Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR | |||||
| 4615 | 10023171 | Abs pump running when not needed. *nj | 10/31/2007 | ||
| 070201 | 03/01/2007 | 10021412 | Incorrect outer backing plate. outer backing plate has short centre protusion. outer backing plate should have tall center protrusion. *kb | 04/24/2007 | |
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - WHEEL SPEED SENSOR | |||||
| 04152004 | 04/15/2004 | 10009220 | Vehicles may set anyone or a combination of front-wheel speed sensor anti-lock brake system codes as intermittent or hard failures. gm voicemail express. *tt | 09/17/2004 | |
| 00966 | 01/01/2004 | 00966A | 10007816 | Anti-lock braking system (abs) front wheel speed codes - jumper harness. *tt | 07/12/2004 |
| 00966B | 01/01/2004 | 10007293 | Abs front wheel speed codes - jumper harness. *tt | 06/09/2004 | |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | |||||
| 050523001 | 03/01/2005 | 10014985 | Revised brake system specifications. *tt | 05/13/2005 | |
| 000523002B | 03/01/2003 | 000523002A | 10001251 | Front disc brake pulsation. *tt | 04/25/2003 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK | |||||
| 970801735026 | 08/01/1997 | 54419 | Comment that the abs light is on with diagnostic trouble codes (dtc's) 46 and 86 set as current or history. *yc | 04/07/1998 | |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | |||||
| 210602 | 06/21/2002 | 637253 | Information regarding the brake align kit. *tt | 11/21/2002 | |
| 051502 | 05/15/2002 | 636679 | Additional information on repeat brake pulsation after an initial brake repair. *tt | 11/12/2002 | |
| 020522001 | 04/01/2002 | 634845 | Service manual update regarding revised brake specifications. *tt | 10/09/2002 | |
| 010522001 | 01/01/2001 | 618073 | Vehicles may experience clunk, rattle noise from the underbody or front suspension. *jb | 04/03/2001 | |
| 121200 | 12/12/2000 | 617782 | Some customers may comment on a brake pedal rattle or clunk. *tt | 03/27/2001 | |
| 990523001A | 08/01/1999 | 990523001 | 607573 | Some owners may comment about a squealing type noise coming from the front brakes during a brake application. *tt | 09/29/1999 |
| 990523001 | 02/01/1999 | 604340 | Customers may complain a squealing noise coming from the front brakes. *tt | 04/26/1999 | |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC | |||||
| 735008 | 04/01/1997 | 52343 | Squealing noise coming from front brakes (install new brake pads). *tw | 07/24/1997 | |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS | |||||
| 022603 | 02/26/2003 | 10001848 | Brake pad replacement. *tt *jb | 07/23/2003 | |
| 010523005 | 04/01/2001 | 735034 | 619371 | Information pertaining to proper installation of front brake pads with wear indicator. *tt | 05/24/2001 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - PEDALS AND LINKAGES | |||||
| 98835023 | 10/01/1998 | 602758 | Experiencing a squeak /squawk type noise when brake pedal depressed. *yc | 01/11/1999 | |
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK | |||
| 10/26/2000 | 2 | 04/01/2098 | |
| When i purchased the car it was one year old and had 27,000 miles on it. the abs light and squeaking brakes were a problem from day one. i have replaced the brakes on this vehicle 2 times a year since i bought it. in october, 2000 the brake pedal would go all the way to the floor. the dealer who sold me the car said the system had been contaminated. i do not do my own repairs and the shops deny they contaminated the brake sys. is it possible that there is a leak into the abs system from another part of the engine? after my entire brake system was replaced in 2000 i did not have the abs failure until midas did an oil change in jan 2001. mr | |||
| 09/30/1999 | 1 | 09/01/1997 | |
| While driving at 65-70 mph and then lightly pressing brake pedal the car shakes in the front end, almost like a convulsion. we do not feel this should be a problem when a car is only 2 1/2 years old. we were told this is not a warranty item. | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - WHEEL SPEED SENSOR | |||
| 12/03/2002 | 05/01/1999 | ||
| Excessive brake pad wear, and noise. abs light on and off. mechanic questioned wiring problem coming from wheel bearing to abs light which could not be found. when abs light is on the vehicle has no antilock brakes. | |||
| 1 | 03/04/1997 | ||
| Brake sensor failed. yh | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC | |||
| While driving vehicle's front passenger side disc brake wears faster than others and ruin the rotors. dealer notified. please provide additional information. ts | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - CALIPER | |||
