2004 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 2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The 2004 Chevrolet Malibu, a mid-size vehicle designed to combine style and practicality for many families, has been in production since 1964 and has a reputation for reliability.
Firstly, there are over 1,500 complaints of major electrical issues on file with the NHTSA, which can make the car stressful to drive.
Secondly, there are reports of problems with the transmission, specifically with downshifting to 2nd or 1st gear. When the car is in 3rd gear and the downshift button on the shifter is pressed, nothing happens. The dealer has quoted $100/hr for inspection to diagnose the problem.
Thirdly, there are issues with the fuel gauge. When the gas tank is filled up, the fuel guage still shows empty. After a quarter tank, the fuel guage seems to work fine. This could be a problem with the sender, which may require replacement.
Lastly, there are reports of noises from the steering, specifically a clunking noise when turning. The dealer has claimed that there is no issue, but the car does not make a smooth turn. This could be a problem with the steering system, such as a loose or worn-out component, which may require replacement or repair.
In summary, the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu has some common issues, including major electrical problems, transmission issues, fuel gauge problems, and steering noises. These issues can affect the reliability and safety of the car, and it is essential to address them promptly to ensure the car remains in good working condition. It is recommended to consult with a certified mechanic or the dealership for further diagnosis and repair of these issues.
Is a 2004 Chevy Malibu a good car?
Despite steering vagueness and soft suspension, Malibu drives with responsiveness and corners well. The overall effect is a balance between the desires of traditional Chevrolet buyers and the import crowd that Chevy would like to attract.
How many miles can a 2004 Chevy Malibu last?
How Long Will the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Last? A Chevrolet Malibu should last at least 200,000 miles. But, the 2004 model has a lot of issues that may cut that life expectancy short at under 150,000 miles. Your best bet is going to be to take it on a test drive and see what you see.
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 a 2004 Chevy Malibu a good car?
Despite steering vagueness and soft suspension, Malibu drives with responsiveness and corners well. The overall effect is a balance between the desires of traditional Chevrolet buyers and the import crowd that Chevy would like to attract.
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 2004 Chevy Malibu last?
How Long Will the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Last? A Chevrolet Malibu should last at least 200,000 miles. But, the 2004 model has a lot of issues that may cut that life expectancy short at under 150,000 miles. Your best bet is going to be to take it on a test drive and see what you see.
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.
2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems:
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