4th May 2003, 08:39

Typical engineer. Looks at everything on paper and draws a conclusion from that rather than real world experience. I own a 2001 Malibu and I am appalled at the cheap, inadequate design the GM engineers (I use the term loosely) dreamed up. They probably said the same thing, "It looks good on paper, go with it."

13th Sep 2003, 07:56

My mother owns a 1998 Malibu LS and the car now has 85K miles on it, I drive it every-once and a while and find the car to be an enjoyable ride (not as much fun as the impala though :) ) as for all these insane problems that people have, we have never had them. Other than the general mainteance Eg. oil changes and brake replacements the car has had no major work done on it. The only major problem with the car was a situation with the A/C which was quickly fixed.

31st Mar 2004, 20:14

I own a 98 Malibu and I have had my fair share of problems such as pulley's going out, and my serpentine belt getting eaten up every 20,000 miles. It's these little things that really get to you. Also, the whole electrical system is beginning to work intermittently. Combine all this with a very noisy ride and a cheap interior and I think that the Malibu sells itself short of being a practical family car. I think that Chevy missed the boat on this one.

21st Aug 2004, 20:24

We too purchased a 1998 Malibu and have an annoying amount of repairs done on it. Before the warranty was up we took it to a Chevrolet dealer to fix a pulsating brake problem. they gave it back and the problem came back in a short amount of time again before the warranty was up. they said they replaced the rotors. a few months later after the warranty had run out, same problem again. We finnaly took it to Les Schwab who informed us the rotors had not been changed, they were still the originals. We ended up having to replace them, the calipers (which we think were the original problem) and I think the brakes too. We have had no trouble since with that prolem. We have also had to have the starter replaced twice, a pulley replaced on the serpetine belt, the head gasket replaced and have had an ongoing problem with the AC. I do like the cars as far as the ride goes and the roominess inside along with the fold down seats in back. We do believe we were pacified to get us through the warranty period which has made us loose confidence in GM and their dealers.

27th Aug 2007, 20:20

We to bought a 98 Malibu and every one is right about the problems. Our engine light came on and we were told it was the fuel cap. Wrong once again. Then the engine light started flashing and well when that happens you are suppose to shut them down and let it cool off. Know it comes on when the a/c is running and when you come to a stop and take off it sputters and spits and then it starts to run fine, but the stupid engine light stays on and nobody can figure it out. So I am lost on it and also stuck with it. For the a/c working only on one speed or two the problem lays in the blower motor resistor. Replace that and it will work fine.

26th Jan 2011, 20:55

Just bought one knowing of problems, but cheap and only 59000 in 2011.

It runs great but needs a fuel pump, BTSI solenoid (may have to replace floor shifter) and who knows what else.

With mint body and interior for 1800 bucks, I'll take my chances. Will let you know how it works out.