The 2006 Pontiac Vibe is a compact hatchback/wagon that emerged from a collaboration between GM and Toyota (Toyota Voltz in Japan). Produced from 2003 to 2010, the Vibe shared its platform with the Toyota Matrix/Corolla. Key trims included the base model and the sportier GT. New, the Vibe ranged from approximately $15,000 to $20,000. Its blend of Pontiac styling and Toyota reliability made it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking versatility and practicality.
The Good
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe offers a blend of practicality and affordability. Its Toyota-derived reliability appeals to practical buyers. The Vibe's hatchback design provides ample cargo space and versatility. Good fuel efficiency is another advantage. For those seeking a bit of fun, the GT trim offers a sportier driving experience, appealing to a more emotional buyer looking for a slightly more engaging drive without breaking the bank.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 2006 Pontiac Vibe has some weaknesses. The base engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Some owners have reported issues with oil consumption, particularly in higher mileage examples. The interior materials are not the most luxurious, and road noise can be noticeable. Rust can also be a concern in colder climates. Inspect the undercarriage carefully.
2006 Pontiac Vibe: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 1.8L Inline-4 (1ZZ-FE): Base and AWD models
- 1.8L Inline-4 (2ZZ-GE): GT model
- Horsepower:
- 1.8L (1ZZ-FE): 123-130 hp (depending on year and drivetrain)
- 1.8L (2ZZ-GE): 164-170 hp (GT model)
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 1.8L (1ZZ-FE): 29 city / 36 highway (FWD, Manual)
- 1.8L (2ZZ-GE): 24 city / 30 highway (GT, Manual)
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 1.8L (1ZZ-FE): 9-10 seconds
- 1.8L (2ZZ-GE): 7.5-8.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, AM/FM radio with CD player, and cloth upholstery.
- AWD: Adds all-wheel drive functionality for improved traction in inclement weather.
- GT: Included the higher-output engine, sport-tuned suspension, alloy wheels, sport seats, and upgraded interior trim. Often featured a sunroof and premium audio system as options.
2006 Pontiac Vibe Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Pontiac |
| Model | Vibe |
| Trim | - |
| Style | 4-Door Wagon Front-Wheel Drive |
| Type | - |
| Category | Small Station Wagon |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FREMONT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1351.7 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 157.99 cm |
| Overall Length | 436.63 cm |
| Overall Width | 177.55 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 260.1 cm |
| Standard Seating | 5 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 1.8-L I4 |
| Engine Size | 1.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $19,430 USD |
| Invoice Price | $18,361 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $560 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
Check
Check
Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
Check
Check
Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Pontiac Vibe Have?
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe, while generally reliable, does have some frequently reported problems. Excessive oil consumption is a common concern, particularly as the mileage increases. This is often attributed to the 1ZZ-FE engine. Regular monitoring of oil levels is recommended. Another area of concern is the potential for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Underbody inspection is crucial before purchasing a used Vibe. Some owners have reported issues with the mass airflow sensor (MAF) leading to rough idling or stalling. Catalyst converter failures were also reported. Earlier model years (2003-2004) had some issues with the automatic transmission, although this was less prevalent in the 2006 model. There have been recalls related to airbag inflators, as part of the larger Takata airbag recall. Always check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA to ensure all recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability is generally good if maintenance is performed regularly, but neglecting oil changes or ignoring warning signs can lead to more significant problems down the road. Check for coolant leaks; replacing the water pump at high mileage is advisable.
How long will the 2006 Pontiac Vibe last?
