Pontiac Vibe problems
The Pontiac Vibe is a compact car that was sold by Pontiac from 2002 to 2010. It was jointly developed by General Motors along with Toyota, which manufactured the mechanically similar Toyota Matrix. Manufactured by the Toyota-GM joint venture NUMMI in Fremont, California, the Vibe succeeded the Chevrolet Prizm in production at NUMMI and like the Prizm, it was derived from the Toyota Corolla, making it the last of the GM and Toyota developed S-body cars.
From 2002 to 2004, a rebadged right-hand drive variant of the Vibe was exported as the Toyota Voltz to the Japanese domestic market. The Voltz did not sell well in Japan and was discontinued after two model years.
Production of the Vibe ended in 2009 with the discontinuation of the Pontiac brand and the closing of NUMMI under the General Motors Chapter 11 reorganization. Its twin, the Toyota Matrix, was in production for another three years for the American market and four years for the Canadian market, as the Matrix was manufactured by Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada in Cambridge, Ontario and was unaffected by NUMMI closing down operation.
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Pontiac Vibe model years
Common Pontiac Vibe problems
The Pontiac Vibe, a compact car known for its impressive crash test scores and great fuel economy, has several common problems that owners have reported across different model years. While the Vibe is generally reliable, certain issues may arise as the vehicle accumulates mileage. Here are some of the most common problems with the Pontiac Vibe:
- Pulsating Brake Pedal: This issue can be caused by a faulty brake booster or master cylinder, leading to a spongy or pulsating brake pedal. It is crucial to have this problem addressed promptly to ensure safe driving conditions.
- Loose Wheel Center Caps: Loose wheel center caps can result in a rattling noise while driving. This issue is relatively simple to fix by tightening or replacing the loose center caps.
- Bearing Noise: This problem is more prevalent in the 2003 redesign of the Vibe. Drivers have reported hearing tapping and clicking noises, especially when activating the clutch. This issue can be caused by manufacturing defects, poor lubrication, or contamination in the transmission bearings. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address this problem before it escalates.
- Transmission Failures: The transmission in the Pontiac Vibe is known to fail early and often, particularly in the 2003 and 2009 models. Transmission failures can occur without warning and can be an expensive repair. It is essential to keep track of the vehicle's maintenance schedule to ensure the transmission stays in good condition.
- Instrument Panel Not Working: The instrument panel is a crucial component for monitoring the vehicle's performance and identifying issues. When it stops working, it can lead to dangerous driving conditions. This problem can occur without warning and may be difficult to fix, depending on the source of the issue.
- Indicator Lights Failures: Individual indicator lights may not come on when they should, which can lead to problems if the driver is unaware of engine issues. This problem can also occur without warning and may require professional assistance to diagnose and fix.
- Engine Failures: The 2003 and 2009 models of the Pontiac Vibe are known for early engine failures, which can be unpredictable and sudden. Regular maintenance is essential to protect the vehicle's other systems and prevent expensive repairs.
- Difficult to Control Speed: Some users have reported issues with the Pontiac Vibe's acceleration, which can be dangerous for drivers. This problem is likely a result of the combination of engine and transmission issues.
While the Pontiac Vibe is generally reliable, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and address them promptly to ensure safe and efficient driving. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and prevent these issues before they become significant problems.
What problems do Pontiac Vibe have?
Common problems of the Pontiac Vibe include a loose gas cap, pulsating brake pedal, and loose wheel center caps.
Is the Pontiac Vibe a reliable car?
THE PONTIAC VIBE YEARS TO AVOID
If you're looking to buy a used Pontiac Vibe, you'll be happy to know it's a relatively reliable compact vehicle. But some years are more reliable than others.
What is the average lifespan of a Pontiac Vibe?
The Pontiac Vibe is basically a rebranded Toyota under the hood, so you can expect a typical lifespan of around 250,000 miles with adequate maintenance. You might be able to squeeze a few more road trips out of it after that, but a quarter million is when you should start shopping around for a replacement.
Do all Pontiac Vibe have Toyota engines?