| 05/14/1998 | 3 | 07/01/1997 | |
| Brake calipers sticking causing premature brake pad wear and rotor damage | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - PADS | |||
| 08/08/1998 | 1 | 06/26/1997 | |
| Right front brake pad burned and damaged the rotor. new vehicle with 16,856 miles. | |||
| Front brake problem; excessive pad wearing and rotor scoring. dealer claims this is normal. | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - ROTOR | |||
| 08/05/1997 | 5 | 04/21/1997 | |
| Rotors warping and causing the front end to vibrate when braking, pulling to the right making it hard to steer. | |||
| 04/07/1997 | 4 | 06/27/1998 | |
| Repeated brake and rotor failure. | |||
| Front brake problem; excessive pad wearing and rotor scoring. dealer claims this is normal. | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | |||
| 10/10/2007 | 10000 | 11 | 02/01/1997 |
| I have owned my malibu since it was new in 1997. in its lifetime it has had 4 or 5 sets of rotors and at least 7 sets of brake pads. it is now ready for a new set of rotors and brakes. the last time these were replaced on the car was 2 years ago. gm knew about the brake problem from day one. the 1997 and 1998 models have had numerous brake problems with them. they don't do anything about it because no one has gotten killed from the problem. do i have to die in a wreck before someone listens?? 2 years ago when i had it fixed i thought that would be the last time, but no, the brakes and rotors still don't fit my car right or they wouldn't wear like they do. gm need to fix the problem on my car. they seem to have corrected the problem on the 2000 models just fine. *jb | |||
| 09/15/1997 | 14000 | 1 | 07/15/1977 |
| I bought a 1997-malibu ls brand new. before it turned 14,000 miles had to have work done on brakes. before even turning 30,000 miles i had to replace a complete brake job, (2nd set) tires, water pump, wheel cylinders, my head lights pop on, and i have a little over 33,000 miles.the dealer were i bought the car said unless they see the lights pop on.they could do nothing. gm sent out a recall. which i did take my car into dealer. i took it to the dealer i bought it from a few times.i moved back to indiana and took it to coyle chevrolet in new albany. i have had nothing but problems with this car.both dealers said there was nothing i could do as a consumer..i am mad as hell-and feel i was ripped off, and will not recommend to no one to ever buy a malibu. i had one in 1969. and, it was the best car. when you pay around $25,000.00 for a new car-you would think you would not have all the brake trouble. i to this day do not feel safe with these brakes. i am a single women and thought by buying a new car i would feel safer. please check into this. as soon as i can afford to get rid of this car i plan too. i have spent several hundred dollars on out of pocket repairs. battery-2 brake jobs-abs brakes-wheel cylinders-roaries-water pump. *la | |||
| 07/15/1998 | 3000 | ||
| Bought car new 4-14-1997----problem car 32750 mi now chevrolet ran away from this car and so did dealers---kept customer in the dark----waiting for 3 yrs or 36000mi suspension noise on going---rattle---creaking---glunking water pump leak at 23000 miles--fix est.$835.00--29295 mi suspension noisy yet 32655 mi on car. relaced ignition lock cylinder $532.42---32600 mi replace 4 tires $314.00---32525 mi took 3 years to get brakes up tp par. suspension still a problem.over all this car has problems from day one. battery---windshield---poorly built auto. that's why i have low miles don't use it much. | |||
| 01/26/2003 | 0 | ||
| There has been numerous problems with the brakes, they have been replaced every 20,000 miles. the cruise control has been fixed a few times and needs repair again. now, the engine has started to consume oil and i have been told it needs replacement. the malibu is a lemon of a car. | |||
| Vehicle shakes violently when braking at high speeds and the front end clunks. dealer stated that the owner over-inflated the tires, rides the brakes which warped the rotors. owner's company have two vehicles which experienced the same problem. | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK | |||
| 03/01/2008 | 74000 | 1 | |
| I would like to get a replacement,discount or free service on my 1997 malibu. i've had my car since 2004 and had to get another motor in 2005 which is needed now .this car has put me down a lot not only problems with the motor but the ignition locked up and i had to replace that as well as the brakes and rotors that last about 2 or 3 months. i also have a problem with the lights not working properly they only work on high beam. i can't find a more reasonable mechanic that's willing to repair the motor that i currently have due to the type which is a 2.4 and a used motor cost about half the price of a new one. please help! *tr | |||
