1999 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America
"Lemon with cheap GM parts, but excellent with Lifetime Parts"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Water Pump replaced at 47000 miles.
Intake Manifold Gasket replaced at 53000 miles.
Coolant Thermostat started leaking soon after the Manifold Gasket problem. Just tightened and problem solved. Dealer was trying to pull a fast one on me there.
Alternator replaced at 63000 miles.
Driver Seat stopped reclining.
Had to drill holes in taillights for water to drain out.
Changed brake pads numerous times.
General comments?
This car is a good car overall. After looking at other reader's reviews, I was able to learn and purchase all lifetime parts. After the Alternator replacement, I have had no problems with the car up until now. When going on long trips on cruise control, after coming off of cruise, the transmission gets stuck in first gear. The RPM needle is at 2 which makes the brakes work harder since I have to put more effort into stopping. When it shifts into park or neutral, it revs up to 4000 RPM. The only way to reset it is to completely turn the car off and it goes back under 1000 RPM. I would like to keep this car, but if the transmission is starting to act like this, I will get rid of it now.
Recommended reviews
  | A nightmare on 4 wheels |
| The worst financial decision I have ever made, two thumbs down for the Malibu! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model Year | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 42000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 88000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 24th February, 2006 |