With proper maintenance, a 2006 Pontiac Vibe can easily reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report seeing well-maintained Vibes lasting over 15 years. The key to longevity lies in regular oil changes (every 3,000-5,000 miles), timely replacement of wear items like brakes and tires, and addressing any mechanical issues promptly. Weaknesses over time include potential oil consumption as mentioned before. Suspension components, like struts and shocks, may need replacement. Rust can also become a significant problem, affecting structural integrity. Pay attention to cooling system maintenance to prevent overheating, which can damage the engine.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe's technology is fairly basic by modern standards. Standard entertainment features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims might have offered an upgraded sound system. There were no built-in navigation or advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring. Safety features included standard front airbags, side airbags were optional, anti-lock brakes (ABS) were often available. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) wasn't standard.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. The Vibe generally received decent ratings in frontal crash tests, but side-impact ratings were more variable. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and the Vibe received good scores in some categories and marginal scores in others. The absence of modern driver-assistance features is a significant drawback compared to newer vehicles. Optional features included a sunroof, fog lights, and alloy wheels. Overall, the 2006 Vibe focuses on basic functionality rather than cutting-edge technology. Expect a straightforward and simple driving experience with minimal electronic assistance.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the specific test. The Vibe generally received decent ratings in frontal crash tests, but side-impact ratings were more variable. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also conducted crash tests, and the Vibe received good scores in some categories and marginal scores in others. The absence of modern driver-assistance features is a significant drawback compared to newer vehicles. Optional features included a sunroof, fog lights, and alloy wheels. Overall, the 2006 Vibe focuses on basic functionality rather than cutting-edge technology. Expect a straightforward and simple driving experience with minimal electronic assistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Mystic Teal Mica
Midnight Blue Metallic
Liquid Silver Metallic
Sizzling Crimson Mica
Black
Sandstone Metallic
White
Interior Colors
Graphite
Light Grey
2006 Pontiac Vibe Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2006 Pontiac Vibe had a starting price around $15,000 to $20,000 depending on the trim and options. Currently, used market prices range from $2,000 to $7,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Vibe has depreciated significantly due to its age. Factors affecting resale value include its overall condition, maintenance history, mileage, and the presence of desirable features like the GT trim or AWD. Vibes with high mileage, rust, or mechanical issues will fetch considerably lower prices. The Toyota engine pedigree generally helps the Vibe hold its value slightly better than some other vehicles of similar age, but the Pontiac brand depreciation is still a factor.
2006 Pontiac Vibe Cost of Ownership
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and value. Fuel economy is decent, especially with the base engine. Maintenance costs are reasonable, as the Vibe shares many parts with the Toyota Corolla, making parts readily available and relatively inexpensive. Repair costs can be higher if major issues arise, but routine maintenance is affordable. Long-term, the biggest potential cost is rust repair. Overall, the Vibe offers affordable transportation for budget-minded individuals.
2006 Pontiac Vibe Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
45.42 liters
City Mileage
11.05 km/l
Highway Mileage
13.18 km/l
2006 Pontiac Vibe Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2006 Pontiac Vibe Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling
Recall date
2010-08-26
Recall no.
10v387000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2008 Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. THE Engine Control Module (Ecm) FOR THE Subject Models Equipped With THE 1zz-Fe (Lv6) Engine and Two-wheel Drive MAY Have Been Improperly Manufactured. There IS A Possibility That A Crack MAY Develop AT Certain Solder Points or ON Varistors ON THE Circuit Board.
Consequence
There ARE A Variety OF Warnings and Consequences Associated With THE Defect. THE Engine Warning Lamp Could BE Illuminated, Harsh Shifting Could Result, THE Engine MAY NOT Start, or THE Engine Could Shut OFF While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven. AN Engine Shutoff While THE Vehicle IS Being Driven Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Production Number OF THE ECM and Replace THE ECM IF Necessary. This Service Will BE Performed Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON February 8, 2011. Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-620-7668.
Notes
Gm's Safety Recall NO. IS 10282.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags
Recall date
2015-05-13
Recall no.
