1998 Chevrolet Malibu LS review from North America

The heater fan went around 35000 km and was replaced under warranty. It went again about 15000kms later and it had just gone off warranty, and I have not had it fixed yet. I continue to drive without levels 1 & 2.

Replaced the driver's side mirror about 20000 km, as it was shaking. Covered under warranty.

Brakes have not been too bad, replaced pads around 50000km, had the rotors ground, but have a feeling that they will need replacing soon, as a vibration is starting to occur on breaking.

Main concern, apart from the heater fan, has to do with the ABS. At 60000 km, had to replace ABS computer component, and 6 months later ABS still a problem.

I have also begin hearing an annoying rattle in the front end drivers side when travelling 20-40 km/hr. It may be suspension related and I have yet to find out that answer.

Tires definitely wear premature and have had to be replaced. The Firestone Affinities were also not very good in snow.

The car has good features, don't get me wrong; but the problems that are being experienced should be recognized by GM and addressed. I will not replace my current Malibu with another.

I think that GM dealers should better inform the public as to the problems that are common to the Malibu (brakes, fan, tires) Prospective buyers and current owners should be made aware of these persistent issues until they are fixed by GM. I would likely not have bought it off lease, and I would have extended my warranty had I known.

My ABS problem may be slightly exceptional, but seems brake related, either that or bearings. I hasten to guess!