21st Mar 2007, 17:54

I am currently in looking at buying a "remaining stock" 2006 model Vibe. Given the stories about low power (I've read this in several reviews), I'm wondering if that applies to just the automatic transmission version... or would owners of the manual version say that's true as well? If I do purchase a Vibe, it would definitely have the smallest engine in car I've ever owned... which makes the 5-speed manual seem like a more attractive option.

As for the "alignment" issues, I would say that if the drift is fairly even in both directions depending on the road surface, then it's likely just an artifact of the steering geometry and a very light front end. If you are used to cars with heavier engines sitting on top of the wheels, you are probably also used to power steering systems that tend to isolate a lot of "road feel". How would you rate the handing of the vehicle in general?

5th May 2009, 22:59

A couple of things just for the record:

>>> Vibe's steering is very accurate, self-centering and somewhat heavy. It almost steers itself.

If you're getting any pull -- other than torque steer on acceleration -- it's not normal. Vibe goes where it's pointed.

>>> Don't bother with a manual tranny on the base engine. There's not remotely enough torque to make it worth rowing around.

Get the automatic and use the handy overdrive lockout button when you need more oomph.

20th Aug 2009, 09:10

I got a 03 Vibe with the manual transmission and I prefer it over the automatic, just to make the vehicle more entertaining to drive. I find that the engine has enough power for day to day applications, and with the manual it feels a bit more "alive".

28th Feb 2010, 21:49

Don't cut off the outlet cover! Go to the local home club and buy a 2 prong to 3 prong adapter. It gives you extra length, and let's you plug in stuff that has a ground plug.