| 01/01/2004 | 1 | ||
| I have a 1997 chevrolet malibu and my sister has a 1997 chevrolet venture. we both experience the same instances with our vehichles. the check engine light will come on frequently, the abs brake light will come one frequently. it happens to my car, the 97 chevrolet malibu every other time i turn on my car. i have to turn it off, and then restart it and then the lights go off. when the light is on, the abs brakes do not work. my sister got her 1997 chevrolet venture looked at and fixed and they said that it was a sensor. i find it odd that we both have the same problems. is there a recall on any electrical device or sensor? please let me know. *ak | |||
| 01/01/2005 | 50000 | 4 | |
| Suddenly brakes stopped working, and consumer's vehicle was involved in four collisions. . in the most recent collision consumer's vehicle struck the rear end of a truck at 30 mph. also, vehicle stalled and cuts off in traffic. *ak | |||
| 02/10/2004 | 72489 | 1 | |
| Consumer took vehicle to dealer for recall repairs. after leaving the dealer steering wheel and the brakes locked. dealer checked vehicle, and stated that it was okay. however, vehicle was still experiencing the same problem.*ak | |||
| 10/04/2002 | 125358 | 3 | 10/02/2002 |
| Engine check light and the abs light illuminated while driving. vehicle been to a repair shop on 3 separate occasions, and the problem had not been resolved. vehicle had its gas tank cap replaced, and the brake system was overhauled. but problem recurred. *ak | |||
| 1 | |||
| While driving 20 mph and when depressing brakes pedal it traveled to floorboard, resulting into extended stopping distance, causing consumer to crash head on into a pole. *ak | |||
| 08/09/2002 | 361620 | 15 | 06/25/2001 |
| Abs light comes on after i lose brake. chronic problems associated with this year vehicle are abs sensor, belt tensioner breaks away, cooling system heat controls, wiring to the rear lights. these are problems that this year model has that should be recalled. especially when the break sensor goes out and brakes are lost. why has nothing been done to force chevrolet to fix these problems? it is not just one car but all of 1997 malibu that has the problem. it is a definite safety issue. *jb | |||
| 06/01/2002 | |||
| While traveling on highway and without prior warning abs braking light appeared on dashboard. dealership was aware of problem.*ak | |||
| 06/23/2002 | 3 | 06/01/2097 | |
| While driving at 55 mph i had to stop for a car, the brakes failed,( brake clear to the floor) i had to drive into the bar pit to avoid a collision. i have had the vehicle to a gm authoriized service department 3 times to have them fixed because of how slow it stops. brake pads were replaced, calipers replaced, everything was done to the brakes that they could. the brakes failed after the brakes on the wheel were in working order. i think the abs system is going out.!*ak | |||
| 3 | 07/01/2000 | ||
| I have had to change the front disc brakes at least 5 times and the rotors twice in the 2 years since i have owned the vehicle. the air bag sensor has not been functional since 1 month after i bought the vehicle. it also has a problem with the abs system, causing the brakes to wear so fast. i believe the system should be recalled due to safety issues. i have checked on the internet with other owners and most of them have the same issues with the brakes as i do.*ak | |||
| 04/01/2002 | 1 | 12/01/2099 | |
| These cars are a constant repair bill and dangerous to operate because the tail lights will blow bulbs and without tail lights you are due for a rear collision.the brakes are awful and the rack and pinion didn't give any warning before it failed(locked up) gm will not take responsibility for any of these and numerous other defects in the car please help!*ak | |||
| 9 | 06/01/2001 | ||
