1998 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America
"Junk metal on four wheels"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Had front rotors and rear drums resurfaced at 27,600 kilometers. Both front rotors replaced at 44,300 kilometers. Resurfaced front rotors and replaced brake pads and cleaned and serviced rear brakes at 55,325 kilometers. Front calipers were serviced, front pads were replaced, front rotors replaced, and left rear wheel cylinder replaced at 87,300 kilometers.
Left front wheel speed sensor replaced at 36,000 kilometers. This sensor was replaced again at 55,325 kilometers.
Since I have owned the vehicle, the air conditioner has not worked properly. After a short time, the light on the air conditioner button flashes on and off and then air conditioner shuts off. I have had leak tests done with no visible leaks. The compressor shaft seal was replaced at 73,500 kilometers. Car is in the shop today for the same problem.
Suspension has been a major problem. Both rear stabilizer bar bushings were changed at 47,600 kilometers, left front lower control arm changed at 70,900 kilometers and the right control arm busing and link kit changed at 87,300 kilometers.
Left front wheel bearing changed at 45,650 kilometers and again at 70,650 kilometers.
Left door mirror was changed at 14,400 kilometers and again at 48,500 kilometers due to excessive vibration.
Blower motor resistor changed at 81,500 kilometers when blower motor would not operate at speeds 1 and 2.
The Program Control Module (computer controller) was replaced at 65,500 kilometers as it could not be adjusted and car would stall.
Replaced left axle output shaft sleeve and seal due to a high pitch sound coming from front-end at 71,000 kilometers. Self-lubricating seal was not lubricating itself.
Replaced all four tires at 55,000 kilometers.
Replaced left front door window module at 59,800 kilometers.
Both driver and passenger doors currently showing signs of rust despite rust protection having been applied which is suppose to prevent rust for 10 years.
Rear doors must be lubricated every 2 months.
General comments?
Although this vehicle provides a nice ride and is very peppy, it is extremely expensive to keep on the road. Between me and my extended warranty company, the total cost of repairs to date is approximately $6,800 Canadian. I have only had the vehicle for four years and have personally driven the vehicle for only 80,000 kilometers (approximately 48,000 miles).
I have sent a letter to General Motors complaining of these problems 3 months ago. I have still not had a response back from them.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | Chevrolet should be ashamed, this car is awful and so was the service after the warranty |
![]() ![]() | A high maintenance car |
All 1998 Chevrolet Malibu reviews
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 4/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 11000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 94325 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Passat |
| Date of Entry | 12th July, 2002 |

