I'm thrilled with mine, but it seems I read about a lot of dissatisfied owners here.

I am happy with mine, it is serving me well. I would probably buy again, but a different drive train to change things up.

good question

Probably would... I still am not wild about the other options in the segment. It's the devil I know.

I like mine, a 2010 LT 1. It has not given me one minute of trouble and fortunately, I have not had any issues with vibrations, leaks, squeaks, and rattles. Like many other owners, I am not overjoyed with the way the 6 speed automatic transmission shifts, but for the most part, I have learned to live with it. My particular car had the transmission flash done before it was delivered to me, so I have the experience of driving the car exclusively after this had been done, and therefore, do not have any before and after experiences to discuss.
Now, what would I do differently if I had the chance to turn back time to January 28, 2010? I really wished I had gone ahead and gotten an LTZ with the 6 cylinder engine. The LTZ really has some nice features and, in my opinion, more "snaz" appeal. I should have looked for a demo LTZ or similar vehicle to cut a deal on.
However, I am still happy with my Malibu and do not regret purchasing it.. As I have said before, I really like the looks of this car, especially in Mocha Steele.

Best regards
Mr. Bill
Hamlet, NC

As much as it pains me to say this. Nope....

I have owned about ten GM cars, some bought new, some bought used. Heck, I still own my Camaro I bought new over ten years ago. It has been great. BUT, my last two new GM cars, a '07 G6 GTP and the '08 Malibu LTZ just haven't been "good" cars. The G6 had a few things go wrong in the year and a half we had it, but I didn't think much of it and traded it in and got a Malibu. The Malibu I used as my daily driver for over a year, until I got the Speed3 to replace it. Then the wife got it for her daily driver. It has about 30K on it, and at last count 14 trips to the dealer. Some things minor, some things major. Some things fixed, some things not fixed to my standards. I like the way the car looks, and has a decent interior. But it has been far from what I consider good. The wife has a short 4 mile round trip commute, so it will serve her well for a few more years and I use it a lot on the weekends for errands with her and trips. But honestly I am glad I am not driving it every day anymore. So many things used to bother me. My last GM car? No, I would buy a RWD car from them as they seem to be good at that, but never a FWD car again....

My 2.4 liter 2010 LTZ has been trouble free except for the intermittent transmission surging during excessively hot weather (still hoping to get this resolved). It's a competent daily driver. Quiet, well controlled ride. Nice interior. I'm disappointed with the fuel economy, one of my main reasons for choosing this model. I've logged about 24k miles in the last year. I been averaging about 28mpg on my mixed commute, the same as my previous '03 Monte Carlo SS.

If I had to do it again, I'd be looking for something more exciting to drive. Like the Mazda 6, VW GTI or Subaru WRX.

Just checked the Black Book trade in value. $13,600 to $15,500. About half what i paid a year ago. Guess I'll be driving the Malibu till the wheels fall off.

Don

Without question YES! Best car out there period anyone saying other wise shouldn't even be on this malibu site! JMO ;)

When we first started looking, it was down to two: the Malibu LTZ and the Buick Regal (turbo)...But I just thought the Buick was more of an 'old' persons car and the Malibu was more age appropriate(I'm 25). So we went with the Malibu and I've been satisfied with it. It was better than the previous car we traded in (2009 Lancer). I will definately buy another Malibu/Chevy/GM again, but not any time soon. Gotta try to afford a wedding and a house this year..... ;)

I remember a couple of threads on the subject but I don't seem to be able to locate them. The thing is, the dissatisfied are usually the loudest on these forums. It depends on the personal experiences, expectations, and perhaps personality types. I've seen people who start out all excited and then go downhill quickly once they encounter a problem that could not be resolved to their satisfaction.

I have to admit that there often appears to be disparity in service departments in their ability to fix the problem and fix it right the first time. It's an unfortunate reality that an attempt to fix a problem may precipitate subsequent problems but I don't believe this sort of thing is isolated to GM. You really don't have to look far to find incompetencies in all walks of life.

As for me, I'm comfortable with my Malibu as it is now. I do notice a few quirky things but, like all the cars I've owned over the years, I like figuring out why it does what it does. I guess I'm blessed that I can be a control freak and yet don't necessarily have to depend on others to do my bidding.

Sorry for the long post, but, in short, I'd do it over again without a doubt but, if I had to recommend the current generation Malibu to someone, I'd consider the prospect carefully to make sure it's a good fit.

I think it's a great car, and my '08 ex Fleet, Fairfax build has served me extremely well. It isn't garaged, barely washed, driven about 26K+ Miles in 1 year and a half, and has been solid. Had a few little issue's, which were all taken care of while the car was under Warranty.

When I bought it, it was by far the best value and candidate for what I was looking for. If I was doing it again today, I might still go with it, or with some newer cars out, I might look at them. Safety is my #1 deciding factor with this car, so I'd have to determine if there are better players in that field for the price now. The Subaru Legacy seems to have a stronghold in that department, especially for this price range.

If this was my "passion car" I would look at it differently, but I bought it more-so as an "appliance car", and it has done very well so far at that. It also is a great looking car to boot, which came as a plus. Also, very quiet, which is a huge deciding factor as well.

Looking back to the day I bought it, yes. Much as K-A said, I was looking for a comfortable, economic, reliable daily driver that looked good, and didn't cost over $25k. This was the best deal out there. Being the fleet car, with a free V6 that seems to get better MPG than the 3.6 and has more power than the 2.4, it was definitely the best deal at the time. So far, it has done me well. I'm not a big fan of sedans, but I can honestly say I enjoy driving this one, and like the car even more now with my 18's.

However, if something were to happen to the car, and I had to replace it, I would either buy a Fusion Sport or just get the top back on my Plymouth and drive it. Got the the Ram for bad weather...

I am very happy with my 2010 2LT. I traded in a 08 Cobalt(Long Story) and as a dd I have had no issues so far.

I'd consider buying one again - it would be on my list of cars to price and drive.

I've had my '09 LT1 about 1.5 years now, with 16K miles, and it's been very reliable. I haven't taken the car back to the dealer for anything yet, aside from oil changes (dealer provides 4 free oil change coupons per year).

In very hot weather, I did notice the steering column plastic trim making sqeaking noises when first turning the wheel, but I didn't bother taking it in for that (maybe next summer).

I finally got used to the electronic power steering and the paddle shifters. And I love the styling, ride quality and the quietness (worlds better than a 2003 Malibu).

I think the power from the 2.4 engine is adequate, especially for the way I use it - as a highway commuter car. If the price were right, I'd consider the 3.6, based on forum reports that the gas mileage isn't that different. But I don't regret getting the 2.4 engine.

I know it's probably a matter of perspective, but after a month in my Malibu I can't stop saying enough good things or even keep myself from staring at it as I walk away :D. To be fair, my car history (I'm 28) has went '93 Toyota Tercel > '01 Chevy S-10 > '05 Saturn Ion > Malibu. This is the most "grown-up", and even luxurious car that I have owned. It would be hard for me NOT to be happy, I'm sure. And for the price I paid, I would happily buy it again. BTW, since we're talking Chevys, I'd give anything to have that S-10 back. That was one heck of a truck that I stupidly gave away when we hit the first big gas crunch. Oh well.

I did have one minor issue when the Check Engine light came on about a week after I purchased the car. I took it to the dealer and it was an issue with a faulty camshaft actuator solenoid. It was replaced under warranty. The car has 26k miles, so I'm hoping that will be the only "minor" issue I hit for a while (or that it works out any kinks in the next 10k miles!). Otherwise, the 2.4 has plenty enough power, the gas mileage is decent, the ride is comfortable, and the car simply looks great.

My one complaint? I wish the seat warmer came on with the remote start. I have to wonder why that was left out.

NO, never again.

Only once the car has been updated/redesigned; eg: 2012.

I bought this car to be an appliance, think dishwasher, I just want it to work when I want it to. I bought the car with 16k on it, now has 47k in about 20 months. The reliability has been so-so but the dealer has been great and taken care of me. With only 1,500 miles left on the warranty I'm seriously considering an extended warranty, if I can find a good in at a reasonable price.

At the time I bought the car it was a good decision, today if I was buying a car I'd buy something different, probably a BMW 5 series, or an MB C Class.

Yes, though I have only had it for 6 months, but no trouble other than the trans issue, though that’s only happened twice and not in the last 4 months.

My brother works at a Chevy dealer, is a hard fast Ford man, and tells me and everyone constantly of the problems with the GM cars, and he had no problem recommending me to buy this car. In his words, they see very few problems, and when they do, they are usually minor or just very fussy customers.

No reason not to buy another, the wife loves her "Bu. Totally, problem free. Does what we ask of it. It's too small for me, but just right for her.

However, if I were in the market to replace it I may consider something different. I don't foresee replacing it for another 7 years, though.

Without question YES! Best car out there period anyone saying other wise shouldn't even be on this malibu site! JMO ;)

X2 Jrams ;)
Very Happy with my 08 LTZ,18K trouble free miles :D

Seems to be a lot of unhappy owners when you read reliability sites on the net. What worries me is long term durability of the car. The wife's just rolled passed 30K. My fingers are crossed. Any new car should be trouble free up to 20K or so, it's after that point things might start to come up. I don't think hearing my car "has been trouble free for 15K" will make anyone feel good about their car. It has 15K on it, it damn well better be trouble free. I wanna hear "my car has been trouble free for 50K"....my gut tells me as for as the Malibu goes that is gonna be few and far between.

Interesting. When I bought my car in May of '08, all Reliability Owners Review Sites were raving about it, and cars like the new body Accord and Camry seemed to be getting panned harder.

Now that longer term reports are surfacing, unhappy owners are coming out of the woodwork (or happy owners are becoming unhappy).

Like I said, mine has been phenomenal to me, aside from some little stuff. Now I have to make the decision as to whether I want to keep it since it's getting past 50K Miles soon, or sell it before the Miles get too up there (I put a lot of miles on the car).

Even though I plan on keeping the Malibu I can’t say it has been Problem free! Not my Malibu! I can pull out a crap load of paperwork for repairs from the dealership from minor to Major. Major Steering work to Major Transmission work and many of this and that minor things! I like the Malibu and have repeatedly stated in many post, I plan on keeping her hopefully for a long time but it truly has not met my expectations for Reliability! As the person stating that the Honda line has been panned more, I have had three Honda’s and I can personally say that they have stomped on the Malibu as for Reliability and Resale Value! Unless you have had some of the many problems that some us unfortunate Malibu owners have had experienced, you are most likely going to think different about the Malibu and are one of the lucky one’s that have not had any issues! Read how many problems that has aroused upon this Car from driving straight out of the Dealership lot to owners with low miles and you will find there is just too many in my Opinion! I truly like the Malibu and hope in the long run, it does not fall apart on me and I don't regret not trading it. The Trade-IN Value is one of the Worst in it’s Class! Another reason I will be keeping it for a long time besides that fact I have got all my issues fixed and I think it is a Beautiful looking car! Just hope I am not making a mistake! I have invested too much money in this car to give-up on it and the fact that I really like the Malibu. Now I just hope my nightmare of issues are done and over and I can truly enjoy the car. I did not buy this car because I had to because of $$ amount limitations for any reason, I bought it because I truly liked the car, design looks, features, ect. I just don’t want any more issues and I hope for the best! Would I buy another one again? No, not until GM can prove they have corrected these issues!

Good Luck with yours and I hope you don’t have to experience any problems like I had with the Malibu!

PS. I would like to add a comment to our members! I May have had some issues with the Malibu and have expressed some frustration/vented at times. I also have tried to at least turn it into a positive by taking my issues/problems that I have had with the Malibu and inform others in hope that it helps them in some way! I have greeted many new members to the site as they are excited with their new purchase and will never trash talk by telling them to buy another car but I will be honest on any issues with the car if asked about a specific question or asked about a problem/issues! The Malibu is a nice car but has some issues that hopefully GM will correct! Many have already been a great help on the Forum and hope we all can continue to unite and make this site a great site to visit! Again over-all I really do like the Malibu and wish the best for everybody with their cars!

Thanks!

If I was going to spend the same amount of money...and I had to use the car for work.....and it had to stay outside in Chicago weather.....YESYESYESYESYESYESYES!!!!! Consider the options in this market segment and then consider the options for a US built vehicle. I think the only other alternative would be the Fusion. Less quality, more $$$ Japanese options would be the Camry or Altima. Still more $$$. My "BU" has a nice peppy V-6, quality fit and finish and for 22K miles, all I've had to pay for have been oil changes and tire rotation. BTW, I do use Mobil ONE in my "BU." If it's good enough for my Z06 then it's good enough for a car that has to work for a living.

Man, that sucks to hear about some of you with problematic Malibu's. I guess I should be knocking on wood right now. My car was a previous Rental as well (in snowy Minnesota at that), and it's a Fairfax build (I wonder if this has anything to do with it).

I do put on 95% Highway Miles, so that might help as well. Hopefully my car remains loyal.

I deffinately wouldnt do it again if had a choice and wouldnt have in the first place but was a car i could get out of my gas guzzler. The reslae value is worse then my hummer i just got rid of and didnt think that was possible.

I have had my white 2010 Malibu 1Lt for almost a year now no problems what so ever good ride i got use to the shift from a dead stop below thirty lol but if i could do it again i would get the v6 maybe the ltz the i4 is good but a lil more power never hurt no one lol I think the malibu is a great good quality car and good on gas my old car was a 2006 nisaan sentra se-r what a little rice bucket and a lemon it had problems was a lil fast but i grew out of the tuner thing got tired of crxs and mustangs trying to race me dumb highschoolers I am 23 in the USAF i am just trying to get to point a to b and the malibu lets me do it in comfort and style those lil econo bucket racer cars are usually bare bones i luv my car.next car or truck will be a gm product.

Seems to be a lot of unhappy owners when you read reliability sites on the net. What worries me is long term durability of the car. The wife's just rolled passed 30K. My fingers are crossed. Any new car should be trouble free up to 20K or so, it's after that point things might start to come up. I don't think hearing my car "has been trouble free for 15K" will make anyone feel good about their car. It has 15K on it, it damn well better be trouble free. I wanna hear "my car has been trouble free for 50K"....my gut tells me as for as the Malibu goes that is gonna be few and far between.

Keep and eye out for steering issues/noises at/around the 30K mark. Mine just spend a week and a half in the dealer getting test driven over and over while the kept replacing the steering rack with different models(one from an 08, one from and 09 and one form a ’10). Needless to say, apparently I was driving with a faulty steering rack, and I-shaft for the first 25K that I owned the car.

I’m at 34,xxx now and I have to do all 4 breaks, and replace the heat shield on the fronts because they are destroyed from rubbing against the rotors.

Would I buy it again? Maybe when they re-design, but not any of the current generation models. I like the overall interior design(with the exception of a few quirks), and the ride is pretty damn comfortable for a 3800 pound car the 3.6L is an underestimated power plant and makes the driving experience pleasurable. That said, I think that a lot of the mechanical aspects of the car need to be re-evalutaed(steering, drivetrain, suspension) to give drivers the experience that they expect. I am considering buying outside of GM(huge discussion as my entire family only buys GM since two of them were engineers in the 60’s-80’s). The GM service experience just isn’t as personal unless you REALLY know the techs and the service managers(in our case we do). Even if you do know them, they are swamped with work, and most of the time, they don’t get a chance to take care of your needs personally, they just push the car through the overworked mechanics and I have had the ‘bu come back to me with the same issues, sometimes even worse because they mechanics fixed something completely different!

I dunno. If I could do it over again, I would have bought a trailblazer SS that I test drove with the malibu, but for now, I’ll stick with the Malibu until I see what GM has to offer for the next gen ‘Bu’s. I feel like GM tried so hard to get this right, but because of costs and their financial situation, had to sacrifice a lot of cool features that would have otherwise made this car phenomenal compared to the other large sedans out there.

Keep and eye out for steering issues/noises at/around the 30K mark. Mine just spend a week and a half in the dealer getting test driven over and over while the kept replacing the steering rack with different models(one from an 08, one from and 09 and one form a ’10). Needless to say, apparently I was driving with a faulty steering rack, and I-shaft for the first 25K that I owned the car.



Been there. Our car at about 30K has has a rack, and shaft.

Here's my simple answer to this thread's question...

NO!

This car has been the absolute worst car I have ever owned. I should have never handed my hard earned money for it. Even though I have the most upscale model (the LTZ), this car is showing its cheapness after only being 3 years old.

As I read the customer reviews for many of GM's new vehicles, I will definitely stay away away from GM. You guys should check out the customer reviews left on edmunds.com for the Traverse/Enclave/Acadia, and the GMC Terrain. The Impala and Malibu don't bode well either with customers. Sure, some of them are ecstatic about their new cars, but some review their cars too soon. Once you read the reviews of cars that are past 40,000 or 50,000 miles, that's when people start to regret their purchases.

