2002 Chevrolet Malibu review from North America
"Below the quality of a Chevy Vega!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
At 15000 miles, we took the car for a heater core repair (interior windows began fogging up, interior anti-freeze fumes made wife ill). Chevy dealer refused to honor the new car warranty - We bought this car used, it had 14K OD miles.
HORN blows when making a turns. Problem resolved by removing fuse (no horn). Air bag fail indicator went on and now remains on - Black tape covers this lamp to pass auto inspection. Disc Brakes replaced at 22K miles. Cigarette lighter won't work. When ever >1 person in the car, rear Struts rub on frame. Windshield wipers are noisy. Cruise control turns on/off by itself, but that never worked. Engine valve train is noisy until engine warmed up (diesel noise). Heater core leaking and had to be replaced. All tires worn out at 20K miles. Paint flaking off front bumper cover. Replaced 1 head lamp bulbs, clear lens covers fogging up. Seat belt stop broke off - It's hard to buckle driver seat belt. Poor fuel economy. Transmission slips, when temp. below freezing - After traveling few miles it is OK. RDS Radio works well. Replaced battery. The engine starts each morning and I have been able to get to work.
General comments?
This car has become my repair nightmare. My wife refused to drive it, so I had to buy her another auto (Ford-Taurus) ). Shop Ebay in search of replacement parts.
Recommended reviews
| I could do without the headache |
| A little more than mediocre |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 2002 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 2 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 2 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 0 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 0 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 5 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 14000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 35500 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Astro |
| Date of Entry | 4th April, 2007 |