1999 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America
"Bad design and bad engineering all in one package"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Intake gaskets at 40,000.
Complete front struts at 50,000.
Brakes every 30,000 miles.
Alternator at 55,000.
Tie rods at 65,000.
CV axles at 65,000.
Lots of electrical problems.
Serpentine belt every 30,000.
General comments?
I've been through all the usual nonsense with this pile. I've owned 30 cars over the years, many of them real beaters, but I've never had such trouble with a car. The CV axles were bad at 65,000, I started to work on them when I noticed a loose tie rod end. A slight twist and it came apart. What if this had happened to my wife at 65 MPH?
The car is very uncomfortable for anyone over about 5'10", even with power seats. The back seat is almost useless, any adults will find their heads jammed against the roof and rear window.
My mother gave me this car with only 33,000 miles on it at 4 years old. The dealer she bought it from, and wanted to trade in into, basically wouldn't take it. They offered 1750 for a car she paid over 18,000 for new. Even for free, I overpaid.
Recommended Reviews:
  | A nightmare on 4 wheels |
| The worst financial decision I have ever made, two thumbs down for the Malibu! |
All 1999 Chevrolet Malibu reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 1/10 |
| Comfort marks | 1/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 33000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 66000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet C1500 |
| Date of Entry | 18th April, 2007 |