Faults:

Had rotors Turned at 61,000 kms due to pulsation when braking.

Engine Light keeps coming on for engine misfire that the dealership says they really can't do anything with, which could be related to the item below.

"Scored" pistons at 61,000 kms.

General Comments:

Overall, I am pleased with this car.

It handles nicely, has good "get up and go" for a sedan, and nice interior. I've always been a fan of GM's interior controls and locations.

Much of the maintenance I've done on it has been regular wear and tear. It has never left me stranded...yet.

The one item that makes me mad is that I took it in for a "ticking" noise the engine was making. They told me it was due to "scored" pistons and that they'd have to tear down the engine... a $3-4K job. I've subsequently heard that these engines have undersized pistons, which is what is causing this problem once the engine gets a bit of wear on it. I tend to believe that because the dealership indicated that if I went ahead with the engine repairs, they would put better pistons in it. Gee... why didn't they put better pistons in it to start with instead of me having to fork over $4K for repairs?

Faults:

Brakes replaced on all 4 wheels within 2 weeks of purchase.

Front brakes replaced and rear drums turned after 10,000 miles.

Electrical problems after 16,000 miles. Radio stopped working. Turn signals stopped working. Dash lights stopped working. Air circulate stopped working. Battery leaking and finally died. Draw was discovered on battery even when car was parked. Computer replaced.

ERG valve caused check engine light to come on. ERG valve replaced at 24,900 miles.

Intake manifold leak discovered at 24,900 miles. Gasket replaced.

A/C compressor does not turn on. Taking car into dealer Monday.

General Comments:

This 2000 Malibu ran great for about a year. I can't believe Chevy has made such a problem car. My warranty expires in August and I am currently looking at Honda Civics. I want to trade in this lemon before the warranty runs out.

Faults:

Front brake pads replaced at 35000 miles. Rotors could be turned, but decided to replace anyway due to Malibu's front brake reputation. New rotors & semi-metallic pads improved braking feel tremendously!

No other problems.

General Comments:

I thoroughly enjoy driving this car.

It continues to get excellent gas mileage and performance/handling continue to keep me entertained.

Original tires still have decent tread left, although I will likely replace soon.

The factory CD/Cassette/Radio has enough power for the aftermarket JBL speakers I installed. I listen to the stereo quite loud on my long commute and it doesn't distort.

I have done some minor performance modifications, but wish there was a bigger aftermarket scene for this car. Can't let the imports get all the attention!

In my opinion, you cannot find a better car with the same list of standard feature, engine, etc. for the price.

Faults:

The 2001 Malibu makes a squeaking noises on bumps, which seems related to suspension. Also, the brake is not quite sensitive, I have to push hard for a stop.

General Comments:

The interior design looks pretty good.

Faults:

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.

General Comments:

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.