Pontiac Vibe (2002-2010)
Jointly developed by General Motors and Toyota, this Pontiac hatchback came with two different options: the 1.8L 1ZZ-FE engine and the 2ZZ-GE engine, both of which belong to the Toyota ZZ Series.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Pontiac Vibe years
We have researched Pontiac problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Pontiac Vibe cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Pontiac Vibe model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Pontiac Vibe model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Pontiac Vibe years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Pontiac Vibe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Pontiac Vibe , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Visibility problems
- Power train problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Pontiac Vibe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Vibe model years
A total of 106 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Vibe model years
There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Vibe model years
There were a total of 115 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 1867 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Pontiac Vibe . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Pontiac Vibe vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Pontiac Vibe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-09
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 5Y2SP67889Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact called on behalf of her sister who owns a 2009 Pontiac Vibe. The contact stated that while her sister was driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle was making an abnormal noise and the steering wheel was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the steering rack needed to be replaced. The contact was notified of an unknown recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact drove the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 64,000.
Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 5Y2SL63845Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Pontiac Vibe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V285000 (Air Bags); and would like to be removed from the recall distribution list. The local dealer and manufacturer were contacted.
Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-19
- VIN: 5Y2SL62814
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Pontiac Vibe 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-12
- VIN: 5Y2SL65817Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: I no longer own 2007 Pontiac vibe 5Y2SL65817Z438405 I sold 2007 Pontiac vibe to Car Max 2/05/2024. Please remove my name, phone number, address, email from your recall list. Thank you!
Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-09
- VIN: 5Y2SL63805Z
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Pontiac Vibe. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the doors locked independently. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring. The contact stated that on the last occasion, the doors locked independently while her daughter was inside the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or local dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 195,000.
Pontiac Vibe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-28
- VIN: 5Y2SP67059Z
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I been trying to get the recalls to be fix but both the dealers and GM haven’t been able to help due to parts discontinued, I been trying to get this issued resolve for a year or so. I need help please, they just keep saying that all recalls on this vehicle don’t have the parts for it and don’t know what else to do.
Pontiac Vibe 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-30
- VIN: 5Y2SM64803Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe was manufactured by Toyota and is for all intent and purposes is a 2003 Toyota Matrix. The 2003-04 Pontiac Vibe should be included in the "Do not drive" advisory issued by Toyota 20 Jan 30th 2024. Only the body is different than the Toyota Matrix and everything internal is the same. Please do not let this model fall through the cracks. January 30, 2024, Toyota issued a "do not drive" advisory for certain 2003–2005 car models due to concerns about their Takata airbags: 2003–2004 Corolla 2003–2004 Corolla Matrix 2004–2005 RAV4 The company says the Corolla and Matrix models are under a separate recall because their airbags can be deployed without a crash. The Takata air bag inflators are at risk of exploding and hurling shrapnel. Customers can check if their Toyota has a recall at www.toyota.com/recall or by contacting the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-800-331-4331.
Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-30
- VIN: 5Y2SL62894Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: As there is a NHTSA recall notice on the 2004 Toyota Matrix for a Takata air bag risk of explosion with shrapnel, should there also be a similar notice on the 2004 Pontiac Vibe, which is practically the same vehicle and was manufactured at the same plant in CA?
Pontiac Vibe 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-04
- VIN: 5Y2SL65887Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Pontiac Vibe. The contact stated that the air bag had been previously replaced however, the air bag warning light illuminated after the replacement of the air bag. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the air bag inflators failed and needed to be replaced. The mechanic informed the contact of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 19V627000 (Air Bags), 18V883000 (Air Bags), 15V285000 (Air Bags) and 15V286000 (Air Bags). The dealer had been contacted and it was confirmed that the VIN was not included in any of the recalls. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated there were recalls for the air bags then referred the contact back to the dealer. The contact was also referred to NHTSA Hotline to file a complaint. The approximate failure mileage was 139,000.