| I have had problems with this vehicle since the day i financed it. i understand buying a used car is risky but not like this. i have had my complete brake system replaced and still have major problems. i purchased the vechicle from folsom lake used car outlet and all they can do is point the blame towards me. they tell me it is the way that i drive, i ride the brakes, i drive with two feet. excuses mainly. instead of saying we don't honestly know what is wrong fingers are being pointed. i have gone through 6 sets of pads, 4 sets of rotors due to hot spots, a set of calipers, and now everything needs replaced again. i have not had the car 1 year yet. pretty much my brakes fail every month to month & 1/2. when the dealership first put my vehicle in the shop it went to the original dealer 2 weeks after having it, for blown headgaskets & cooliant problems. the brake problem was there but where i purchased the vehicle from wanted to fix the problem themselves. i have a 4 year old son, and i look at it as what if the brakes totally fail. i guess it is no ones problem until someone gets hurt and a major law suit is brung against the dealer. that makes people then open their eyes and think how the situation could have been prevented. i do not bring all the blame against chevy because when a dealership sells a vehicle new or used safety is the most important thing. and i don't have that safety in my vehicle. please someone can you help me in my situation. *ak | |||
| 07/16/1998 | 1 | 04/01/1997 | |
| No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak (dot number: 0 tiresize: 215r60-15) | |||
| 06/09/2001 | 1 | 05/01/1997 | |
| Abs light comes on when making slow turns. when car is re-started the light goes out until another slow turn is made. this happens 5-6 tim.es a week. *ak | |||
| 10 | 04/01/1999 | ||
| I almost hit a large number of cars due to this problem. once i tired to up up the the mouintains and when i returned, brakes would make the card shake and vibrate and i could not control the weel and could not brake the car. i praid and reduced speed via gear, and then i could stop the car, but my car was so out of control that i almost went out of the road. i have changed my rotors and pads like 10 times and calipers once within 20.000 miles. i have checked the internet and there are over 5000 compaints about the same problem i am having with my brakes, wearing out very soon. i have spent over 3500 dolars on pads and brakes, with and without original parts and nothing seens to work. even the dealer mechanic says that the brakes is fine, but for me and everyone else, they are not. *ak | |||
| 03/29/2001 | 5 | 10/01/1998 | |
| Anti- theft system activates ramdomly and the ignition will not start. has been in the shop for repairs numerous times without success. the abs light comes on at random. the rotors wear out excessively on this car. the cruise control cuts itself off while driving. we have also had sensors replaced on the air conditioner twice. those are just the major problems.*ak | |||
| 01/01/1997 | 0 | ||
| When driving abs braking light comes on dashboard intermittently. brake light goes off when consumer turns vehicle off.*ak | |||
| 07/01/2000 | 07/01/2000 | ||
| Ever since i bought the car the abs light stays on ,it does not stop in the snow it slides abs does not work and from day one the dealer would do nothing to help me fix the problem and now my warrenty is up and they say too bad for you . nice car dealership ,not! is there anything you can do about this abs failure. *ak | |||
| 03/16/2001 | 9 | ||
| While driving would step on the brakes and it will makes noise like grinding metal to metal. brakes had to be replaced nine times. *ak | |||
| At 19,000 front rotors needed to be resurfaced, and at 24,000 miles rotors needed to be resurfaced again. at 47,000 miles front brakes, and 1 rotor needed to replaced. at 71,000 miles front rotors and pads needed to be replaced again. dealer claimed it was normal to have rotors turned every 15,000-20000 miles.*ak | |||
| 08/27/1998 | |||
| Ongoing problem with pulsation when applying brakes. at 21,000 miles/at low speed it appear moderate, and severe at high speed. dealer was notified, and had front rotors turned. at 30,000 miles problem reoccurred. dealer notified again, and returned front rotors, and replaced pads at consumer's cost. at 33,000 miles, again problem reoccurred while coming down the mountain at 60 mph and applying brakes, it caused severe vibration / pulsation. feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak | |||
| Due to improper installation rear brakes are inoperative, causing the rear brakes to rust out. consumer has contacted the dealer. please provide any further details.*ak | |||
| When applying brakes the vehicle does not stop in a proper amount of distance. dealer has seen vehicle, and can't duplicate the problem. *ak | |||
| 1 | 03/01/1999 | ||
| The abs light illuminates with the slightest disturbances on the road. nlm | |||
| 12/01/1998 | 4 | 05/18/1997 | |
| While traveling and when depressing the brakes, brakes make a noise. dealer has been notified, and brake pads were replaced. consumer has to replace pads every 3 thousand miles. only the outer brake pads are wearing, neither dealer nor gm can provide an explanation. *ak *ml | |||
