Used Vehicle Review: Pontiac Vibe, 2003-2010

In the past, Consumer Reports listed the Vibe (and its Matrix twin) as a “good bet” in its used vehicle ratings. At that time, the only trouble spot listed by the publication was too-thin paint that chipped easily (http://forums.genvibe.com/zerothread?id=5132). Fast-forward to 2010, and the Vibe (and, again, the Matrix) has been stripped of that good-bet endorsement, thanks to a few additional things that used buyers should be aware of.

2003 Pontiac Vibe. Click image to enlarge

Electrical system problems could be linked to a too-weak battery that can hamper cold starting. Other problems that cropped up in my research for a used Matrix article include a rough idle and auto transmission cooler lines that cause a “whistle” or “hoot” sound under light acceleration.

In my research for my original Vibe review, I found mention of clutch failures in some GT models (Pontiac’s take on the full-zoot Matrix XRS) that weren’t noted in CR’s data. They are now, however, though only in 2003 models, though I suspect the problem has more to do with aggressive driving than a serious mechanical flaw.

Watch, too, for an illuminated check engine light, which points to a problem in the emissions control system.

Power windows in 2003 and 2004 models are prone to trouble, namely getting stuck or even shattering while being operated. A recall for Vibes from those model years were recalled to have the problem fixed.

Be aware that the Vibe was subject to the same accelerator pedal/floor mat recalls issued for the Matrix and Corolla in 2010. While I think the sticky accelerator issue was far overblown, look into whether the car you’re looking at has had the recall work done.

A 2003 Vibe crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) earned five stars for driver and front passenger protection in frontal impact tests. In side impact tests, a Vibe without optional front-seat side airbags earned five stars for front-seat and four for rear-seat occupant protection.

2010 Pontiac Vibe. Click image to enlarge

Interestingly, in 2005, another Vibe tested without side airbags earned three stars for driver protection in side impacts, while the passenger rating in frontal impacts was reduced to four stars.

In 2007, the NHTSA tested Vibes both with and without side airbags; without, the results were the same as those for 2005 and 2006, but results with side airbags were five stars for driver protection in both frontal and side impacts, and four stars each for front passenger protection in frontal crashes and for rear-seat occupant protection in side impacts.

Used Vibe values, according to Canadian Black Book, range from $7,050 for a 2003 base model, to $21,075 for a 2010 GT with power sunroof and automatic transmission. These numbers don’t differ much from Toyota Matrix values, given that the Matrix’s import status should help it hold on to higher prices better than the domestic-badged Vibe; chalk it up to different levels of standard equipment between the two cars. If there is a difference to be found, though, the Vibe will generally come out as the less-expensive choice when compared to a similarly-equipped Matrix.

2003 Pontiac Vibe. Click image to enlarge

While the availability of all-wheel drive is a nice touch, I don’t think it’s really necessary on this type of vehicle, and serves mostly to increase fuel consumption, especially in second-generation cars, which pair the all-wheel system with the larger, thirstier motor. The original GT motor is peaky and not much fun in daily driving, plus it prefers premium fuel; later GT models with the 2.4-litre model are less thrilling, but better suited to commuter duty. If your goal is to find an efficient compact hatchback, go with a front-wheel drive, 1.8-litre (non-GT) model and you’ll get just what you’re after. If you’re shopping for an older model, make sure the 2003-2004 window recall has been carried out; also, look for a car with complete service records and get it checked by a trusted mechanic before you buy. Have them check for diagnostics codes, too, in case a squirelly seller has done something (like removed the bulb from the check engine light) to try to hide a problem.

In the past, when car-shopping friends had asked me about the Vibe and Matrix, my advice was always this: buy the Matrix new and take advantage of its high resale value, or buy the Vibe used and benefit from its quicker depreciation. Both cars are smart buys, but the Vibe is the far better used deal.