1998 Chevrolet Malibu LX 2.8 from North America

Summary:

My car was not put together as well as it should have been

Faults:

My front brakes had to be replaced at 20,000 mile.

My stereo had to be replaced at about 8,000 miles. under warranty.

The front brakes calipers had to be replaced at 38,000 mile.

My AC switch has blinked off and on, starting about two months after purchase.

My AC compressor went out.

My front driver side window control stopped working.

My windshield wiper control went out.

At a little over 60,000 my crank shaft broke and engine had to be rebuilt with a new block.

My head gasket blew out at 133,000.`

General Comments:

The car is comfortable and I love the body style.

I like the power and the quickness of the car.

I never liked how much road noise there is on rough roads.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 18th January, 2005

1998 Chevrolet Malibu V6 - 3.1 from North America

Summary:

Great appearance and functional design, but excessively costly on maintenance

Faults:

Periodically the car would not start. A theft light code displayed. In the search for the solution, several repairs were attempted, including plugs, fuel pump replacement, etc. Eventually it was diagnosed correctly. Nevertheless, occasionally, the problem has recurred.

A significant gas tank leak occurred. We had to replace the gas tank.

The common Intake manifold gasket failure occurred, and was caught by an alert mechanic. About $800 repair cost.

Both the ABS/Brake Lights are on. ABS module requires replacement; mechanic says brake lines are also rusted, risking rupture and failure. Estimated repair costs = $1,800. I think we've had enough, and we're ready to cut our losses.

I love the car's looks, design features, and general functions... But the reliability on this vehicle has been the worst of any vehicle I've owned thus far.

I had researched the car before buying it, but judged it by the good new-car magazine ratings rather than by user's repair reports. I'm saddened, because I really liked the car's appearance, features and functions.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 16th January, 2005

4th Apr 2005, 06:15

What was the final diagnosis on your starting problem?

We have spent $1000 at the dealer to have the problem fixed and it is still happening. The mechanics don't seem to be able to fix it and have replaced many parts in the attempt.

31st May 2005, 11:34

I have 1998 Malibu, when I try to start my car the theft light comes on, what can I do to fix this problem without spending a lot of money. vickie.harden@landau.com.

1998 Chevrolet Malibu Sedan 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

I have a newfound love for the Chevy Malibu

Faults:

I have not had any mechanical problems with my Malibu. Beyond required maintenance, (i.e. annual brake replacement, oil changes, tires, and light bulbs) there have been no necessary mechanical repairs.

General Comments:

My Malibu has been a dream to drive. I have personally added 72,000 Miles on this car in only 3 years. Cross-town or cross-country, this car has proved reliable, and fun. I will be buying a newer model as soon as this one is entirely paid for.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th October, 2004

1998 Chevrolet Malibu 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

Change the name from Malibu to Maliblew seeing how everything blows up on it

Faults:

Battery terminals came apart from the battery.

Water pump went.

Air conditioning keeps switching on and off and only switch position 3 to 5 work.

Head gasket went due to the DEX-COOL junk they put in.

EGR valve is stuck in the open position.

And to top it off my engine just blew up.

General Comments:

I have seen some comments that the car gives good fuel economy...that's because the car never runs, it's always in the shop! I can't understand how GM can have the exact same problems with every single Malibu.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 28th September, 2004

1998 Chevrolet Malibu LS 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

Best car I have owned

Faults:

Air conditioner is not as cold as it can be.

Brakes need a little work.

Sometimes you need to turn the ignition twice, because the first time will fail.

General Comments:

I just recently bought this car after having a hand-me-down 1990 Toyota Corolla. The Corolla broke down the second day after I put my insurance on it. My Malibu however is great, it is the V6 model, and I can still average around 25-27 mpg. This car can fly when it needs to. I paid 5k for this car and I am not disappointed.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 27th September, 2004