| 07/28/1999 | 3 | 06/01/1997 | |
| The oil pan on the car has defective gaskets the engine manifold has defective gaskets the emergency brake light does not work the brakes have had to be replaced twice in less than 36,000 miles. *ak | |||
| 07/01/1997 | |||
| No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak | |||
| 01/13/1999 | 2 | 08/01/1997 | |
| The car has brakes that need replacement at about 35,000 miles then at 51000 miles and now need to be done again. i have not had an accident but it could happen. the brakes pulse which cause a shimmy at high speed and thus instability. i accept responsibility forbrake repair but feel that cheverolet has a design fault with the brakes. i have noted on the internet other people with similar problems with the brakes and know personally of two people who have also had problems. this is a problem that could cause an accident my repair records indicate several visits to the dealer. they claimed i was riding the brakes, that it was a design problem and in one instance i had two tires replaced and they blamed the tire dealer for not torqueing the bolts correctly. i realize that brakes wear out but this is a problem beyond fair wear and tear. *ak | |||
| 08/17/1999 | 2 | ||
| While driving consumer applied brakes and they made a popping noise. also front end shook like it was going to come off. the problem was due to defective rotors, and wants to be reimbursed for the cost of their replacement. *ak *ml | |||
| 04/12/1999 | |||
| Abs brake light was on. consumer had to get the sensor replaced. also, leaves are getting into the engine. *ak | |||
| The abs light stays illuminated while the vehicle is in motion. the dealer has been notified. *ak | |||
| 02/01/1999 | 06/01/1997 | ||
| The abs brake warning light, indicating non-functioning of the abs braking system, has been coming on. after the ignition is turned off and the car is restarted the light goes out. the warning light has been coming on more frequently. it seems to occur when making fairly sharp left turns, and is often accompanied by a metallic scraping sound. the dealer was notified after first occurrence and said to come in if it starts happening more often. i intend to take the car into the dealer this week. *ak | |||
| On-going / intermittent failure with asb senor light and brake sysytem; sometime when abs senor light would come on the, it appear to affect the braking system on the vehicle/ vehicle been in/out of dealer shop on 15 occasion and condition still occur. seeking help from nhtsa in this matter. | |||
| 05/17/1998 | 6 | ||
| Whenever brakes are applied, while driving at 40mph, they make squealing noises. they would also lurch & jerk. have been to dealer, and dealer replaced rotors. the noise in the brakes still exists. *ak | |||
| 01/01/1998 | |||
| The defective braking system malfunctioned, causing no braking ability and an accident. been to dealer several times. dealer replace brake pads/rotors/master cylinder and the wiring harness. dealer cannot determine problem. cause unknown. please provide problems. *ak | |||
| 08/15/1998 | 2 | ||
| Consumer has been experiencing problems with anti-lock brakes. the consumr replaced brakes once already, and needs to have them replaced again. also, when applying the brakes, they make a high squeaky sound. manufacturer has yet to be contacted. | |||
| 01/11/1999 | |||
| Intermittently while driving vehicle would pull to the right or left, which may cause loss of control or accident. consumer thinks it may be the abs braking system, but no warning light came on. nas not been to the dealer. please provide further information and vin#. *ak | |||
| 07/02/1998 | 1 | 07/01/1998 | |
| We did not purchase this vehicle, however upon rental i experienced problems with the brakes rubbing. we reported this to the facility where it was rented and was assured this vehicle had just been serviced. we then took said vehicle to the mountains and the brakes went metal to metal. upon my return to the agency i made a complaint and was treated unfairly. we then went to court. raffield tire master testified that the chevy malibu in question was notorious for brake sounds and rubbing and that the parts were consistently on back order. we want this verified and put a stop to these people trying to take others for a ride and free brake repair. we are currently in litigation over the deposit against so-called damages to said vehicle. we won the case in magistrate, but they have appealed to the state court. | |||
| 08/24/1998 | |||
| Front brake pads need replacement due to premature wear. vehicle has low mileage, dealer notified. *ak | |||
