pontiac vibe Problems
pontiac vibe 2009 Complaints
WHEELS
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact noticed that the emblems in the center of the rims spontaneously popped off eight times. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they suggested that someone stole the emblems. he replaced the emblems, but they were missing again several weeks later. the contact believes that something in the wheels was possibly flexing and causing too much stress, which inevitably causes the emblems to detach. the contact also hears a thud sound whenever he drives over a bump. the noise could possibly be from the emblems popping off. the manufacturer did not assist. the failure mileage was 300 and current mileage was 4,500.
Reported in: YONKERS NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67079Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
exhaust smell inside passenger compartment. this is an ongoing problem. dealership states there is no problem.
Reported in: SAN JOSE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67049Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
car is stalling on initial acceleration from stop often - especially in warm weather and city type driving.. occasionally stalls when coming to a stop. occasionally increases rpm's randomly. these instances have caused major safety issues when navigating traffic. below does not offer option to state this problem has been ongoing since purchase.
Reported in: SAN DIEGO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67899Z
WHEELS
center wheel caps (emblems) are popping off. i took it to the dealer for service for a front end problem a booming sound. they replaced the r front shock and assembly. the cap had come off. the dealer wrote it off to kids and theft. after some complaining they replaced it. one week later the r front cap was missing once more. i had to buy a replacement. 2 weeks later i watched my wife pull into our drive way and observed the cap come off and roll into the neighbor's yard. dealer says there is not a problem kids are just taking them. now my vibe rolls without the center caps. i can not afford to replace them every month or 2.
Reported in: LEAGUE CITY TX || Crash: N || VIN #:
STEERING
2009 pontiac vibe, which is mechanically identical to toyota matrix, which in turn is based on toyota corolla. all three vehicles have really light steering (too much boost from electric power steering) that it becomes very unstable and dangerous when the speed is over 50mph. i know that there are many people who reported this problem on toyota corolla but i think nhtsa should be aware that toyota matrix and pontiac vibe share the same problem.
Reported in: TUCSON AZ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
the contact has a 2006 pontiac vibe that has the same problems problems as the toyota corrolla. the pontiac stalled while driving and the the owner had to wait 45 minutes before it could restart. the dealer fixed the problem, but the contact would like to complain that the dealer says that it was the electronic control module. there was 32000 miles when it happened and 35000 miles. the vehicle had sat for about an hour and then stopped after driving for 15 minutes at 35 miles hour.
Reported in: BETHESDA MD || Crash: N || VIN #:
STRUCTURE:BODY:BUMPERS
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact crashed into a vehicle which tore off his front bumper. he took the vehicle to a repair shop and was told that they do not have a bumper to repair his vehicle. the dealer and the gm manufacturer were notified and stated that the they are not sure when the parts will be available. the vin was unknown. the failure mileage was 7,800.
Reported in: ENNIS TX || Crash: Y || VIN #:
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while driving 10 mph and approaching a stop sign and engaging the brake pedal, the vehicle would not stop. the contact had to apply extreme pressure to the brake pedal before the vehicle would stop. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the vacuum pump caused the brakes to fail after the clamp fell off of the hose. the dealer repaired the vehicle. the manufacturer stated that they were not sure why the clamp came off of the hose. the failure mileage was 21,000.
Reported in: FAIR HAVEN MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67849Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
part of the pontiac vibe is built by toyota. i am concerned about the recent recall of the toyota matrix which is basically the same vehicle as the vibe. has anyone checked this out? *cw
Reported in: SACHSE TX || Crash: N || VIN #:
POWER TRAIN
car has the accelerator problem and the brake problem the odometer reads that the car is traveling 50 mph and the car is really doing 42 mph, the passenger seatbelt turns off with passenger. *cn
Reported in: WOODSIDE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67009Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
car has the accelerator problem and the brake problem the odometer reads that the car is traveling 50 mph and the car is really doing 42 mph, the passenger seatbelt turns off with passenger. *cn
Reported in: WOODSIDE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67009Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
car has the accelerator problem and the brake problem the odometer reads that the car is traveling 50 mph and the car is really doing 42 mph, the passenger seatbelt turns off with passenger. *cn
Reported in: WOODSIDE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67009Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while driving various speeds including approximately 35 mph, the contact attempted to engage the brake pedal he noticed that both the brake and accelerator pedal depressed at the same time. after examining the brake pedal the contact noticed that the brake pedal was only 3 inches apart from the accelerator pedal. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealership. the current and failure mileages were 3400. updated 03/04/10 *bf on tow occasions the accelerator pedal jammed with the brake pedal operating. the brake collapsed and became the same height as the accelerator, which caused both to became depressed. both the accelerator and brake pedals were very close together. updated 05/17/10
Reported in: WILLBRAHAM MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while driving various speeds including approximately 35 mph, the contact attempted to engage the brake pedal he noticed that both the brake and accelerator pedal depressed at the same time. after examining the brake pedal the contact noticed that the brake pedal was only 3 inches apart from the accelerator pedal. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealership. the current and failure mileages were 3400. updated 03/04/10 *bf on tow occasions the accelerator pedal jammed with the brake pedal operating. the brake collapsed and became the same height as the accelerator, which caused both to became depressed. both the accelerator and brake pedals were very close together. updated 05/17/10
Reported in: WILLBRAHAM MA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while driving approximately 5 mph into her garage the vehicle accelerated although pressure was applied to the brake pedal. the vehicle crashed into the garage door and the roof collapsed. there was an estimate of $9,000 for property damages. the driver sustained no injuries. the police was called to the scene. the vehicle was towed to the authorized dealer. the vehicle sustained severe damages which were repaired for $9,000. the cause of failure has not been determined at this time. the failure mileage was 3,500. updated 3/4/2010 *cn updated 05/10/10*jb
Reported in: AKRON NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SP67039Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
catalytic converter odor inside car upon medium or greater acceleration on pontiac vibe 2009 2.4l engine. this is vehicle type complaint.
Reported in: RAVENNA OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67029Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
i have a 2009 pontiac vibe with less than 5000 miles on it. after filling it with gas, i was moving it from the pumps to the parking area about 30ft away. suddenly the engine raced. i stomped the brakes and threw the car into neutral. the engine continued to race until i tapped the gas pedal. the engine then returned to idle. the pedal was not stuck on anything on the inside of the car. i had just gently accelerated to move the car. the engine just suddenly raced independent to anything that i had done.
Reported in: WASHINGTON DC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
i was stopped in traffic at the entrance to baxter state park in maine in august 2009. i was driving a 2009 pontiac vibe. when the car in front of me advanced a few feet, i touched the gas pedal lightly to move forward. when i then stepped on the brake, the car kept advancing. i pressed harder on the brake but the car kept moving until it struck the car in front. this was at very low speed, as the car had moved only several feet. there was minor damage to the car in front, and only scratched paint on my car.
Reported in: YORK ME || Crash: Y || VIN #:
SERVICE BRAKES, ELECTRIC
experienced a momentary loss of braking while going over a bump at a moderate speed. the single occurrence happened when going through an intersection bump, on a very cold and rainy day. my foot was on the brake, slowing down through the intersection (approx. 35 mph) and hit the bump. the brake pedal immediately went to the floor with no apparent braking. i believe the anti-lock brake light turned on during the brake loss, but it happened so fast i can't say it did for certain. a moment later i released the brake and pressed it and the brakes were back to normal. this incident occurred approximately 1 year ago, and has not happened since. i purchased the car new about 20 months ago. make pontiac model vibe year 2009 engine 1.8 liter transmission manual.
Reported in: BIRMINGHAM AL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67899Z
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
upon applying brake at stop light, car accelerated. another time when waiting in driveway for garagedoor to open i applied brakes and the car accelerated. both times nothing serious happened as i was a safe distance from anything in front and the brake worked. both times in fall of 2009; car had about 7000 miles.
Reported in: GRAYSLAKE IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67849Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
accelerator defect/recall. it occurred once in 2009. i had to putthe car in neutral because the engine was racing. it took approximately 30 seconds for the engine to return to normal. the floor mats were not jammed. *cn
Reported in: RIVER EDGE NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
recall 10018 accelerator pedal sticking called gm on 11 feb and they told me that this recall did not apply to my car. today, feb 13, 2010, i got a recall notice in the mail. they downright lied to me 2 days ago.
Reported in: COCOA FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67899Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe purchased new. he stated while driving at speeds of 50 mph on a cloudy day, a deer ran out into the highway in front of his vehicle. he depressed the brakes but the brakes would not engage. the contact struck the deer, killing it instantly. the police were called to the scene and a report was filed. there was moderate damage to the front-end of the vehicle. there was a recall campaign on the service brakes (nhtsa campaign id number: 09v392000; component: service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum), however his vin was not included. no repairs were made to date. the failure mileage was 1700 and the current was 12,812. the vin was not accepted.
