Almost immediately the rear seat recliner lever broke.
The rear sunshades retainer did not function.
Recalled for steering column malfunction.
Fog light indicator switch failed.
Noise in trans-axle resulted in two repairs and eventual replacement.
Harsh braking noise resulted in turning rotors and eventual replacement of one.
Seat heaters come on intermitently without being switched on.
Clunking noise investigation showed that front suspension parts were loose and had to be tightened.
I really like the ride and handling.
The gas mileage is outstanding.
The power and acceleration is notable.
The car's design was well thought out to offer great versatility for cargo arrangement.
The car has the most features of any car I have owned.
Though most of the problems I have had with the car were not serious, there have been too many, indicating either poor quality control or insufficient pre-market testing.
The dealer's service department has been accommodating, but often knew too little about this new model.
I feel your pain!!! I had an 04 Base Malibu with the same steering issues, as well as a faulty CD player, brake issues and the worst paint job in the history of the automobile. Mine had three steering columns replaced and was finally repurchased under the Florida Lemon Law. I now have an 04 Impala, which is a much better car, though lacking in some of the bells and whistles department of the Malibu. However, it is nice to have a car that will actually turn when you turn the steering wheel:)
Well actually if you go to Toyota or Honda in this site you'll probably have 1 out of 11 negative reviews there as well. All cars have lemons and minor issues. The Malibu seems to have way more positive reviews than negative.
Who said anything about Honda or Toyota?
Our 2004 Maxx LS is the wife's daily driver with approximately 38K miles as of 8-08. Been a great car and I drove from GA to CA a couple of years ago in relative comfort though not the most comfortable car for long hauls. Averaged 29.9 mpg with cruise set at an average of 75 mph.
Down sides: Battery replacement, 5-6 turn signal/DRL bulb replacements (would be nice if GM would engineer this pesky problem to solution) all under warranty to date. Front brake rotors need replacing due to warpage but blame this on over torquing of lug nuts by tire rotation shop. Only other "gripe" about the car is it seems to be a door ding magnet. Not the cars fault but negligent neighbors in any parking lot you use nowadays and wifey. Shame on GM for discontinuing the Maxx line.
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