The Malibu is a beautiful looking car, but the rest of the car mechanical-wise... is below average, FAR below average (except maybe for the the 3.6L engine, but the transmission ruins it). I wish I could be happy with this car, but I am not... and I will never buy another GM car, no matter how nice it looks. I won't even give GM a second chance, and I really don't have high expectations on cars (I have only owned GM cars in the past, however, this Malibu is my last).

You would think that they could have worked out the kinks after building the Malibu's sister car - the Saturn Aura after so many years.

Guess I should count myself as lucky that so far I've had no problems but I almost never drive my car, 27k on my 2009 purchased June 08. I wouldn't buy another simply because I want a truck and wish I hadn't traded my 2002 Avalanche for the Malibu.

The problem with a question like this is that the majority of people answering it are ones who are having some sort of problems, which makes the care look very plagued with problems. If you were able to ask this question of all Malibu owners, and could get a response, you would more than likely see a different result. There would still be a few who would not buy another, though more than likely not due to problems, but people always want something different. As I mentioned before, my brother who is a mechanic at a Chevy dealer, regular trashes a lot of the cars over the years, said this car is one they don’t see to often with problems, and when they do they are minor. This same info has been told to me by my friend who is a service writer at another dealership.

The problem with a question like this is that the majority of people answering it are ones who are having some sort of problems, which makes the care look very plagued with problems. If you were able to ask this question of all Malibu owners, and could get a response, you would more than likely see a different result. There would still be a few who would not buy another, though more than likely not due to problems, but people always want something different. As I mentioned before, my brother who is a mechanic at a Chevy dealer, regular trashes a lot of the cars over the years, said this car is one they don’t see to often with problems, and when they do they are minor. This same info has been told to me by my friend who is a service writer at another dealership.

Can't agree there, this forum is full of members, most have had issues. Some are still happy, some aren't. I used two dealers with ours, and I see Malibus in service all the time. The Epsilon platform is known for steering issues and vibrations. It is a fact, not opinion.

I am starting to realize the reason I bought this car (again). Since it was in the shop for the 5th time for vibrations, the car feels like new again. Not sure how long it will last but the car feels so much better since they replaced the steering rack, realigned it, and rotational force balanced all four wheel/tires. Oh, and replaced two rims that would not force balance properly. Now that my dealer has worked through all this little issues and fixed my bass buzz in the rear deck I am happy again. Got my fingers crossed!

I am starting to realize the reason I bought this car (again). Since it was in the shop for the 5th time for vibrations, the car feels like new again. Not sure how long it will last but the car feels so much better since they replaced the steering rack, realigned it, and rotational force balanced all four wheel/tires. Oh, and replaced two rims that would not force balance properly. Now that my dealer has worked through all this little issues and fixed my bass buzz in the rear deck I am happy again. Got my fingers crossed!

Good for you, I have one small issue on mine and once it is fixed I will join you. :)

The problem with a question like this is that the majority of people answering it are ones who are having some sort of problems, which makes the care look very plagued with problems. If you were able to ask this question of all Malibu owners, and could get a response, you would more than likely see a different result. There would still be a few who would not buy another, though more than likely not due to problems, but people always want something different. As I mentioned before, my brother who is a mechanic at a Chevy dealer, regular trashes a lot of the cars over the years, said this car is one they don’t see to often with problems, and when they do they are minor. This same info has been told to me by my friend who is a service writer at another dealership.

Consumer Reports (and its readers) agree with you. The Malibu is one of 7 midside sedans recommended.

For the 3.6 Malibu, 72% would repurchase the same car again. For the 2.4 Malibu, 66% would purchase again.

For comparison, the Accord 6 is 73% and the Accord 4 is 70%. The median for all midsize sedans is 69%


Reliability wise, the 3.6 malibu has these ratings: 08 - below average (1/2 black circle), 09 - above average (1/2 red circle), 10 - average.

The 2.4 malibu has these ratings: 08 - average, 09 - above average (1/2 red circle), 10 - average.

For both the 2.4 and 3.6 Malibu, the worse problems were suspension and brakes in 08. Those are the only fully black circles so far for the 3 model years.

I am happy with mine, it is serving me well. I would probably buy again, but a different drive train to change things up.

I'm with ya on that one bro, the ol' 2.4 is peppy but not enough for my taste, would sacrifice the mileage for the 3.6, even though the mileage change wouldn't have been that drastic with the 3.6, it just costs a bit more for the v6 that I didn't have. Always wanted a Infiniti g35x or g37x a 2 year old one cost more than my car plus premium gas, mileage, insurance, maintenance and repairs would have been too high. Overall satisfied, I like the looks, that why I bought it.

I don't thing so.

Can't agree there, this forum is full of members, most have had issues. Some are still happy, some aren't. I used two dealers with ours, and I see Malibus in service all the time. The Epsilon platform is known for steering issues and vibrations. It is a fact, not opinion.

This site has many members, but no where close to the total amount of Malibu owners that are out there and I would imagine the number of regular contributing members is a small portion of the total membership. Don’t get me wrong, I love this site, I joined to learn of potential problems I might see as well as to see what everyone is doing with and to their cars.

Consumer Reports (and its readers) agree with you. The Malibu is one of 7 midside sedans recommended.

For the 3.6 Malibu, 72% would repurchase the same car again. For the 2.4 Malibu, 66% would purchase again.

For comparison, the Accord 6 is 73% and the Accord 4 is 70%. The median for all midsize sedans is 69%


Reliability wise, the 3.6 malibu has these ratings: 08 - below average (1/2 black circle), 09 - above average (1/2 red circle), 10 - average.

The 2.4 malibu has these ratings: 08 - average, 09 - above average (1/2 red circle), 10 - average.

For both the 2.4 and 3.6 Malibu, the worse problems were suspension and brakes in 08. Those are the only fully black circles so far for the 3 model years.


Thanks for the stats!

Any vehicle has the potential for problems. You can't expect 100% from every vehicle off the production line. I don't mean any disrespect to anyone but you also have to take into consideration how the vehicle is driven and maintained. And then again there are people who don't like having to pull any maintenance on a vehicle. If you're going to keep it any length of time and drive it any distance, you will replace things even as minor as tires, brakes and batteries for example. I posed this question to a friend of mine who worked at a Chevy dealership on Long Island and with the exception of a person who had the misfortune to plant his Malibu in a VERY deep puddle and seize his engine and ruin a couple of rims, he never saw any serious problems with the current generation Malibu.

[quote=kencar10;54727]This site has many members, but no where close to the total amount of Malibu owners that are out there and I would imagine the number of regular contributing members is a small portion of the total membership. Don’t get me wrong, I love this site, I joined to learn of potential problems I might see as well as to see what everyone is doing with and to their cars.


I can’t say I agree, I am sure many Owners don’t come on this site or even know about this site! I am sure you would get Positive and Negative responses and I am sure there would be a lot of common problems/complaints if every owner was to report to this site! I could personally go on and on and list problems that I have had with my 08 Malibu along with my Sister’s 08 Malibu that she recently traded not too long ago! Even my son’s 06 LT is having problems and is in the shop as I type to this post comments! So I think it is the luck of the draw when it comes to these cars! I like my Malibu and plan on keeping it but I totally disagree with you! The Trade-IN Value Totally Sucks, another reason I will be keeping it! “Would lose thousands” GM was on the right track but failed in more than one area. I could not say this car is better than Toyota, Nissan, Honda or even Ford. It is a beautiful looking car but has many issues and hopefully they will learn from their mistakes but next time it is not going to be at my expense and hard earned money!


PS. I really try not to talk Trash or put this car down since many are happy with their Malibu and I currently still own and like the Malibu but the Truth will be the Truth and can say this car has had too many issues! You only expect this from a older car with high mileage not something that is new or has very low miles!


Thanks! :rolleyes:

[quote=kencar10;54727]This site has many members, but no where close to the total amount of Malibu owners that are out there and I would imagine the number of regular contributing members is a small portion of the total membership. Don’t get me wrong, I love this site, I joined to learn of potential problems I might see as well as to see what everyone is doing with and to their cars.


I can’t say I agree, I am sure many Owners don’t come on this site or even know about this site! I am sure you would get Positive and Negative responses and I am sure there would be a lot of common problems/complaints if every owner was to report to this site! I could personally go on and on and list problems that I have had with my 08 Malibu along with my Sister’s 08 Malibu that she recently traded not too long ago! Even my son’s 06 LT is having problems and is in the shop as I type to this post comments! So I think it is the luck of the draw when it comes to these cars! I like my Malibu and plan on keeping it but I totally disagree with you! The Trade-IN Value Totally Sucks, another reason I will be keeping it! “Would lose thousands” GM was on the right track but failed in more than one area. I could not say this car is better than Toyota, Nissan, Honda or even Ford. It is a beautiful looking car but has many issues and hopefully them will learn from their mistakes but next time it is not going to be at my expense and hard earned money!


PS. I really try not to talk Trash or put this car down since many are happy with their Malibu and I currently still own and like the Malibu but the Truth will be the Truth and can say this car has had too many issues! You only expect this from a older car with high mileage not something that is new or has very low miles!


Thanks! :rolleyes:

........OK

You really can't say how "good" or "bad" your car is until you have a good 25K or more on it, at least. Our Malibu was great until about 20K~ then all sorts of things started to go wrong, need to be fixed, break, etc. A co-worker with a '09 2LT with 51K just traded his is for a Mazda 6 after his forth steering rack. I am thinking we are gonna trade ours in before the 36K warranty end, as I just don't trust the long term durability of this car. Sucks....

I agree, Im sure the majority of owners are happy owners and do not even know about this forum site. People who are upset find this a convenient place to vent. If they would have bought some foreign junk they would be on that forum venting. Even a $75,000 lexus has its problems. All my GM vehicles for the past 35 of my driving years have been good and long lasting cars and trucks.



Everybody is entitled to their own opinion but with it being only your 4th Post, you need to search the site a little more and you will find many with legitimate grips/problems and experiences with the Malibu that just should not have on a New/Newer Car! Just hope you don’t have any problems with yours and don’t have to Vent!;)

You just might be a little bit correct. Maybe you have a history of telling people what they need to do. You know nothing about me. I don't think Ill to tell you what you need to do. Unless I can help you with your troubles.



Ya, know, Some can really dish it out but can’t take it! No one is telling you what to do but only suggesting! If you really want to know more about issues/problems that some have had, it would only make it easier for you if you did some research on the site. You make actuations saying that this is a convenient place to Vent just because some have had some real issues with their car! You maybe right but what you don’t know is the real problems that many have had with the Malibu‘s! That being said, you don’t know me or the issues that I have had on my car! Only having 4-5 Post you mostly likely don’t know anybody here on this site, never mind know what kind of issues that some have had with the Malibu! Give me a break! I will leave it at that because you are truly just not worth the effort.


Thank You!;)

Gentlemen,
Let's continue to be careful about what we say and how it's presented. There will be differences of opinion, and that's to be expected. If they're presented in a manner that doesn't accuse or belittle then you're setting a reasonable example of how to disagree without letting it go too far.

One word of caution, though: Make sure you don't go too far with your content so that you don't end up on the short end of the stick, so to speak. When you agreed to become members you also permitted the site to edit or delete posts as we deem appropriate, and/or to ban users, either temporarily or permanently. You haven't gone that far, and I'm glad of that. But keep your senses about this and make sure that what you post is not something you'll regret.

Fair enough?

Agreed, Fair enough and would also like to move on! This is a great site with a lot of great people here and would prefer to keep it that way no matter if my opinion and experiences are different from one person to the next! We all do have one thing in common, we all own a Chevy Malibu!

Thanks!

I wasn't stopping you from continuing, but I respect both of you even more. Good job! And taking the higher path is a great way to make this site even better. Thank you both.

I wasn't stopping you from continuing, but I respect both of you even more. Good job! And taking the higher path is a great way to make this site even better. Thank you both.



And there is more I would like to say, Only kidding!:D LOL! Boy, it seems a lot of these Topics like this really fires things-up! I appreciate your comments and concerns towards the site. I prefer that it ended in a respectful way and want to thank you for the Compliment!


Thanks!


PS. @MILO, nothing personal, everything is cool! :)

No. By far the worst GM product I've owned. Suspension and transmission problems in this vehicle are ongoing despite multiple trips to a competent and cooperative dealer. I do not recommend this product to any who ask what I think of it.

No. By far the worst GM product I've owned. Suspension and transmission problems in this vehicle are ongoing despite multiple trips to a competent and cooperative dealer. I do not recommend this product to any who ask what I think of it.

I'm glad to hear you're getting assistance from a dealer that has the right attitude, as that seems to be unusual for most. But at the same time I'm saddened by the outcome. If they could get all these issues corrected I'm sure you'd really appreciate the car, but because of all these issues I understand why you feel that way and even how you feel. I seriously thought about buying a Ford Taurus instead of replacing my '09 with an '11 but decided to get the 'Bu again.

If you check your state's Lemon Laws you might have some legal redress.

Yes I would buy the Malibu again. In fact I did. The wife had an '09 that was totaled while parked at a pond near the house. I spent 2 weeks trying to find her the same car she loved it so much.

Out of all the thing I've read about and experienced, the only thing I don't like are the blind spots from the driver seat looking forward. I've had numerous near misses and because of that, I don't think I would buy another Malibu.

Out of all the thing I've read about and experienced, the only thing I don't like are the blind spots from the driver seat looking forward. I've had numerous near misses and because of that, I don't think I would buy another Malibu.


I find there are bad blind spots not only in the front but also in the Rear Pillars! My Sister and her husband complained of the same thing in their 08 Malibu! I find that even the passenger headrest even becomes a problem looking to the right for on coming cars depending on the angle of the car/road when stop at a Stop Sign, even more so on my Malibu since I had the DVD Headrest System installed! They are much bigger than the original! Maybe that's why you don,t see this Option offered for the Malibu on the Chevy Site anymore! "Only Replacement Headphones"


PS. There are others that I have heard complain about the same thing, it is not just us!

I find there are bad blind spots not only in the front but also in the Rear Pillars! My Sister and her husband complained of the same thing in their 08 Malibu! ... There are others that I have heard complain about the same thing, it is not just us!

Yes, I noticed that on my original test drive. The rear pillars and the rear headrests lead to more blindspots. Raising the driver's seats helps with seeing over the rear headrests.

The rear pillars are a tradeoff (to styling). Like the smallish trunk opening.

Not that it's any consolation, but you should check out the Camaro if you want to see blind spots in the rear pillars. I think those cars should come with a periscope.

I find there are bad blind spots not only in the front but also in the Rear Pillars! My Sister and her husband complained of the same thing in their 08 Malibu! I find that even the passenger headrest even becomes a problem looking to the right for on coming cars depending on the angle of the car/road when stop at a Stop Sign, even more so on my Malibu since I had the DVD Headrest System installed! They are much bigger than the original! Maybe that's why you don,t see this Option offered for the Malibu on the Chevy Site anymore! "Only Replacement Headphones"


PS. There are others that I have heard complain about the same thing, it is not just us!

For me, the rear pillars aren't that bad, it's really just the front ones. I angle my side mirrors as far out as possible and can see when a car is coming up beside me.

Same thing with me, I was at a stop sign recently and was completely stopped. It looked to be clear so I let go of the gas and next thing you know this girl was right in front of me. She was completely hidden to me behind the left pillar. :eek: Luckily, this was in the shopping mall parking lot so I was driving a bit slower than normal and was able to stop the car safely. I also remember one time, a smart car scaring the crap out of me as it just appeared out of no where.

Now, I poke my head around the front pillars before hitting the gas.

Until it was totaled the 24th of January, I had a 2008 Pontiac G5; Decent, basic transportation with only minor warranty issues. I ended up with a 2011 Malibu as a rental, with my heart set on a Fusion, and ended up falling in love with the Malibu. This past Monday, I bought a 2008 Malibu LTZ 3.6 with 22k on the odo. It's beautiful, but I have just one minor concern: I knew the ride would be a little harsher on the LTZ with 18's vs the rental LT1 with 17's but my 08 just doesn't take road imperfections nearly as well as the 11. It's not something I can't live with and its certainly better than my G5, but I expected closer ride performance than what I've experienced thus far. I wholeheartedly support DRIVENDAILY's comment that the hydraulic power steering is worlds better than the EPS.

As far as reliability is concerned, I bought the GMPP (GM Protection Plan) for 72mos and 72k miles. Sure, it cost me $2200, but when the warranty expires in 2017, the car will be 9 years old; It will have certainly paid for itself by then. Additionally, GM offers 18mos, same as cash financing for the warranty plan with 10% down. The warranty starts the day you buy it, NOT the original in-service date like some extended warranties. For me, it was a no-brainer.

I am real happy with the way my LTZ handles the road. Be sure to check your tire pressure right away. Ive bought cars from dealers before with the tires low on pressure when I drove off the lot. If it has the original tires they may be do for a rotation. I run 30 psi in my tires. The sticker on the drivers door says to run 30. It works for me. The temperature change outside makes a difference on tire pressure. I am new around here also, welcome to the site, theres alot to read. Congratulations on your new car. I hope you like and enjoy yours as much as I do mine.