Reported in: BYRON MI || Crash: Y || VIN #:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
2009 pontiac vibe has issue with the gas pedal sticking. *nj the consumer stated she experienced a problem with the pedal sticking while she was attempting to merge into traffic. updated 03/01/10. *jb updated 03/12/10 updated 03/04/10.*jb
Reported in: LEVITTOWN PA || Crash: N || VIN #:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
prior to the current recall campaign for sticky accelerator pedal, i have experienced three occurrences of that problem. all three times, the car has continued to accelerate, while i am braking at a stop sign. all three times, the pedal has successfully released. the recall letter came feb. 13, and the repair can be scheduled after february 22, 2010, so nothing has been done yet to correct the problem. the main reason for my complaint, (also based on extensive experience with cars), is that the conditions under which my car has malfunctioned, are not the conditions described in the recall letter. the letter says "over time, the internal mechanisms in the accelerator pedal may become worn. as a result of this wear, combined with certain operating and environmental conditions, friction in the mechanism may increase and intermittently result in the accelerator pedal being hard to depress and/or slow to return...." one occurrence was in the first 300 miles or so of ownership, and was in warm dry weather. at least one of the other two occurrences was before winter hit. my car also has only 4600 total miles on it, has been parked in the garage for weeks, and will not be driven until i think toyota or pontiac have actually solved the problem. in other words, my car does not have the miles on it to cause "wear," especially for the first occurrence of the problem, nor has it malfunctioned in the cold moist conditions that i have read are the conditions described in the recall letter. therefore, it is my strong opinion that the "sticky accelerator pedal" condition is not due to what the recall addresses. a more possible cause, is as i have read from some owners, one of the computers.
Reported in: BLOOMIONGTON MN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while driving 10 to 15 mph, she depressed the brake pedal and it felt as if the abs engaged. it took extra effort for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. she was almost in the middle of the intersection before the vehicle stopped completely. she cited the weather as cold and rainy. another driver of the vehicle also confirmed that they previously experienced the identical failure. she had not taken the vehicle to the dealership or spoken with the manufacturer to date. the vehicle had not been repaired when the complaint was filed. the current mileage was approximately 18,000. the failure mileage was approximately 17,800.
Reported in: HOBOKEN NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67099Z
STEERING
wandering steering at highway speed of my 2009 pontiac vibe versus stable steering of my 2006 pontiac vibe.
Reported in: DEER PARK NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vive. while driving into a parking space attempting to park the vehicle at 5 mph when the gas pedal was engaged, the vehicle accelerated and crashed into a fence. she received a ticket for careless driving. the insurance company towed the vehicle to the body shop. the vehicle will be repaired. she sustained fractured bones and the passenger received injuries to their chest, ribs and knee. the failure and the current mileage were 3,000. updated 3/16/10 *cn the consumer attempted to stop the vehicle, however the pedal went to the floor. the air bags did not deploy during the accident. updated 05/11/10.*jb
Reported in: MORRISTOWN NJ || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SM67079Z
AIR BAGS
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vive. while driving into a parking space attempting to park the vehicle at 5 mph when the gas pedal was engaged, the vehicle accelerated and crashed into a fence. she received a ticket for careless driving. the insurance company towed the vehicle to the body shop. the vehicle will be repaired. she sustained fractured bones and the passenger received injuries to their chest, ribs and knee. the failure and the current mileage were 3,000. updated 3/16/10 *cn the consumer attempted to stop the vehicle, however the pedal went to the floor. the air bags did not deploy during the accident. updated 05/11/10.*jb
Reported in: MORRISTOWN NJ || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SM67079Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while the contact was at a traffic light, he noticed that the rpm's increased beyond 2500 without the contact pressing the accelerator pedal. the vehicle has not been taken to the dealership and there were no prior warnings. the current and failure mileages were 9857.
Reported in: LEAIGH ACRES FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
SEATS
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. whenever the contact changed the seating position he noticed that the left base rail would not connect allowing the seat to move freely. the vehicle was taken to the dealership where the contact was informed that nothing could be done to correct the problem. the contact has noticed the failure since the day he purchased the vehicle. the current and failure mileages were 9857.
Reported in: LEIAGH ACRES FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
VISIBILITY
2009 pontiac vibe steering feels like steering wheel not controlling direction of vehicle and slight turns cause car to turn more than it should. when parallel parking on left side of one-way street and pull into traffic, no visibility to see if cars coming from behind.
Reported in: PORTSMOUTH NH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67879Z
STEERING
2009 pontiac vibe steering feels like steering wheel not controlling direction of vehicle and slight turns cause car to turn more than it should. when parallel parking on left side of one-way street and pull into traffic, no visibility to see if cars coming from behind.
Reported in: PORTSMOUTH NH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67879Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2009 pontiac vibe. when the car is in drive and the car is stopped or nearly stopped, the engine races to 7000 rpm. this causes the vehicle to suddenly move forward into an intersection. to regain control i must shift to n and continue to apply the brakes as hard as possible. this occurs at random intervals. after i turn the engine off and back on it seems to work ok till the next time. i took the car to the dealer three times. the first and second trips to the dealer they said they found no trouble vehicle met specs. no parts replaced. the third time the dealer kept the car for two weeks, the car was returned on feb 19 2010. the dealer performed a two modifications to the vehicle. 1. accelerator modification, and 2. they removed the driver floor mat. today 02/22/2010 the car malfunctioned again, causing a near collision.
Reported in: ST.PETERS MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
2009 pontiac vibe. when the car is in drive and the car is stopped or nearly stopped, the engine races to 7000 rpm. this causes the vehicle to suddenly move forward into an intersection. to regain control i must shift to n and continue to apply the brakes as hard as possible. this occurs at random intervals. after i turn the engine off and back on it seems to work ok till the next time. i took the car to the dealer three times. the first and second trips to the dealer they said they found no trouble vehicle met specs. no parts replaced. the third time the dealer kept the car for two weeks, the car was returned on feb 19 2010. the dealer performed a two modifications to the vehicle. 1. accelerator modification, and 2. they removed the driver floor mat. today 02/22/2010 the car malfunctioned again, causing a near collision.
Reported in: ST.PETERS MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
our 2009 pontiac vibe suddenly attempted to accelerate while driving up hill through an intersection. my left foot was firmly on the floor block located next to the driverside kick pan. my right foot was covering the brake pedal. the vehicle was slowing down (approx. 30 mph.)as i rolled up the hill and was idling normally. shortly before entering the intersection the throttle advanced substantially. the rpm raised to approx. 2500,but the transmission did not down shift. i was easily able to control the vehicle by pressing on the brake pedal. since there was no traffic near by, i decided to continue allowing the vehicle to continue at approx. 30 miles an hour while controlling the speed with the brake pedal. the vehicle proceeded approx 200 yards when suddenly the engine shut off. i restarted the vehicle without any problem. i can not repeat the conditions because any degree of throttle at that speed will normally cause the transmission to down shift. my wife who has complained that the cruise control has come on by itself while driving on the expressway. two days latter the vehicle exhibited a different throttle abnormality at the same intersection. i am a master certified ase automotive technician with extensive electrical background. this had nothing to do with a stuck accelerator pedal.
Reported in: EAST AURORA NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67079Z
STEERING
at highway speeds above 60 mph, my 2009 pontiac vibe feels like i am driving through a wind storm. this requires me to constantly correct the steering wheel, in order to maintain the direction that i intend. this can be annoying and possibly dangerous. i am most concerned that if the wheel pressure is not maintained at the recommended tire pressure, one could easily lose control of the vehicle. (i check and maintain the air pressure in my tires, monthly.)
Reported in: ANNAPOLIS MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67839Z
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
the engine in my 2009 pontiac vibe, 5-speed manual transmission, often fails to return to idle. this occurs when the engine is both hot and cold (electronic control module is in both the open and closed loop mode.) when working correctly, the vehicle returns to idle at 800 - 900 rpms. when the vehicle fails to return to idle, the engine revs at approximately 1,000 - 1,200 rpms. i have confirmed that the floor mats are not interfering with the accelerator pedal and the pedal is not binding in any way. this has not resulted in a run-a-way vehicle, as it is a 5-speed manual transmission.
Reported in: ANNAPOLIS MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67839Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
i was in the process of pulling into a parking space with my 2009 pontiac vibe. i had my foot on the brake pedal , within a foot of coming to a complete stop, the vehicle accelerated suddenly. the sudden acceleration jerked my wife's head and my head back. as the vehicle accelerated i pressed down on the brake pedal as hard as i could. the vibe came to a stop on top of a snow bank and damage was done to the front of the vibe. this was the first time the vehicle did this. the second time was also in a paved parking lot. i was pulling into a parking spot, i had my foot on the brake and just before i wanted to stop the vibe accelerated suddenly, but, not as hard as the first time. i depressed the brake as hard as i could to stop the vibe. the vehicle did not hit anything this time. this happened on feb. 13, 2010. no one was injured in either of the occurrences.
Reported in: MILFORD MI || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SP67049Z
STEERING:COLUMN
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. she stated that while driving 35 mph the vehicle began pulling to the left and when applying the brakes, it would pull the steering wheel to the left. she had to use excessive force to control the vehicle. the dealer was contacted and they diagnosis indicated that the steering column needed to be repaired. the accelerator also became stuck, the vehicle accelerated, and within a few minutes the vehicle lunged forward. there have been no repairs made to the vehicle. the failure mileage was 27000 and the current mileage was 38000.
