2002 Chevrolet Malibu LS from North America - Comments

Malibu.

Right front power door lock solenoid had to be replaced and

Right front power window was hesitating on the downward motion. Dealer lubricated channel around 4,500 miles.

A recall to replace the left front head light assembly, did this around 4,500 miles.

Had to replace number 1 & 2 fuel injectors and oil sending unit around 19,000 miles.

Had to also replace front brake pads at 19,000 at my expense since this was not warranted.

Had to replace number 2 & 3 fuel injectors around 24,000 and the right front brake caliper.

Had to replace number 1 & 2 fuel injectors again around 28,000 miles.

The dealership claimed that fuel injectors were going out because of the gas I was using. They also mentioned that the fuel system in the Malibu was designed a certain way which some vehicles had problems. Also, the vehicle consumed plenty of gas for a 3.1 litre engine. I did mostly city driving in Chicago, the gas mileage would only be about 14 to 15 per gallon using the specified 87 octane. All the other seasons the mileage would be about 17 per gallon using 87 octane. Again, the dealership claimed that the gas manufacturers put additives in the winter which cause poor fuel economy.

I had to replace the front brake pads again around 30,000 miles. I asked the dealership what was going on. They claimed it was because I wasn't applying my parking brake every time I parked. This would cause the rear brakes to reset, assisting the front brakes upon stopping. This was done at my expense.

The left front brake caliper had to be replaced around 32,000 miles. Also, all the upper head and timing chain gaskets had to be replaced. This stopped the coolant leaks. Also, the right front strut assembly and bearing plate had to be replaced.

I had many other problems too many to want to type here. I complained enough to GM in Detroit that they extended my warranty for 36/36 at their expense.

I was extremely dis-satisfied with this vehicle. The comfort of the ride changed drastically as well as the seats.

I used synthetic oil and really maintained the vehicle. Basically, I traded the vehicle towards the end of April 2005 and I only had 38,995 miles. The Blue book value was only $6500 and I paid $20,000 brand new in February of 2002.

The vehicle had decent pick up.

The cabin and trunk were roomy.

The styling of the vehicle was good.

I must be a lucky Malibu Owner, The only thing I agree with is the poor fuel economy. Other than that, I have a 2001 malibu with 80k miles, only thing I had to do is replace pads and rotors on front and replace a cam sensor.

True about poor fuel economy. I'd noticed my 1998 LS model had been averaging a mere 12-13 mpg in town when it should've been 18-20. Highway was always very good, though (25-28) ; not only that, but it even averaged 30 once since I bought it last year. The transmission had been slipping and shifting erratically at times so I think this explains its poor mileage. The 3.1L V6 had to work harder than usual to make the gears move. Was told that the transaxle seal on passenger side was leaking fluid so I had it replaced and since then it's been shifting better.

My wife has owned her 2002 Malibu from new and never had an ounce of a problem with anything, either mechanical or dealership. She has the LS model with leather and sun roof and it is pure pleasure to drive and rely upon. She has a little over 40k kms (25k miles) and other than a few minor scratches to the paint it looks and drives like brand new. We will be keeping this vehicle for many more years I am certain as my wife insists she is so spoiled to have it.

I have had my 2002 mali for about a year now and this car is great. it has not given my any big problems, but a little oil here and change of tires there, but other than that it runs good, it is however a gas eater. other than that I would reccommend this vehicle to anyone.

I have a 2002 Malibu LS and since I bought it changed the water pump but other than that no problems. I have owned it for about a year now as a lease and it will go back to dealership next year. I had a 1979 Malibu Classic before this that was a good car also. I guess some people got what was called a Monday or Friday car, meaning they where built on one of those days where people just don't like to work.