The tire pressure if fine, in fact, the first thing I did was take it to a friend of mine who put nitrogen in the tires because it's far more stable (not effected by temps). I'll get used to the ride. I adore the car, can't stop looking out the window at it LoL

I have had my 2009 LT for about a year and and a couple of months now and I have to say that I am very satisfied with it. First of all, I bought it without telling my woman. When I told her that I has bought a car she was aboout to tear me another one, but when she saw it she fell in love with it. I was a bit squirmy about getting it at first because it was ewither that or a Caddy CTS. The price difference was about $5,000. But the Malibu rides very nice. I love my car. Even though I havent bought any aftermarket wheels for it and still has its original chrome wheel covers, it makes heads turn (even when its dirty). I would indeed buy it again, but like someone mentioned earlier, I'd probably go for the LTZ. I've been thinking if maybe the look will change in the 2012. does anyone know?

I have had my 2009 LT for about a year and and a couple of months now and I have to say that I am very satisfied with it. First of all, I bought it without telling my woman. When I told her that I has bought a car she was aboout to tear me another one, but when she saw it she fell in love with it. I was a bit squirmy about getting it at first because it was ewither that or a Caddy CTS. The price difference was about $5,000. But the Malibu rides very nice. I love my car. Even though I havent bought any aftermarket wheels for it and still has its original chrome wheel covers, it makes heads turn (even when its dirty). I would indeed buy it again, but like someone mentioned earlier, I'd probably go for the LTZ. I've been thinking if maybe the look will change in the 2012. does anyone know?


A Redesign is in the works for 2012! There will be no V6 Engine Available and will only have a 4 cylinder option! I am very curious what they will have to offer since the current option is the choice of the I4 that lacks in horsepower and the V6 that is not Fuel efficient friendly by any means but offers the horsepower that is needed to pull the weight of the current Malibu! Glad to hear you are happy with the Malibu, it is a beautiful looking car! ;)

Bought a 2011 LTZ, white diamond, mid-Dec . . . I have to say, the ride is not like my 02 Bonneville so will take me longer to get used to the stiffer ride. All in all I do love the way it looks and handles--have the cocoa-cashmere leather interior, which is absolutely gorgeous! Does anyone have a problem w/air noise coming through their windows and sunroof? I thought this car was supposed to be so "sound" proof! That was the one and ONLY bad thing I have to say about the Bonneville, way too much air noise!

Bought a 2011 LTZ, white diamond, mid-Dec . . . I have to say, the ride is not like my 02 Bonneville so will take me longer to get used to the stiffer ride. All in all I do love the way it looks and handles--have the cocoa-cashmere leather interior, which is absolutely gorgeous! Does anyone have a problem w/air noise coming through their windows and sunroof? I thought this car was supposed to be so "sound" proof! That was the one and ONLY bad thing I have to say about the Bonneville, way too much air noise!



The Malibu does have a stiffer ride/suspension! The plus side of it is that it gives it better handling but the weight of the Malibu sometimes over takes the benefit a little, just my opinion! I find it rides smooth until you hit a bump especially if you have the whole family in the car, the weight worsens the ride quality. I compare the ride like a sport car as for ride quality/ smoothness. I did put different tires on my Malibu that are better in the snow but are stiffer in the sidewalls which make the ride even stiffer. Noise? I find that the Malibu is pretty quiet, good thing for me because I have some aggressive tires and I find that the Malibu bocks a lot of road noise other wise I may have found the new tires too loud as some have said in online ratings! Sunroof? That has been a problem for me! Not so much as for wind noise but Squeak/rattles when closed. It does not make any sounds when I slide it open. I have had a issue with the overhead with the similar issues and had it fixed per TSB, But the sliding part of the Sunroof has not changed! Again No Air Noise, Just squeak Noises! I am now trying to get everything corrected on mine and hope to keep it for a long time. I am hoping all my issues will soon be something in the past!! The Malibu is a beautiful looking car but does have some issues! I have seen members/owners here for some time now while I have also seen others come and go on the site!

and the V6 that is not Fuel efficient friendly by any means

Maybe you missed the threads, but most V6 owners get almost as good mpg's as the I4. I got 25-27 at 80 mph with ours when we had it.

Maybe you missed the threads, but most V6 owners get almost as good mpg's as the I4. I got 25-27 at 80 mph with ours when we had it.



I disagree, have seen some state they got 30 to mid 30 "Almost as good ???" on the highway and many have got 25mpg mixed with the I4. I just recently took my Malibu into the shop to have it checked out and they reset the computer and had did some other stuff to it and the highest on my just recent trip was around 26 and just barely hit 27. Hit the slightest hill and forget it, no more 27. On average it was more like 24-25 highway! As I continue to read everyone’s responses I4 VS. V6, I can’t say the V6 is as fuel efficient! Do I prefer the extra Horsepower over the I4, absolutely! We can go on and on but I chose not too and chose to leave it at that! I did not miss the threads . No disrespect!;)

I disagree, have seen some state they got 30 to mid 30 "Almost as good ???" on the highway and many have got 25mpg mixed with the I4. I just recently took my Malibu into the shop to have it checked out and they reset the computer and had did some other stuff to it and the highest on my just recent trip was around 26 and just barely hit 27. Hit the slightest hill and forget it, no more 27. On average it was more like 24-25 highway! As I continue to read everyone’s responses I4 VS. V6, I can’t say the V6 is as fuel efficient! Do I prefer the extra Horsepower over the I4, absolutely! We can go on and on but I chose not too and chose to leave it at that! I did not miss the threads . No disrespect!;)

Well if you think 27 mpg is not "efficient" then the few more the 4 banger gets doesn't qualify it as "efficient" then either. In most cases there is as little as 2-3 mpg difference. Many get crappy mileage with the I4 since it is under powered for the car and owners tend to push it harder, thus hurting mileage. The V6 moves the car much better, hence less throttle input and down shifting. I had a I4 rental a few times when I owned mine and it was in the shop. I got worse mileage with the I4 then my V6. Bottom line, the Malibu IMO needs the V6, and be happy you have it. :D

All these posts about the 4 vs. 6 gas mileage have to be taken with a grain of salt. Obviously, it depends on city vs highway driving. But it also depends on:

how many people and luggage in the car
in the city, is there a stoplight every other block
on the highway, is it flat roads or hilly
do you like to drive 65 or 80 on the highway
are you an aggressive driver that likes to beat others off the line and pass aggressively
do you drive more conservatively to get another 3-7 mpg, or don't you care that much
will your driving habits change if gas goes back up to $4 a gallon
do you want to pay the initial price premium for the 6, which usually requires getting a more optioned out car


So everyone has an opinion and it depends on all this, and probably 10 more things I didn't list.

Honda, Toyota, Mazda, etc. all sell 4 door sedans with 4 cylinder engines, and they sell a boatload of them, and people continue to buy them again and again. I surmise that a fair majority of the people posting you have to get the 6 wouldn't get the 4 in any of these other cars either.

That's ok, more horsepower is always good, if you're willing to pay for the additional costs.

For one person, maybe the gas mileage isn't much different between the 4 and 6 depending on their drive (and all the things listed above), but that's just one data point.

I'm too lazy and busy to look it up, but I'm willing to bet that the Accord, Camry, etc. aren't that much lighter and their 4's have around the same horsepower. The new Sonata being an exception since I believe it has 200 hp.

FWIW, my '09 LT1 with the 4 gets around 27 in mixed driving (over one year), which is pretty much what I'd expect given the 22/33 EPA estimates.

To be fair, we don't own this car anymore. Did we or would we buy another (GM?), NO. period.

Look, I bought this car for the same reasons that most of you did and later only to find out that the service departments and the gm reps really didn't care if i got my car repaired correctly or not. (My posts on this site are still here if any one wants to read them.)

You can say that I'm just the type that is hard to please or that I'm the type that is just looking to bash a car company or dealership's because of this little thing or that small thing. (Your.. just... too... picky!) You couldn't be more wrong. I, like most of you wanted to believe in that the American car companies had finally got it right, buying American for the sake of the American autoworker and supporting the American economy and a great looking car to boot. Right? Seriously, Right?! (Yes.)

But just how disappointed, ashamed and disgusted over the whole experience cannot be expressed in words. The lack of respect and caring afforded to me and my wife from gm was appalling. On top of the whole mess over the reliability, the value and resale worth of this car was beyond expression. (Over half of what i paid was lost in value in less than two years! but they got it right, didn't they? .....No, I'm afraid not.)

I could go on.............. but why............ You no longer own this car, right?...right. (Our attorney made sure of that.)

Ok then, all auto manufacturers make a bad car from time to time, right?
Yes and no. You be the judge on that one. (I no longer buy anything of value without researching it FIRST. period. and sorely regret that i didn't on this car.)

I sincerely hope (i do really mean this) that all of you have better luck with your cars, dealership's and repair departments than we did.

No. My cons definately outweigh my pros on this car. After owning it and seeing how it is, definately not. But, in 5 years from now when it's much cheaper and perhaps the problems and kinks have already been fixed, then yes, I'd be happy to own my car again!! :)

NO...I don't like the handling...I blew both of the rear speakers at 42k miles...it's luxurious inside and I like that...I like the horsepower, but the jerk to the right upon take-off (with the pedal to the floor) is a big turn off...the handling and audio issues really turned me off...otherwise I would buy again...

(for the record I've mostly owned fords in the past and have been VERY pleased...don't know why I bought a chevy! LOL)

we have only had our 2010 bu for about 1.5 months and have 3300 miles on it, wife drives 80 to 100 miles per day when she works.. only issue was a wheel was not ballanced from the factory.. my truck, 2006 1500 has 50k on it and had one issue the dealer pointed out during an oil change (worn tie rod) and they fixed while in for the oil change this was around 35k miles:).. seems like a good record to me.:rolleyes:

I like the horsepower, but the jerk to the right upon take-off (with the pedal to the floor) is a big turn off...)

That is called torque steer. ALL FWD cars with power do that FYI.

I love my Malibu. The style, quality, and performance all exceeded my expectations. Other midsizers have a V6 horsepower advantage, but they don't have that oldschool American torque down low like the personality of the 3.6L. Combine that with a redline just under 7000 and I can't say enough how much of a gem the motor is.

People complain about the rear visibility, but I stopped noticing and adapted to it within 6 months. Honestly I'm glad Chevrolet had the balls to sacrifice something in the interest of design, a perfectly fair trade in my eyes, unlike the Japanese best sellers.

If you want an appliance, get a Camry. If you want a classy automobile, get a Malibu. You bet your ass I'd buy it again. Exactly the frickin same, too.

Most of us bought the Malibu because we truly like it! Many that are angry, upset or disappointed is because of GM issues/errors and getting the run-around with their Dealerships! Now, just because some have got lucky and have not had any problems should not be calling anyone Complainers or Whiners or even referring to anyone as one! One word/name that comes to my mind is Karma!

I think everyone should either stop or not start with the name calling regardless of which side of the fence one may be on. We're here on this forum to both learn and teach. Insults are counterproductive and demeaning. Wishing harm or foul on another person is one step away from doing it.

It's up to each one of us to lift every conversation above mediocrity and show just how capable we are at being mature, thinking, and caring individuals.

As far as my vote goes on this thread, I posted before but it bears repeating since I'm here again.

I traded my '09 for an '11 because I really like this car a lot. I now have the color and interior I'l be happy with for a long time. Having owned only used cars my entire driving life this is my first chance to take a car from new to used to well-used like so many of mine were when I was first introduced to them. I spent money to resurrect them and make them cars I could keep but other things conspired to deny me that privilege. This time my money is going in up front. I'll spend more as time goes by and I'll not expect this car to be perfect, especially as it ages. But while it's under warranty I'll keep it as perfect as GM will allow me. So now I'll know every experience it has because I'll be there the whole trip.

I like mine, a 2010 2LT. I would not buy a 2011 because they do not offer universal home remote. I am looking at a Cruze but they don't offer it either, so I will not buy either one. It is a shame GM took it off the Malibu.

I think everyone should either stop or not start with the name calling regardless of which side of the fence one may be on. We're here on this forum to both learn and teach. Insults are counterproductive and demeaning. Wishing harm or foul on another person is one step away from doing it.

It's up to each one of us to lift every conversation above mediocrity and show just how capable we are at being mature, thinking, and caring individuals.

As far as my vote goes on this thread, I posted before but it bears repeating since I'm here again.

Thanks!

I traded my '09 for an '11 because I really like this car a lot. I now have the color and interior I'l be happy with for a long time. Having owned only used cars my entire driving life this is my first chance to take a car from new to used to well-used like so many of mine were when I was first introduced to them. I spent money to resurrect them and make them cars I could keep but other things conspired to deny me that privilege. This time my money is going in up front. I'll spend more as time goes by and I'll not expect this car to be perfect, especially as it ages. But while it's under warranty I'll keep it as perfect as GM will allow me. So now I'll know every experience it has because I'll be there the whole trip.



My Statement was based on a thought of theory and not a mission of harm or wishing foul on anybody, never mind taking any steps to harm! So I hope everyone understands that it was based on goodness and how you treat others! Some religions refer this in a good way based on your goodness and placing yourself closer to God.

Just because a person/persons may be down on the ground and needs help, does not make it right or give anybody the right to kick them or stomp on them!

Nothing Personal! Nothing Hateful!

Everything else, I 100% agree with and want to thank you for your un-Judgmental approach to this topic! NO Name Calling Please!

@08:
I was hoping you didn't think I was pointing fingers at you. I thought you expressed your thought well. I just figured it was a good springboard to interject some sanity, building on your post. I didn't see any hate in your post at all.

No, I would not buy the Malibu again, here is why:

1. I plan on seeing how many miles I can put on a gm car(my Malibu) and buying it brand new to test this was a must, so I could make sure it was properly cared for from day 1. In other words I plan on keeping this car for a long time.

2. The e-brake or parking brake should be located in/at the center console, not by my foot.

3. Maybe I'll buy the Camaro next.

As far as how she has treated me, the car has been great! I have a great car here that I can really depend on. Aside from the (so far just annoying noise) it makes in cold starts in the winter, and the fact that the e-brake is not located properly.

@Drivendaily, OK, I thought maybe I might have been giving some the wrong expression and thoughts rather than where I was directing this to be! Again nothing personal, I was just trying to set things right, at least in some peoples thoughts and how they respond! I just would like to see everyone to get along good and have more consideration of other members! All of us have great cars but unfortunately some of us have some issues to work out with GM and their Dealerships. This has been the main issue for many!

Hope everyone has great luck with their cars but if you don’t, I can personally say I will be understanding and try to pass any help/info if possible, whether or not if it makes it count for anything? When I see someone that has an issue with thier car, it concerns me just as much since I own the same kind of car! Later down the road, this could be my problem! There are/has been too many common problems with this Malibu and GM continues to push them out on the lots with some of the same problems! I know at times I can speak loudly when issues happen and I am sure some rather not hear it but I try to speak the Truth and the issues that I have experienced were real!

As for the Topic, I just could not or should say I would not want to ever have to go through this ever again! Do I plan on getting rid of the Malibu? NO but it will be my last Malibu! Too much money to lose if I Traded but again who knows what I may do?

Thanks for understanding!

OH YAH, Alright! :D
I like the way you said it man. It's nice to hear someone happy, I think the malibu is awesome, the V6 moves good, I have learned and adapted to the way the car drives and handles. Life is good with this car. Happy Motoring to you.:D

Thanks buddy. Back at ya. I just find very few faults with the car. I really feel that the vehicle finally lives up to the classic nameplate. It might not be RWD, but that's just a sign of the times. Certainly doesn't give up any performance vs the old days.

That's a great looking Malibu in your avatar, white LTZs are seriously sharp looking. You should upload some more pics in your gallery!

I got yet another CEL yesterday, I'm about ready to shoot this thing. Of course I'm 500 miles outside of warranty and of course we are leaving for a Spring Break road trip this Friday...

Off the top of my head I've had the following issues in 48,800 miles. Interesting all of these problems have occured in the last 12 months, or 16,000 miles, and required about 8 trips to the dealer.

Sway bar bushings replaced
Lower control arm replaced
Heater blower fan replaced
#1 Fuel injector replaced
All four door stops loose, to the point of the nuts being finger tight
Cam solenoid replaced
All four rotors warped at 35K, required new pads too

I have had my car for just a little over three months. So far I can find nothing that I am not happy with. As far as the Emergency Brake .... I guess most of you who are complaining about it are fairly young so you don't realize that up to the early 80's all cars and trucks had the E-brake down on the floor. Personally I never use it so its not an issue for me.

My malibu has been pretty much problem free so far. I would consider buying one again, but from the pictures that I've seen of the next gen malibu, it's taking a step back in styling!

I got yet another CEL yesterday, I'm about ready to shoot this thing. Of course I'm 500 miles outside of warranty and of course we are leaving for a Spring Break road trip this Friday...

