shifting ? 2000, 3000, 4000 RPM ?Thanks

Hi, I own the 2.4L 2009 Vibe.I don't know from which former car you had, or how old it was. Cars from the late 1980's should be started only by turning the key. Do not touch or apply gas. Let the car run for no more then a minute. Then take off slowly at first. You are in Michigan with cold long winters. The engine in the new Vibes gets to normal engine temp. very quickly, by design, I say in a about 2 to three minutes.I do not know much about remote starters. Does the key have to be in the car to make the remote work?I never used a GPS system yet. Try to use Velcro tape to mount it. Or follow manufactures instructions. The Vibe's dash has a rough grain finish.. hard to clean.The 1.8L engine automatic does not have the tap shift system that is part of the 5 speed automatic. You have the low gear shift for climbing hills. You should stay in the Drive mode for normal driving. #5 Just stay in Drive and keep a very light foot on the gas. Let the transmission do the shifting for you.Drive in peace. GK

I think no matter where you live (unless it's Winnipeg in mid-winter, I don't know, correct me if I'm wrong) but as soon as the car starts up you can put it in gear and drive - lightly, for the first few minutes. No need to sit and warm up. That just promotes condensation that is harmful. Best to get up to operating temps as soon as possible. No harm to the vehicle unless you are getting too aggressive.

Don't just crank the key and go when starting a cold car. Let the RPMs come down for 10 seconds or so. I have the 1.8 auto (as you can see below) and downshift to third and second all the time when flying up on somebody's (removed) at a stop light and I want to assist the brakes. No worries there. I just wouldn't shift back and forth just to pretend like you have a manual transmission; that is pointless.Certainly remote start can be installed in your car. Many (most) states however have laws against leaving a running car unattended, which puts remote start in violation of those laws. I had remote start on my last car and miss it very much. The only issue you may have to ask about is if you got the alarm option on your Vibe, getting an add-on remote start at this point may interfere with the function of that alarm. It is always best to get the two at the same time, whether at the factory or at a second hand installer.

#4You can shift the gears while moving but be aware of your speed. The lower the gear the higher the RPM's will be. You don't want to over rev the engine. Of course, don't shift into reverse or park until you've come to a complete stop.Relax, enjoy your car.I agree, remote start may not be the best thing to add aftermarket. I personally see no use for it and have no problems going outside to clean off the snow and ice from the car and shovel the sidewalk while the car warms up.There is currently a GPS thread going about various mount options here on genvibe. You might take a look at it. Where you mount it and how you mount it really comes down to personal preferences. On the left, center, dash top, console, etc. I prefer the old paper maps myself. My kids are trying to convince me that GPS is a wonderful thing but I've yet to see that. I know how to get to work and places in my day to day life. Any detours are an adventure to be had.Dave

IUCU,I mentioned before if you had any questions about your Vibe, PM me and we can meet for coffee and go over your vehicle.Your 4 speed 1.8L does not have a tap shift transmission so I recommend not shifting your transmission like that when driving. Only use the lower gears from a stand still.