1998 Chevrolet Malibu Base V6 review from North America
"A dependable car in a crowd of lemons!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Dealer fixed minor issue with cruise before purchase.
Brakes can be noisy at times.
Malibu's are famous for suspension noise, mine is no exception.
Mechanically its been OK so far.
Garage thinks I'll need a wheel bearing in the next 15,000, I'm not sure if they're right, but it's on the back burner.
General comments?
Suspension is louder than other cars, due in part to Chevrolet not using very much sound deadening material.
I think Chevy should use more Vibration control measures and sound deadening materials. I usually don't hear much noise in my car though because I just turn up my Alpine CD Player (Which I added) and I can't hear any noises.
Car is fun to drive, has good handling, powerful and fuel efficient V6 (no complaints on the powertrain).
Many people complain about their malibus being lemons on wheels, I don't think that this is the case with all malibus so this has inspired me to wrtie a review for this car that isn't so negative! My malibu isn't perfect, as is no car. Some malibus are worse than others. Just pay attention on the test drive and you'll find yourself a winner.
NOTE to other malibu owners: New front brake pads have been issued from Chevrolet about 6 months ago that are quieter and longer lasting than any aftermarket pads for malibus. You can buy these from your Chevrolet dealer.
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| Lemon!!! |
| If you are good with cars this car is great! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.1 Litre Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 85000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 90000 miles |
| Previous car | Saturn SL |
| Date of Entry | 9th May, 2003 |