Off the top of my head I've had the following issues in 48,800 miles. Interesting all of these problems have occured in the last 12 months, or 16,000 miles, and required about 8 trips to the dealer.

Sway bar bushings replaced
Lower control arm replaced
Heater blower fan replaced
#1 Fuel injector replaced
All four door stops loose, to the point of the nuts being finger tight
Cam solenoid replaced
All four rotors warped at 35K, required new pads too

Looks like the cam solenoid is toast again. I also failed to list the brake booster was replaced too.

It's really a shame because I enjoy driving the car. It's quiet and comfortable.

Hellgate,

I have read your post. I can understand how frustrating your situation is with your Malibu. I have read that you are leaving from spring break this coming Friday. Have you discussed the code with your dealership yet? Did this code that you have come up happen before your warranty had ended?

Sincerely,
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

but from the pictures that I've seen of the next gen malibu, it's taking a step back in styling!

There hasn't been any official images released yet. All you are seeing are test mules, and you can't go by them.

Hellgate,

I have read your post. I can understand how frustrating your situation is with your Malibu. I have read that you are leaving from spring break this coming Friday. Have you discussed the code with your dealership yet? Did this code that you have come up happen before your warranty had ended?

Sincerely,
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

Hi Michelle, thanks for the response. I dropped the vehicle off this morning and they confirmed the code; the cam actuator is bad. The prior cam related issue was the solenoid. The code was thrown about 400 miles after my warranty expired, which was one week ago. They've got the part in stock and the car will be repaired by tomorrow evening, $162.00, could be worse. Thanks again.

I bought a Malibu just over a month ago. Although the last 2 weeks it's been in the body shop because I got in an accident. I've been thinking a lot about the question of if I'd do it again if I had the chance. I leased a 2011 1LT, which has a lot of standard features included. That was one of the main reasons I went with Malibu, along with being a good looking car and decent gas mileage. Luckily as far as any repairs are concerned, the car should be under warranty for the majority of the time I'll have it. If I had a chance to go back and buy any car, I'd probably still buy the Malibu. But I doubt I'll get the new Malibu when the lease is up. If I end up getting another Chevy, it'll probably be a Camaro.

Hellgate,

Thank you for the update with your Malibu. I am glad that you are able to get to the bottom of this.

I hope that your trip is very enjoyable.

If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

pipdipchip,

What a bummer that you have gotten into an accident with your Malibu. I hope that you did not sustain any injuries from the accident.

I am glad to read that you are happy with your Malibu. When you are in the position to start looking for a new General Motors vehicle, let me know. The Chevrolet Camaro is a great choice.

Sincerely,
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I would buy this car again. The only issue I have had to this point never really became an issue.

I had to take the car in to the dealer for a recall on, IIRC, was the cable running from the shifter to the engine. The dealership here in town took it right into the shop, made the correction and I was driving off the lot less than a half hour after I had pulled into it.

I am always getting asked questions about my Silver at work. Since the day I bought it, I have noticed two other Malibus in the lot, but haven't had a chance to find out whom the owners are.

Curiously, I had to make this very choice last week.

I have a 2009 1FL (4 cyl, 4 spd) fleet car that's up for replacement. I could choose between another Malibu (this time, 4 cyl, 6 spd), a Ford Fusion, a Mazda 6, or a Subaru Legacy.

In the 70,000 miles I've put on this car, it's been to the shop every 5K miles for an oil change (doesn't burn a drop), and just ONE service to fix the broken turn signal cancel.

This time I'm getting the Bluetooth adaptation, little else. I hear the fleet administrator may have deleted the OnStar, fine with me. I have never needed it and I don't want it.

Other coworkers chose the Subie or the Ford. I know of none who got the Madza. The Synch in the Ford is flaky. When my boss or 1 coworker who had it on their last cars would call me, I couldn't hear them and always had to have them repeat what they said. The BT may not be any better in the Malibu, but at least Microsoft won't live in my car.

I find the Malibu very comfortable, still. I test drove the Ford and the Subaru, I still like the throttle response of the Chevy best. Those few days of winter that the Subie can get around better, I stay home. The all-wheel drive of the Subaru doesn't stop you any better. I like the Malibu enough that my wife will be getting this '09 one. It will probably have about 75K miles on it when my new one comes, and they'll offer this one to use for under $8K. It'll probably come in closer to $7200. Can't beat that for a great car.

BTW, I want to point out that the OE tires on this '09 are Hankook Optima 725. They have 70,000 miles on them and look like they have another 30,000 to go. Seriously good tires. I hope my new one has them too.

Damn, they should have put the Hankook Optimo tires on all the Malibu models. The Goodyears were such a cheapass move and it really hampers handling and performance.

A quick tally, it looks like so far we have,

23-Yes
12-No
6-who like the car but would buy a different car just to experience a different ride

There are some others, but not sure what they are getting at, also, not claiming this to be 100% accurate :p

I like the Malibu very much “Design Looks” and most likely will be keeping her but to go back and take a chance of going through some of the unfortunate problems with this car again? No, I think that’s why almost half of the owners wouldn’t buy again! That does not include some that have traded out and does not take part/post on the CMF anymore! NO need to keep count! I have a pick-up truck with over hundred thousand miles on it, that has had less problems than my new/newer Malibu! Other than that, it is a beautiful looking car!

Right now my biggest concern is that GM corrects / Fixes any errors on their part and it does not become just / only my problem later down the road! Any unresolved issues is just plain unacceptable!

I am still kind of debating on to keep the car or not! Either way I am looking into getting all /any issues corrected so if I do decide Trade or sell, I don't pass it on to someone else with a list of problems! We all know dealerships will sell it as is with the remainder of the Power Trans Warranty and pass the buck onto someone else and have a big smile at their service department.$$$

I am not one of those with the “If it is not broken don’t fix/leave it alone mentalities”. If it is not working properly, I prefer/want it fixed/corrected!

They need to make some Recalls if Needed and stop hiding/making the issue hidden from us, like there is nothing wrong with the car! Headlights, Steering Components, Transmissions, just to name a few! I am sure we all could add to the list of concerns!


Since I will most likely keep it for a long time/as long as I can, I think it is time to look into a better Extended Warranty than I currently have on the car! GM makes some great cars & trucks but made some boo boos "errors" on this one!

Hopefully the boo boos "errors" don't continue upon the duration of my ownership!

I would not buy again! I should have bought the Impala or even a Equinox when I was first looking! They are not known for as many problems as the Malibu! If I only knew!

A quick tally, it looks like so far we have,

23-Yes
12-No


Not good really, over 1/3 wouldn't buy again.

On a positive note. 71% are Happy. :)
23= 56%
12= 29%
6= 15%

That is well below the national average though. Most cars sold over the past 7 years have an 87% "yes" rate according to Edmunds.

Ask me again in oh, say a week.......

56%=Yes

44%=No

29% + 15%= 44%

Almost half would not buy again!

The numbers are so close but the Percent should be a lot higher as for the positives! Having almost half the owners not willing to buy another one just here on the site alone, say’s a lot!

The longer I stay informed and watch this site with new owners entering/joining, they keep coming with something bad towards issues on a brand new car!

Now this concerns me personally, even though I truly like the Malibu! What is going to happen at higher mileage after owning it for some time? Long term has me really wondering!

I already have had some issues of a high mileage car when in fact the car was new/newer! Hmmm! Makes you think!

When you take polls from a forum you are polling enthusiasts and folks that are looking for answers. In fact this is in no way a scientific poll. I actually feel better about my Malibu the less I am browsing this forum. Yes, GM needs to step up, and in some cases documented on CMF they have, but every manufacturer has issues, just look at the forums for their particular models and you will find just as many or more unhappy owners. Just my 2 cents.

<<< Everytime I get in and drive my Malibu, I realize what a great car it is. >>>

Same feeling for me. I've experienced only a few very minor problems.

('08 'LT2' silverstone w/ 2.4 and 4-speed auto)

When you take polls from a forum you are polling enthusiasts and folks that are looking for answers. In fact this is in no way a scientific poll. I actually feel better about my Malibu the less I am browsing this forum. Yes, GM needs to step up, and in some cases documented on CMF they have, but every manufacturer has issues, just look at the forums for their particular models and you will find just as many or more unhappy owners. Just my 2 cents.

Can't agree there. I am on forums related to my Camaro, and Speed3, and even my wife's 300. The owners on those forums are overall much happier and have less issues then I read on here.

Can't agree there. I am on forums related to my Camaro, and Speed3, and even my wife's 300. The owners on those forums are overall much happier and have less issues then I read on here.

Every forum has the lovers and the haters. I also cruse other forums for Chevy Suburban, GM trucks, Tacomas, BMW, Subaru, Buick, Jeep, Dodge Ram... I can't attest to Camaro, Mazda or 300 forums but all of the other forums I review have similar questions and posts as to issues their cars/trucks encounter. The point is, these forums are places for questions and (hopefully) answers for folks looking to diagnose issues or tweak what they already have. I do think CMF is a good resource for us owners but it also tends to be a place where those of us that have (or had) issues with our cars to sound off and can potentially skew the results of a forum response poll. Ok, I am done beating this dead horse...

I would purchase this again!

Every forum has the lovers and the haters. I also cruse other forums for Chevy Suburban, GM trucks, Tacomas, BMW, Subaru, Buick, Jeep, Dodge Ram... I can't attest to Camaro, Mazda or 300 forums but all of the other forums I review have similar questions and posts as to issues their cars/trucks encounter. The point is, these forums are places for questions and (hopefully) answers for folks looking to diagnose issues or tweak what they already have. I do think CMF is a good resource for us owners but it also tends to be a place where those of us that have (or had) issues with our cars to sound off and can potentially skew the results of a forum response poll. Ok, I am done beating this dead horse...

I totally agree on both your points, 1) results are skewwd, as I mention before, 2) beating a dead horse here!

This forum is also a bit skewed since some of the most prolific posters on the forum have had problems with their cars, so it does tend to slant things.

Still no problems, here. Purchased 1/08.

The wife is happy with it and that makes me happy.

Bought my Bu new & going on 23,000 miles. I would only buy another Bu if the 4 speed automatic was available which currently is not the case. I did extensive research when I was car shopping and found that most of the issues Bu owners had revolved around the 6 speed automatic so I made sure I stuck with GM's ole' 4 spd. auto.

On a happier note, Vehix rates the 2011 Malibu as the third best built American car (http://comcast.vehix.com/articles/top-10-list/8-great-american-made-cars-trucks--suvs/4?cid=806).

This is one of the reasons I bought the Malibu! Many top Winning Awards! I wonder how many people/organizations that have given these reviews/awards actually own a Malibu?

Next week my Malibu goes into the Dealership again but into the body shop because the last time they replaced my headlight, they did not / could not align the Bumper correctly! Seam were the bumper meets the corner panel sticks out a little!

Also my headliner continues to rattle and they need to take the whole headliner down and try to figure out why! It has been in the shop more than once for this issue but still has not been resolved!

Oh, and they inform me they need the car for two weeks to correct these issues and really didn’t want to give me a ride home after asking, since they don’t like traveling that far! “20 miles”

One positive thing is there are going to replace my trim around the center vent after damaging it from the Dash pad replacement!

I think the Malibu is a beautiful car, I have always said that but this car has not Won any awards in my experience of ownership!

This is one of the reasons I bought the Malibu! Many top Winning Awards! I wonder how many people/organizations that have given these reviews/awards actually own a Malibu?

Next week my Malibu goes into the Dealership again but into the body shop because the last time they replaced my headlight, they did not / could not align the Bumper correctly! Seam were the bumper meets the corner panel sticks out a little!

Also my headliner continues to rattle and they need to take the whole headliner down and try to figure out why! It has been in the shop more than once for this issue but still has not been resolved!

Oh, and they inform me they need the car for to weeks to correct these issues and really didn’t want to give me a ride home after asking, since they don’t like traveling that far! “20 miles”

One positive thing is there are going to replace my trim around the center vent after damaging it from the Dash pad replacement!

I think the Malibu is a beautiful car, I have always said that but this car has not Won any awards in my experience of ownership!

If you're still under warranty, it stipulates that if repairs take more than one day, they should give you a rental for the duration.

My Bumper to Bumper just ended but was an prior issue before warranty expiration!

It is a shame because the Malibu is a nice car but I personally think GM had rushed this Model/car out the door!

Most if not all have been GM Errors! Can’t always blame the Dealership but many returning trips back to the shop don’t help things!

I would definately buy another one. Not anytime soon. Mine is only six weeks old. It is a 2011 LTZ Red Jewel Tintcoat with all options except sunroof. I did not expect the dual exhaust. It is not in the brochure photo. I was pleasantly surprised. It has considerably more power than my 2006 Buick Lacrosse that I traded in

You should get some pics and post 'em up here for us to see.

I would definately buy another one. Not anytime soon. Mine is only six weeks old. It is a 2011 LTZ Red Jewel Tintcoat with all options except sunroof. I did not expect the dual exhaust. It is not in the brochure photo. I was pleasantly surprised. It has considerably more power than my 2006 Buick Lacrosse that I traded in

V6 has duals, I4 has single standard.

Lemnoc,

I am glad that you are enjoying your 2011 Malibu. I can’t wait to see pics on the forum of you car.

In the future, if you have any questions or concerns about your vehicle don’t hesitate to contact me.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I would buy a Malibu again in a heart beat. The only change I would do is get an LTZ with the V6 and sunroof. My car has had only one issue (shift cable), that GM took care of for me. My car is rock solid, runs and drives great, and I feel the Malibu is the best looking mid-size sedan on the market.

I like my 2011 Malibu. The interior feels like a more expensive car. The ride is good, fuel mileage quite acceptable. I have to say it I am the least excited about it of all the cars I have ever bought. But my wife liked it best of the cars we were looking at, and if momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy.

But, if I had it to do over again, I would buy the Scion XB I was also looking at. I think it would be more dependable in the long run, and it was more flexible in its abilities.

Poorer mileage, however, and likely a higher theft risk.

But, if I had it to do over again, I would buy the Scion XB I was also looking at. I think it would be more dependable in the long run, and it was more flexible in its abilities.

Poorer mileage, however, and likely a higher theft risk.

Don't forget to add ugly as sin. :D

Well I'm back in the shop again today. Same damn problem, intermitent rough idle. However this time I have three different video caputes at progressive mileage to prove it. In addition to that problem it is intermitently missing a higher speeds, 75 to 80. This weekend I had to shift it manually between 4th and 5th at highway speeds. In 6th in auto, it would shutter; as if it was going to stall. I told the dealer to keep it until it is fixed. I also told him my warrenty is up but I had the car to him three times for the same problem, and once again to another dealer, and I expect this to be no charge. If it isn't fixed this time the POS is gone.

Oh and is there code thrown, no.

Well I'm back in the shop again today. Same damn problem, intermitent rough idle. However this time I have three different video caputes at progressive mileage to prove it. In addition to that problem it is intermitently missing a higher speeds, 75 to 80. This weekend I had to shift it manually between 4th and 5th at highway speeds. In 6th in auto, it would shutter; as if it was going to stall. I told the dealer to keep it until it is fixed. I also told him my warrenty is up but I had the car to him three times for the same problem, and once again to another dealer, and I expect this to be no charge. If it isn't fixed this time the POS is gone.

Oh and is there code thrown, no.



Sorry to hear this, I know exactly how you feel! This is one of my biggest complaints, is the none stop returning trips to the dealership! Many $$$ in Gas and Your time!

Oh, don’t forget no car to drive again! Now it is a rental or if you are lucky like myself you have another vehicle to drive but for me it is an older full size V8 gas guzzler truck that will turn your hair gray /grayer watching the price at the pump:eek:!

Also let us not forget you still need a ride home or to the rental company so you have to find someone to follow you there or pick you up after you drop off the car! I know for myself, I can't drive two vehicles at the same time!

I know some dealerships offer loaners but not mine, my dealership does not even want to give me a ride in thier shuttle because 20 miles is too far for them!

They did give me a ride home once and another time to a Car Rental company but I guess that was too many times and they were not making enough money working on my car! "They have made lots of money on my car"

I could not help myself, I just had to add my 2 cents! Hopefully they find the problem and get your car running correctly soon!

Try not to give up! Just remember it will be your loss not theirs! I can also understand if you are just tired of the headaches and want something more reliable!


I wish you the best of luck!;)

^^^ Thanks man.

The rental is on my nickle this time. I'm in a wonderful Toyota Corolla. That thing makes me really miss my Malibu! :D

I will say the dealership has been great, they keep finding and fixing problems, just not the one that causing this problem. Hopefully this will be the last trip for a long time, otherwise I've found a clean, low mile, G35.

I was thinking about all of the cars I've owned over the years and the best quality car was an '86 Isuzu Trooper. Over 135,000 miles the thermostat stuck open, and the driver's side visor broke. Other than that it was a great truck.

Don't forget to add ugly as sin. :D

Not the new ones. But then, that's why they still make both vanilla and chocolate ice cream.

And the back seat makes almost all sedans moan in envy.

