1998 Chevrolet Malibu LX review from North America

The ABS brake light came on at 24,000 kilometers (km), indicating an electrical problem.

The right front wheel bearing had to be replaced at 39,000 km, at a cost of $450 (Canadian). This hurt because it was not covered by the Fadagard extended warranty.

At 42,000 km the air conditioning control unit had to be replaced. 2 rear light bulbs were also replaced. The ABS brake light came on again, and had to be reset.

At 47,000 km the heater fan would not work on the first 2 speeds.

The front brake pads were replaced at 51,000 km. This was done by a Pontiac/Buick dealer.

The right front upper strut mounts and rear sway bar bushings were replaced at 57,000 km. Also the front brake calipers and rotors were serviced.

At 87,000 km the front brake pads were replaced again (by the Pontiac/Buick dealer). The ABS speed sensor malfunctioned on the left front wheel, a $500 repair which was covered by the Fadagard extended warranty.

At 91,000 km the brakes were squealing, so the car was taken to the Chevrolet dealer where the car was purchased. A complete front brake job was done, including replacing the rotors and the shim kit. I've concluded that the Pontiac/Buick dealer doesn't know how to fix these brakes.

The rear sway bar bushings were replaced again at 91,000 km to eliminate rear-end squeaks, but the squeaks remained. I should have challenged the dealer about this, but was tired of taking this car in for service. For now I will live with the squeaks as they are not getting worse and seem to disappear when the weather is colder.

At 99,000 km the right front wheel bearing needed to be replaced again, at a cost of $600. This was not covered by the Fadagard warranty.

This car looks nice, handles well and has lots of power and space.

The ride is smooth at higher speeds on good highways, but can be rough on city streets.

Road noise is particularly evident in the back end, which is often rattling or squeaking as well.

It's obvious the front end on these cars is too heavy, which causes the wheel bearings to wear prematurely.

I'm concerned about the reliability and constant repairs, but since the Malibu is paid for, will continue to fix it for the next 3-4 years unless the engine fails.

Winter handling is much improved by the use of 4 Michelin snow tires.

Next time I will buy a used Japanese car, probably a Toyota or Honda, or possibly a Subaru.