1997 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from model years 1964–1983 and since 1997. The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. Originally a rear-wheel drive intermediate, GM revived the Malibu nameplate as a front-wheel-drive car in 1997.
Named after the coastal community of Malibu, California, the Malibu was marketed primarily in North America, with the eighth generation introduced globally. It is currently the only sedan offered by Chevrolet in the U.S.
First generation (Chevelle Malibu, 1964)
The first Malibu was a top-line subseries of the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle from 1964 to 1972. Malibus were generally available in a full range of bodystyles including a four-door sedan, two-door Sport Coupe hardtop, convertible and two-seat station wagon. Interiors were more lavish than lesser Chevelle 300 and 300 Deluxe models thanks to patterned cloth and vinyl upholstery (all-vinyl in convertibles and station wagons), deep-twist carpeting, deluxe steering wheel and other items. The Malibu SS performance package was available only as a two-door Sport Coupe hardtop or convertible and added bucket seats, center console (with optional four-speed manual or Powerglide transmissions), engine gauges and special wheelcovers, and offered with any six-cylinder or V8 engine offered in other Chevelles - with the top option being a 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) in 1964.
For 1965, Malibus and other Chevelles received new grilles and revised tail sections and had the exhaust pipes replaced but carried over the same basic styling and bodystyles from 1964. The Malibu and Malibu SS models continued as before with the SS featuring a blacked-out grille and special wheelcovers. Top engine option was now a 350 hp (261 kW; 355 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8. 201 of the 1965 Malibu SS cars got Regular Production Option (RPO) Z16, which include a heavily modified chassis and Chevy's new 375 horsepower 396 cubic inch V8. All were hardtops, although rumors persist that one convertible was built.
The Malibu SS was replaced in 1966 by a new Chevelle SS-396 series that included a big-block 396 cu in (6.5 L) V8 engine (Canadian market did not receive the SS396 but marketed the former Malibu SS nameplate until January 1967 when it was phased out), heavy duty suspension and other performance equipment. Other SS-396 equipment was similar to Malibu Sport Coupes and convertibles including an all-vinyl bench seat. Bucket seats and console with floor shift were now optional on the SS and for 1966 with the SS now denoting a car with a big-block engine, the bucket seats became a new option on the regular Malibu Sport Coupe and convertible, upon which any six-cylinder or small-block V8 could be ordered. Also new for 1966 was the Chevelle Malibu four-door Sport Sedan hardtop. Styling revisions on all 1966 Chevelles including more rounded styling similar to the full-sized Chevrolets with sail panels and tunneled rear windows featured on two-door hardtop coupes.
For 1967, the same assortment of bodystyles were continued with styling changes similar to all other Chevelles including a new grille and revised tail section with taillights that wrapped around to the side. New this year was a Chevelle Malibu Concours station wagon with simulated woodgrain exterior side panel trim. Front disc brakes were a new option along with a stereo 8-track tape player. The same assortment of drivetrains carried over from 1966 with the top 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8 dropped from 350 to 325 hp (261 to 242 kW; 355 to 330 PS).
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Common 1997 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The Chevrolet Malibu Classic, produced between 1997 and 2005, has been known to experience several common problems that have been reported by owners.
- Electrical Problems: Electrical problems have been reported in various Malibu models, such as the 1997-2005 models, where the vents, radio, lights, and power windows can shut off when starting the car.
- Interior Accessory Faults: Some Malibu models, particularly the 2004-2005 models, have experienced interior accessory faults.
- Brake and Steering Faults: Malibu models, including the 2004 model with power steering issues and the 2002 model with leaking coolant, have experienced brake and steering faults.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission problems have been reported in various Malibu models, including the 1999-2003 models.
- Build Quality: The 1997 Chevrolet Malibu has been criticized for its generic design and build quality, which may not be as high as that of comparable Toyota models.
- Power and Noise: The 3.1 V6 engine in the 1997 Malibu has been reported to make more noise than power, indicating that it may be outdated technology.
- Alignment Issues: The front end of the 1997 Malibu has a bad habit of going out of alignment, which can lead to tire wear and other issues.
While these problems have been reported by Malibu owners, it is important to note that not all vehicles of the same model will experience these issues. It is always recommended to consult with a certified mechanic or dealership for specific concerns or issues with a vehicle.
What is the biggest problem with Chevy Malibu?
Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu
- Transmission problems: Some Malibu models have experienced transmission issues, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration.
- Electrical issues: Some Malibu models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power steering system and battery.
What year was the Malibus bad?
The worst year for Chevy Malibu out of all the model years to avoid would be the 2002 and 2010 model years. 2002 had passlock and coolant leaking issues, and 2010 had multiple engine problems, leading to pricey fixes.
What are the weaknesses of a Chevy Malibu?
Here are some of the most frequent problems Malibu drivers experience.
- Engine. Many Chevy Malibu models are prone to experiencing engine problems. ...
- Transmission. The quality of the transmissions used within Chevy Malibus is often held under the microscope. ...
- Electrical System. ...
- Broken and Faulty Machinery.
Is the Malibu a reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 85.0/100
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100.
What is the most common problem with Chevy Malibu?
Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu
Transmission problems: Some Malibu models have experienced transmission issues, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration. Electrical issues: Some Malibu models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power steering system and battery.
What year was the Malibus bad?
The worst year for Chevy Malibu out of all the model years to avoid would be the 2002 and 2010 model years. 2002 had passlock and coolant leaking issues, and 2010 had multiple engine problems, leading to pricey fixes.
Is the Chevy Malibu a reliable car?
Quality and Reliability 85.0/100
The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
What were the best years for the Chevy Malibu?
After exploring the Chevrolet Malibu's journey, it's clear that the 2015 and 2019-2024 models are Chevy Malibu's best years that you can buy. Some years, like 2004 and 2013, are Chevy Malibu years that you should definitely avoid.
1997 Chevrolet Malibu classic complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu classic.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
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