But definitely not as classy an interior as my Malibu. However, you don't have to remove the front bumper to change the headlight bulb. Had I known that one fact, I probably wouldn't have bought the Mlibu. That said, I've changed exactly zero headlights in my Cobalt so far, at 5 years and 60,000 miles.

Just got off the phone with the dealer, they think I may have a piston/ring set going bad. The good, the Power Train Warranty will cover the motor and labor. The bad, they may not give me a loaner. They're going to try to work something out. If I had purchased the car from them they'd give me a loaner. I feel they should give me a loaner as I first reported when the car was under warranty, and who really cares who I bought the car from. Push comes to shove I can ride my Yamaha FZ1. :cool:

I guess I can alway light it on fire...:rolleyes:

That is good news! At least things are looking on the positive side and is somewhat a relieve at this point! Sure you don’t have the car right now but at least they finally found the problem.

I feel the same way about the loaner situation that you are in, I think GM should be responsible for a rental! You had reported this issue while your Bumper to bumper was in effect, it was not resolved and the fact the Power Train Warranty does cover the issue!

I have gotten cheated out of an rental more than once! I don’t know why it matters so much to these dealerships?

Maybe it makes them look bad and it show's that they are not doing their job well when they have to file paperwork to GM? I don’t know! Just seems messed up on their part!

At this point I would not make an issue of it and just let them fix it! Right now this is your main concern!

Well at least you have your Yamaha, so you are not totally out of luck! Makes me think of some years back before I got Married! I had an older “1976” Yamaha XS 500 with DOHC. Bikes back then were really heavy!

Anyways, don’t want to throw this of topic "No I would not buy again", Glad to hear you have some positive progress going on with you Malibu. Hope the dealership gets it right this time!

Good luck!

I would buy one again in a second. I am on vacation far away from home. I miss my ne w LTZ. The rental agency would not give me a Impala. They gave me a Nissan Ultima. It is a piece of junk compared to the 2011 Malibu LTZ. It has this ridiculous push button start. You still have to carry a transmitter. The brakes are terrible. I miss my 18 inch aluminum wheels. They are beautiful

I may consider some other GM Car or Truck / SUV but not another Malibu! Although the Malibu is a nice car, there are too many problems with the current generation! They really need to get it right on the next generation or they may slowly lose some of their customer base / bread & butter car buyers to other car Manufactures!

Too many nice family sedans / cars are being made today with good Reliability ratings and higher resale Values! Why would anyone settle for less if someone is making better!

Personally, I think I will be looking for something more fuel efficient on my next new car purchase! I like cars with horsepower but I think we all will eventually be a little more concerned with fuel prices in the near future!

That is good news! At least things are looking on the positive side and is somewhat a relieve at this point! Sure you don’t have the car right now but at least they finally found the problem.

I feel the same way about the loaner situation that you are in, I think GM should be responsible for a rental! You had reported this issue while your Bumper to bumper was in effect, it was not resolved and the fact the Power Train Warranty does cover the issue!

I have gotten cheated out of an rental more than once! I don’t know why it matters so much to these dealerships?

Maybe it makes them look bad and it show's that they are not doing their job well when they have to file paperwork to GM? I don’t know! Just seems messed up on their part!

At this point I would not make an issue of it and just let them fix it! Right now this is your main concern!

Well at least you have your Yamaha, so you are not totally out of luck! Makes me think of some years back before I got Married! I had an older “1976” Yamaha XS 500 with DOHC. Bikes back then were really heavy!

Anyways, don’t want to throw this of topic "No I would not buy again", Glad to hear you have some positive progress going on with you Malibu. Hope the dealership gets it right this time!

Good luck!

Thanks for the support but I'm really hoping for a rental as I may not have a car for a long time. I also wear dress clothing for work so I can't ride the Yamaha every day. I have a feeling I may not see my car for a month or so.

Perhaps our GM Customer Service rep can help???

Thanks for the support but I'm really hoping for a rental as I may not have a car for a long time. I also wear dress clothing for work so I can't ride the Yamaha every day. I have a feeling I may not see my car for a month or so.

Perhaps our GM Customer Service rep can help???



I was thinking the same! Maybe Michelle from Chevy Customer Service could be some assistance with this and find out for you? :)

Just got off the phone with the dealer, they think I may have a piston/ring set going bad. The good, the Power Train Warranty will cover the motor and labor. The bad, they may not give me a loaner. They're going to try to work something out. If I had purchased the car from them they'd give me a loaner. I feel they should give me a loaner as I first reported when the car was under warranty, and who really cares who I bought the car from. Push comes to shove I can ride my Yamaha FZ1. :cool:

I guess I can alway light it on fire...:rolleyes:

I’m sorry to hear about the frustration you’re having with your dealership. If you wouldn't mind private messaging me your information, I'd like to look into this further for you.

Thanks,
Laura
Chevrolet Customer Service

I'm very pleasd with my Malibu - excellent car all around.

08chevymalibultz,

I know that you have had several situations with your Malibu. However, I am glad to read that you would give another General Motors vehicle the possibility of being in your family when the time comes.

In my area of the United States, the gas prices are at $3.8799 per gallon, depending on the gas station that I go by. We are thinking as you are with having to get a vehicle that is better on gas instead of horse power. We only have one vehicle at this time and I love it, but it is not the best on gas.

In the future, please, don’t hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I'm not quite a year in, but at this point I would definitely buy a Malibu again. This is the first new car I have ever purchased, and I was very patient and found one with all of the options I wanted and the best possible deal I could get. It's a 2009 2LT-V6, purchased new in May 2010. The rebate for '09 models was $4000 at the time, I got an additional $1000 loyalty rebate for being a Pontiac Owner, the dealer knocked off a little more, and I got more than I expected on my 2006 G6.

I love the car, it drives great, it's comfortable and roomy, and has been relatively trouble-free. I extended my warranty out to 48mo/60Kmi, I put on 15K a year, so with 60 month financing, it will be under warranty the entire time I'm making payments. It's the perfect situation for a guy with fairly modest means like myself, but it's still a "nice" car. In the end, for the money I was willing to spend, if I didn't get the deal I did on the Malibu, I would have had to settle for a Corolla, Civic, or Cobalt type car.

I would have to say NO...

My history with GM/Malibus is as followed.

Last December I went to my local Chevy dealer on Long Island looking for a late model preowned malibu. I told the dealer that I was interested in onstar. He sold me a 2008 LT1 with 40k in December of 2009. Within two weeks I had problems with the steering wheel shaking intermittently and had to go back to the dealer twice before the steering column was replaced, front headlight with moisture buildup, also had head liner repaired due to squeaking and lifting on the dashboard that was mentioned in these forums. After 2 months I went to go activate onstar only to realize the car was a previous rental and did not have that option. I went back and forth with the dealer only looking for an even swap to a malibu with onstar. After 3 months of calling and escalation the dealer got me a 2009 LT2 with 32K miles but charged me almost $6000K more ("the only car he could find me.")

I have had my L2 for 13 months and it is now at the dealer for a squeaky brake pedal, failed driver rear door actuator, peeling center caps on the chevy rims. The dealer is trying to charge me for $800 saying I need actuator $330, brake lines bled and replaced $159, need brake pads, and rotors resurfaced $299 (only 11k hwy miles on new dealer pads) and 2 center caps at $33 each.

I know that many of my GM problems seem to be stemming from the dealer but with 2 Malibu over the past 16 months I cannot say that the quality of the vehicle and/or dealer service is comparable to my previous vehicles experiences (Honda, Toyota, Volvo, Audi) All 4 of my previous vehicles lasted over 6 years with no more than basic maint (oil, pads, filters etc).

08chevymalibultz,

I know that you have had several situations with your Malibu. However, I am glad to read that you would give another General Motors vehicle the possibility of being in your family when the time comes.

In my area of the United States, the gas prices are at $3.8799 per gallon, depending on the gas station that I go by. We are thinking as you are with having to get a vehicle that is better on gas instead of horse power. We only have one vehicle at this time and I love it, but it is not the best on gas.

In the future, please, don’t hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service



Michelle,


Thanks! :)

PS. $3.999 Gal. in my home town here in CT.

After one year and 15,000 miles, I have had zero problems with this car. I wanted a car with good mileage and I am pleased with the 26.1 mpg that I am getting from the Malibu. I would buy it again but probably in another color. The metalic black doesn't shine like traditional black.

08chevymalibultz,

I would be happy to assist Hellgate, however, I see that my co-worker Laura is interacting with this member at this time.

Thank you for the referral to members. I greatly appreciate it.

Sincerely,
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I most certanly would. I love the clean look of this car both inside and out. The ride and handling is overall very good. I think the car is a great value for the price. Though there are a few issues with the vehicle, I have found that Chevy will stand behind their brand. I'm on board with this car 100%

Yes. No doubt. I think it looks better than anything it competes with, and has the "oomph" I'm looking for.

NEMalibu,

I am glad to read that you are happy with your Malibu. If you need assistance in the future, don’t hesitate to get a hold of me.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

A quick tally, it looks like so far we have,

23-Yes
12-No
6-who like the car but would buy a different car just to experience a different ride

There are some others, but not sure what they are getting at, also, not claiming this to be 100% accurate :p


Since the above count we now have:

32 - Yes
14 - No
7 -who like the car but would buy a different car just to experience a different ride

32 + 7/ 32 + 14 + 7 = 74%

Thus far thats a negative. I would buy a Ford or a Subaru before another Chevy. After this car, I'm done with GM until they can figure out quality. My Malibu has left me stranded twice in 4 months, in the shop 6 times.

The dealership put a bunch of computer updates on my car and while the problem has stopped in the interim they don't know how they fixed it which makes me nervous as it could actually just happen at anytime.

Think the next car I get will be a next gen Ford Flex with the Ecoboost motor.

Mexelby,

I understand the emotions that you are feeling with your experience with your Malibu. Do you know if the techs have gotten the technical center involved with what is going on with your Malibu?

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I bought my '08 certified used and it has been great for about 5k miles.

To the customer service rep, I have a very annoying squeak coming from somewhere on the passenger's side of the car anytime I hit a bump and sometimes when a song has a lot of bass. Is this something that is covered under my 12k/12 month warranty?

Also, something in the rear rattles if a song has any bass at all, even with the volume under 40% or so. Is this something I should expect and deal with? My mother's Maxima and even my wife's Sonata do not have this problem. My good friend's Infiniti and my coworker's BMW don't have these rattles and squeaks.

Basically, I don't want to waste my time taking the car in if it's going to rattle and squeak and be told it's normal.

Thanks for your time,
Chris

Oh, and yes. I'd buy the car again because it's the best looking car with the most options for about $15k I could find that still had a warranty. I get a lot of compliments on it.

Dear chrisguga,

Thank you for your post. From the information that I have available to me, as long as you are within the 12 months or 12,000 miles you should have the Bumper 2 Bumper warranty. I highly recommend contacting the dealership to confirm this information and to make sure that the part that might becausing this is in the B2B warranty. The dealership is the best place to get all the details of the warranty that is on your vehicle.

Since, I am not an ASE Certified Tech, I cannot speculate as to what could be causing these squeaks in your vehicle. The dealership is going to be the best place to start getting information about the culprit that is causing this for you.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

After one year and 15,000 miles, I have had zero problems with this car. I wanted a car with good mileage and I am pleased with the 26.1 mpg that I am getting from the Malibu. I would buy it again but probably in another color. The metalic black doesn't shine like traditional black.

The Silver Ice has a nice shine to it. Wash/clay/wax and it is hard to look directly at it when the sun is high in the sky. After it rains, the car barely shows any evidence of it and still shines.

Mexelby,

I understand the emotions that you are feeling with your experience with your Malibu. Do you know if the techs have gotten the technical center involved with what is going on with your Malibu?

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

No, but I live right down the road from the technical center. It's frustrating that while the dealership looks at it they didn't spend much time with the issue. It's still doing it and I don't have time to waste taking time off work to drop it off and pick it up over and over again.

If you look many members are having this problem but it's just simply not being acknowledged. (see url link below).

http://www.chevymalibuforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4843&page=9

GM has my money at this point so at this point it's a moot point for them to even care that i've been a loyal GM buyer. If they truely cared about fixing my issue someone from regional would pay the dealer a visit to look at my car.

I had someone from regional look at the Cobalt SS Supercharged I owned one time because of the firewall bracket which the clutch master cylinder fitted into became dislodged and looking at the bracket the dealer didn't know how to remove so they went ahead and pried it out with a screw driver thus causing a 20 minute job to turn into 10 hours and $1,200 later. Regional denied my claim due to dealer negligence and I ended up fixing the repair myself. What a joke..

I don't hold much faith the dealer nor anyone higher at GM can accurately fix my problem or those who are experiencing a similar issue that I am in the noted link above.

Dear mexelby,

I am not just blowing smoke, I do understand what you are going through. I realize that your time is valuable, just as everyone elses.

I apologize that you feel that you have had nothing but bad dealings with General Motors and the dealerships. However, I am hear to try to help you. I can let you know that I am trying to do my best with the guidelines that I have, but I will try my best for you.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

Absolutely....love it. I have had mine since new (LS). never ever a problem. Only thing is next time I would buy a 2lt or better for the couple of extra options tha I regret not having.

Dear mexelby,

I am not just blowing smoke, I do understand what you are going through. I realize that your time is valuable, just as everyone elses.

I apologize that you feel that you have had nothing but bad dealings with General Motors and the dealerships. However, I am hear to try to help you. I can let you know that I am trying to do my best with the guidelines that I have, but I will try my best for you.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service


Michelle,

Please don't take offense, I am not mad at you, I know you are one person who unfortunatly has limited pull and can only explain experiences based up on opinons and what is being told 2nd hand.

I just feel as a company as big as GM, it almost has to be a news article or told by consumer reports before it gets acknowledged. It takes bad press in order for movement as it only affects the bottom line ultimately only when someone pushes the right buttons.

I realize your not blowing smoke, I'm not sure what needs to happen to make this a transparent issue but it will only become transparent if it makes the news.

Also the dealership called me on Friday to ask how my service was, I basically told them what I brought it in for was not fixed and continues to do the problem.

I explained to them not enough time was given on the car and the computer updates they placed on the car didn't fix the problem. They said they did not bill GM for the time for the job, they said they ate that cost. I will be calling on Monday to GM Customer Service again to explain the situation.

If I have to bring it in again for them to look at it, it will cost me more money from missing work, picking the car back up, spending the time and gas to shuttle between to get it again. It's simply not worth it. I'll wait until more things go wrong so I can make it a accumulative trip. At the rate we are going something else will go wrong..

Dear mexelby,

I am not just blowing smoke, I do understand what you are going through. I realize that your time is valuable, just as everyone elses.

I apologize that you feel that you have had nothing but bad dealings with General Motors and the dealerships. However, I am hear to try to help you. I can let you know that I am trying to do my best with the guidelines that I have, but I will try my best for you.

Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

GM really has an opportunity to improve their situation, or make it worse.

Hyundai went from a lagging also-ran to one of the most liked brands in the industry largely on their changes to their warranty. People knew they could buy the car and have problems fixed. One of the biggest concerns people have when they buy a car is whether it will be dependable, will be repaired when it has a problem, and they won't have to spend a lot of time and money getting problems taken care of.

GM seems to have chosen the "nickel and dime them to death" route again, and if they run into problems again, I suspect there will be even less sympathy for them next time than there was last time.

If GM's management hasn't learned their lesson after the last two years, I suspect they never will.

I have dealt extensively with Volvo Trucks Customer Service from the inside, and I have seen a CS department that knows how to solve problems today, not tomorrow, and keep buyers happy.

When someone says, "There's something wrong with my car," the only possible answer is, "We'll find it and fix it or give you another one temporarily until we find it or permanently to make you happy."

The answer, "No, there's nothing wrong, the computer says there's nothing wrong, GM couldn't possibly build something that breaks like that, you'll have to keep on renting another car or walking while we have meetings about it, it's all in your imagination, let me transfer you to another department," is totally unacceptable.

I know you don't have the power to change this, but you have an inside track to communicate this to GM in a way we never can.

Agreed and well said, I have owned several GM products in the past along with other vehicle brands! My family and I have grew up as GM family owned vehicles for many years.

A good friend of mine was and still is a Ford Man when it comes to Vehicles. I remember we would do the Chevy VS. Ford battle talk all the time, how the other was better!

I knew that both Ford and Chevy always made good Trucks but I was never going to tell my friend that his Ford truck was as good or better than my Chevy truck!

Today I could not even make any challenge / bet over that today and the fact that I do own two Ford products along with my Chevy Malibu!

All the Vehicle Manufactures today are making good cars / trucks and I think the Foreign Companies have taken the market for more dependable / longer lasting Vehicles over our American Auto Makers!

If it was not for the Foreign Auto Makers putting the pressure / competing with the American Auto Makers, I can just imagine the kind of cars that would be on the road today? Probably not as good!

I can remember GM having the number one spot in the market for a very long time until Toyota and Honda stepped up their game and people started buying from them over the others simply for one reason, they were making better car period!

