GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

My 2003 AT base model had to have the CONTACTS replaced in the starter at 40k miles when I had NO START/ no click, no ANYTHING. ITs been fine for 5+ yrs but now at 140K its doing it again: no sound at all. I tapped the solenoid and it starts. Does this starter have a reputation for bad contacts? Should I replace the entire unit, or just the solenoid or the CONTACTS again? LAST BIG QUESTION: Do I remove the starter from the TOP SIDE of the car??????? (just open the hood) or from under the car?Thanks, George in NC for now

I've never messed with the starter in mine, so I don't know if it's easier to access fromt he top or bottom.I'd say just get a whole new startersee http://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=40209, be carreful to not smack the starter into the radiator

When in doubt Remove the starter, take it to advance auto and they will bench test it for free. Thats what I did. Easy to do. I removed the electric fan assembly to make some room. The starter is only held by 2 bolts & a harness, and will be free! Yes I removed it from up top. Good luck!

Yes, I've decided to REPLACE the entire starter. The car has 140k miles now and even though I feel the CONTACTS are bad again (did them at 40k miles) n the starter, its got to have lots of wear on it now. It does work fine when it turns over, except for the last few days when it does NOTHING occasionally......until I tap on the side of the bendix and she has turned right over after that. George

I just fixed the starter on my 03 Base Vibe. I've posted details on another thread under PROBLEMS and Warranty Issues that should help the next person.

Quote, originally posted by burrpenick »Yes, I've decided to REPLACE the entire starter. The car has 140k miles now and even though I feel the CONTACTS are bad again (did them at 40k miles) n the starter, its got to have lots of wear on it now. It does work fine when it turns over, except for the last few days when it does NOTHING occasionally......until I tap on the side of the bendix and she has turned right over after that. GeorgeHow much does a new starter cost? Can you even get a "new" one - or are they all "rebuilt"? You might be better off fixing what you have.

If it the 1 ZZ-FE engine remove the intake manifold and access should be rather easy. The starter is up front right under the intake manifold and (on my 04 matrix) looks to be an easy removal/install. Good Luck

You shouldnt have to remove the intake manifold to remove the starter. I will admit ONE of the bolts can be rather tricky to get to and its difficult to see what you are doing. I beleive I used a extention to loosen it. I did remove the fan assembly to give me some more room. I also covered the radiator with some cardboard in case my wrench slipped off I wouldnt damage any of the fins or cut my knuckles....LOL.

see my post as mentioned in my answer above under starter replacement tips in the problems and warranty forum.....it contains the answers you are seeking. George