| 08/01/1997 | |||
| Abs light keeps coming on. when pressing on the brakes, extended stopping distance occurred. dealer contacted on numerous times, problem still exists. *ak | |||
| 04/08/1998 | 1 | ||
| While driving vehicle 40 pmh driver stepped on the brake pedal to stop vehicle, the brakes made noise like grinding metal to metal sound, and vehicle stopped a few inches away. also consumer said that he lost control of vehicle , almost causing an accident. he had to replace brakes many times before. manufacturer and dealer were contacted. *ak | |||
| 05/04/1997 | |||
| Abs warning light comes on at least three times per week but dealers cannot reproduce the problem and find anything wrong. | |||
| 05/24/1998 | |||
| While driving the vehicle the brakes and steering all of a sudden locked up, causing the driver to lose control of the entire vehicle. took vehicle to dealer, and they did not understand what had happened so they were trying to fix the computer. when the driver drove again the same thing happened again. *ak | |||
| 03/31/1998 | 1 | 04/20/1997 | |
| Front abs brakes failed quickly. | |||
| 11/10/1992 | 12/01/1996 | ||
| Brake pedal goes to floor. | |||
| 05/15/1997 | 0 | ||
| Slowing down vehicle, heard a grinding, screeching noise. took to dealer & informed that the brake rotors/pads & calipers were shot & needed replacing. took vehicle back for same problem, but in rear wheel cylinder. *ak | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | |||
| 3 | |||
| The brakes and rotors have been replaced three times.*yh | |||
| 11/26/2001 | 1 | 02/01/1997 | |
| No summary | |||
| 3 | |||
| The brakes and rotors have been replaced three times.*yh | |||
| When applying brakes a loud grinding noise occurs, cause unknown. dealer can not identify problem. please give any further details.*ak | |||
| Brake failure/noisy. *ak | |||
| 2 | |||
| Brake pads have been replaced twice/ mileage on car less than 32,000 miles (calipers and rotors replaced once) | |||
| 08/01/1997 | 1 | 05/03/1997 | |
| Brakes continually pulling and rubbing, unable to rectify problems. | |||
| Brakes pulling and rubbing creates a serious safety hazard, | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC | |||
| 06/23/2002 | 3 | 06/01/2097 | |
| While driving at 55 mph i had to stop for a car, the brakes failed,( brake clear to the floor) i had to drive into the bar pit to avoid a collision. i have had the vehicle to a gm authoriized service department 3 times to have them fixed because of how slow it stops. brake pads were replaced, calipers replaced, everything was done to the brakes that they could. the brakes failed after the brakes on the wheel were in working order. i think the abs system is going out.!*ak | |||
| 3 | 09/01/2099 | ||
| We have had to replace the brake pads and rotors three times since feb. 11 2000. the mileage was 34,000. the vehicle only has 62,000 miles as of today april 30, 2002. with the receipts we kept the combined total for brake work in the past two years equals $800. our machanic did some of his own investigating and came up with the conclusion that the rotors are too thin, and the calipers were too light for the heat dispersment causing premature brake failure.*ak | |||
| 09/01/2001 | 2 | 04/01/1998 | |
| I bought this 1997 malibu with 20,000 miles on odometer in 1998. in one month i noticed coolant system warning light coming on. i added anti freeze and water to system. this would last about a month and i would have to add more coolant. on 2/ 26/2002 the light came on and i added more coolant. i drove about 4 miles and coolant warning light came on again. i checked oil dip stick and it registered about two inches above full. i knew then that water was in my oil. the coolant had never leaked out where i could see it on the ground. i had to pay $430.00 to have gaskets replaced for the intake manifold . my other problem is that the front disk brakes are wearing out much faster than any car that i have owned. i have replaced two set of front disc pads and have had rotors turned and replaced. i am very light on brakes and have had extremely good ware on other autos. after 2000 miles they are making a noise again. the pads are guarantied for life by the manufacturer .*ak | |||
| 10 | 04/01/1999 | ||