Reported in: DEERISLAND OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. she stated that while driving 35 mph the vehicle began pulling to the left and when applying the brakes, it would pull the steering wheel to the left. she had to use excessive force to control the vehicle. the dealer was contacted and they diagnosis indicated that the steering column needed to be repaired. the accelerator also became stuck, the vehicle accelerated, and within a few minutes the vehicle lunged forward. there have been no repairs made to the vehicle. the failure mileage was 27000 and the current mileage was 38000.
Reported in: DEERISLAND OR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. whenever the contact applied the brakes, he noticed that the vehicle would suddenly surge forward for a short period before correcting itself. the failure occurred while driving approximately 35 mph. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by the dealership. the contact had recall nhtsa id number 10v018000, vehicle speed control, accelerator pedal and 10v024000 performed on his vehicle prior to the recent failure. the current and failure mileages were 29000.
Reported in: OAK PARK MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
the accelerator in our 2009 pontiac vibe acted up for the third time this evening. while each episode has been different, all 3 episodes have taken place in virtually the same place. it had the recall performed on it over a week ago. i have already filed a compliant with you. this time the car suddenly attempted to accelerate while i was coming to a stop. as stated before, i had no problem holding the car back with the brakes. this episode was only a few seconds long. i am an automotive technology instructor with master automotive ase and advanced engine performance certifications. i taught electronics at a local college for approximately 10 years before taking this job. i have done advanced rf and communications work. i have had experience with machine language microprocessor programming. this is not a sticking accelerator pedal!!! i have tried to duplicate the situation many times with no luck. the occurrences are very random. my wife has complained in the past of the cruise control seemingly engaging while down town on the i190. i now believe those episode are relate to the same problem. please contact me!
Reported in: EAST AURORA NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while the contact was driving 1 mph the vehicle had suddenly accelerated without warning.in order to stop the acceleration the contact had shifted the vehicle into neutral. one month prior to the recent failure the vehicle was taken to the dealership where nhtsa recall# 10v024000: vehicle speed control, accelerator pedal was performed on the vehicle. the vehicle was taken to the dealership where the contact was informed that the failure could not be reproduced. the failure mileage was at 7000 and the current mileage is 18000. updated 05/13/10. *lj
Reported in: SAINT PETERS MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i drive a 2009 pontiac vibe (essentially a toyota matrix) and under the right circumstance the vehicle will upshift right after you put on the brake causing the vehicle to surge ahead for a moment due to the upshift. it only happens at around speed of 25-35 mph. this is obviously not a pedal issue but a transmission programming and or solenoid valve issue in the transmission. the car has been reprogrammed per the tsb for harsh shifting. i will admit that some of the harshness has gone away but the upshift issue while slowing down still remains. from what i have read many others have had this issue as well, even after the reprogramming of the transmission (check out genvibe.com, you will find other owners suffer from this as well). the issue is especially noticeable while coming down a hill and it happens to me almost daily because i go down a large hill outside of my house daily. i am very careful while going down this hill to have my foot on the brake at all times as the car can upshift at anytime causing a brief forward surge. there are always children waiting at the bottom of the hill for the school bus when i leave in the morning so i am concerned for there safety more than mine at the moment but as i said, i am always extremely aware of the issue and very careful while descending the hill. i would be willing to demonstrate this issue to anyone if needed.
Reported in: ANKENY IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67099Z
VISIBILITY
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact was driving approximately 10 mph, when he proceeded to make a left turn; the exterior driver side mirror was mounted too high causing a blind spot which resulted in poor visibility. the contact stated that the mirror was a manufacturers design flaw. the failure mileage was 800. updated 07/19/10 *bf updated 07/21/10*jb
Reported in: WATERLOO IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP678X9Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while at a stop with the brakes applied the contact noticed that the engines rpms had risen to 6000. the vehicle was taken to the dealership where nhtsa recall # 10v024000 vehicle speed control :accelerator pedal was performed on the vehicle. the contact has not noticed the failure since having the recall performed. the failure mileage was 8700 and the current mileage was 9000.
Reported in: HOT SPRINGS AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl*-the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact received a recall notification. the nhtsa campaign id number was unknown. the authorized dealer was notified and they stated the vehicle had prior recall repair performed on the vehicle. the contact disputed, stating that the vehicle had not been repaired under the recall. additionally, the dealer mentioned the vehicle was repaired in a state that was not the residency of the contact. the contact was displeased with the inaccurate information and suggested the dealer inspect the vehicle to verify the repair was not performed. however, the dealer refused to investigate. the current mileage was 42,000.
Reported in: TOMS RIVER NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67019Z
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
vehicle was purchased in 2008. i own a 2009 pontiac vibe which is now included in toyota's recall. recall # 10018: accelerator pedal sticking and recall # 10038: floor mat interference and accelerator pedal.
Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67039Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
vehicle was purchased in 2008. i own a 2009 pontiac vibe which is now included in toyota's recall. recall # 10018: accelerator pedal sticking and recall # 10038: floor mat interference and accelerator pedal.
Reported in: CINCINNATI OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67039Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
we purchased a new 2009 pontiac vibe (toyota, matrix platform) in april 2008. we drove it for nearly two years and accumulated a little over 20k miles. in early march, we returned from a six or seven hour trip and were going through a local car wash when suddenly and unexpectedly, the accelerator depressed under my foot and the engine increased in rpm's and the vehicle launched forward nearly hitting the vehicle ahead of us in the queue. in february, we had received the recall notices from gmc, but the local dealer had not received the repair kits yet and had postponed our repair until early march. we immediately took the vehicle into the dealer and on march 5, they made the repairs. when i asked what were the nature of the repairs and they explained that a shim was installed in the accelerator linkage and some floor matting was removed, i knew that the repairs would not solve the problem we experienced. (as a son of a used car dealer, and former mechanic myself, i knew the nature of the problem was not mechanical, and it was more likely either vacuum or electrical in nature.) therefore, in fear of some potentially disastrous future problem for my wife when she might be driving the vehicle, we immediately traded for a new 2010 ford fusion. i also wanted to trade the vehicle before it also became widely known publicly as a toyota, matrix clone, and the resale value dropped out of the bottom. sorry, but toyota, has a ways to go before they will convince me that the problem is strictly floor mats and accelerator linkage shims.
Reported in: GREENWOOD IN || Crash: N || VIN #:
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i have a 2009 pontiac vibe. i have noticed that the car double accelerates. when you press the accelerator it revs up and the car lurches forward. it doesn't matter how soft or hard you press. i took my car in after the recall and had the accelerator altered but i still notice the problem. i asked the dealer to check the brakes also and they said it is fine. i don't know if its an engine problem but i have always noticed it. now that these issues have come to light i am validated that my concerns and others who have driven my car are real. i am afraid to have an incident which could potentially lead to injury or death. my five year old rides in the car on a daily basis with me. please advise me on what to do. thank you.
Reported in: BROOKLYN NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer states unintended acceleration. *tgw the consumer stated the vehicle accelerated out of control which caused her to crash into a light pole. the consumer stated when the vehicle was first purchased, it accelerated while she was driving into a garage. she was able to get the vehicle under control. *jb the consumer stated her vehicle was recalled due to sudden acceleration problems. weeks prior to the accident, the consumer inquired about the recall and was informed the repairs would be made once the parts arrived. while waiting for the parts, the consumer had an accident. updated 05/05/10.*jb updated 05/28/10.*jb
Reported in: MONTICELLO IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SL67809Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
the car accelerated in a parking lot and hit a lightpole. over a $1000 damage was done to the car. when the car hit the lightpole, it was on the recall list, so the recall repairs were done. the body work wasn't done. the car also accelerated once when i entered the garage. no damage was done since i already had my foot on the clutch and was able to get the car under control. updated 05/24/10 *bf the consumer took the vehicle to the dealer because the gas pedal shim was not installed properly. updated 05/28/10
Reported in: MONTICELLO IL || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SL67809Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact was driving approximately 35 mph approaching a traffic light when the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly. the brakes were engaged repeatedly. suddenly, the gear was shifted into the park position. the vehicle came to a complete stop and was able to resume normally. the vehicle was taken to authorize dealer. the vehicle was repaired for the malfunction. the failure mileage was 13,300. the current mileage was 13,350. updated 10/27/10.*lj updated 12/15/10 updated 12/27/10
Reported in: LIBERTY MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67049Z
STEERING
the electric steering in the car doesn't allow you to steer in the right direction. the steering in numb and it makes a noise and it takes 3 seconds for it to adjust. i believe you have noticed this problem through other complaints but why are you guys hesitating to announce a recall on the electric steering?
Reported in: MOUNT PROSPECT IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67819Z
EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE
recall # 10038 floor mat interference and accelerator pedal i received this recall notice for my 2009 pontiac vibe back in february 2010. it instructs me to remove my floor mat until further notice due to the possibility of interfering with the accelerator pedal leading to crash, serious injury, or death. i have yet to be notified by g.m. of any remedy that is available. i would certainly like to be able to have the use of a driver side floor mat! when will this be resolved?
Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67069Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
recall # 10038 floor mat interference and accelerator pedal i received this recall notice for my 2009 pontiac vibe back in february 2010. it instructs me to remove my floor mat until further notice due to the possibility of interfering with the accelerator pedal leading to crash, serious injury, or death. i have yet to be notified by g.m. of any remedy that is available. i would certainly like to be able to have the use of a driver side floor mat! when will this be resolved?