15v286000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) Notified THE Agency ON MAY 13, 2015, That They ARE Recalling 2005-2007 Lexus SC, Toyota Corolla, Corolla Matrix, Sequoia, and Pontiac Vibe, and 2005-2006 Toyota Tundra Vehicles That Were Originally Sold, or Ever Registered, IN Florida, Along THE Gulf Coast, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, THE U.s. Virgin Islands, Guam, Saipan and American Samoa. ON June 16, 2015 Toyota Expanded THE Recall TO Cover AN Additional 769,055 Vehicles, Including Certain Model Year 2002-2004 Lexus SC, Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2004 Toyota Corolla Matrix, Toyota Corolla, Pontiac Vibe, and Toyota Tundra Vehicles, AS Well THE Vehicles Covered BY THE MAY 13, 2015 Notification IN THE Portions OF Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas That Were NOT Previously Included. THE Inflators IN THE Front Passenger AIR Bags ARE Susceptible TO Rupture IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating THE Deployment OF THE Front Passenger AIR Bag.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix Vehicles That ARE Recalled Under Both 15v-043 and 15v-286 ARE Under A DO NOT Drive Advisory. Owners OF These Vehicles ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Completed. Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE Passenger Side Front AIR Bag, Free OF Charge. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota Began THE Recall ON July 13, 2015. Pontiac Vibe Owners MAY Contact GM AT 1-800-762-2737. GM Began THE Recall ON June 29, 2015. Note: This Recacll Supersedes Recall 14v-655 IN ITS Entirety. FOR Vehicles Located IN THE U.s. States NOT Listed Above, Please SEE Toyota Recall 15v-285 Which Covers All Other U.s. States.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date
2015-05-13
Recall no.
15v285000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) Notified THE Agency ON MAY 13, 2015 That They ARE Recalling Certain Model Year 2004 Sequoia Vehicles Manufactured August 18, 2003, TO August 19, 2004, and 2003-2004 Tundra Vehicles Manufactured March 18, 2003, TO August 25, 2004. ON June 16, 2015, Toyota Expanded THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 1,270,468 Vehicles, Including Model Year 2002-2003 and 2005-2007 Sequoia, 2005-2006 Tundra, 2003-2007 Corolla, 2003-2007 Corolla Matrix, 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe and 2002-2007 Lexus SC Vehicles. This IS TO Address A Safety Defect IN THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR BAG Inflator Which MAY Produce Excessive Internal Pressure Causing THE Inflator TO Rupture Upon Deployment OF THE AIR Bag. This Recall Addresses Both THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bags That Were Originally Installed IN THE Vehicles, AS Well AS Replacement AIR Bags That MAY Have Been Installed AS Replacement Service Parts. A Replacement AIR BAG MAY Have Been Installed, AS ONE Example, IF A Vehicle HAD Been IN A Crash Necessitating THE Replacement OF THE Passenger Side Frontal AIR Bag.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger's Frontal AIR Bag, THE Inflator Could Rupture With Metal Fragments Striking THE Vehicle Occupants Potentially Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
2003-2004 Corolla and Corolla Matrix Vehicles That ARE Recalled Under Both 15v-043 and 15v-285 ARE Under A DO NOT Drive Advisory. Owners OF These Vehicles ARE Advised NOT TO Drive Their Vehicles Until THE Recall Remedy HAS Been Completed. Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR Bag. THE Recall Began ON July 13, 2015. Toyota Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Pontiac Owners MAY Call 1-800-762-2737. Note: This Recall Supersedes Recall 14v-312 IN ITS Entirety.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2018-12-12
Recall no.
18v883000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2002-2005 Lexus SC and Toyota Sequoia, 2003-2005 Toyota Corolla and Tundra, and 2003-2007 Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. These Vehicles ARE Equipped With Certain AIR BAG Inflators Assembled AS Part OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR BAG Modules Used AS Original Equipment or Replacement Equipment. IN THE Event OF A Crash Necessitating Deployment OF THE Passenger Frontal AIR Bag, These Inflators MAY Explode DUE TO Propellant Degradation.
