2001 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America

Brakes - replace with Power Slot rotors and Carbon Metallic pads myself for $300.

Coolant Leak - intake manifold gasket replaced under extended warranty.

Starter - replaced under extended warranty.

Turn Signals / Hazard Flashers - circuit board replaced under warranty.

Tires - Firestone Affinity tires have no wet / snow traction yet are noisy.

Rattles and Squeaks - a 2001 automobile should not rattle like a 1915 Model T Ford, but this car does. My dad's Model T runs better than this car and has fewer reliability problems.

I've heard several problems with this car which keeps the resale value down. I owe more on my car than what it's worth, and will complain to my bank that I cannot afford payments if I have to spend so much money on its maintenance just to keep it on the road.

If your ABS light comes on and none of your electrical accessories work, your alternator needs replacing. The power train control module will sense a lower voltage than normal so it tries to save electrical power by turning off high-current draw accessories, like ABS and power windows. This is according to the GM Factory Service Manual for 2001 L- and N-body cars (including Malibu's).

I do not think that my next car will not be Chevrolet, I am considering a Model T as a daily driver around town. It's more reliable than any Malibu (except maybe a 1969 Malibu).