Market Position:
Compact hatchback/wagon segment, offering practicality and efficiency with a sportier alternative to mainstream offerings.
Key Competitors:
Mazda3, Honda Civic Si, Volkswagen GTI, Ford Focus.
Vibe Key Features:
Versatile cargo space, sporty GT model option, reliable Toyota mechanicals, distinctive styling.
Manual Value:
Provides professional-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics with the same data used by dealerships.
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Body, Interior, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance
Page Count:
Hundreds of pages (exact number not specified but described as comprehensive)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine Systems:
1.8L 1ZZ-FE (I4), 2.4L 2AZ-FE (I4 - GT Model), Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Control Systems
Transmission Systems:
Manual Transmission (5-speed), Automatic Transmission (4-speed - Toyota U241E based), Drivetrain Components (CV Axles, Differentials)
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (Front McPherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam), Steering (Power Steering System), Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum/Disc depending on trim), ABS, Wheels, Tires
Electrical Systems:
Starting and Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Body Control Modules, Audio Systems, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Body Interior Systems:
Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Tailgate, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Seating Systems, Restraint Systems
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishments, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspections and Replacements, Brake Pad and Rotor Service, Tire Rotation
Repair Procedures:
Engine Component Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Systematic Diagnostic Flowcharts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation and Resolution, Common Symptom Diagnosis
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Scan Tool Usage, Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Circuit Testing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and exploded views.
Searchable Text:
Yes (implied by standard PDF capabilities and target audience of professionals)
Printability:
Printable (single pages or entire manual)
Binding Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Operating Systems:
Windows and MAC compatible
Usage License:
Lifetime use on unlimited devices
Version Type:
Full, unrestricted version
Base Engine Displacement:
1.8 Liter
Base Engine Cylinders:
Inline-4
Base Engine Horsepower:
126 hp @ 6000 rpm
Base Engine Torque:
122 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm
Gt Engine Displacement:
2.4 Liter
Gt Engine Cylinders:
Inline-4
Gt Engine Horsepower:
164 hp @ 6000 rpm
Gt Engine Torque:
163 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential multiport
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Regular Unleaded (for 1ZZ-FE), 87 Octane Regular Unleaded recommended for 2AZ-FE (GT)
Engine Control Unit:
GM ECM (Engine Control Module) controlling Toyota sourced engine components
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (U241E)
Automatic Transmission Features
Automatic Transmission Logic:
Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission (ECT)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (Specific Toyota/GM specification recommended)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III/VI or equivalent (Toyota Type T-IV often compatible/recommended)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Front Offset Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Crash Rating:
Acceptable
Standard Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - often optional or on higher trims)
Passive Safety Features:
Front Airbags, Side-Curtain Airbags (optional), Front Seatbelt Pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM/CD stereo with optional premium audio, auxiliary input (may vary by trim and options).
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control (optional/standard depending on trim), Cruise Control.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on audio playback.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months (whichever comes first) under normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement 1Zz-Fe:
Approx. 100,000 miles (160,000 km) using iridium-tipped plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as specified by severe service intervals.
Engine Oil Capacity 1Zz-Fe:
4.4 US quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter, SAE 5W-30 recommended (API SM or higher).
Engine Oil Capacity 2Az-Fe:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter, SAE 5W-30 recommended (API SM or higher).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.9 US quarts (5.6 Liters) for 1ZZ-FE, 6.2 US quarts (5.9 Liters) for 2AZ-FE (with 50/50 mix of Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent).
Common Issues:
Excessive oil consumption (especially on 1ZZ-FE early models), potential for catalytic converter failure due to oil burning, front suspension component wear (bushings, struts), minor interior trim rattles.
Transmission Issues:
Automatic transmission may exhibit delayed shifting or harsh engagement if fluid is neglected. Manual transmissions are generally robust.
Pontiac Heritage:
Pontiac was an American automobile division of General Motors known for performance-oriented and sporty vehicles.
Vibe Development:
Co-developed with Toyota, sharing the platform and many mechanical components with the Toyota Matrix. This ensured reliability and quality.
Manufacturing Location:
Fremont, California, USA (NUMMI plant)
Production Years:
2003-2009
Popular Mechanics Editors Choice:
Awarded 'Editors' Choice' for its value and practicality in 2005.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above-average for reliability due to Toyota mechanicals, though oil consumption concerns are noted for certain engine variants.