Consequence
AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify THE Toyota and Lexus Owners. General Motors Will Notify THE Pontiac Vibe Owners. Depending ON THE Vehicle Model, Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Inflator With AN Alternate Inflator, or Replace THE AIR BAG Assembly That Includes AN Alternate Inflator, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began January 23, 2019. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371, Lexus Customer Service AT 1-800-255-3987 or Pontiac Customer Service AT 1-800-762-2737. Toyota's Numbers FOR These Recalls ARE J0A (Zone A Toyota), J0B (Zone B Toyota), J0C (zone C Toyota), JLI (zone A Lexus), JLJ (zone B Lexus), and JLK (zone C Lexus). Note: This Recall Includes Vehicles That Have HAD Their AIR BAG Previously Replaced Under AN Earlier AIR BAG Campaign.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
Recall date
2019-08-28
Recall no.
19v627000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain 2003-2008 Corolla, 2005-2008 Corolla Matrix, and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles Equipped With A Front Passenger AIR BAG Assembly Replaced Under A Prior Recall. THE AIR BAG MAY NOT Unfold AS Designed During Inflation Under High Temperature Conditions, Possibly Resulting IN THE AIR BAG NOT Inflating Properly.
Consequence
AN Improperly Inflated AIR BAG Increases THE Risk OF Injury During A Crash.
Remedy
Toyota Will Notify Their Owners. Pontiac Vibe Owners Will BE Notified BY GM. Dealers Will Replace THE Front Passenger AIR BAG Assembly or Sub-Assembly, Free OF Charge. Toyota Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-888-270-9371. Toyota's Numbers FOR This Recall ARE K1Q and K0q. Pontiac Owners MAY Contact GM Customer Service AT 1-800-762-2737. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N192273760.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2006 Pontiac Vibe Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2006 Pontiac Vibe Insurance
Insurance for a 2006 Pontiac Vibe is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Pontiac Vibe Compare to Other Vehicle?
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe's key rivals included the Toyota Matrix (its twin), Mazda3 hatchback, Honda Civic hatchback (Si trim), and Scion xB. In terms of reliability, the Vibe (and especially the Matrix) excelled, owing to their Toyota underpinnings, often surpassing the Mazda3 and being comparable to the Honda Civic. The Civic Si offered superior performance to the Vibe GT, but at a higher price point. The Scion xB provided more quirky styling and a boxier shape, appealing to a different audience. The Mazda3 offered a more engaging driving experience and a more stylish interior than the Vibe, but potentially at the expense of long-term reliability, depending on the specific year.
Feature-wise, the Vibe was fairly basic compared to the Mazda3 or higher-trim Civics. Price-wise, the Vibe was competitive, often undercutting the Honda Civic and Mazda3. The Toyota Matrix is a very similar alternative, offering the same reliability and functionality but with a slightly different aesthetic. If performance is a priority, a Civic Si or a newer Mazda3 would be better choices. For pure practicality and reliability at a budget, the Vibe (or Matrix) remains a strong contender. The Scion xB is a style alternative.
Feature-wise, the Vibe was fairly basic compared to the Mazda3 or higher-trim Civics. Price-wise, the Vibe was competitive, often undercutting the Honda Civic and Mazda3. The Toyota Matrix is a very similar alternative, offering the same reliability and functionality but with a slightly different aesthetic. If performance is a priority, a Civic Si or a newer Mazda3 would be better choices. For pure practicality and reliability at a budget, the Vibe (or Matrix) remains a strong contender. The Scion xB is a style alternative.
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Pontiac Vibe a Good Vehicle?
The 2006 Pontiac Vibe is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable and practical hatchback. It's a good choice for students, commuters, or anyone needing a versatile vehicle for errands and light cargo hauling. Whether it's worth buying depends on the condition and price. A well-maintained Vibe with reasonable mileage can be a great value. It's best purchased used, as new models are no longer available. The GT trim offers a bit more fun, but the base model is perfectly adequate for most needs. Prioritize a Vibe that has been regularly maintained and is free from rust. If you need something reliable and affordable, a 2006 Vibe could be a great option, especially if the price is right and a mechanic gives it a clean bill of health.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.