1989 Chevrolet Malibu problems

General information about Chevrolet-Malibu
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints 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 1989 Chevrolet Malibu problems

The Chevrolet Malibu 1989 has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:

Failed Passlock Sensor: The Passlock security system in the 1989 Chevrolet Malibu can fail, making it difficult to start the car. The Passlock sensor is designed to prevent theft by disabling the fuel pump when it detects an unauthorized key. However, the sensor can fail, causing the fuel pump to shut off and the engine to stall. This issue can be resolved by replacing the Passlock sensor or the entire ignition lock cylinder.

Transmission Failure: The 1989 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have issues with the transmission, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration. The transmission can also fail completely, leaving the car unable to move. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including low transmission fluid levels, worn gears, or a faulty torque converter. The transmission can be repaired or replaced by a dealership.

Headlight Issues: The 1989 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have issues with the headlights, including dimming or flickering. This problem can be caused by a faulty headlight switch, a blown fuse, or a wiring issue. The issue can be diagnosed and repaired by a dealership or a mechanic.

Airbag Deployment: The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu was recalled due to a potential issue with the airbag deployment system. The recall affected approximately 44,000 vehicles and was issued due to a potential issue with the airbag deployment system, which can cause the airbags to deploy improperly. If you are a Chevrolet Malibu owner, you can check for any open recalls or TSBs by visiting the Chevrolet website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

In conclusion, while the Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable car, it is prone to several issues, including loss of engine power, a failed passlock sensor, transmission failure, and headlight issues. These issues can be resolved by a dealership or a mechanic, and General Motors has issued TSBs to address some of these problems. If you are a Chevrolet Malibu owner, it is important to stay up-to-date on any recalls or TSBs that may affect your 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?

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 the Malibu a reliable car?

Quality and Reliability 85.0/100

The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100.

What were the best years for the Chevy Malibu?

After exploring the Chevrolet Malibu's journey, it's clear that the 2015 and 2019-2024 models are Chevy Malibu's best years that you can buy. Some years, like 2004 and 2013, are Chevy Malibu years that you should definitely avoid.

What is the most common problem with Chevy Malibu?

Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu

What year was the Malibus bad?

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.

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.

1989 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:

Engine and engine cooling problems
Suspension problems
Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Chevrolet Malibu complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Chevrolet Malibu.

2008-05-19

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2008-05-19
VIN: 1G1NE52M3WY
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: MY AUTO MECHANIC TOLD ME ABOUT THE GM RECALL ANTIFREEZE DXCOOL THE ANTI FREEZE THAT'S ON RECALL. THAT I HAVE INTAKE GASKETS SEEPING FROM THE RADIATOR. IT HAS THE DXCOOL. ITS NOT THE NORMAL ANTIFREEZE. ITS GOING TO COST 800 TO FIX THE PROBLEM. MY PARENTS CAR HAS SAME ANTIFREEZE. BECAUSE OF THE LEAKAGE I HAD TO GET MORE OF THAT STUFF. I HAVEN'T GOTTEN ANY LETTER. IT HAD THIS PROBLEM FOR AWHILE. THIS PROBLEM DRAINS FROM THE ENGINE WHEN THE AIR CONDITIONING IS ON MOSTLY. *TR

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2007-05-27

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2007-05-26
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: WHILE MAKING A TURN THE RIGHT FRONT COIL SPRING SNAPPED AND PUNCTURED TIRE. *TR

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1999-07-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1999-07-22
VIN: 1G1NE52M3XY
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: WHILE DEPRESSING THE BRAKES TO THE FLOORBOARD BRAKE FADE AWAY, CAUSING EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

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