Reported in: CLARKSTON MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67069Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
today i had the "gas-pedal" recall performed on my 2009 pontiac vibe. i immediately noticed it requires much less effort to depress the pedal - so much less, in fact, that i consider it dangerous. i got out of my car and complained to a service manager about this. he said they had done the repair exactly as the instructions called for and there was nothing more they could do. i feel that pontiac dealerships should replace the entire pedal assembly for those of us complaining about this, just as is being done by toyota dealerships with the matrix. after all, it's essentially the same car.
Reported in: SWARTZ CREEK MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67089Z
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
today i had the "gas-pedal" recall performed on my 2009 pontiac vibe. i immediately noticed it requires much less effort to depress the pedal - so much less, in fact, that i consider it dangerous. i got out of my car and complained to a service manager about this. he said they had done the repair exactly as the instructions called for and there was nothing more they could do. i feel that pontiac dealerships should replace the entire pedal assembly for those of us complaining about this, just as is being done by toyota dealerships with the matrix. after all, it's essentially the same car.
Reported in: SWARTZ CREEK MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67089Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
over sensitive accelerator pedal. recall fix has made my accelerator pedal much too sensitive. it has become difficult to maintain a constant speed and to accelerate smoothly. the toyota fix is totally unsatisfactory.
Reported in: MARIETTA GA || Crash: N || VIN #:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact was driving 2 mph when he applied the brakes and the vehicle suddenly accelerated. the contact was forced to drive the vehicle off of the road in order to slow it down. he shifted the vehicle into park and was able to stop the vehicle from accelerating. the vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer. the dealer called the manufacturer who stated that they would send an investigator to inspect the vehicle; the investigator had not inspected the vehicle when the complaint was filed. the dealer stated that they could order a new accelerator pedal to repair the vehicle. the contact did not want to drive the vehicle due to the safety risk. the current and failure mileages were approximately 18,500. updated 11/03/10.*lj
Reported in: LOWBER PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67039Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while driving approximately 15 mph, the vehicle abnormally accelerated and crashed into a cement pole. the contact attempted to apply the brakes but they failed to stop the vehicle. the contact was injured. the vehicle was towed to a local repair facility. the failure mileage was 30,000. updated 07/19/10. *lj updated 07/23/10*jb
Reported in: NIANGUA MO || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y25P67849Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. while attempting to shift into the drive gear the vehicle suddenly accelerated without warning, causing the contact to crash into a nearby pole. the contact suffered minor injuries yet a police report was not filed for the incident. the vehicle was not diagnosed and there were no prior warnings. the vin was not available. the current and failure mileages were 30,000.
Reported in: NIANGUA MO || Crash: Y || VIN #:
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated while entering a parking space and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle abnormally accelerated. the vehicle jumped a curb and crashed into a concrete telephone pole yet the driver was not injured. the vehicle sustained extensive front end damage and the police responded to the scene where a police report was filed accordingly. the vehicle was towed to a local repair shop and the contacts insurance company had not yet confirmed if the vehicle was repairable. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was approximately 30,000.
Reported in: ESPILLFORK AL || Crash: Y || VIN #:
STRUCTURE:BODY
while driving 60-70mph on an expressway in heavy/gusty winds i suddenly heard a loud "woof" sound accompanied by heavy drag and pulling of the vehicle to the left. after regaining control and making my way to the side of the freeway i found that the wind had ripped the splash guard/air dam clear off with the exception of the last fastener on the driver¿s side. this resulted in the part dragging under the driver¿s side tire. i was assisted by onstar and a tow driver who helped me to remove the piece, as i would be unable to safely drive the vehicle with it dragging. the dealer replaced the part at my cost and informed me that it would not likely be covered under the ¿bumper to bumper¿ warranty because this type of damage is usually the result of collisions with parking blocks. (basically saying they didn't believe my account of what happened). i was supposed to be contacted regarding an investigation within 1-2 days but so far no word from pontiac.
Reported in: VAIL CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67059Z
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that on june 4, 2010, while at a traffic light, the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into a wall. the contact sustained major injuries and was hospitalized. a police report was filed. the contact had previously been complaining about the transmission but the dealer refused to repair it. the contact called the manufacturer who referred her to back to the dealer. the current and failure mileages were approximately 50,000.
Reported in: MARILLA NY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SM67039Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
the check engine and traction system control warning lights were coming on and off intermittently. the first repair was replacement of the pcm (computer that controls everything) due to a short. within 2 days the warning lights again came on intermittently. after a few days of searching for the problem the dealer performing the repairs obtained info on similar reported claims from the gm company. it was found out that there is an oxygen sensor that goes bad and does not set off a warning as it should, and this again caused the pcm to again short out and need to be replaced. the dealer has been very good about finding the problems and doing the repairs; but now i am afraid to drive a car i just bought 2 months ago, for fear that the computer will again burn out and i will lose control of the vehicle!
Reported in: GAITHERSBURG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
the check engine and traction system control warning lights were coming on and off intermittently. the first repair was replacement of the pcm (computer that controls everything) due to a short. within 2 days the warning lights again came on intermittently. after a few days of searching for the problem the dealer performing the repairs obtained info on similar reported claims from the gm company. it was found out that there is an oxygen sensor that goes bad and does not set off a warning as it should, and this again caused the pcm to again short out and need to be replaced. the dealer has been very good about finding the problems and doing the repairs; but now i am afraid to drive a car i just bought 2 months ago, for fear that the computer will again burn out and i will lose control of the vehicle!
Reported in: GAITHERSBURG MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
VISIBILITY
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact was driving at low speeds in a parking lot when she reversed and crashed into another vehicle. the contact stated the vehicle was in her blind spot. in addition, the contact stated when attempting to change lanes, she was unable to see clearly through the rear view mirrors. the dealer advised the contact to purchase a concave mirror for the vehicle. the contact purchased the mirror yet was still unable to see in her blind spot. the manufacturer would not provide any assistance. the failure and current mileages on the vehicle were 15, 000.
Reported in: CLEVELAND OH || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SL678X9Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that he has received three recall notices; nhtsa campaign id number: 09v392000, component: service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum; nhtsa campaign id number: 10v018000, vehicle speed control accelerator pedal; nhtsa campaign id number: 10v024000, floor mats. he has never had a safety issue associated with these recalls. the contact has tried to make appointments to have the remedies performed, but the dealer stated that they do not have the parts for any of the recalls. the first recall notice arrived in october 2009 and the others arrived in february 2010. the contact notified the manufacturer and they informed the contact that the dealer will not order the parts until he brings it in for diagnostics. the contact feels that the availablity of the parts are critical and he has concern for his safety in driving the vehicle. the current mileage is approximately 6600.
Reported in: LAS VEGAS NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67809Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that he has received three recall notices; nhtsa campaign id number: 09v392000, component: service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum; nhtsa campaign id number: 10v018000, vehicle speed control accelerator pedal; nhtsa campaign id number: 10v024000, floor mats. he has never had a safety issue associated with these recalls. the contact has tried to make appointments to have the remedies performed, but the dealer stated that they do not have the parts for any of the recalls. the first recall notice arrived in october 2009 and the others arrived in february 2010. the contact notified the manufacturer and they informed the contact that the dealer will not order the parts until he brings it in for diagnostics. the contact feels that the availablity of the parts are critical and he has concern for his safety in driving the vehicle. the current mileage is approximately 6600.
Reported in: LAS VEGAS NV || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67809Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
my fianceÉ and i have experienced the sudden acceleration problem in her 2009 pontiac vibe both before and after the factory retrofit a shim in the throttle. both times we were going slowly (<20 mph) as we approached a stop sign and releasing pressure on the throttle did not cause the engine to slow. each time the problem persisted for 2-3 seconds. case i: clear day in february 2010 with good road conditions on level ground. the engine did not throttle back when linda took her foot off the gas and put it on the brake. for perhaps 2 seconds the engine raced. i had time to look at the tachometer and saw it was about 2500 rpm, with the gas pedal released and her foot firmly on the brake. perhaps two seconds after she released pressure from the gas pedal and applied the brake, the rpm dropped and the car came to a speedy halt. this pushed the car about 3 feet past the white intersection demarcation line before it stopped. the day before this happened, linda and i had removed the driver side floor mat. linda promptly took the car to her dealer and had the warranty repair to the throttle mechanism completed within a few days. case ii: friday july 9, 2010, was a clear day in july, much warmer, with excellent road conditions on a newly paved road. this time the transmission did not "gear down" as one would expect under normal operation, which i believe, kept the engine from racing. again as in the first case, for perhaps 2-3 seconds after linda had taken her foot off the gas and applied the brake, the vehicle resisted her attempt to make it slow smoothly. then the engine sound diminished suddenly, as the transmission executed a "hard shift" down and the vehicle came to a controlled stop, also several feet past the intersection demarcation line, but not really out into the intersection. last week, pontiac replaced the throttle assembly.
