AWD Reliability

[cthomasparr]

Saw an AWD Vibe for sale. Are these drivetrains relatively trouble free? The car in question needs a rear wheel bearing. Is this a common replacement and is it DIY capable?

[zbyers]

AWD Vibes are just as reliable as the rest. However, the rear subframe is known to rot out, and the rear diff is known to have issues with the bearings in the nose cone (I think that's what it's called). Outside of those issues, it's still a reliable car.

We have replaced 3-4 subframes on AWD Vibes, and have seen at least a dozen more on local marketplace being junked for that very reason.

TBH, you can get away without having AWD if you run quality snow tires if you're in a snow state.

[SSizler]

I would add that the independent rear suspension on the AWD cars improve ride quality.

[cthomasparr]

Can you share any pictures of the subframe issues and what to look for regarding rust/rot