1978 Chevrolet Malibu problems

General information about Chevrolet-Malibu
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 1978 Chevrolet Malibu problems

The 1978 Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable and dependable car, but like any vehicle, it can have certain problems that may arise during its lifetime. Here are some of the common problems reported by owners of the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu:

Engine Overheating
Another common problem reported by owners of the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu is engine overheating. This can be caused by a faulty piston ring, which can lead to the engine running hotter than it should. If left unaddressed, this issue can cause serious damage to the engine.

Fuel Pump Failure
The fuel pump can fail in the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu, causing the car to lose power or stall. This issue can be resolved by replacing the fuel pump.

Air Conditioning Problems
Air conditioning problems are also common in the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu. The air conditioning system can fail, causing the car to become uncomfortable during hot weather. This issue can be resolved by repairing or replacing the air conditioning system.

Electrical Issues
Electrical issues can also arise in the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu. This can include problems with the car's electrical system, such as issues with the battery, alternator, or wiring. These issues can cause the car to become inoperable or difficult to start.

Worn Seats and Faded Interior Plastic
The seats in the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu can become worn over time, and the interior plastic can fade due to exposure to sunlight. This can make the car's interior appear less attractive and less comfortable.

Worn Weatherstripping and Leaking Windows
The weatherstripping in the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu can wear out over time, causing the car's windows to leak. This can lead to water damage to the car's interior and make the car less comfortable to drive in wet weather.

Frame Rails
Some owners of the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu have reported issues with the car's frame rails. These issues can make it difficult to pass safety inspections and may require repairs to the car's frame.

In conclusion, while the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable and dependable car, it can still experience certain problems. These issues can include transmission problems, engine overheating, fuel pump failure, air conditioning problems, electrical issues, worn seats and faded interior plastic, worn weatherstripping and leaking windows, and frame rail issues. By staying aware of these potential issues and addressing them promptly, owners of the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu can ensure that their car remains safe, reliable, and comfortable to drive.

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 many 1978 Malibus were made?

Chevrolet Production Numbers:

Total Malibus For 1978 – 120,785.

How many miles per gallon does a 1978 Chevy Malibu get?

Based on data from 1 vehicles, 27 fuel-ups and 4,904 miles of driving, the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu gets a combined Avg MPG of 14.61 with a 0.60 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 0 outliers (0.00%) removed.

1978 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:

Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1978 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1978 Chevrolet Malibu complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu.

2002-06-13

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2002-06-08
VIN: 1W274814345
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: NHTSA RECALL 85V143000 ON HYDRAULIC BRAKE:SHOE AND DRUM WHEEL CYLINDERS: CONSUMER WHILE APPLYING BRAKE PEDAL, IT WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND VEHICLE CONTINUED ON BEFORE STOPPING. NOTIFIED DEALER, AND MANUFACTURER ;AND NEITHER ONE COULD INFORM CONSUMER IF VEHICLE WAS OR NOT COVERED UNDER THIS RECALL. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFROMATION.*AK

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1997-09-17

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1997-08-22
Fire: 1
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: ENGINE FIRE.

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1978 Chevrolet Malibu recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 1978 Chevrolet Malibu.

2007-10-24

Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.

1985-04-29

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:WHEEL CYLINDERS
Summary: EXCESSIVE ENLARGEMENT OF THE WHEEL CYLINDER PILOT HOLE IN THE REAR BRAKE BACKING PLATE COULD ALLOW THE WHEEL CYLINDER TO ROTATE AND CAUSE LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID LEADS TO LOSS OF REAR BRAKE ACTION, CREATING THE POTENTIAL FOR AN ACCIDENT. FRONT BRAKES WOULD REMAIN OPERATIONAL.
Remedy: ADD A PART TO PREVENT WHEEL CYLINDER FROM ROTATING.

1984-11-24

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT
Summary: REAR AXLE ASSEMBLY MAY HAVE AXLES THAT WERE IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. THIS CONDITION MAY RESULT IN SEPARATION OF THE AXLE SHAFT AND WHEEL ASSEMBLY FROM THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT THE REAR AXLE TO DETERMINE WHETHER IT WAS MANUFACTURED AT THE BUFFALO PLANT. IF SO, THEY WILL MAKE AXLE MEASUREMENTS AND IF NECESSARY REPLACE OR MODIFY AFFECTED AXLE COMPONENTS WITHOUT CHARGE.

1981-02-25

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
Summary: THE BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE LOWER REAR CONTROL ARM TO THE FRAME MAY FRACTURE. THE REAR CONTROL ARM SUPPORTS AND POSITIONS THE REAR AXLE. FRACTURE OF THE BOLTS WOULD ALLOW THE CONTROL ARM TO DROP FREE.
Remedy: BOTH REAR CONTROL ARM ATTACHMENT BOLTS WILL BE REPLACED WITHOUT CHARGE.

1979-07-23

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING
Summary: UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, THESE VEHICLES CAN EXPERIENCE TEMPERATURES IN THE FRONT WHEEL OUTER BEARING AREA WHICH CAN AFFECT THE WHEEL BEARING GREASE. THIS CAN RESULT IN INADEQUATE LUBRICATION OF THE BEARING. THIS CONDITION MAY BE FURTHER AGGRAVATED BY IMPROPER ADJUSTMENT OF THE FRONT WHEEL SPINDLE NUT.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSTALL NEW FRONT WHEEL OUTER BEARINGS PACKED WITH GREASE AND THE SPINDLE WILL BE COATED WITH LUBRICANT. NEW GREASE RETAINER CAPS WILL ALSO BE INSTALLED TO MAINTAIN GREASE IN OUTER BEARING. THIS WILL BE DONE FREE OF CHARGE.

1978-06-13

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Summary: THE HUB PORTION OF THE FAN BLADE ASSEMBLY COULD CRACK DUE TO HIGH STRESS LEVELS GENERATED DURING ENGINE OPERATING CONDITIONS. EVENTUALLY, THE BLADE COULD BREAK APART AT THE HUB AND BLADE PIECES COULD BE PROPELLED INTO THE ENGINE. IF THE HOOD IS OPEN WHILE THE ENGINE IS RUNNING, THE FRAGMENTS WOULD BE FREE TO FLY FROM THE VEHICLE.
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE FAN BLADE ASSEMBLY WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.

1978-05-24

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Summary: INCORRECT HEAD RESTRAINTS MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES. THIS FAILS TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, "OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACTS".
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE INCORRECT HEAD RESTRAINTS WITH IMPROVED HEAD RESTRAINTS.

1977-10-17

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DRUM:WHEEL CYLINDERS
Summary: THE REAR BRAKE WHEEL CYLINDER RETAINER ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY NOT HAVE BEEN PROPERLY INSTALLED. SHOULD THE WHEEL CYLINDER RETAINER BECOME COMPLETELY DISENGAGED, THE WHEEL CYLINDER COULD MOVE OUTBOARD CAUSING A LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID AND A LOSS OF REAR BRAKING ACTION.
Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPOSITION THE REAR WHEEL BRAKE CYLINDER RETAINERS, FREE OF CHARGE, ON ALL AFFECTED VEHICLES.