Reported in: ALGONQUIN IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67009Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the brakes on the vehicle made a very loud noise when the vehicle began moving forward or backwards. the failure has occurred since the vehicle was purchased. the dealer replaced the brake pads on the vehicle four times, yet that did not correct the failure. the dealer stated that the brake pads on the vehicle were the not the right size. the failure mileage was 12 and the current mileage is 6500. updated 09/27/10 *bf updated 10/01/10*jb
Reported in: MONROE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67849Z
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
i bought a brand new pontiac vibe [xxx] and now got another recall in the mail to the ones i already had done in the little over one year i owned it!! ridiculous to buy a new car and have all these recalls and then i just had another safety issue a dealership had to do on my car in addition just a few weeks ago that was not a recall. now another recall came. as a consumer and i buy a new car it would seem that there is a limit to the incompetence problems and recalls. i do not have time to mess w/ these constant recalls which is why i bought a new car to begin with so i dont have to worry about. what is being done about these poor vehicle products being pawned off on the consumer? why are we paying all this money for vehicles that recall every couple months for something else? where is the consumer being reimbursed for all the time and aggravation for the mishaps? it makes no difference if the parts/labor are no cost to me-my time and lack of a vehicle is costly. there is no excuse for this incompetence on this model at this point. i should either get a new car to replace this that actually runs properly or a large reimbursement of money for the lack of quality i bought. i want some answers and as a consumer this service is poor and any other company would be out of business for this many recalls and lack of quality. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: HASLETT MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM670X9Z
WHEELS:RIM
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer several problems with vehicle *tgw the consumer stated the tires had to be replaced, because the vehicle would not steer correctly and it vibrated on a continuous basis. the consumer stated the vehicle felt as though it had no suspension system. the vehicle was taken to a repair shop where it was discovered three of the rims were damaged. *jb
Reported in: PEORIA IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67009Z
SUSPENSION
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer several problems with vehicle *tgw the consumer stated the tires had to be replaced, because the vehicle would not steer correctly and it vibrated on a continuous basis. the consumer stated the vehicle felt as though it had no suspension system. the vehicle was taken to a repair shop where it was discovered three of the rims were damaged. *jb
Reported in: PEORIA IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67009Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:MASTER CYLINDER
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact was sitting at a traffic stop with the brakes depressed when the brake pedal suddenly fell to the bottom of the floorboard. the contact stated the failure would occur intermittently. the dealer replaced the master cylinder and brake booster but to no avail. the contact stated the vehicle had been taken to the dealer at least ten times in regards to the failure. the failure persisted and the dealer then advised that the brake pedal was operating as designed. the failure mileage was 10,000 and the current mileage was 26,909.
Reported in: LAKEWOOD NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67049Z
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
i have a 2009 awd vibe which will, at times, upshift after braking causing the car to lurch forward for a second due to the upshift and upon taking my foot off the brake and then applying the brake again apparently does the same thing again. it only does this at about 30 to 40 miles an hour and mostly when going down a moderate hill i come upon no my way home from work. i have advised the dealer of my concerns but they seem to be unable to duplicate the problem and have no idea how to address it. the problem is concerning enough to me that i won't let anyone else drive the vehicle. i have not had the transmission reprogrammed as it doesn't seem to help from what i have read on other complaints. i have had all the other unintended acceleration issues addressed and it is not related to that problem.
Reported in: HAWLEY PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67089Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl*the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact started the ignition; and when the accelerator pedal was engaged, the vehicle lurched forward without warning. the failure would occur sporadic. in addition, the failure occurred in the reverse position causing the vehicle to crash into the proceeding vehicle. the front bumper was damaged, and there was no personal injuries. a police report was filed. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer on six different occasions for the same failure. the vehicle was repaired under two recalls associated with the nhtsa campaign id number 10v018000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal); and 10v024000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal). the remedy did not correct the problem and the acceleration failure continued after the recall repairs were performed. the dealer and manufacturer were unable to provide any resolutions. the failure mileage was unknown .
Reported in: LEXINGTON KY || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SP67099Z
POWER TRAIN
on tues. morning, aug. 31, 2010, at 6:51 a.m. (per receipt), i was stopped at the precinct line & hwy 183 starbucks drive-through window. my 2009 pontiac vive was in drive & my right foot was on the brake as it would be at a stop light. as my transaction proceeded, i heard a terrific, loud racing of an engine that sounded like a race car & then felt my car begin to move forward. i thought it was the car behind me doing something weird or being somehow out of control. i pushed harder on my brake to protect myself, but my vive started to surge forward. i then realized that this was the "toyota problem" happening to me & i, therefore, put the car in park & turned the engine off. as i put the vive in park, the engine raced wildly & i noticed the tachometer bouncing crazily up the scale. i exclaimed to the workers that my car was doing the "toyota thing." they just stared at me with wide eyes. i tried turning the car on again, this time with both of my feet on the brake; the engine raced wildly once again, & the tachometer bounced wildly. my feet remained extremely firm on the brake pedal. the brake pedal felt strangely weak, as though i was able to push it further to the floor than normal. i turned the vive off a second time & told the starbucks workers that i didn't know what to do, in that i was in their drive-through lane & i was afraid to turn the engine on to try to move away. i was panicked; they remained wide-eyed and speechless at the noise and spectacle. i decided to try a third time; this time the engine acted "normally" but sounded and acted weak. i was very scared as i drove away & was unsure of what the car would do next. i called my husband to meet me at work a few miles away to pick up the car that i no longer trust to drive. the starbucks manager and drive-through window barista who witnessed this event gave their names & phone numbers to us & are willing to confirm the event. recall 10038 was performed 6 days prior to this occurrence.
Reported in: HURST TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
2009 vibe had recalls done to my car yet it still accelerated up over 2000 rpm and 70 km without touching gas pedal also the traction control and abs lights came on at same time. in my opinion it has nothing to do with gas pedal or floor mats..the dealer came and picked it up as it wouldn't stop doing it. they changed cam sensor it didn't work .then they told me they were putting in new comp. system. its will be a month this wed. and car is still at dealers.
Reported in: MAPLE ONTARIO CANADA 00 || Crash: N || VIN #:
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
2009 vibe had recalls done to my car yet it still accelerated up over 2000 rpm and 70 km without touching gas pedal also the traction control and abs lights came on at same time. in my opinion it has nothing to do with gas pedal or floor mats..the dealer came and picked it up as it wouldn't stop doing it. they changed cam sensor it didn't work .then they told me they were putting in new comp. system. its will be a month this wed. and car is still at dealers.
Reported in: MAPLE ONTARIO CANADA 00 || Crash: N || VIN #:
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2009 pontiac vibe i had gas pedal and floor mats recall done to my vibe yet it still accelerated on me up over 2000rpm's and 70 km an hour without touching gas pedal. car wouldn't stop doing it so gm came and picked it up. they have had my car for over a month now.service advisor said they were changing the computer in car. i don't feel safe to drive this car again if it was a faulty computer will they replace it with the same. gm costumer service will not return any of my calls.
Reported in: MAPLE ONT. CANADA 00 || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer asserts possible manufacturing defect concerning accelerator pedal problems *tgw the consumer stated as he was preparing to stop, to discharge a passenger, he removed his foot from the accelerator pedal to apply the brake, the vehicle kept moving forward and traveled approximately 1 1/2 car lengths into some bushed and a building. *jb
Reported in: INDIANA PA || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SR67029Z
STEERING
the power steering failed completely and without warning. the steering warning light illuminated on the dash. steering suddenly became very difficult, presenting a very dangerous situation. after stopping, all fuses were checked and found okay. shutting off/restarting car did not solve the problem. steering remains disabled. no other symptoms or problems. car is being towed to dealer for repair.
Reported in: MOORESVILLE IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
i was able to detect this before any accident occurred. while checking the rear brakes i noticed that there is uneven wear of rear brake pads. passenger side outer pad is positioned in an angle which causes premature wear of that pad while all other pads are wearing evenly. such defect (caliper position) causes rotor damage and possible wheel lock. this is a second vibe with the same problem that i've seen. the passenger side rear caliper needs to be adjusted and repositioned.
Reported in: GRAND ISLAND NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
STEERING
when driving at speeds greater than 35 mph the vehicle's steering becomes unpredictable. initially while attempting to correct the wandering direction of the car nothing will happen. when correcting further the vehicle will catch itself and over-correct. it feels as if you are driving through a wind tunnel or getting passed by large trucks even if there is no wind and no other vehicle around. when the wind is blowing it feels as if you are driving on ice. this became an even bigger problem when winter weather hit and roads actually became icy or snowy. also, when coming to a stop the steering wheel will occasionally and unpredictably turn at least 45-90 degrees in either direction resulting in the vehicle "wandering" into an adjacent lane.
Reported in: UBLY MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67019Z
EQUIPMENT
inside door handle breaks off easily. when taken for repair, repairman laughed, stating this is the car this month with broken interior handles. part is on backorder. safety issue, as must open window to open door to exit vehicle. in emergency, this could prove to be fatal if unable to exit vehicle quickly. *ln
Reported in: TAYLOR PA || Crash: N || VIN #:
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
driver reported failure of vehicle stability control and anti-lock brakes. warning lights were flashing on the dashboard. vehicle was taken to repair shop and repaired at cost of almost $800 to replace the rear wheel assembly where the abs sensor is located.
