2003 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 2003 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Transmission Problems: While there have been no recalls for transmission issues, there have been 15 powertrain complaints on file, mostly pointing to issues with the throttle body or ignition failure rather than the transmission itself.
- Interior Accessory Faults: Some common interior accessory faults include a noisy engine, cheap interior quality, and fidgety wiring.
- Air Conditioning Issues: The most expensive common repair is a new air conditioner compressor, starting at around $934.
- Steering Faults: The 2002 model of the Malibu had leaking coolant, and the 2004 model had issues with power steering.
- Brake Troubles: Other common troubles with Chevy Malibu models include electrical problems, brake troubles, and steering faults.
Despite these issues, the 2003 Malibu is built on a dependable engine and transmission. With good maintenance and smart driving habits, a 2003 Chevy Malibu can reach 200,000 to 250,000 miles.
How many miles can a 2003 Chevy Malibu last?
We've explored in the past how these cars really have their best days before the 150,000 mile mark, but if you start out with a Malibu in decent condition and you change your fluids regularly, we've seen mileage reported as high as 300,000.
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.
How long can a Chevy Malibu engine last?
How Long Does it Last? Naturally, there are many factors to consider when determining a vehicle's lifespan. However, it's not uncommon for the Chevy Malibu to outlive other midsize sedans in its segment. In fact, many models last over 200,000 miles or even more.
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.
How many miles can a 2003 Chevy Malibu last?
We've explored in the past how these cars really have their best days before the 150,000 mile mark, but if you start out with a Malibu in decent condition and you change your fluids regularly, we've seen mileage reported as high as 300,000.
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 engine does a 2003 Malibu have?
The Malibu comes in two trim lines, base and LS. Both are powered by a 3.1-liter overhead-valve V6 engine.
2003 Chevrolet Malibu classic complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu classic.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
Top 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor · The Fuel Gauge May Not Read Correctly and/or Check Engine Light With Code P0455/ ...
2003 Chevy Malibu V6 known problems? | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Sep 10, 2023 ... It's the lower intake gaskets that go bad, often resulting in serious engine damage if one neglects it and just continues to add coolant. These ...
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 17, 2023 ... Issues are all over the place, with a common one being that the anti-theft may engage and prevent ignition. Throttle body failure has been ...
2003 Malibu electrical problem | Chevrolet Malibu Forums
Aug 23, 2021 ... When I start my car I am getting a delay the gauges power windows and AC will not come on when it does come on if I hit the power window or ...
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
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