1999 Chevrolet Malibu Base from North America - Comments

The car had some small rattle issues 2 weeks after I took delivery of the vehicle. Turns out, it was the plastic housing on the seat-belt adjusters.

I would get an ABS/Brake light for a second or two once in a while on the dash, but it usually seemed to happen when my brakes started to wear. GM did not know why, but I think it had to do with the ABS sensors and brake wear because after the pads were replaced, the light never went on again.

Never had any other problems with the car. The pads seemed to wear quicker than normal and I did warp the rotors from time to time. I took the car to my regular mechanic, as opposed to the dealer, and I had higher quality rotors put on the car, along with ceramic brake pads - no premature wear after that. I would suggest this method, rather than going to the dealer. Most GM mechanics I have dealt with are unaware of alternative practices with vehicles, or refuse to discuss them in order to get the most money for sometimes sub-par Delco replacement parts.

This was an excellent car! The 3.1 V6 engine was quick to respond and never let me down. Unlike most GM cars, the interior was laid out very well and was very comfortable.

The ride was smooth and quiet. I liked the car so much that I got a 2002 when my lease was up.

I'm glad someone had an enjoyable experience like mine. It's sad to see how many negative reviews this car receives, yet every time I turn at a stop light I can see at least 4 or 5 more malibu's comming. I will say that the 3.1 v6 in my own personal taste is a little underpowered at highway usage (citywise it justs peps right along), and unrefined as third gear is hesitant when going up a hill. The city mpg could definately stand some improvement, but on the highway it just sips gas. Other than that, I've not had the dreaded intake manifold gasket problem, nor have I had any electrical problems. There is a fix to that problem now as more aftermarket gaskets are available, and can be fixed for as low as $300. I think I got my money's worth and then some. I'm extremely happy about this purchase and I do feel it is reliable. It made me want to purchase another.

I get tired of people complaining about GM and other domestic cars. For those who think they're so much better go read what owners have said between the years of 00-03 (especially toyotas). Just because your car bears the Honda or Toyota logo doesn't make it invincible, nor just because you have a GM car mean it will break down. Yes reputation plays a huge role in car buying, but you should buy a car for what it's worth and not just because of a name. If Honda would have produced this car, I would have bought it, because it proved reliable and versatile. Each car has their own individual strengths and weaknessess As I've said before inner city driving is not this cars strength from an mpg standpoint, but the roominess and MORE than generous trunk space, forgives that fault. Yes you can call this car "boring" or "inoffensive" but it's a sound passenger car that travels comfortably, and for those who do a lot of highway driving, it will prove to be economical! Don't buy a car just for the name, buy for what your money gets. This car gave me a lot for little.

I have a 01, I have had the pcm modified a bit to make the tranny last longer and get more gas mileage. I get about 20 mpg in the city and 31 on the highway. As for it being underpowered, mine isn't. Last night I was getting onto the interstate and by the time I made it to the point of getting off the on ramp, I was already doing 5 mph over the speed limit.