1964 Chevrolet Malibu 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 1964 Chevrolet Malibu problems
The Chevrolet Malibu 1964 has been a popular car for many years, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. One of the most frequent issues reported by owners is engine problems.
Another common problem with the Chevrolet Malibu 1964 is electrical system glitches.
Newer Chevy Malibu models experience electrical issues, most commonly within their electronic "Shift to Park" system. This system is known to fail and be unable to recognize when the car is in park, preventing drivers from turning their cars off. This problem is especially common in Chevy Malibus released between 2016 and 2020. As a result, General Motors has issued recalls and is currently undergoing a lawsuit.
In addition to these problems, the Chevrolet Malibu 1964 has also experienced issues with its transmission system, particularly as the vehicle approaches 100,000 miles. Drivers may notice hefty jerking and difficulty changing gears. In some cases, the transmission system may even skip gears, as was the case with 2011 Chevy Malibu models built with a faulty pressure control solenoid.
While the Chevrolet Malibu is generally considered a reliable car, these common problems can be frustrating and expensive to fix. It is essential for owners to stay up-to-date with recalls and maintenance to ensure the longevity and safety of their 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 are the bad years for Chevy Malibu?
We recommend staying away from the 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2016 models. Engine problems are the most common issues that appear when there's something wrong with the Chevy Malibu. This trouble can cause expensive repairs most drivers can't afford regularly.
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.
How many 1964 Malibu SS were made?
Malibu SS, 2-door Sport Coupe: Six Cylinder: 8,224. Eight Cylinder: 57,445. Total: 65,669.
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.
Is used Chevy Malibu a good car?
Getting behind the wheel of a used Chevy Malibu is one of the best decisions you can make if you are looking for an economical, cost-effective car and, above all else, having a sustainable and excellent quality vehicle.
Is a Chevy Malibu expensive to fix?
The annual maintenance cost of a Chevrolet Malibu is $532. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
1964 Chevrolet Malibu car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Malibu problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1964 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1964 Chevrolet Malibu complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1964 Chevrolet Malibu.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-04-06
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- Fire: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING 50 MPH SHIFTED FRON 2ND TO 3RD GEAR TRANSMISSION LOCKED UP, VEHICLE LOST CONTROL, RESULTING IN COLLISION/INJURIES. TT
Other years of Chevrolet Malibu
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