Reported in: GRAND ISLAND NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67899Z
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
driver reported failure of vehicle stability control and anti-lock brakes. warning lights were flashing on the dashboard. vehicle was taken to repair shop and repaired at cost of almost $800 to replace the rear wheel assembly where the abs sensor is located.
Reported in: GRAND ISLAND NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67899Z
SUSPENSION:FRONT
when traveling at low speeds (less than 35), there is a noticeable shaking / vibration / rattling noise coming from either the steering column or front shocks, especially when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. i have not yet had the dealer inspect the issue. seems as if some component has come loose.
Reported in: KNIGHTDALE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67019Z
STEERING
when traveling at low speeds (less than 35), there is a noticeable shaking / vibration / rattling noise coming from either the steering column or front shocks, especially when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. i have not yet had the dealer inspect the issue. seems as if some component has come loose.
Reported in: KNIGHTDALE NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM67019Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
2 weeks ago, i started smelling a gas odor coming from the front of my car as i drove. then as i started it and stopped it ; i smelled it. now it smells like exhaust all the time. i took it to the dealer today and they went over the entire exhaust and gas system and said it is fine. they agreed there is a "chemical smell", but nothing is wrong or the computer system would alert us. i picked up my car and it still smells like exhaust, not a "chemical" . my husband and i became nauseous driving after and hour last week and had to roll down the windows. he said he was light headed. it never smelled like this before and i can't stand driving it not only because it stinks but possible carbon monoxide. *kb
Reported in: ABERDEEN MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67889Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer writes in response to an unsatisfactory response of gm safety recall *tgw the consumer stated after making appointments and going to two different dealers he was informed the tools were not available to remedy the recall. *jb
Reported in: COLONIAL HEIGHTS VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67889Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while driving approximately 35 mph, an unexpected increase in the acceleration occurred without warning. the contact engaged the brake pedal; however the vehicle failed to stop and crashed into the rear of another vehicle. in addition, the air bags did not deploy. there were no personal injuries. a police report was filed in regards to the incident. the vehicle sustained severe damages and was towed to an authorized dealer for body repair. the dealer was unable to determine the cause of failure. also, the vehicle was repaired for two recalls associated with nhtsa campaign id numbers 10v018000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal) and 10v024000 (vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal). after the recall remedy repairs were performed, the unintended acceleration malfunction recurred on two different occasions. the vehicle was taken back to a dealer where they could not diagnose the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 15,000. the vin was unavailable.
Reported in: HERMINIE PA || Crash: Y || VIN #:
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe gt. the contact stated when the key was placed in the ignition the key would not turn and the vehicle would not start. the vehicle would not start until the steering wheel was jerked back and forth. the vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the manufacturer was contacted. the failure mileage was 48,000 and the current mileage was 57,070. updated 10/4/11 *cn updated 10/26/11
Reported in: LAWLER IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67099Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated while driving 30 mph the vehicle started rapidly accelerated. the rpms continued to increase. while depressing the brake pedal the vehicle would not slow down. the emergency brake was engaged causing the vehicle to slow down allowing the contact to drive onto the emergency lane and turn the vehicle off. the vehicle was towed to the dealer. the acceleration occurred at least three times before the vehicle was taken to the dealer who performed a diagnostic test and was unable to diagnose the failure. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure. the failure mileage was 35,000. updated 09/30/11*lj the consumer stated a new gas pedal was installed. updated 10/24/11
Reported in: TANNERSVILLE NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67849Z
TIRES:PRESSURE MONITORING AND REGULATING SYSTEMS
tire pressure problems on all eagle tires that came with car. had side walls cleaned and tire leakage continues. tires have to be refilled every 2 weeks. will need to replace all tires. problems began with less than 30,000 miles on tires. ntb notified owner that eagle discontinuing this tire. dealer claims they have not heard of any other complaints regarding this problem.
Reported in: LANSDALE PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67099Z
WHEELS:CAP/COVER/HUB
both rear hub and wheel bearings components have rusted and worn out close to failure; rear wheel noise was excessive. actual failure would have resulted in rear wheels locking up. *kb
Reported in: ELLICOTT CITY MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67839Z
WHEELS
both rear hub and wheel bearings components have rusted and worn out close to failure; rear wheel noise was excessive. actual failure would have resulted in rear wheels locking up. *kb
Reported in: ELLICOTT CITY MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67839Z
STEERING
while driving the vehicle the it became very hard to steer and the power steering light was activated. no warning signs of any nature. can not drive the vehicle and dealership can not look at it until 4 days.
Reported in: ANGELTON TX || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67019Z
WHEELS
our awd 2009 pontiac vibe came with factory chrome wheels. after one winter, the wheels began to corrode around the outside perimeter. gm agreed to replace all four wheels, and they did. soon after replacement, as my wife was driving into our garage, one wheel delaminated (i.e., the chrome covering separated completely from the aluminum underwheel). upon inspection, it looked as if the chrome layer had been glued to the underwheel. we went back to the dealer, chrome covering and glue fragments in hand. the dealer replaced this defective wheel with another; soon after (50 miles?), the second replacement wheel did the same thing. it has now been replaced. (the chrome parts are stamped "toyota.") note three things: one, the wheels on this car are not inexpensive steel with wheel covers. instead, they are one-piece chrome wheels, rather expensive if i should have to replace them myself. second, we had not abused the car. we drove, in each case, about 50 miles on good pavement in good weather before failure. finally, the chrome component delaminated in a "safe" area--in both cases, as we slowly drove into our garage. what if this delamination had happened while we drove at highway speeds, and the chrome component had spun off into a crowd, or another car? there is one other problem you should know. we have had trouble starting this car. in brief, the problem was apparently difficult for the dealer to diagnose, but it was a "cracked steering lock," also a part stamped "toyota." this problem precipitated several phone calls for help, pushing it from the side in an attempt to unlock the steering column/key, and a visit from the tow truck. we were able to rock the car ourselves and enable starting; unfortunately, we dented the front fender, which was an unreimbursed body repair at the dealer's ($800). please publicize these vibe problems and dangers, and work for fixes.
Reported in: BOYNE CITY MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM670X9Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
my 2009 pontiac vibe is experiencing the same problems as the 2005-2008 toyota matrix is regarding the stalling issues.
Reported in: DALLAS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67009Z
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
my 2009 pontiac vibe is experiencing the same problems as the 2005-2008 toyota matrix is regarding the stalling issues.
Reported in: DALLAS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67009Z
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
my 2009 pontiac vibe is experiencing the same problems as the 2005-2008 toyota matrix is regarding the stalling issues.
Reported in: DALLAS GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67009Z
POWER TRAIN
when coming to a stop, occasionally the vehicle will lunge forward. i have noticed this on many, many occasions since purchasing the car in july 11. when coming to a fast stop (such as when someone pulls out in front of you or someone suddenly stops in front of you -- abs is not being used as these are not panic stops) the brakes will work as they should until the car is almost stopped and then the car will lunge forward and i suddenly need to apply more force to the brakes to make the car stop. i suspect that the computer in the car is using engine braking to assist in slowing down the car and when the car hits a certain speed (or some other variable) the engine braking is turned off which causes the amount of pressure that i need to apply to the brakes to suddenly increase which gives the impression that the car is lunging forward. regardless of what is causing this issue to occur, it is a safety issue. i have grown used to this issue and now can compensate for it, but it is still distressing when it occurs. i have talked to other vibe/matrix owners and they all state that they have the same issue. i believe that this is a significant safety issue as it could easily lead to an accident.
Reported in: LITTLE ROCK AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67849Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
when coming to a stop, occasionally the vehicle will lunge forward. i have noticed this on many, many occasions since purchasing the car in july 11. when coming to a fast stop (such as when someone pulls out in front of you or someone suddenly stops in front of you -- abs is not being used as these are not panic stops) the brakes will work as they should until the car is almost stopped and then the car will lunge forward and i suddenly need to apply more force to the brakes to make the car stop. i suspect that the computer in the car is using engine braking to assist in slowing down the car and when the car hits a certain speed (or some other variable) the engine braking is turned off which causes the amount of pressure that i need to apply to the brakes to suddenly increase which gives the impression that the car is lunging forward. regardless of what is causing this issue to occur, it is a safety issue. i have grown used to this issue and now can compensate for it, but it is still distressing when it occurs. i have talked to other vibe/matrix owners and they all state that they have the same issue. i believe that this is a significant safety issue as it could easily lead to an accident.
Reported in: LITTLE ROCK AR || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67849Z
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
i own a 2009 vibe . recall has been completed re: sudden acceleration. they removed drivers floor mat over a year ago. i had first episode today. fortunately it was at about 10mph. when i engaged the brake the engine revved and the brake pulsated like the anti-lock feature had been activated. the engine revved for 3 to 4 seconds the car accelerated. when the engine revving stopped the brake engaged properly and the car stopped. fortunately i was on a street where the speed limit was 25 mph and i had coasted down to about 10-15 mph approaching the stop sign. had this been a high speed or emergency stop the results could have been deadly. please contact me about this as this vehicle is not safe to drive. i will also be contacting the nhtsa. the above is a copy of information i sent to general motors via their pontiac web site.
