1998 Chevrolet Malibu review from North America
"Good bang for buck and maybe 220,000 miles"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Front control arms replaced at 100,000
to get rid of noise when I went over a bump. I heard part was re-engineered.
Replaced brakes often between 80,000-114,000 and rotors, also. New calipers at 114,000 fixed the problem.
First set of tires lasted between 50,000-60,000 miles. Second set lasted 80,000 plus with different tire brand.
Water pump replaced at 137,000 miles.
ABS light has been on for last 30,000 miles, but haven't had any braking problems and will live with sensor problem.
Shouldn't have bought that stupid 5 year paint warranty for $299 which was worthless.
General comments?
To me a low maintenance car. Replaced serpentine belt once. Battery replaced at 126,000 miles. Plugs and wires at 80,000 miles and currently have 70,000 miles on second set. 70,000 on Gates Serpentine belt and no cracks; 79,000 on first belt replaced by mechanic.
Original suspension. No exhaust system problems. Still get 29 Mpg going 70 MPH on Interstate. No oil leaks:)
Had brother's employers mechanic do most of maintenance work after hours such as replacing belt, hoses, and control arms as serpentine belt costed only $26 (still going strong).
Am deciding to trade it in for 2002 Malibu (2000 rebate + 1300 extra discount + trade-in for my 1998 Malibu)
No need to get the LS unless you like wasting money or a leather interior.
I wish they would have improved the gas mileage from 29 to 32 on the new Malibu. I could have saved 10% on gas money.
Recommended reviews
| Would not buy again |
| A High Maintenance Nightmare |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 0 miles |
| Most recent distance | 149000 miles |
| Previous car | Saturn SL |
| Date of Entry | 3rd July, 2002 |