Pontiac Vibe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-29
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-29
- VIN: 5Y2SR67059Z
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TSB 0158-14 IS a Toyota engine that was also used in General Motors Pontiac vibe in 2009 and 2010 The tsb has to do with oil consumption and a tsb was made for Toyota. Not for Pontiac as a result my Pontiac is now consuming oil every 1000kms As they both used the 2Az-FE 2.4 engine
Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2018-12-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-06
- VIN: 5Y2SL63825Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Pontiac Vibe. The contact received a recall notification of the NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V883000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. An undisclosed dealer was contacted and confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and advised the contact to locate a different dealer. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact’s father owns a 2004 Pontiac Vibe. The contact stated that after her father started the vehicle, the air bag inadvertently deployed without warning. As a result, the contact’s father sustained a mild concussion, and burns to the left and right arms that required medical attention. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to the contact’s residence. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer nor the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. The VIN was not available.
Pontiac Vibe 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-21
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-21
- VIN: 5Y2SL658X7Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2007 Pontiac Vibe. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V627000 (Air Bags) and requested to be removed from the recall distribution list since the vehicle was totaled. The local dealer and manufacturer were not contacted.
Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-12
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-13
- VIN: 5Y2SL64844Z
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: p 185/75r15 (?) copy of email sent to Kost Tires Pa, BBB, State Attorney General's office: Sirs, Please forward to your corporate office. Two months ago, I replaced my entire front end (hubs, bearings, lower ball joints and outer ties rod ends) because the excessive noise these tires generated sounded a lot like bad bearings. The bearings themselves turned out to be fine. This tire blew out on me at 65-70 mph yesterday and almost killed me - the other front tire was almost just as bad. This manufacturer's quality control department should be notified asap, or steps should be taken to recall any of this brand that you've sold in order to limit your company's liability in case of an accidental death as a result of inadequate or insufficient safety standards. Again, this is after 4K miles on a "Kendra" tire rated for 60K - manufactured in Malaysia, Thailand or Vietnam (?). Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Pontiac Vibe 2009
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-06
- VIN: 5Y2SP670X9Z
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was driving no warnings lights to shutting down on the road to black smoke came out of the back luckily a guy was going by and helped me move my car
Latest 5 recalls Pontiac Vibe
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 51 recalls for different components of the Pontiac Vibe.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2003
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The replacement air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation in high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not inflate properly increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the passenger air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2020. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192278940.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2004
- Report Received Date: 2020-01-23
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2004 Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The replacement air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation in high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An air bag that does not inflate properly increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the passenger air bag module, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2020. Owners may contact Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192278940.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2005
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2008
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
- Model: Pontiac Vibe 2007
- Report Received Date: 2019-08-28
- Manufacturer: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. The air bag may not unfold as designed during inflation under high temperature conditions, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly.
- Consequence: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Toyota will notify their owners. Pontiac Vibe owners will be notified by GM. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag assembly or sub-assembly, free of charge. Toyota owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's numbers for this recall are K1Q and K0Q. Pontiac owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is N192273760.
Latest negative Pontiac Vibe car reviews
Latest positive Pontiac Vibe car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2009
I was searching for a car for two weeks and almost bought a Mazda3, but I'm so glad I didn't! This little car is very well made, and I've always loved Pontiacs. My first car was one, and I never had an issue with it until it got in an accident. At first, I thought I couldn't afford this car when I test drove it, but I was able to get it right in my price range per month. I had great credit and APR, and I negotiated the price down to 13 grand :) Basically, for the price, you just can't beat the deal on a reliable car like this. I chose the GT model because that's what I have, but it's an automatic with the option to switch to manual. So, the 5-speed manual was the only option they had, lol.
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Vehicle year: 2010
I was initially skeptical as the car looked small from the outside. However, my husband encouraged me to try it out and once I sat in the driver's seat, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of room inside. I was impressed by the zippiness of the car and found it to be a fun driving experience. Additionally, the car has great fuel efficiency, allowing me to go 7 days on a single tank of gas, even with a daily commute of 60 miles and running errands around town. The stereo also has great sound quality and I appreciate the convenient storage system in the back for shopping. The backseat is also spacious enough for a 6' person to sit comfortably. Overall, I am very happy with our decision to purchase this vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2007
It's great for driving around town and on the freeway. It can be a little sluggish in certain areas when driving from Boise to Utah, especially when going up hills.