Reported in: TARBORO NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
i own a 2009 vibe . recall has been completed re: sudden acceleration. they removed drivers floor mat over a year ago. i had first episode today. fortunately it was at about 10mph. when i engaged the brake the engine revved and the brake pulsated like the anti-lock feature had been activated. the engine revved for 3 to 4 seconds the car accelerated. when the engine revving stopped the brake engaged properly and the car stopped. fortunately i was on a street where the speed limit was 25 mph and i had coasted down to about 10-15 mph approaching the stop sign. had this been a high speed or emergency stop the results could have been deadly. please contact me about this as this vehicle is not safe to drive. i will also be contacting the nhtsa. the above is a copy of information i sent to general motors via their pontiac web site.
Reported in: TARBORO NC || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67829Z
STEERING
at speeds below 25 mph, a rattling is heard and felt through the steering wheel. the dealer replaced the upper and lower steering column but this did not fix the problem. the dealer claims there is no fix for this problem, per gm. the car still makes the noise and vibration... and is getting worse. a search of this problem revealed many complaints for the same thing. there is no way that i could sell or trade this vehicle with this problem.
Reported in: ANNAPOLIS MD || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS
air bag light cam on code 1801 the air bags may not work or may deploy unexpectedly. installed sop clock spring for air bag.
Reported in: LOCKPORT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SM670X9Z
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the dealer was notified, but denied any assistance with repairs. the manufacturer was not notified. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 89,000.
Reported in: ATLANTIC ISLANDS NJ || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67859Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated when she removed her foot from the accelerator pedal. the contact was able to slow the vehicle down by shifting into neutral. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer and they were unable to duplicate the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileages were 33,500. updated 5/16/12 *cn the dealer was unable to find anything wrong. updated 05/23/12
Reported in: BURKE VA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67089Z
STEERING
at highway speeds and local speeds the car pulls to the left intermittently. when an attempt is made to correct this the car over corrects and pulls to the right. frequently when coming to a stop (especially on an uneven road) the car pulls severely to the right or left (almost 90 degrees).
Reported in: IOWA CITY IA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SL67009Z
SUSPENSION
when traveling at low speeds (less than 35), there is a noticeable shaking / vibration / rattling noise coming from either the steering column or front shocks, especially noticeable when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. seems to be more drivers side. looks like others have had similar problems as well as toyota matrix (built on same line with same components) i have not yet had the dealer inspect the issue. seems as if some component has come loose.
Reported in: KETTERING OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
SERVICE BRAKES
when traveling at low speeds (less than 35), there is a noticeable shaking / vibration / rattling noise coming from either the steering column or front shocks, especially noticeable when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. seems to be more drivers side. looks like others have had similar problems as well as toyota matrix (built on same line with same components) i have not yet had the dealer inspect the issue. seems as if some component has come loose.
Reported in: KETTERING OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
STEERING
when traveling at low speeds (less than 35), there is a noticeable shaking / vibration / rattling noise coming from either the steering column or front shocks, especially noticeable when driving over rough surfaces or bumps. seems to be more drivers side. looks like others have had similar problems as well as toyota matrix (built on same line with same components) i have not yet had the dealer inspect the issue. seems as if some component has come loose.
Reported in: KETTERING OH || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while at a complete stop, the rpm increased and the vehicle erroneously accelerated while the brake was being depressed. the vehicle crashed into curb and into a concrete barrier. there were no injuries. the contact stated that the failure recurred approximately four times and was taken to the dealer three times where the accelerator pedal was replaced each time. the manufacturer was notified who stated they will have a representative call the contact within the next couple of days. the failure mileage was 29,000 and the current mileage was 34,500.
Reported in: LOCKPORT NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP670X9Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
i cannot roll down my windows since they are on recall since november 2012. i have to show a badge when i enter my community and must take off my seat belt and get out of the car to do so. i only received one letter and was told i would receive a second. it has now been over four months.
Reported in: HAWLEY PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
i cannot roll down my windows since they are on recall since november 2012. i have to show a badge when i enter my community and must take off my seat belt and get out of the car to do so. i only received one letter and was told i would receive a second. it has now been over four months.
Reported in: HAWLEY PA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
VISIBILITY
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer writes in regards to potential floor mat interference with accelerator pedal and power window master switch recall notices. *smd the consumer stated she attempted to get the recall resolved on two separate occasions, only to be informed, the parts were not available.
Reported in: WELLINGTON FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer writes in regards to potential floor mat interference with accelerator pedal and power window master switch recall notices. *smd the consumer stated she attempted to get the recall resolved on two separate occasions, only to be informed, the parts were not available.
Reported in: WELLINGTON FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2009 pontiac vibe. consumer writes in regards to potential floor mat interference with accelerator pedal and power window master switch recall notices. *smd the consumer stated she attempted to get the recall resolved on two separate occasions, only to be informed, the parts were not available.
Reported in: WELLINGTON FL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67069Z
SERVICE BRAKES
periodically (once or twice per month) the anti-lock brakes, traction control, and vehicle stability control will stop working for a few minutes. when it happens, the warning lights all go on. i tested the function in a slippery parking lot, so know the various features stop working when these lights go on. i looked in the internet and found several people have the same issue. they have been told it is everything from a bad gas cap to a connector on the brake sensor to a cracked computer circuit board. i asked my dealer at the time about it, and they said realistically if it only happens for a couple minutes and then might not happen for a month, they don't know what's causing it nor even if they would have fixed it. i called pontiac and they said they never heard of the problem and told me to take it to a dealer and let them look at it. i don't want to run up hundreds or even a thousand dollars looking for a problem that only occurs a few times per year. but if several people on the internet have the same problem, i think it should be addressed. it obviously is a safety problem when brakes and vsc don't work properly, even for a minute or so per month. the dealer where i purchased the car (salentine) went out of business. i mentioned the problem to the dealer i now visit ([xxx])and they say they have not heard of the problem. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
periodically (once or twice per month) the anti-lock brakes, traction control, and vehicle stability control will stop working for a few minutes. when it happens, the warning lights all go on. i tested the function in a slippery parking lot, so know the various features stop working when these lights go on. i looked in the internet and found several people have the same issue. they have been told it is everything from a bad gas cap to a connector on the brake sensor to a cracked computer circuit board. i asked my dealer at the time about it, and they said realistically if it only happens for a couple minutes and then might not happen for a month, they don't know what's causing it nor even if they would have fixed it. i called pontiac and they said they never heard of the problem and told me to take it to a dealer and let them look at it. i don't want to run up hundreds or even a thousand dollars looking for a problem that only occurs a few times per year. but if several people on the internet have the same problem, i think it should be addressed. it obviously is a safety problem when brakes and vsc don't work properly, even for a minute or so per month. the dealer where i purchased the car (salentine) went out of business. i mentioned the problem to the dealer i now visit ([xxx])and they say they have not heard of the problem. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
periodically (once or twice per month) the anti-lock brakes, traction control, and vehicle stability control will stop working for a few minutes. when it happens, the warning lights all go on. i tested the function in a slippery parking lot, so know the various features stop working when these lights go on. i looked in the internet and found several people have the same issue. they have been told it is everything from a bad gas cap to a connector on the brake sensor to a cracked computer circuit board. i asked my dealer at the time about it, and they said realistically if it only happens for a couple minutes and then might not happen for a month, they don't know what's causing it nor even if they would have fixed it. i called pontiac and they said they never heard of the problem and told me to take it to a dealer and let them look at it. i don't want to run up hundreds or even a thousand dollars looking for a problem that only occurs a few times per year. but if several people on the internet have the same problem, i think it should be addressed. it obviously is a safety problem when brakes and vsc don't work properly, even for a minute or so per month. the dealer where i purchased the car (salentine) went out of business. i mentioned the problem to the dealer i now visit ([xxx])and they say they have not heard of the problem. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
i've had multiple faulty engine control modules in my 2009 pontiac vibe. it may be a coincidence, but felt it worth reporting since it may be related to nhtsa campaign 10v387000 which covered the 2005-2008 models.
Reported in: VANDERGRIFT PA || Crash: N || VIN #:
AIR BAGS
air bag light came on. diagnosed as bad clock spring in the steering wheel.
Reported in: SALIDA CO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
POWER TRAIN
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while driving 60 mph. the instrument panel lights illuminated after the failure occurred. the contact was able to coast onto the road shoulder, restart the engine and resume normally. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have a diagnostic performed. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 90,200.
Reported in: BROOKEVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
ENGINE
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning while driving 60 mph. the instrument panel lights illuminated after the failure occurred. the contact was able to coast onto the road shoulder, restart the engine and resume normally. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer to have a diagnostic performed. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 90,200.
Reported in: BROOKEVILLE MD || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
ENGINE
the engine stopped at freeway speed. this was the sixth time that this happened over a period of about a year. once off the freeway and stopped, the car does restart. i have taken it to a dealer, but they did not do an official inspection since there were no codes and the car was running fine. this was just after the car had dies on the freeway in december. that was about the fourth occurrence. they suggested cleaning the battery terminals which were a little corroded. i did this and installed a new battery. the stalling has happened twice since. i have been talking to gm customer service and their suggestion is that i pay to have diagnostics done at a dealership. this is a statement from their chat: however, we can see what assistance is available, however, given having over 100,000 miles does limit what we can do. ok, so you're not allowing us an opportunity to look into this further. 12:32:34leaundre:i can document this concern in our system. the specialist will do nothing further unless i pay to have the diagnosis done on the car.
