Market Position:
The 2007 Pontiac Vibe was positioned as a sporty, versatile compact hatchback, often referred to as a 'sport wagon' or 'compact utility vehicle.' It shared its platform and many mechanical components with the Toyota Matrix, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles such as the Honda Civic Si, Mazda3, Ford Focus, and Volkswagen Golf. Its shared development with Toyota contributed to reliability and ease of maintenance, a key selling point.
Key Features:
Practical hatchback design with foldable rear seats, available all-wheel drive, peppy engine options, and a focus on value and reliability inherited from its Toyota underpinnings.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting/Charging, Automatic Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer/Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle/Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake System, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt System, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock System, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat Systems, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior Body, Electrical System, Multiplex/CAN Communication, and more.
Procedures Included:
Maintenance, Diagnosis, Service, Repair, Troubleshooting, Component Replacement, System Overhaul, Electrical Wiring Schematics, Specifications, Component Testing.
Body And Trim Procedures:
Detailed instructions for interior and exterior trim removal, installation, and repair, including door panels, dashboard components, body moldings, and bumpers.
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems, including detailed wiring schematics, component location diagrams, and troubleshooting flowcharts for common electrical faults.
Engine Mechanical Repair:
Step-by-step guides for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly, including piston and ring replacement, connecting rod and crankshaft service, cylinder head overhauls, and valve train adjustments.
Brake System Service:
Instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, bleeding the brake system, parking brake adjustments, and troubleshooting brake system issues.
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Detailed procedures for replacing suspension components such as struts, shocks, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends, and steering rack servicing.
Air Conditioning Service:
Comprehensive guides on AC system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), and leak testing.
Supplemental Restraint System Service:
Information on SRS system diagnostics, airbag component replacement, and necessary precautions when working with safety restraint systems.
Technical Depth:
Vehicle-specific, dealer-level detail covering all aspects from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete component rebuilds.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes DTCs:
Coverage of common DTCs, their meanings, and systematic troubleshooting procedures to identify the root cause of system failures.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for critical fasteners throughout the vehicle, essential for correct assembly and preventing component damage.
Alignment Specifications:
Factory specifications for wheel alignment (caster, camber, toe) to ensure proper tire wear and handling.
Lubrication Points:
Identification and specifications for lubrication points on suspension, steering, and driveline components.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months (severe conditions), or 10,000 miles/12 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (for iridium-tipped plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.4 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant (Pink) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 gear oil (SAE 75W-90 recommended)
Known Issues:
Some models may experience oil consumption issues due to piston ring design, especially on higher-mileage vehicles. Check for engine knocking or ticking sounds which might indicate piston slap. Catalytic converter failure can occur. Suspension components and brake wear are typical for the vehicle's age and class.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Fram PH3569, Wix 51515, Purolator L14610
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Fram CA9972, Wix 49060, K&N 33-2145