just curious of the success you have had with the malibu's.... or even so any hardships. i know the brakes suck on the cars but overall its a good commuter

 

99 Malibu - 3.1v6 ( bought new)

pros:

- decent appointments ( pw, pl , etc.)
- decent handling
- decent power
- cheap to buy used

cons:

- intake manifold gasket replacement
- engine very noisy ( sever piston slap)
- transmission slips
- common ABS issues ( front hubs replacement , connectors corrode)
- rear drum brake cylinders leak
- weak heat and A/C
- blower speed problems
- steering rack replacement
- rust at underside of doors and hood ( where ever seam seal is used )
- combination switch replacement (effects turn signals)
- engine oil seals leak
- trans axle seals leak
- front struts
- hood release cable freezes in winter ( can't open the hood)
- headlights prone to condensation build up
- front brake rotors warp

I could probably go on but you get the idea.

If you asked me if i would buy another one ... NO. This is just my opinion based on experience.

 

thanks for the heads up

 

I bought my 98 3.1 v6 2 years ago. when I bought it it was a stolen recovery,had 50,000 miles on it and needed new tires front bumper, grille and headlights. ever since the only problems Ive had is replacing hub bearings and a/c compressor. on feb.8 of this year I had an accident with a u-haul and had to replace pass. fender, hood, windshield, headlight, bumper, header panel and still havent had any problem with the motor. my opinion of this car is that I took this car to hell and back and its still here with me with 91,000 miles on it. today 10/29 I had to replace the drivebelt.