AI-generated · grounded in NHTSA data
Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2009 Pontiac Vibe
Overall rating NHTSA-grounded
Below average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $4,000–$7,000
The 2009 Pontiac Vibe faces significant issues with airbag recalls and vehicle speed control, alongside numerous complaints. These factors contribute to a below-average reliability rating.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage | Cost range | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbags | 50,000–100,000 miles | $500–$1,000 | very common |
| Accelerator pedal | 30,000–80,000 miles | $200–$500 | common |
| Power window switch | 40,000–70,000 miles | $150–$300 | common |
| Service brakes | 60,000–90,000 miles | $300–$700 | occasional |
| Steering column | 70,000–100,000 miles | $500–$1,000 | occasional |
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- Oil and filter changes every 5,000 miles
- Brake fluid replacement every 2 years
- Coolant replacement every 50,000 miles
- Transmission fluid change every 60,000 miles
- Timing belt inspection at 60,000 miles
- Spark plug replacement every 100,000 miles
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- Sticky accelerator pedal
- Power window failure
- Airbag warning light
- Steering noise or looseness
Generated by gpt-4o on 8/24/2026. Cost ranges are conservative estimates that account for typical regional variation.