I will be keeping my current Malibu for some time since I owe a good amount on it and just bought another “better” Extended Warranty for it but I have to say the GM has soured my consideration for another GM vehicle since my Malibu purchase!

My oldest sister and her husband had also owed a 08 Chevy Malibu and had traded out for a Hyundai Genesis! Many common problems with the Malibu and along with many unacceptable trips to the dealership! GM really screwed up pissing them off since they have the exposable money to buy pretty much any vehicle they want! They have owned many Cadillac’s in the past and still own one today!

My son owns a 06 Chevy Malibu LT that he bought used and has already told me he is going back to Ford after this car since his experience with his Ford Taurus just out performed in the reliability in everyway! His 150,000 mile Taurus had less issues and was more reliable than his Malibu!

GM may be gaining some new buyers but they are also losing some at the same time! My long term ownership with my Malibu will surely have the final verdict if I will buy another GM product!

I have mentioned in another post that if I did not owe so much on my Malibu and if I did not have two other auto loans out, most likely the Malibu would have been gone to be honest!

GM really needs to pay attention to their current Customers needs and concerns or they will loose them as an end result!

Bottom line, they need to make "Reliable" cars!

They've already lost the battle. They're just lying there on the field gurgling.

They've already lost the battle. They're just lying there on the field gurgling.


BAM! Headshot.

Sure would. Had an 05 then bought my current one in 09

I definitely would buy another Malibu, but I wouldn't drive it as I've driven mine since day 1. My car is only 2 years old and I have just under 70k miles on that bad boy.... So to answer the question, yes!!

I sure would buy another one. I would like to have two. Maybe I would get a black LTZ with a sunroof. I would park it right next to my Red Jewel Tintcoat. LTZ. That would look pretty sharp.

ya maybe the 2013 model is AWESOME

Not a chance. Have had nothing but problems. My second car is a 98 regal GS. Twice the car. I bought a 2009 Malibu 2LT...wanted a sleeper of some sorts. Duals exhaust tips, v-6.....When I drove the car out of the dealer parking lot the steering wheel locked in place and I almost struck a light standard. The tech towed the vehicle back in the shop(don't forget this is a brand hamerrin' new car with 7 miles on the odo) and they discovered that some schmo in Detroit had forgotten to put the nut on the steering shaft. Right then and there it should have been an indicator of what I was about to face with my new Malibu. I took the car anyway...and it hasn't been anything but probelms since. Been driving GM products since I was 16....25 years now....but....It is my last GM product...unless i find a mint Regal GS

I have over 30,000 KM on my 09 LTZ. Both my wife and I love the car.
I would purchase another one but it should come with blue tooth standard.
Not sure if the 2013 model will have this.

Not a chance. Have had nothing but problems. My second car is a 98 regal GS. Twice the car. I bought a 2009 Malibu 2LT...wanted a sleeper of some sorts. Duals exhaust tips, v-6.....When I drove the car out of the dealer parking lot the steering wheel locked in place and I almost struck a light standard. The tech towed the vehicle back in the shop(don't forget this is a brand hamerrin' new car with 7 miles on the odo) and they discovered that some schmo in Detroit had forgotten to put the nut on the steering shaft. Right then and there it should have been an indicator of what I was about to face with my new Malibu. I took the car anyway...and it hasn't been anything but probelms since. Been driving GM products since I was 16....25 years now....but....It is my last GM product...unless i find a mint Regal GS

sorry to hear you got a bad car. i haven't had any mechanical problems with mine. it just feels cheap. the drive is so boring. i had a 1999 regal gs...loved it! even though it had an engine fire, i miss it. i could out-drive any kid with a civic. i can't stand the malibu - a 6 speed ltz would have been better, and maybe i should have gotten the v6. so many things that any person who has driven an expensive car would find irritating. i don't believe there's a good car out there for under $40g (maybe 35g). the new bu looks better, and still has the sidi ecotec that i don't like.

the 2012 regal gs is coming out in a few months. DRIVE IT! the new regal is not super plush, lazy boy seats, or sleeper. it's taut, handsome, a little daring, and quick. instead of a pos eaton, it has a state-of-the-art turbo motor, with room for a lot more power. i'd take a turbo 2L over a v6 any day. i'd get the gs just for its hyperstrut and variable suspension. same platform, similar engine...and totally different!

sorry to hear you got a bad car. i haven't had any mechanical problems with mine. it just feels cheap. the drive is so boring. i had a 1999 regal gs...loved it! even though it had an engine fire, i miss it. i could out-drive any kid with a civic. i can't stand the malibu - a 6 speed ltz would have been better, and maybe i should have gotten the v6. so many things that any person who has driven an expensive car would find irritating. i don't believe there's a good car out there for under $40g (maybe 35g). the new bu looks better, and still has the sidi ecotec that i don't like.

the 2012 regal gs is coming out in a few months. DRIVE IT! the new regal is not super plush, lazy boy seats, or sleeper. it's taut, handsome, a little daring, and quick. instead of a pos eaton, it has a state-of-the-art turbo motor, with room for a lot more power. i'd take a turbo 2L over a v6 any day
I can't qoute on the Regal but I had a 96 Caddy STS, great car, loads of power but the electronic struts were 1200................EACH

Happy so far, but it does have it's quirks, seatbelt tends to get caught between the armrest and seat and the high trunk line makes me feel like anybody behind is tailgateing but my 08 Impala had the same feeling, got more respect with the Impala but that's just because I looked like a Cop:)

We have 22K on our 08 LTZ. In the first 500 miles we were on a trip and the car started acting weird with the trans downshifting to 4th gear while driving on a level road at 70 mph. I would shift to manual and put it back in 6th and shift back to automatic mode. It would behave itself for 10 minutes and then would downshift again. Then we stopped at a rest area and the cruise stopped working. I called the dealer through On Star and asked the service advisor whether we should find a dealer along the road, just keep going and let it burn to the ground if it decided to do that or head home. His thoughts were let it burn to the ground so I continued. We made it home after we finished our business and when I took it in there was throttle control software download that was required to fix the downshift issue and the stop light switch had stuck thus causing the cruise to stop working. Since then the HVAC fan was replaced for squealing and that is pretty much all that has happened to the car. It hasn't been back to the shop since I had the oil changed last June 4th. Will be setting up an appointment to get the car back in for an oil change this week. Oh yeah, I almost forgot I can hear the brakes squeak a little when we back out of the driveway. But I don't really care since it doesn't mean anything.

It runs well, is much more stylish than a Toyota, looks great with the Golden Pewter Metallic paint/brick and ebony interior, gets pretty good gas mileage and when you keep your foot down on the throttle the 4 cylinder performs pretty well. There is some indecision in the throttle control algorithms when you go from the brake to the gas when turning at an intersection but that just takes a little forethought and getting on the throttle sooner with more movement to let the computer know you want to go. Doing that can almost completely eliminate the lag point. I highly recommend the car to anybody that asks and there was a real reason why it was Car of the Year.

Last year I was at a fancy hotel along the Pacific Cost of the Pales Verdes Peninsula and while I was walking into the front door somebody drove a new Bu into the Valet area and parked it right next to a brand new Bentley. The Bu looked like it belonged there in that elegant company. A Toyota or a Honda wouldn't have looked that way.

It has taken a long time but people are starting to see that GM products are a quality product and have been that way for a fairly long time. The 1980s were a long time ago. In 50 years of owning GM products I have only had one unreliable car (an 86 Delta 88) and they took care of me on that one. I beat on cars, I don't baby them and have found that I can beat on GM cars and they take the beating. I doubt that I could say the same about their so called competitors.

Bill

my company got me the malibu last week since i'm in medical device sales. i was suppose to get a ford fusion se, but the fleet department ordered the wrong car for me.

overall, i'm happy with it, i do love the remote smart and built in siriusxm radio. i do miss the rear back-up sensors on previous cars, it's a very nice feature. the 'bu is quieter at higher RPMS then the fusion i test drove previously before ordering my car.

the trunk opening on the 'bu is surprisingly size since i need to get my equipment in and out a lot, the fusion has a bigger and wider opening and standard fog lights.

This months-old thread is still going, so I'll throw my .02 in. I love my '09 LTZ Malibu. I've had it for 2 1/2 years, and had a few issues the first year, but it's been great since then. I haven't been to this forum in a while, so I'm really suprised to see so many problems being reported. (And worried also since my warranty is up this coming winter) My main regret is getting the V6...gas is expensive and I only average 22 MPG.

But would I buy again? YES! May even buy the 2013 when it's released...LOVE the pics I've seen of it.

i got lucky and the car was bought for me but thats about all im happy with. it looks nice exterior wise and interior wise but the interior just feels cheap to me. the clunk when i stear still hasnt been fixed by the dealer yet. it has 48,xxx on it and it just feels like the kind of car thats gonna fall apart once it hits 75,xxx+ so i dont trust it at all. this is the only new car ive owned every other car was 10 years+ old and i was much happier with them...so no i wouldnt buy a malibu again. done over i'd have gone with a ford or toyota pick-up or a jeep wrangler.

BryCola,

Thank you for sharing your experience with your 2009 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ. I am glad to read that you had your issues taken care of.

I can understand your concern about the vehicle with your warranty time frame. Just out of curiosity, have you thought about getting an extended warranty? I am not saying that you need to get one, but providing food for thought.

When I am provided the information for the 2013 model year information, I will be glad to share it with you.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Yeah....everyone I've talked to that has an LS is somewhat happy. It's the LTZ and 2 LT that people aren't happy with. The best mileage I ever had with this V-6 is 28 and that's in the midwest, no wind and no weight...and absolutely babying it The advertisement 35MPG....as if! My car is next to impossible to keep on the road where there are ondulated surfaces, wears the tires like crazy and...the imfamous clunking in the front end.....dealer doesn't have a clue on how to get rid of it. Wipers come on whenever they want, fit and trim is really bad ( dash is starting to warp from the sun's heat like my 68 Valiant did) outside trim is way off ( wind noise like you wouldn't believe when I drove it home....I could stick a pen right outside without opening the door....dealer 'repaired" it and looks like crap)

I test drove an LS and loved it. Then I upgraded. Big mistake.

But hey...it looks great!

Yeah....everyone I've talked to that has an LS is somewhat happy. It's the LTZ and 2 LT that people aren't happy with. The best mileage I ever had with this V-6 is 28 and that's in the midwest, no wind and no weight...and absolutely babying it The advertisement 35MPG....as if! My car is next to impossible to keep on the road where there are ondulated surfaces, wears the tires like crazy and...the imfamous clunking in the front end.....dealer doesn't have a clue on how to get rid of it. Wipers come on whenever they want, fit and trim is really bad ( dash is starting to warp from the sun's heat like my 68 Valiant did) outside trim is way off ( wind noise like you wouldn't believe when I drove it home....I could stick a pen right outside without opening the door....dealer 'repaired" it and looks like crap)

I test drove an LS and loved it. Then I upgraded. Big mistake.

But hey...it looks great!



what's your average mpg? ive got the 4 cylinder and average only 21..since i wanted a v6 from the start i might as well get one since i already pretty much get the mileage for one.

BryCola,

Thank you for sharing your experience with your 2009 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ. I am glad to read that you had your issues taken care of.

I can understand your concern about the vehicle with your warranty time frame. Just out of curiosity, have you thought about getting an extended warranty? I am not saying that you need to get one, but providing food for thought.

When I am provided the information for the 2013 model year information, I will be glad to share it with you.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Thanks so much Michelle! I'd love to hear any new information about the 2013 Malibu. I've googled and read as much info as there is out there. I even saw they Chevy is moving up the release date to possibly this winter. If the MPG's on the new Malibu are really in the 30 range, I'd seriously consider trading in my V6 LTZ. I understand the new Malibu's will only offer 4 cylinders, which is what I think I'm interested in anyway.

what's your average mpg? ive got the 4 cylinder and average only 21..since i wanted a v6 from the start i might as well get one since i already pretty much get the mileage for one.

If you can only get 21 from the I-4, you'll be lucky to get more than 16-17 in the V6, and it recommends midgrade instead of regular gas. If you're somehow positive it's not a result of your driving habits, then take it in for a tune up. If it's because you're only driving in hilly, twisty back road terrain then you're only going to get the worst results from the V6 as well. The 4-5 mpg difference is going to take its toll on your wallet.

My dash is also getting warped already. Pathetic. Fortunately this car is just a workhorse to me and my intense O.C.D doesn't kick in with it, but I'd be livid if it did.

I will have had my 2009 LTZ two years next month. I have just over 26K on the odometer now and all I've had to put into it are oil changes and tire rotations. Unfortunately much of my driving is city and I do have a bit of a lead foot but I'm still getting 19.1-19.5 mpg which isn't too bad considering everything including that's it's not a particularly lightweight car. Sure it's not a luxury vehicle but for what it is, I'm still extremely happy with it.

Yes but i would buy Black LTZ Malibu instand of my black 1LT Malibu

Not a chance. Poor build quality from the Kansas City plant and too many squeaks and rattles.

I would never ever buy ANY american car !

I'd do it all over again the same option content. Sure there's some rough edges here and there, that's why there's warranty. A perfect car it isn't and that's fine as I'm not perfect either.

Interesting how a Chevy product blows so badly that all American-made vehicles are off the list. I can see maybe not buying another Chevy or GM product, and Chrysler isn't high on my list for personal reasons, but Ford has made a lot of strides in the right direction, even being the only domestic car manufacturer not to take a bail-out. To each his own but making such a sweeping statement based on the experience of one car is a little excessive in my view.

Interesting how a Chevy product blows so badly that all American-made vehicles are off the list. I can see maybe not buying another Chevy or GM product, and Chrysler isn't high on my list for personal reasons, but Ford has made a lot of strides in the right direction, even being the only domestic car manufacturer not to take a bail-out. To each his own but making such a sweeping statement based on the experience of one car is a little excessive in my view.


Isn't this
I would never ever buy ANY american car !

and this http://www.chevymalibuforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8097 from the same person?

Uh, yeah. I don't know what else to say.

Hmmm, thanks for pointing that out! I missed seeing that it was posted by the guy who can't seem to understand that idling an engine consumes gas from the tank and results in lower fuel economy.

I guess these American cars just don't work the same way as the ones where he lives. Must be why he'll never buy another one.

Oh well...

I have had my car for a little over a year now and I really have no complaints. It has done a few weird things, but nothing that has prevented me from going to or coming home from work. The dash pad has popped up in the same place as everybody else on here. So I spoke to the Dealer/Service Writer on the phone about it. Of course they said bring it in and we'll check it out. That means at least an hour or more of my time at the dealer plus my travel time and mileage x 2. From previous "Dealer" experience unless its serious, I'm not going to waste the time taking it in. The service writers are just doing what they have to do to get through the day. As an example, I took the Cobalt I owned before the Malibu in for the Radio. My last name was misspelled. I pointed it out to the service writer. He says no problem. I pick up the car Its still misspelled. I take the car in for the Air Conditioning a few months later, its still misspelled. Now that's really minor in the big picture of things, but Dealer policy on just what is Mechanically important to fix and or blow off is another issue all together. As a side note, this is not my first new car, but the Dealer / Service Writer experience has not improved in all the years I have been in a position to purchase a new car.

@Quick6, I have read your post about not purchasing a Malibu in the future. Would you mind providing me with details as to what you are unhappy with in the Malibu that you currently own?

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

my GF has a 2008 LTZ with the 4 cylinder...She did buy it used and I'm not sure if she had a warranty when she bought it or not. It's a good daily driver but overall she dislikes that car. She has had problems with the power windows, the driver's side rear power door lock doesn't work, various squeaks/rattles ever since she got it, alignment issues that can't seem to get fixed (the techs always say it's within factory specs). All in all it's a decent car, but I would expect a lot more quality control from a vehicle that cost $28k

From my experience I wouldn't hesitate to buy another tomorrow.

my GF has a 2008 LTZ with the 4 cylinder...She did buy it used and I'm not sure if she had a warranty when she bought it or not. It's a good daily driver but overall she dislikes that car. She has had problems with the power windows, the driver's side rear power door lock doesn't work, various squeaks/rattles ever since she got it, alignment issues that can't seem to get fixed (the techs always say it's within factory specs). All in all it's a decent car, but I would expect a lot more quality control from a vehicle that cost $28k

All '08 LTZ's were V6's as far as I know.

I found a 2008 LTZ for sale at CarGurus link (http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-2008-Chevrolet-Malibu-LTZ-t32069#listing=28845947) with an I4.

Also don’t forget they made the Hybrid with the 4. One of my family members had owned one, which was a joke if you ask me, A Waste money!

I will deal with what I have right now but I will never buy another one! “Lesson Learned” A New car with so many / countless trips to the Dealership is just unacceptable in my opinion! Yes they have fixed the majority of the car but I never want to have to go through that again on a new / newer vehicle.

I found a 2008 LTZ for sale at CarGurus link (http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/l-Used-2008-Chevrolet-Malibu-LTZ-t32069#listing=28845947) with an I4.

