1997 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America
"If built right, has potential"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front brakes and rotors have been replaced continuously.
The fan motor did not work in 1 or 2, but operated in all other ranges. The resistor assembly under the passenger dash melted.
Water leaks from engine intake manifold. A common problem.
Sometimes the car will not start and the light comes on. Unable to diagnose so far.
Front end noises. Replaced struts, and hub bearings before 50k miles.
Poor tire wear, needs constant alignment.
Alternator does not cool sufficiently and burns up.
Battery failure - don't expect more than 2-3 years out of the cheap factory battery.
Clicking noise from the engine when cold.
Serpentine belt tensioner replaced 45k miles.
CD player broke 25k miles.
Squeaks and rattles from day one.
Express down on the driver's side window repaired under warranty after 7 attempts.
General comments?
As you can see the Chevrolet Malibu (Motor Trend Car of the Year) is a mechanics dream. Chevrolet appears to be pretending they don't know about these and other known problems that many Malibu owners have.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 0/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 4/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 85000 miles |
| Previous car | Pontiac Trans Sport |
| Date of Entry | 11th October, 2001 |