1982 Chevrolet Malibu Station Wagon review from North America
"A bargain with lots of aftermarket options and interchangeability"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 250,000 miles, the car leaked fluid from every source that held fluid. The rear main seal and transmission seals leaked the worst. The car has almost 400,000 miles on the original drive-train now and it just keeps on ticking. The rings and valves need to be reworked since it smokes a little, but the engine still purrs like a kitten.
The only real problem that I had with the car was the electronic 2 barrel carburetor. A recent overhaul of the carburetor smoothed the engine out, but it still isn't completely right.
General comments?
I wouldn't be afraid to take this car across country, even with 400,000 miles on it.
Other than rust in the fender wells, the car is solid after 20+ years.
It would be hard to beat the dependability of this Malibu.
Just wish the rear door windows had the ability to roll down.
Recommended Reviews:
  | I love my car; it is comfortable, reliable, easy to handle, and small |
| Reliable and rugged |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1996 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 229ci Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 185000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 330000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Mustang |
| Date of Entry | 3rd July, 2003 |