2003 Vibe GT Engine/Transmission/Acceleration

[wingman7000]

I have a 6spd manual 2003 vibe gt with 110K miles on it. I was driving on the interstate the other day and when I went to accelerate, the rpms went real high and it didn't really accelerate like it normally does. What could cause this in a manual tranny? I would expect it from an automatic tranny that is slipping or failing, but not from a manual. I normally use mid to high grade fuel, but the last fillup I used regular. Could that be the cause or could it be something more serious? Should I change the tranny fluids? Any help or suggestion would be appreciated. Thanks!

[bassplayaz06]

sounds like the clutch. was there a burnt rubber smell? when the rpms just go up without acceleration, the clutch is worn out and has lost its friction. i changed mine last summer.

[wingman7000]

Interesting. It could be the clutch even though I didn't downshift? How hard was it to change your clutch and how much $$?No, I didn't notice any smell.

[lovemyraffe]

Clutch would be my first guess too.

[bassplayaz06]

once it's worn enough, almost any acceleration will make it slip. it took me 2 weekends to get it done, somewhat knowing what i was doing. it can get expensive to have it replaced. about $300 for parts for me. just an OEM replacement from auto zone. here's some instructions.http://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=21943this is the one i used to replace mine.

[wingman7000]

Thanks for the info. It seems like everything these days can get expensive. I will look into it. Is there an advantage to upgrading the clutch at all? Anyone in Northern VA willing to help? lol

[bassplayaz06]

a stock replacement will make it feel the way it did brand new. an aftermarket replacement can make it grab and force the wheels to chirp every time you pull out. so however you want it. also, the pressure plate can make a difference. an aftermarket can be a lot stiffer than stock and make it a different feel.

[waterbottle]

I have an automatic vibe but I am having problems only on sunny warm days. For example, the car will idle at 1000 rpm and if I am driving streets and either stopping or just lifting foot off gas to "coast" the RMPs drop down to 1000 suddenly so it feels like I really am causing a lot of stress to it. After 20 minutes of driving when I got home the engine smelled like burnt rubber.