Two months after purchasing this car we had to have the engine replaced due to a term GM classifies as piston slap. There is no fix for it so they put in a new engine.
We also had to have our heating controls replaced because they quit working.
The rotors had to be replaced due to a manufacturers recall.
We are now experiencing the same engine noises that we had when we bought the new car. This new engine only has 7000 miles on it so I am not impressed.
All GM vehicles with the V6 turbo or higher between the years 1999-2002 have what is known as piston slap. If you are experiencing this problem they will try and tell you that it is not a reliability issue and will not effect the longevity of your engine. But if your pistons are not fitting or gliding properly in the piston shaft how can it not be a reliability issue or effect the longevity of the engine. I would never buy another GM or Chevrolet product again. They have not dealt with this situation properly or profesionally. They will also tell you there is no fix for the above problem.
The only good thing I can say about this vehicle is when it is running properly it handles very well.
It is roomy enough for three car seats in the back. And the trunk spacious enough for two strollers, a diaper bag, and a cooler for a picnic.
What are you talking about? there is no such thing as the V6 turbo in the Malibu's. And if the pistons did not fit perfectly, A) there would be no compression. B) Pistons would either seize, or the engine would burn oil.
Please, oh PLEASE, learn some mechanics before yammering on like some secretary from microsoft.
If the piston to cylinder wall clearance is too high the engine will be noisy (piston slap), especially at cold start up, and may not burn an inordinate amount of oil or lose a lot of compression. It will mostly likely cause higher engine wear rate and worsen over time.
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