1998 Chevrolet Malibu 3.1L V6 from North America

Summary:

Not worth the repair money

Faults:

Brakes, Brakes Brakes and more Brakes. Rotors, calipers and front brake pads are replaced approximately every 3000-5000 miles. The intake manifold gasket leaks, but don't worry. It's a cold leak. It will only leak in the winter time. The car has a cold lifter tap, but don't worry, it will only happen when the car is cold and this is a normal tap. Now that's a joke. The AC button has a mind of it's own and the fan only works on settings 3, 4, and 5. The fan has a horrible rumble and shakes the whole car.

General Comments:

Do not buy a Chevy Malibu unless you are rich and you can afford the huge repairs.

You mechanic will love you if you do buy this car. This car will kep the mechanic employed for a long time.

My Malibu is not worth what I owe, so I can't get rid of it.

I wish someone would steel it, but even the crooks know that this car is a hunk of junk.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 29th July, 2002

6th Sep 2002, 12:08

I own a 1998 Malibu, and have experienced the exact same problems with mine. Apparently these problems are endemic to this vehicle.

15th Oct 2002, 12:54

My girlfriend has a 1999 Malibu, 3.1 Liter, V6, Auto. She has experienced the same problem with the brakes, replaced the rotors once in 50K miles. The AC controls failed within the first year, replaced under warranty and have now failed again (out of warranty of course). The alternator failed just after the factory warranty expired... $500 out of pocket. Have just discovered the intake manifold gasket leak and was quoted $500 for a local shop to fix. That amounts to about $100 in parts and $400 in labor. This says a lot about "Made in the USA".

1998 Chevrolet Malibu LS 3.1 V6 from North America

Summary:

Junk metal on four wheels

Faults:

Had front rotors and rear drums resurfaced at 27,600 kilometers. Both front rotors replaced at 44,300 kilometers. Resurfaced front rotors and replaced brake pads and cleaned and serviced rear brakes at 55,325 kilometers. Front calipers were serviced, front pads were replaced, front rotors replaced, and left rear wheel cylinder replaced at 87,300 kilometers.

Left front wheel speed sensor replaced at 36,000 kilometers. This sensor was replaced again at 55,325 kilometers.

Since I have owned the vehicle, the air conditioner has not worked properly. After a short time, the light on the air conditioner button flashes on and off and then air conditioner shuts off. I have had leak tests done with no visible leaks. The compressor shaft seal was replaced at 73,500 kilometers. Car is in the shop today for the same problem.

Suspension has been a major problem. Both rear stabilizer bar bushings were changed at 47,600 kilometers, left front lower control arm changed at 70,900 kilometers and the right control arm busing and link kit changed at 87,300 kilometers.

Left front wheel bearing changed at 45,650 kilometers and again at 70,650 kilometers.

Left door mirror was changed at 14,400 kilometers and again at 48,500 kilometers due to excessive vibration.

Blower motor resistor changed at 81,500 kilometers when blower motor would not operate at speeds 1 and 2.

The Program Control Module (computer controller) was replaced at 65,500 kilometers as it could not be adjusted and car would stall.

Replaced left axle output shaft sleeve and seal due to a high pitch sound coming from front-end at 71,000 kilometers. Self-lubricating seal was not lubricating itself.

Replaced all four tires at 55,000 kilometers.

Replaced left front door window module at 59,800 kilometers.

Both driver and passenger doors currently showing signs of rust despite rust protection having been applied which is suppose to prevent rust for 10 years.

Rear doors must be lubricated every 2 months.

General Comments:

Although this vehicle provides a nice ride and is very peppy, it is extremely expensive to keep on the road. Between me and my extended warranty company, the total cost of repairs to date is approximately $6,800 Canadian. I have only had the vehicle for four years and have personally driven the vehicle for only 80,000 kilometers (approximately 48,000 miles).

I have sent a letter to General Motors complaining of these problems 3 months ago. I have still not had a response back from them.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 12th July, 2002