Humm, is that really an LTZ with those wheels? If so it must have been a mid year change. My brochure even says the LTZ comes with a V6. But mine was an early car.

Humm, is that really an LTZ with those wheels? If so it must have been a mid year change. My brochure even says the LTZ comes with a V6. But mine was an early car.

I believe that add is a typo. I pretty sure they didn't offer the 6 speed with the 4 cylinder until 09. I'll second the no 4 cylinder LTZs in 08.

I found this on Edmunds.com looks like it was a mid year change.

Powertrains and Performance

All Malibu trims except the LTZ come standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 169 hp and 160 pound-feet of torque. It's paired to a four-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Standard on the LTZ and optional on the 2LT is a 3.6-liter V6 with 252 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque, matched to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control. Later in the model year, the LTZ will be available with the four-cylinder engine matched to a six-speed automatic, giving it a performance edge over the lower trims that make do with the four-speed gearbox.

All '08 LTZ's were V6's as far as I know.

I got bored and ran the VIN on it:), it is correct. This car has some weird options compared to what I normally expect. I don't think I have seen one from 08' with a 4 cylinder other than the hybrid.

Vehicle Information
VIN: 1G1ZK57BX8F289105 Model: 1ZK69-2008 MALIBU LTZ

Vehicle Build
Model: 1ZK69-2008 MALIBU LTZ Order Number: MVBH9M
Gross Vehicle Weight: 2,023 Build Date: 06/18/2008
Build Plant: F-

Option Codes

1LZ - LTZ PACKAGE 1SZ - OPTION PACKAGE DISCOUNT
342 - COCOA/CASHMERE 34I - INTERIOR TRIM
37U - IMPERIAL BLUE METALLIC 6AL - FRONT SPRING
7AL - FRONT SPRING 8AB - REAR SPRING
9AB - REAR SPRING A51 - SEATS, CUSTOM
AL0 - SENSOR INDICATOR AM1 - CONTROL SEAT, MANUAL LUMBAR DRV
AP3 - REMOTE VEHICLE START AP9 - CARGO NET
AT8 - RESTRAINT, CHILD RR SEAT AXG - WINDOW, POWER W/DRVR EXPRESS DOWN/ UP
AY0 - SIDE IMPACT AIRBAGS, DRIVER AND FRONT PASSENGER B36 - TRUNK MAT
B50 - PREMIUM FLOOR MATS, FRONT/REAR C68 - AIR CONDITIONING, AUTOMATIC
DCP - ONSTAR DIRECTIONS & CONNECTIONS 1 YR FACTORY PACKAGE DD0 - OUTSIDE MIRRORS, HEATED, POWER ADJUSTABLE DRVR AUTO-DIMMING
DD7 - INSIDE REARVIEW MIRROR, AUTO- DIMMING W/COMPASS FAI - FAIRFAX
FE0 - SUSPENSION SYSTEM-ACTIVE FE9 - 50-STATE EMISSIONS
FX3 - STABILITRAK-STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM FXK - RATIO TRANSAXLE FINL DRIVE2.89
HP0 - HYBRID POPULSION NOT INSTALLED IB2 - INTERIOR TRIM
JF4 - POWER ADJUSTABLE PEDALS JL9 - 4-WHEEL ANTI-LOCK DISC BRAKES W/TRACTION CONTROL
KA1 - HEATED FRONT SEATS KB7 - TAPSHIFT MANUAL SHIFT CONTROL
KG7 - GENERATOR 125 AMPS LE5 - ENGINE, 2.4L DOHC MFI ******************************* *UNIT PRODUCED WITHOUT: * *ENGINE, 3.6L V6 DOHC * *******************************
MH8 - TRANSMISSION AUTO 6 SPD, HMD N34 - LEATHER WRAPPED 3-SPOKE STR WHL
NT7 - EMISSION SYSTEM FEDERAL, TIER 2 PA2 - (4) 17" WHEELS, CHROME
PDZ - LTZ SPRING SPECIAL INCLUDES: * ENGINE, 2.4L DOHC MFI * 17" WHEELS, CHROMETECH (REPLACES STD/OPT WHEELS) * SINGLE CHROME EXHAUST QGG - TIRES, P215/55R17 BW TOURING
R6K - PROCESSING CODE R9N - PROCESSING CODE - SEATS
SLM - STOCK ORDERS T96 - FOG LAMPS
TR0 - INTERIOR DUAL READING LAMPS U2K - XM SATELLITE RADIO - SERVICE FEE EXTRA 1ST 3 MONTHS INCL.
U77 - ANTENNA RR WINDOW UE1 - 1YR ONSTAR DIRECTIONS W/TURN- BY-TURN NAVIGATION(ASK DEALER ABOUT GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE)
UG1 - UNIVERSAL HOME REMOTE UK3 - STEERING WHEEL CONTROLS
UQ3 - PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEM US9 - AM/FM STEREO, 6 DISC CD CHANGER MP3 FORMAT, RADIO DATA SYSTEM & AUXILIARY INPUT JACK (REPLACES STD / OPT/ PKG RADIO)
V73 - STATEMENT OF VEHICLE CERT.-U.S. /CANADA VY7 - LEATHER SHIFT KNOB
ZFH - COMPACT SPARE TIRE

Yup. The LTZ could be had with a 4 cylinder in 2008 with the Spring Special Package. The wheels on the current LTZ were unavailable on it until next year when the 2.4L became standard.

Unfortunately, I would have to say NO In many ways I like the car: the style, comfort and the ride. However, I've had too many problems with the car: rattling sunroof, transmission shifting problems, poor gas mileage, excessive water leaks from a sunroof drain tube, the front end always scraping, and lots of other minor issues. The initial GM customer service was horrible and that alone would be enough of a reason not to buy another. BTW, I'm the original owner of this '08 LTZ Spring Special and I've had it well over 3 years now. My next car will probably be a FORD.

This is the worst GM vehicle I've owned - suspension is ghastly (all components have been replaced and still lousy); the 6 speed transmission is a disgrace and a shameful example of GM's transmission engineering "talent?" - and now the radio is crapping out! I've been a dissatisfied customer from the second month of this 36 month lease vehicle, and I have not once recommended a Malibu to another human being! The dealer tries, but you can't replace or fix a quality defect when quality was not "built in" to the product!

This is the worst GM vehicle I've owned - suspension is ghastly (all components have been replaced and still lousy); the 6 speed transmission is a disgrace and a shameful example of GM's transmission engineering "talent?" - and now the radio is crapping out! I've been a dissatisfied customer from the second month of this 36 month lease vehicle, and I have not once recommended a Malibu to another human being! The dealer tries, but you can't replace or fix a quality defect when quality was not "built in" to the product!

This 6 speed was actually a collaboration between Ford and GM.

This 6 speed was actually a collaboration between Ford and GM.

...and the issue is not the gearbox. It is GM's horrible tuning of it.

...and the issue is not the gearbox. It is GM's horrible tuning of it.

Yep, terrible from Day One. I have all the updates -somewhat better. Dealer says: "Well, GM tuned it for gas mileage" (the reason why it upshifts to quickly and harshly) - yet, I get 21.5 overall MPG which is not good.

Sorry to say, but no way.

Don't think I've responded this quesiton yet so...........

Yes, absolutely.

I'm at about 15,000 miles/8 months now and have no complaints.

Does everything work precisely like my other cars ? No but I didn't expect it to.

Forums like this tend to draw an disproportionate number of owners who DO have problems. Those that don't have problems or complaints usually don't think about coming to a place like this.

Don't think I've responded this quesiton yet so...........

Yes, absolutely.

I'm at about 15,000 miles/8 months now and have no complaints.

Does everything work precisely like my other cars ? No but I didn't expect it to.

Forums like this tend to draw an disproportionate number of owners who DO have problems. Those that don't have problems or complaints usually don't think about coming to a place like this.




I disagree , it is not necessary true only majority come to the site because they have problems but many do end up finding this site while searching for common issues or solutions to correct a problem.

I have one family member that currrently owns a Malibu that has had plenty of issue with the car and does not attend or is a member to this site and I recently had another family that traded out of their Malibu because of on going issues with the car.

I would also like to comment for them, they said they will never buy another Malibu! So I am sure many on both ends don’t attend / join this site for many reasons, maybe it is just not their thing!

You will find that many really do like the Malibu but are just sick N tired of the problems / unreliability experiences, while others have gotten lucky!

I say a good half on this site have experienced one problem or more, most likely more than one issue and will not buy another one because of the headaches and money lost bringing a New / Newer Vehicle to the shop an unrealistic / fair amount of times on a new car!

We could go on about some of the poor workmanship of trim not aligning to cheap material that have caused squeaks to rattle glory on the model but then we would be creating a different topic!

Bottom line, many don’t come on this site and some simply just don’t know about the site, Happy & disappointed owners! When I first came across this site, I actually really liked the Malibu, and actually still like the Malibu but surely not as much to consider to buy another one based on my experience with the car!;)

I would buy another Malibu. Mine has been extremely reliable and problem-free.

I disagree ,

I say a good half on this site have experienced one problem or more,

That's OK, your allowed to disagree. :)

Let's assume that you are correct that half of the users HERE (or more) have what they consider to be a serious problem. I'm just saying that does NOT necessarily mean that half of ALL Malibu owners have at least one serious problem.

It would be easy to make that assumption but I assert that it would probably be wrong. And that applies to any online forum for any product.

The forum naturally draws people doing an online search for places to look for help. There is no natural draw for owners who are completely happy. Most of them don't do searches just for the heck of it.

I won't suggest this car if it was free. Stuck with it for now till I can save up the difference in trade in. Documented all the times with the dealer abbout this terrible transmission. Once it gernades i'm out. I don't give it much longer.

That's OK, your allowed to disagree. :)

Let's assume that you are correct that half of the users HERE (or more) have what they consider to be a serious problem. I'm just saying that does NOT necessarily mean that half of ALL Malibu owners have at least one serious problem.

It would be easy to make that assumption but I assert that it would probably be wrong. And that applies to any online forum for any product.

The forum naturally draws people doing an online search for places to look for help. There is no natural draw for owners who are completely happy. Most of them don't do searches just for the heck of it.

You're correct on that. It's been said that a dissatisfied customer will tell 10 people and your lucky if satisfied customer tells 1.

I have no problem trying to help people with problems and discussing them with folks on the forum. However, it really gets annoying coming to this forum and reading negative post after post. I can only assume that sites for this type of car doesn't attract many car enthusiasts.

Our 11,000+ members only represents about 3% of all the Malibu's sold since 2008. My SWAG is that 70% of the members joined because they were having a problem.

My SWAG is that 70% of the members joined because they were having a problem.

I joined cause I was excited for this car, not that I had a problem. Guess I was part of the 30%. It's unfortuante that GM cannot make a 6 speed auto transmission for a car (not truck or SUV) if there life depended on it.

Where I take my car for service apparently the Cruze is having issues with the 6 speed auto tranny they use too (not sure if they use the same trans or a varient of what the Malibu has).

I joined cause I was excited for this car, not that I had a problem. Guess I was part of the 30%. It's unfortuante that GM cannot make a 6 speed auto transmission for a car (not truck or SUV) if there life depended on it.

Where I take my car for service apparently the Cruze is having issues with the 6 speed auto tranny they use too (not sure if they use the same trans or a varient of what the Malibu has).

My crappy GM 6 speed just past 115,000 miles with no issues.

My SWAG is that 70% of the members joined because they were having a problem.

Studies have been done.

While it varies some by product and the situation (how much the site is promoted to people NOT having a problem), I think I remember that your 70% might be toward the low end.

Studies have been done.

While it varies some by product and the situation (how much the site is promoted to people NOT having a problem), I think I remember that your 70% might be toward the low end.

Wouldn't surprise me. This forum has become a big gripe session and I know for a fact this is not a bad car.

If that is the case “70 + %” then that is not good, it show’s repeated issues / disappointed owners, more comments of issues being reported is a down side if you ask me. Many may have had pretty good luck with theirs but that does not count for the Majority that have issues / unresolved issues!

No matter if it is your swag or someone else’s , how can one really give an exact percent! Where did the study come from to get 70%? Something you made up in your head or is there any real figures / facts related, just wondering?

I am a member of many forums besides this one. Including LS1Tech for nearly 15 years. This forum by far seems to have the most unhappy owners though.

I know for a fact this is not a bad car.

Just as surely as others "know for a fact" that it is a piece of junk. :rolleyes:

Careful with what you label as "fact". :)

Something you made up in your head or is there any real figures / facts related, just wondering?

My memory is not perfect but I don't spew out stuff "just made up in my head". :p

Studies have been done periodically since "forums" where hosted on a single computer owned by an individual. With a smaller universe to deal with, the percentages are eaisier to come up with.

I don't remember one recent enough to quote a source but the last one I remember reading about confirmed the original study plus/minus a couple of percentage points...........and showed that the basic principle has not changed.......in that public forums tend to draw WAY more complaints than those with praise.

Therefore, you CAN NOT equate the percentage of complaints to total users in a forum to the whole universe of all owners. The fourm itself concentrates the complaints and makes things look much worse than it is........usually.

I am a member of many forums besides this one. Including LS1Tech for nearly 15 years. This forum by far seems to have the most unhappy owners though.Its funny that you say that, because I like, you own a 2000 SS and I also am member of many other forums. I never join a forum for anything other than inter reaction with with other people. I do like to discuss whats relevant as far as problems, but as I posted early on, I really have not had any with my Malibu. Now I have had other cars(one I still own)that if I really didn't like it a lot It would have been long gone. Some cars are just crap piles from the get go,and every "mfg" always has one going, yet people will still buy them and some get lucky and have very few to no problems at all. As a good example I have a 55" Sony TV. We bought it in August of 2010. The 23 of December it died and is currently in the shop on Costco's extended warranty. Does that mean I won't buy another Sony product because this one had a problem, hardly. I will admit I'm a little disappointed that as little as it has been used it has failed so quickly, but I think now a days almost anything you buy is luck of the draw. Just my .02.

I agree to a certain point, maybe that particular model is dud / mistake or just maybe a company had gone through a bad faze or recent Bankruptcies? Makes you wonder if you should ever buy from them again after a bad experience. I would question if they got their act together and are not out to just turn / make a buck. Now when a product has a price tag of $28,000 - $30,000, it should be right period! Showing a continuous pattern makes one think differently!

Well it's been about 9 months since I last replied to this thread, but here goes, with a little history:

I took over the 2008 LS (1FL, actually) fleet car that I'd had since new, at 73,500 miles back in April. It's my wife's daily driver, and it has the older 4 speed transmission on the 4 cylinder motor. She's now put 10,000 more miles on it, and I finally had to replace the OE front brake pads (with OE replacements) at 80,000 miles. Yes, that's right. I put 80,000 miles on the first set of brake pads. The OE tires got swapped out with new OE replacement Hankook Optima 725's just two weeks before the car transferred to my ownership, as I was able to convince the tire dealer and the leasing company that "it's a safety issue."

The 2011 Malibu 1FL, now with 6-speed transmission, is a little nicer, and is equally trouble-free. Though I truly HATE the Goodyear tires it came with, they won't make half the life of the Hankooks that I'll insist replace them so that torture will be over mid-year. The car did go back to the shop ONCE, as did the '08, but not for the same issue.

While the '08 went in for a non-working self-canceling turn indicator, this one needed a repair to the emissions system after I failed to notice the shifter was in manual and I over-revved it.

I'll probably buy this one when it comes up in 2013, and give the '08 to my daughter. If not for the really good (sub-wholesale trade-in) price I get on the cars, I'd probably be counted among those who would like to buy again but just want a different ride. Since it would be my wife's, and she hates changing anything, no problem.

Now when a product has a price tag of $28,000 - $30,000, it should be right period!

Nice theory.
Too bad that the real world doesn't work that way.
Continuing to insist that it should will only make you sick.

Nice theory.
Too bad that the real world doesn't work that way.
Continuing to insist that it should will only make you sick.




Your absolutely correct, many companies are starting to make crap and charging top dollar for it. It is called Corporate Greed! I was really sick of this car at one time in the past, now it leaves a bad taste time to time after reading the continuous issues many owners are experiencing. My current two Ford Vehicles have been great “No Complaints” at all!

GM also makes some nice vehicles but I just won’t gamble my money on another Malibu since the house took me on my last deal! GM have always made great Trucks & SUV’s, so just maybe I will consider one of their truck line of vehicles in the future, Only time will tell!:rolleyes:

I would not buy the 2011, but I would consider the 2013 eco. The better mileage and a navigation system with a backup camera would take care of a couple of my biggest problems. The one thing that gets me with all new cars is the massive posts creating huge blind spots. I'm guessing there have been either new laws (since my old 97 Saturn was made) or push from insurance roll-over ratings causing them, but I seriously think I will kill myself or somebody else because the blind spots are big enough to hide a bus.

