GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

We are shopping around for used Vibes. As we have looked on craigslist, there seems to be a handful of Vibes with engines replaced just after 100,000 miles, especially in the 2003. Is there something within this generation that had issues? Is this a spot to be concerned? Would you buy a used 2003 Vibe with 165,000 but only 52,000 on the engine, listed at $5900? (The owner before this guy had it replaced so he didn't know where it was replaced or why)? Why would you buy it or why not?

Also, another one for sale had a crack in the front windshield. How much would that cost to get replaced?

Thanks for your opinions!

Hi:

To answer your questions:

1-Yes. There was/is a TSB out that Toyota used the wrong engine oil dipstick for engines for the 2003-2005 model years. It is on this site somewhere. The issue allowed the engine to be a little low on oil, since the incorrect oil level was shown on the dipstick. Long term running with low oil, would cause engine oil use since parts of the engine were "starved" of oil. That is why for these years, it is highly recommended, esp ones with high miles to have the engine checked for excessive oil use.

1a- Yes this is a spot that could cause concern

2= No- You don't know how good the replacement engine is. If it was good, why would the original owner spend the money to replace the engine only to turn around and sell the car. Besides, $5900 is too high esp since many 2003 are being sold for under $5k I would not buy it due to these concerns.

3-Cracked windshield should not cost that much for repair, condition of the rest of the car is a factor.