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Vehicle year: 2007
I looked at every car with this body style, such as the Aveo, Matrix, and Spectra5. This car is really enjoyable to drive. I feel like I'm in an SUV because I sit up so high. The interior has more room than my 4 door sedan, but the body is about 4ft smaller. The acceleration is steady and the braking is not too hard. I've driven 160 miles and used a bit more than a quarter tank. I do not have the engine noise that I've read about in some reviews, but maybe I'm just not that picky. I drove a lot of cars and read a lot of reviews, and this is the car I bought. Even with its little quirks, in my opinion, this car is the one to pick due to its reliability and great reviews.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I've had my Vibe for 2 years now and it has been a reliable companion on my trips to the beach and over the Sierra Mountains. I have never encountered any problems with it and the mileage is exactly what was advertised, although it did take a break-in period to get there. While the paint on the bumpers and bottom door trim could be improved, I still receive compliments on the looks of my Vibe. As a big 50-year-old man, I use it for both camping and business trips and it has never let me down. In fact, some of my friends have been so impressed that they have purchased Vibes themselves. I am confident that you will not be disappointed with this fantastic vehicle.


Jordi Kemmer 2025-11-25
Vehicle year: 2003
I bought my Vibe for $200 as a Winter beater about 2 years ago from a gentleman who definitely did not care for the car. After a $50 flywheel, $300 in winter tires, and a lot of TLC, it was back in action. The car has been running great since and is an absolute blast to drive. While it may not be the fastest car out there, the little 4 banger screams up top and handles pretty well. It's excellent in the snow on fresh winter tires and so easy to play around in without losing control. I got the car with 91k miles, and it's now nearing 110k. I've only had to do the initial stuff and regular maintenance, and no other expenses yet! (knock on wood) It gets around 30 mpg on the highway and low-mid 20s in the city. If you're looking for a fun point A to point B car, you should definitely consider a Vibe!
Wilford Miller 2025-11-22
Vehicle year: 2004
This car has some great features for its size, including plenty of storage space, a fold-flat front passenger seat, and even a regular electrical outlet. However, it has required more repairs than I would have preferred, with ongoing issues related to the computer system and sensors. Additionally, the AC is starting to fail and the transmission could perform better at highway speeds. While it may not be the best option for families with three car seats, it is a great fit for those with two kids.
Jeff Waelchi 2025-11-15
Vehicle year: 2006
Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my thoughts on the car I've been driving around San Francisco. While I was hoping for a more economical city car, I've found that I'm only getting around 18 MPG, despite the advertised 29 MPG/city. I'm curious to hear from other SF residents about their experiences. That being said, I do think this is a great car overall. The hatchback is super versatile, and I love the remote keyless entry, sunroof, and comfortable seating position. It's also surprisingly easy to park on the street, and has enough horsepower to handle the hills. Just a heads up, I have an automatic, but the site only allows you to select manual. Lastly, I highly recommend using Costco to buy. Thanks for listening!
Ali Paucek 2025-08-22
Vehicle year: 2007
I bought this car as basic transportation 2 years ago, and it has exceeded my expectations. I love that I average 34 mpg with my 5 speed, and have even gotten over 40 on the highway. Although it's cheaply built and not as durable as my previous Avalanche, I appreciate its gas mileage and small size. Surprisingly, even with its small size, I never have an issue getting all my stuff in it - even when taking three boys to their football games. In fact, several of my friends have Vibes now, too, after seeing all the things I do with mine.
Consuelo Dicki 2025-07-12
Vehicle year: 2005
I can understand how you feel about your Vibe. It seems like there are some great things about owning one, such as good gas mileage, lots of storage, and a comfortable ride. However, I can also see that there are some aspects that you don't like, such as the weak air conditioning and heater, lack of power, and poor rear vision. It's important to take all of these factors into consideration when making a decision.