Based upon what I now know about the Malibu, I would purchase a 2010 LT2 - I'm not a fan of the 2-tone leather in the LTZ's. 2011 - 2012 lose paddle-shifters and gian a button on the gear selector. Out here in California, Paddle Shifters help with all the stop and go traffic - just leave the car is 2nd.

Your absolutely correct, many companies are starting to make crap and charging top dollar for it. It is called Corporate Greed! I was really sick of this car at one time in the past, now it leaves a bad taste time to time after reading the continuous issues many owners are experiencing. My current two Ford Vehicles have been great “No Complaints” at all!

GM also makes some nice vehicles but I just won’t gamble my money on another Malibu since the house took me on my last deal! GM have always made great Trucks & SUV’s, so just maybe I will consider one of their truck line of vehicles in the future, Only time will tell!:rolleyes:

1) Cars have never been built safer, or better then they are right now. Also the "Corporate Greed" stuff is really getting old. The left has created a boogy man. Corporate greed and global warming are going to kill us all unless you give us money.:rolleyes:

2) Oh yeh Ford is so much better. What about the 2011 Mustang Transmission mess. Then the 4.6 v8 spark plug issue a couple years back. A lot of folks were having to pull the heads just to get the plugs changed.

But that's just my opinion I could be wrong.

FYI that Mustang tranny issue was blown way out of proportion. The NTSB found nothing and said the percentage was tiny and due to cold fluid. Ford has done some upgrades for '13 so I see no real further issues.

1) Cars have never been built safer, or better then they are right now. Also the "Corporate Greed" stuff is really getting old. The left has created a boogy man. Corporate greed and global warming are going to kill us all unless you give us money.:rolleyes:

2) Oh yeh Ford is so much better. What about the 2011 Mustang Transmission mess. Then the 4.6 v8 spark plug issue a couple years back. A lot of folks were having to pull the heads just to get the plugs changed.

But that's just my opinion I could be wrong.




NO one is saying that any car manufacture is perfect but like I have said, I really have no complaints on my 99 Ford F150 XLT Super cab with the 4.6L that has over 100,000 miles on it , nor do I have any complaints on our 08 Ford Focus SEL, they have been great vehicles and have been very reliable!

Now as far as our Chevy Malibu, yes most “Not All” of the very long list of issues have been resolved but to be honest it was a nightmare / worst experience that I have had to deal with in a very long time, the car just had too many issues to quote it to be an fantastic vehicle or to say it is a trouble free / reliable car since that just would not be the truth! Obviously many have had many issues on theirs and feel the same way. Yes it is a great looking car but so is the Ford Fusion.

Trade-In Value, the Malibu will lose against the Ford period, I wonder why?! Yes I have read some of the issues on the Ford site but again no where near as much problems as the Malibu.

Most of the time when our Malibu was in the shop, I was driving my old truck which seemed to have less issues and was more reliable at the time even with the high mileage on the odometer. Yes Ford has had it’s issues in the past but today’s Ford is a whole different story, they are making better vehicles than they ever did in the past!

So again back to the post question! I don’t plan on getting rid of the Malibu for some time, I want to get some use out of it since most of it’s life has been sitting / going in and out of the shop and the fact that it would be a total loss to trade out at this time for me since the Trade-IN Value really sucks on this car!

I do like the Malibu to a certain point, believe it or not but I will never buy another one after my experience with the model! No way do I want or willing to take a chance of having to go through all the headaches again on a new car, No Way! You couldn’t pay me to go back and do it again, when I really think back of the time and money lost going to the dealership! NOT ME! GM does make some nice vehicles but this model has not been a home run / problem free in anyway!

I do believe there was some Corporate Greed & Mismanagement on GM's part, " Just MY Opinion" They did take the hand-out when they were about to loose it all, Supposedly! :rolleyes: Anyways, the Malibu has shown the after effect of their actions, even with the best efforts at hand, again just my opinion!

No one can say that about the Ford Motor Company!;)

FYI that Mustang tranny issue was blown way out of proportion. The NTSB found nothing and said the percentage was tiny and due to cold fluid. Ford has done some upgrades for '13 so I see no real further issues.


This. The whole Mustang tranny issue was blown out of proportion. It really wasn't a big deal...

NO one is saying that any car manufacture is perfect but like I have said, I really have no complaints on my 99 Ford F150 XLT Super cab with the 4.6L that has over 100,000 miles on it , nor do I have any complaints on our 08 Ford Focus SEL, they have been great vehicles and have been very reliable!

I do believe there was some Corporate Greed & Mismanagement on GM's part, " Just MY Opinion" They did take the hand-out when they were about to loose it all, Supposedly! :rolleyes: Anyways, the Malibu has shown the after effect of their actions, even with the best efforts at hand, again just my opinion!

No one can say that about the Ford Motor Company!;)

I guess you're forgetting about the many F150's that spontaneously burst into flame from leaking brake fluid on the cruise control module? Or the "rattle of death" problem in the 1997-1999 V-8's caused by piston skirt collapse, resulting in thousands of engine replacements? And someone else mentioned the spark plug changing problems on that V8, turning a $100 job into a $1000 dollar job in too many instances. And yes, I had two F150's, a 1997 and a 2003. Sold the 2003 to buy the Malibu, and yes, I missed it almost immediately.

And before we get too impressed with the "Ford didn't take the bailout money" argument, we should probably remember that for years American Airlines bragged about being one of only two airlines that didn't declare bankruptcy after 2001.

That said, I probably wouldn't buy my 2011 Malibu LT over again. No, I haven't had any problems with it at all. Hasn't been in the shop once in the year I've owned it. It starts every time, shifts smoothly enough through the gears that most people can't count the shifts, even under hard acceleration, and gets 24 mpg commuting to work and 31 on the last long trip I took in it. The only warranty work at all was replacing the windshield wiper blades for free when they started chattering at 11 months, and that was done during an oil change. I just am not excited about it. It's not quite the "appliance" that a Camry would have been, but it still isn't the '67 Chevelle SS 396 I lusted for in high school.

But we test drove a Ford Fusion, and it had the same problem. Just didn't make me feel good about it. And the dealer acted like he didn't want to deal.

I guess you're forgetting about the many F150's that spontaneously burst into flame from leaking brake fluid on the cruise control module? Or the "rattle of death" problem in the 1997-1999 V-8's caused by piston skirt collapse, resulting in thousands of engine replacements? And someone else mentioned the spark plug changing problems on that V8, turning a $100 job into a $1000 dollar job in too many instances. And yes, I had two F150's, a 1997 and a 2003. Sold the 2003 to buy the Malibu, and yes, I missed it almost immediately.

And before we get too impressed with the "Ford didn't take the bailout money" argument, we should probably remember that for years American Airlines bragged about being one of only two airlines that didn't declare bankruptcy after 2001.

That said, I probably wouldn't buy my 2011 Malibu LT over again. No, I haven't had any problems with it at all. Hasn't been in the shop once in the year I've owned it. It starts every time, shifts smoothly enough through the gears that most people can't count the shifts, even under hard acceleration, and gets 24 mpg commuting to work and 31 on the last long trip I took in it. The only warranty work at all was replacing the windshield wiper blades for free when they started chattering at 11 months, and that was done during an oil change. I just am not excited about it. It's not quite the "appliance" that a Camry would have been, but it still isn't the '67 Chevelle SS 396 I lusted for in high school.

But we test drove a Ford Fusion, and it had the same problem. Just didn't make me feel good about it. And the dealer acted like he didn't want to deal.




I was not trying to turn this into agreement / debate but you are correct! Mine never caught on fire or has had any piston problems of what I know of but I did buy it used from a friend that owns a used car dealership, who knows.? Today I would love to own a new Ford F150, Yes I am very impressed with Ford for what it has accomplished and the fact that they did it with no bail out money!

I could go on and on about the current model Malibu, like a simple low cost headlight bulb turning into a costly replacement or how much it is a pain in the A-- to change, since you have to pull the entire front bumper off to get at the bulb!

Can’t compare Today’s Ford To a 13 year old vehicle, I can pull a few skeletons out of the bag with GM as well! I would like to mention my Malibu has had Warranty work way over thousand dollars worth of work, you could most likely add a couple more thousands on top of it but that is not what this topic is about / asking!

I know this is only one model that GM makes but no one should have this kind of bad experience on a new / newer Vehicle today.

Again, NO thank you, I would never buy / do it again! My decision; thoughts, input / opinion remains the same!:cool:

The GM bailout was not my favorite thing in the world but, it pretty much had to happen.

If GM went under and stopped producing cars for an extended period of time it would have impacted production of a lot of suppliers. Then those suppliers would have gone under or would have to be bailed out. That would have created parts shortages for Ford, Toyota and others and causing production delays that would have brought them to their knees too. So at the end of the day you could bail out two companies or 100. Not to mention the hundreds of thousands of jobs that hung in the balance.

It's not like Ford wasn't in trouble either. At that time Ford shares were down to $1.20 or so and they were on the ropes. One thing that probably saved Ford was they had just sold off their stake in Astin Martin, Jag, Land Rover and later Volvo. Make no mistake though, Ford took a huge gamble.

I know this is only one model that GM makes but no one should have this kind of bad experience on a new / newer Vehicle today.

That's a nice theory but it has basically never been true of "mass produced" products. Each is a tiny bit different and that means that a few turn out to be problematic. The list of Ford problems was an attempt to illustrate that.

Your experience is with only ONE vehicle of that one model and I assert that if you look hard enough (often not hard at all), you could find someone who has had similar problems with vehicles made by every manufacturer in the world.........except maybe those that are hand made and cost upwards of $1M each.

I say this not to defend GM or the Malibu necessarily but to try to add a little "perspective" to the discussion. There are quite a few of us here who have had no major problems at all.

That's a nice theory but it has basically never been true of "mass produced" products. Each is a tiny bit different and that means that a few turn out to be problematic. The list of Ford problems was an attempt to illustrate that.

Your experience is with only ONE vehicle of that one model and I assert that if you look hard enough (often not hard at all), you could find someone who has had similar problems with vehicles made by every manufacturer in the world.........except maybe those that are hand made and cost upwards of $1M each.

I say this not to defend GM or the Malibu necessarily but to try to add a little "perspective" to the discussion. There are quite a few of us here who have had no major problems at all




You are surely welcome to voice your opinion but I am also sure many of us that have had / have issues with the model are looking through the other side of the fence are thinking differently than you! Again my opinion remains the same but good theory / nice try!:rolleyes:

Still happy with my 08 LTZ, 22K troublefree miles, still get compliments on the car, like PizzaMan i'll be hanging on to her for a few more years, but when the time comes for a new car i'll be going over to Buick, don't care for the new body changes, back end looks like a camaro and the front looks like an over grown Cruze :D
http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/852/img0330uv.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/img0330uv.jpg/)

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Still happy with my 08 LTZ, 22K troublefree miles, still get compliments on the car, like PizzaMan i'll be hanging on to her for a few more years, but when the time comes for a new car i'll be going over to Buick, don't care for the new body changes, back end looks like a camaro and the front looks like an over grown Cruze :D
http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/852/img0330uv.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/img0330uv.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)



One thing I can say for sure, that Malibu is a good looking car especially when you dress it up with tinted windows and some nice rims! Looks Good!:)

Thanks 08 :D

I would buy a Chevy Malibu again if I had the money to own another new car. I have had multiple cars that have been decent cars. I have owned a 1989 Toyota Cressida fully loaded, and a 1995 Iszuzu Rodeo , 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Rally Art, 2003 Pontiac Sunfire GT, and a Ford 500. Of all these cars I love mine the best. For three full years all I did was the basics. (Oil, Oil Filter, Transmission flush and refill, air filter breaks). All other cars were a completly different story. I LOVE and will always love my 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. I picked up my car November 27th 2007 and feel just as happy as the day I got it.

My 09 LT2 has 118,000 KM (Canadian Car) I would have to say I am somewhat disappointed with it. In the 118,000KM I have had 3 wheel bearings replaced and a headlight assembly replaced for condensation. Now the low beams are causing me problems - one day the left side goes out and the next day it's the right side - going back to the dealers again Monday to get this one solved - I will have had the car for 3 years this coming March. I just did the front rotors & pads and serviced the rear calipers for a total cost of $465.00 at the dealers which i thought was a very good price -I was expecting it to be a lot higher. At the end of the day after almost 3 years and 118,000KM my actual out of pocket costs have only been the brake job and a new set of wiper blades plus oil changes - PLus who knows what the headlight issue wil cost me. I like driving the car but would I buy another one? - I cant answer that just yet - My buddy has an 05 Camray with 155,000km on it and has had absolutely no issues with it at all other than routine maintence but it's one boring car so I guess it's a bit of a trade off - enjoy what your driving or fall asleep while your drivng it! Im going to give it another year before deciding on buying another one or buying something else.

Of course. My '08 LS was a good car through 80,000 miles. In November I bought a used 2011 LT. I like the 6 speed, larger wheels, blue tooth.

Not 100% sure yet - I have 52k on my 09 LT2 - things I love - the power of the V6 & Gas Milage - Bluetooth - Interior.

There are some things that I hear other people talk about that I am starting to see on mine.....just started to get condensation on driverside headlight....AC compressor has made noise since day one...just waiting for the bearing to blow out of it...but the dealer said they can't recreate it....The breaks suck from the factory, but I put EBC Greenstuff on - work really well - but just about worn out...

Two cars that I am considering - Buick and the new 13 Fusion........

@86lxjunker, when did you have the vehicle into the dealership for the air conditioning compressor?

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

@86lxjunker, when did you have the vehicle into the dealership for the air conditioning compressor?

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Hi Michelle - It was last year - the service receipt is in my car - I will grab it tomorrow and PM you the date & dealer.

This is my first Chevy ever. As a German in the US, I normally buy German cars, but my 2011 Malibu feels very "European", inside and out. The only gripe I have -- if you'd call it like that -- is that the steering wheel is rather large and for some reason doesn't fit in well with the otherwise lovely interior.

Would I buy another one? well, I love the design of the 2011 -- the high belt line, the clean surfaces, the small side windows, and everything. That said, I feel the new 2013 doesn't look as 'hot'. :)

@86lxjunker, that sounds wonderful. Please, feel free to add any other information.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

This is my first Chevy ever. As a German in the US, I normally buy German cars, but my 2011 Malibu feels very "European", inside and out. The only gripe I have -- if you'd call it like that -- is that the steering wheel is rather large and for some reason doesn't fit in well with the otherwise lovely interior.

Would I buy another one? well, I love the design of the 2011 -- the high belt line, the clean surfaces, the small side windows, and everything. That said, I feel the new 2013 doesn't look as 'hot'. :)

Thank you for the feedback on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. Please, let me know what you would change about it. I am curious as to the particular things about this vehicle that you do or don't like or would change.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Still love mine! 2010, 18 months and just over 35,000 trouble free miles, excellant gas milage too.

Nope- in fact got rid of it for the "old man" impala
1. mileage sucked. 23 average for the 4 cyl...FAIL
2. trunk opening- major fail
3. rear view- should have standard backup alert/camera
4. Bose sound- comon GM, BOSE SUCKS...stop making this garbage standard on so many models.

otherwise the cars was pretty nice. a decent 4 cyl diesel would make that car a jetta killer.
I am afraid for the redesign...like ANY GM car, it take years and years to correct new model issues... but, its not like they have been building card for a hundred years...oh, wait.
I agree with the above commenter- looks/feel european- i said the same thing.

Thank you for the feedback on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. Please, let me know what you would change about it. I am curious as to the particular things about this vehicle that you do or don't like or would change.

Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service

Well, Michelle, if I had my way I would have continued the design feature of the 7th generation vehicles with a few updates here and there instead of the boldly redesigned trunk -- as an example. From the pictures I saw, the interior seems to draw from older design ideas (the rounded center console, etc) and doesn't look as modern as the 7th gen, even though the steering wheel looks much nicer in the 2013 model than what I have in the 2011.

I know that the 2013 is based on the German Opel Insignia, which is a nice and modern car, but the design on the 2011 Malibu is simply more in-line with my taste in cars. That's all. :)

FIX THE CLUNKY FRONT END!!!!!
(one of my beefs with the 2011 poo)
FYI- for those that care- other than the clunks, the poo has a better ride than the 2012 Imp. the Imp is unsettled, but at least its not clunky.
PS- dump Bose...

@rrohde, thank you for sharing your opinion with me. I honestly respect and appreciate your feedback about the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu. I will be sure to save your comments within the system. This will allow other departments within General Motors to view this.

I hope you are having a great week so far.

I've had my 2011 Malibu for 42days, and I don't think I'd make the same purchase again. My "GM certified" car has so many issues that I'm already thinking about selling it, since my selling dealer cannot be trusted. Sadly, I must visit them again to get the used(and damaged) keyfob they provided programed. This will be trip #6 for that alone. I'll give another dealer a chance to take care of the rest of the problems (steering wheel wobbles near 12 o'clock, clunky front end, headlight not working, paint cracking, hesitant acceleration upon upshift to 2nd? gear, dash warped, bluetooth problems, . If things are not resolved, I'll be replacing my vehicle with another brand.