1999 Chevrolet Malibu LS 3.1

Summary:

Chevy Malibu's are the worst

Faults:

Malibu's are the worst car in the world.

I bought this car in Feb. 2010. In March 2010 it started running hot. I thought I got it fixed, but it came back 2 months later.

I've replaced the water pump, the radiator, I've even taken out the thermostat.

I replaced the reservoir, because the top wouldn't stay on. And now it's back to running hot in less than a month.

My advice is to not buy a Malibu (99). I hate this car. I should have bought a car on credit. And when it starts running hot, it takes it upon itself to cut off while sitting in the middle of traffic, under a traffic light.

STAY AWAY FROM CHEVY MALIBU'S. I wish I would have read the reviews before I bought one myself.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 26th August, 2010

5th Nov 2011, 04:27

Sounds like your fan is out!

5th Aug 2022, 04:44

It’s the upper intake gaskets. These V6 engines are notable for having upper intake gasket failure. All of the issues you’re experiencing are because of the upper intake gaskets failing.

Once replaced your car will run reliably.

Mike

‘99 Chevy Malibu LS, 3.1L V6, 72k miles

1999 Chevrolet Malibu 3.1

Summary:

Would love to have a newer version

Faults:

I got this car from a dealer with 33k on it.

When I first saw it, the right front was damaged. I told them if they fixed that, I would buy the car. Deal, bought the car in 2000 with the 33k on it.

Since most people here have complained about brake etc, I shall not. I have done my brakes several times, but then I am hard on brakes for I drive fast.

I guess the worst is I have had to have the intake done twice. First time lasted about 3 years, then the second time just a year. Took it back to the guy; he fixed for free. Now I never pay what I have seen listed here for repairs, this guy did it for 300 per time.

My wife had her brakes done on her car at one of the retail shops. All I wanted done was a bleeding, they came back with all things wrong; needed brake pads, rotors were bad, 2 calipers were bad. Well I told them to bleed the brakes, and I would take the car. You see I had just done the brakes, and they thought that being female, they could get more out of her.

Well back to Malibu; I really like the car, it has major get up and go. I have the issue with the AC switch, just too lazy to fix it. Found a new one for 100 bucks.

Horn just went out, along with the Cruise.

General Comments:

Well overall I think I got a real good deal. When I was paying for the car, I didn't have any unnecessary repair bills.

The car starts every time I need it, I have driven all over with no issue. Would take it anywhere.

I will always by US built. I want to keep every dollar I can here to make us stronger.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd July, 2010

1999 Chevrolet Malibu LS V6

Summary:

Good car, repairs needed occasionally

Faults:

Replaced head gasket, coolant was leaking.

A strut broke, ruining a tire.

Rust buildup/corrosion around rims made tire leak. I had a complete flat once.

Check engine light was on for a while, don't remember what we did to fix that though. Reset it? Not sure.

General Comments:

Despite the things that have gone wrong with this car, I got it when it was already ten years old. I think it is doing great.

The head gasket thing appears to be a common problem that Chevy should have under control by now.

I love my car a lot, and plan to have it for at least 4 more years (if not more). There are problems with every car... this one is no exception.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 23rd July, 2010