Reported in: SAN JOSE CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67049Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
received recall on above vehicle. called dealer (smicklas) chevrolet, told to bring vehicle in. took vehicle in on 3-12-2009 and [xxx] (service mgr) told me they didn't have the tools to do the job and and that they had been sending vibes to the toyota dealership for recall repair and that otherwise he didn't know what to tell me. told him i would call gm to see what they said. left dealership and filed this complaint. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).
Reported in: PIEDMONT OK || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67859Z
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
reported vehicle recall to gm buick, cadilac dealership in morrowm,ga of recalls on vehicle. they stated my car is not on recall list. i asked them to fix problem and service department personnel said he can not help me. i feel i jeapordize my life driving a defective vehicle which is the same as toyota matrix vehicle with all the same type of parts from toyota and manufactured by gm. i feel i will be endangering my children lives if i continue to drive this vehicle with out the necessary fixes that need to be done to vehicle.
Reported in: COLLEGE PARK GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
my car started to stall and pull to the left almost hitting another car as i was making a right turn. i thought it to be just an aberation. i went to a parking lot away from the school to test drive my steering and try to duplicate the problem. nothing happened, so i went to work and there was no problem. my job is about 12 miles from daughter school taking the back road and not getting on the highway. after work i took the interstate back home through some heavy traffic and there was no problem from downtown to my home aproximately 1o miles taking the interstate. as i was coming from off ramp i notice a litttle stutter and car powering down. i was able to drive for about 1 1/2 miles and the car almost came to a complete stall and started pulling to left. i press the gas peddle all the way down. all the panel lights came on abs, engine, etc. i mean every single light. i pulled car in to amoca. he said it was throttle body. i got 2nd opinion. he said that did not sound right. he said take car to dealer. i am taking car to gm dealer to run diagnostics. i do not want to risk getting my child killed in this car.
Reported in: COLLEGE PARK GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
my car started to stall and pull to the left almost hitting another car as i was making a right turn. i thought it to be just an aberation. i went to a parking lot away from the school to test drive my steering and try to duplicate the problem. nothing happened, so i went to work and there was no problem. my job is about 12 miles from daughter school taking the back road and not getting on the highway. after work i took the interstate back home through some heavy traffic and there was no problem from downtown to my home aproximately 1o miles taking the interstate. as i was coming from off ramp i notice a litttle stutter and car powering down. i was able to drive for about 1 1/2 miles and the car almost came to a complete stall and started pulling to left. i press the gas peddle all the way down. all the panel lights came on abs, engine, etc. i mean every single light. i pulled car in to amoca. he said it was throttle body. i got 2nd opinion. he said that did not sound right. he said take car to dealer. i am taking car to gm dealer to run diagnostics. i do not want to risk getting my child killed in this car.
Reported in: COLLEGE PARK GA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67809Z
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
starter grinds & whines before starting. all dash warning light come on & stay on.
Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67889Z
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
starter grinds & whines before starting. all dash warning light come on & stay on.
Reported in: SACRAMENTO CA || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67889Z
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the air bag warning lamp illuminated. the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician diagnosed that the spiral cable needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the failure mileage was 84,000 and the current mileage was 84,500.
Reported in: SOUTH DEERFIELD MA || Crash: N || VIN #:
SERVICE BRAKES
various lights come on in the dashboard, i forget now exactly which lights, but i think it was the abs light, the vsc light, and the traction control light. this happens only for a few minutes in a month or so. when it happens, the abc, vsc, and traction control do not work (i tested it in a snowy parking lot). i went to salentine pontiac a couple years ago, and they said that since it is so intermittent, they are not really likely to be able to find the source of the problem, nor know if they would have fixed it. i contacted pontiac via e-mail and phone, and was told they have no idea what the problem is, and have never even heard of such a thing. looking on the internet, i found several other people with the same problem. now i see there is a recall involving exactly this issue, but it is apparently only for the pontiac g6. it seems unlikely that the vibe problem is not related. i would hate to see g.m. go broke, but the things they have been doing are unconscionable.
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
various lights come on in the dashboard, i forget now exactly which lights, but i think it was the abs light, the vsc light, and the traction control light. this happens only for a few minutes in a month or so. when it happens, the abc, vsc, and traction control do not work (i tested it in a snowy parking lot). i went to salentine pontiac a couple years ago, and they said that since it is so intermittent, they are not really likely to be able to find the source of the problem, nor know if they would have fixed it. i contacted pontiac via e-mail and phone, and was told they have no idea what the problem is, and have never even heard of such a thing. looking on the internet, i found several other people with the same problem. now i see there is a recall involving exactly this issue, but it is apparently only for the pontiac g6. it seems unlikely that the vibe problem is not related. i would hate to see g.m. go broke, but the things they have been doing are unconscionable.
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL
various lights come on in the dashboard, i forget now exactly which lights, but i think it was the abs light, the vsc light, and the traction control light. this happens only for a few minutes in a month or so. when it happens, the abc, vsc, and traction control do not work (i tested it in a snowy parking lot). i went to salentine pontiac a couple years ago, and they said that since it is so intermittent, they are not really likely to be able to find the source of the problem, nor know if they would have fixed it. i contacted pontiac via e-mail and phone, and was told they have no idea what the problem is, and have never even heard of such a thing. looking on the internet, i found several other people with the same problem. now i see there is a recall involving exactly this issue, but it is apparently only for the pontiac g6. it seems unlikely that the vibe problem is not related. i would hate to see g.m. go broke, but the things they have been doing are unconscionable.
Reported in: NEW BERLIN WI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SN67079Z
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure and stated that the vehicle was not included in nhtsa campaign id number: 14v168000 (air bags). the approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Reported in: BINGHAMTON NY || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67869Z
ENGINE
intermittent, but increasingly frequent engine stalls at highway speeds and slower speeds. stalls may happen at cruising speed or when decelerating or accelerating. occasionally, engine races or chokes. usually requires turning the key to off and then restarting the engine in neutral or park. similar problems as experienced by owners of 2005-08 toyota matrix and pontiac vibes who had the ecm recalled. this ecm replaced under warranty on 6-3-14. recall of 09 and newer models may be warranted to prevent dangerous crashes and rear-end accidents.
Reported in: FERNDALE MI || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67079Z
AIR BAGS
2 weeks ago my drivers side airbag warning light came on and has been staying on. i looked up on recall and saw that toyota has a airbag recall affecting the cable switch to the airbag. 2009-2010 vibe spiral electrical cable can be damaged when turning the steering wheel. once broken, the airbag deactivates and the aribag warning light comes on. it also says that toyota has a improved part. it does make me nervous driving with this on. i took my car to laura buick they said they do not know anything about the recall and will fix it for 500 to 1,000 dollars. i talked to a johnnie oraao at the gm hot line. he said there is no recalls for my car.
Reported in: TROY IL || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67019Z
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the air bag warning light illuminated. in addition the contact stated that when coming to a stop, the vehicle slid on black ice and crashed into a traffic sign. the contact stated that the front drivers side of the vehicle was damaged and that the air bags failed to deploy. a police report was filed and both the driver and passenger sustained minor injuries. the vehicle was taken to a dealer but the repairs were unknown. the vehicle was repaired. the manufacturer was notified of the failure and stated that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign id number: (air bags). the approximate failure mileage was 12.
Reported in: JACKSON MI || Crash: Y || VIN #: 5Y2SP67079Z
ENGINE
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. the vehicle was able to restart. the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure. the approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Reported in: SAINT JOHN IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SR67069Z
AIR BAGS
the airbag light came on in the dashboard. i went to the dealer, bommarito in st. louis, mo, who told me this airbag light was on with exactly the same issue described in the airbag recall, but my vibe was not recalled for this issue.. it is a 2009 and the airbag light did come on. i called safecar.com where i was told that the issue was handed to a case worker who would contact me immediately. i still have not been contacted. i want to know who i should sue if i get in an accident and the airbag doesn't work. i need to inform my family in case i don't make it.
Reported in: CHESTERFIELD MO || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67019Z
AIR BAGS
tl* the contact owns a 2009 pontiac vibe. the contact stated that the driver side air bag indicator was constantly illuminated. an independent mechanic stated that the driver side air deployment loop resistance was too high. the manufacturer stated that the vin was excluded from nhtsa campaign number: 14v168000 (air bags). the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 45,000.
Reported in: MOUNDS OK || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67059Z
AIR BAGS
the safety air bag is a critical safety system. my drivers dash warning light for the air bag system illuminated. i took it to the gm dealer who said after a 100 dollar diagnosis there was a resistor failure in the drivers air bag which would cost 1200 dollars. the air bag is a passive non moving device. it should not fail in a passive mode. how do they know it is not caused by the recalled defective cable assembly without taking the air bag out and examining the cable ?
Reported in: MISHAWAKA IN || Crash: N || VIN #: 5Y2SP67019Z