2001 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems

General information about Chevrolet-Malibu classic
Overview of popular issues

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 2001 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems

The 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:

Exhaust Smell and Smoke: Some 2001 Malibu owners have reported a strong smell of unburned gasoline from the exhaust, along with the presence of blue or white smoke. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty fuel pressure regulator, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or worn out piston rings. These issues can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions.

ABS and Check Engine Lights: Some owners have reported that the ABS and check engine lights are illuminated on the dashboard. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty sensors, wiring problems, or software glitches. These issues can lead to decreased braking performance, reduced engine performance, and increased emissions.

Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported a variety of electrical issues, including malfunctioning electric mirrors, faulty headlight and parklight circuits, and problems with the ambient light sensor. These issues can be caused by faulty wiring, blown fuses, or software glitches. These issues can lead to decreased visibility, reduced convenience, and increased safety risks.

Engine and Engine Cooling Issues: Some owners have reported that the engine cranks but does not start, or that the engine runs poorly. These issues can be caused by a variety of problems, including faulty ignition coils, clogged fuel injectors, or a malfunctioning engine control module. These issues can lead to decreased engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased emissions.

Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported transmission problems, including slipping, jerking, and difficulty shifting. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid levels, worn out clutch plates, or a malfunctioning transmission control module. These issues can lead to decreased driving performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased safety risks.

Air Conditioning/Heat Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning and heating systems, including reduced performance and intermittent operation. These issues can be caused by low refrigerant levels, faulty compressors, or damaged heater cores. These issues can lead to decreased comfort and increased safety risks in extreme temperatures.

Computer Controls: Some owners have reported problems with the computer controls, including issues with the anti-theft system, the navigation system, and the electrical system. These issues can be caused by software glitches, faulty sensors, or wiring problems. These issues can lead to decreased convenience, reduced safety, and increased repair costs.

In conclusion, the 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has several common problems that can affect its performance, safety, and reliability. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty components, wiring problems, and software glitches. If you own a 2001 Malibu, it is essential to be aware of these issues and to address them promptly to ensure safe and reliable operation.

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 there any recalls on 2001 Chevy Malibu?

RECALL ALERT: Learn More. There are 4 recalls on this vehicle.

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?

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.

Is there any recalls on 2001 Chevy Malibu?

RECALL ALERT: Learn More. There are 4 recalls on this vehicle.

2001 Chevrolet Malibu classic complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Chevrolet Malibu classic.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems:

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Dec 11, 2007 ... All of which starting after I hit 100k miles. The impala is a nice car, haven't heard of any problems. However on some of the newer models I ...

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