2000 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America

The Ignition froze up and couldn't turn the key while in a parking lot (mileage about 47,000). Car towed to a GM dealer who replace the ignition cylinder mechanism at my cost of $670 plus towing.

Six months later the Passlock theft system started

flashing. Soon after, the car would not start and persisted as such for several months. The gimmick of turning the key to "ON" for 10 minutes and then back to "OFF" and then starting the engine worked for two weeks. The ignition no longer responds, and with no

"Recall" that I know of, I may have to again shell out several hundred dollars to get it running.

Climate Fan positions 1 & 2 haven't worked on my 2000 Malibu since 45,000 miles. Positions 1, 2, 3 on my wife's 2001 Malibu ceased working at 49,000.

Our two Malibus were purchased because of their mid-range size and better fuel economy with the

3.1 engine. They also had a good visual appeal.

Since searching the web for solutions, I've encountered so many people's statements voicing

the same problems and can hardly believe that GM

has not owned up to the same problems that have continued happening over at least 8 model years.

There are obvious design defects, cheaply made parts, and Corporate Mgmt that could care less.

I have bought only GM products for 40 years and until recent years they were very reliable. I'm

done with GM and may try a foreign made vehicle.