| I almost hit a large number of cars due to this problem. once i tired to up up the the mouintains and when i returned, brakes would make the card shake and vibrate and i could not control the weel and could not brake the car. i praid and reduced speed via gear, and then i could stop the car, but my car was so out of control that i almost went out of the road. i have changed my rotors and pads like 10 times and calipers once within 20.000 miles. i have checked the internet and there are over 5000 compaints about the same problem i am having with my brakes, wearing out very soon. i have spent over 3500 dolars on pads and brakes, with and without original parts and nothing seens to work. even the dealer mechanic says that the brakes is fine, but for me and everyone else, they are not. *ak | |||
| 03/16/2001 | 9 | ||
| While driving would step on the brakes and it will makes noise like grinding metal to metal. brakes had to be replaced nine times. *ak | |||
| At 19,000 front rotors needed to be resurfaced, and at 24,000 miles rotors needed to be resurfaced again. at 47,000 miles front brakes, and 1 rotor needed to replaced. at 71,000 miles front rotors and pads needed to be replaced again. dealer claimed it was normal to have rotors turned every 15,000-20000 miles.*ak | |||
| 03/01/1997 | |||
| Disc brakes have never worked properly. pads replaced at 30k miles. brakes have never been right since i have owned this car. *ak | |||
| 06/01/1997 | 3 | 06/12/1998 | |
| Vehicle made a grinding or groaning noise while stopping from various speeds. had brakes replaced three times. *ak | |||
| 08/09/2000 | 3 | 05/01/1997 | |
| Front end shimmy at 50-60 mph when brakes applied;rotors&pads replaced. *ak | |||
| 08/27/1998 | 3 | 06/01/1997 | |
| Severe shaking of front wheels when applying brakes at speeds of 55 to 70 mph. traveling over the mountains of western maryland, i could not keep my foot on brakes. had to pump the brakes to avoid the severe shaking of the front wheels. this is more than just annoying, it is frightening because you have to get off the brakes to stop the shaking when descending long grades. have had the car to the dealer twice for this problem. first time at 21,368 (dealer machined rotors) and the second time at 30,467 (dealer machined rotors and replaced pads). each time, problem only stopped temporarily. at 54,400 i had to purchase 2 rotors ($240.00) and was told that gm had redesigned the rotors to fix the problem. since i was beyond 3yr/36,000 mile waranty gm would not cover this cost. the original rotors are defective and dangerous under high speed downhill conditions. i have just learned of a gm bulletin to dealers that acknowledges that the rotors are a problem. my neighbor advised me of a 1999 malibu that exhibited the same severe front end shaking under braking. i have the original rotors and the pads that i replaced on 10/27/2000 at a cost of $357.30 (parts only). this problem deserves immediate attention.*ak | |||
| 10/25/2000 | 05/01/1997 | ||
| Loud squeaking noise coming from the idle pulley. had that part replaced with new part. by the time i got home noise was back. brought car back to mechanic this morning. he is checking to see if new part was defected or if belt needs replacement. i am very disappointed with the malibu's performance. in the 3 years that i have the car, i have replaced front and back brakes, alternator, battery, etc. etc. and now the idle pulley (hopefully nothing else major). | |||
| 08/27/1998 | |||
| Ongoing problem with pulsation when applying brakes. at 21,000 miles/at low speed it appear moderate, and severe at high speed. dealer was notified, and had front rotors turned. at 30,000 miles problem reoccurred. dealer notified again, and returned front rotors, and replaced pads at consumer's cost. at 33,000 miles, again problem reoccurred while coming down the mountain at 60 mph and applying brakes, it caused severe vibration / pulsation. feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak | |||
| 10/10/1999 | 3 | 05/01/1999 | |
| I have had three new front control arms put on. now the rear suspension is bad. the brakes wear out fast because the rotors are junk, they need to be replaced every 15k to 20k miles. the car has 47k miles on it and i have owned it for 20k of those miles and have had the rotors replaced once and they need it again now. the brakes need replaced often as a result of the rotors wearing down so quickly. i don't know why this is but i urge chevy/gm to offer a solution shortly or they will lose a lot of loyal customers. i have spoken to a number of malibu owners with similar problems. *ak | |||
| 12/20/1997 | |||
| While driving on road and whenever applying brakes, vehicle shakes and grinds. contacted dealer, and they have replaced rotors twice and pads four times. *ak | |||
| 02/01/2000 | 09/01/1997 | ||
| Brake pads failed with out audible warning damaging rotors. bulb bases in rear light both melted for 2nd time. pwr window fails intermittently. noise in suspension, dealer couldn't find it.brakes also not covered under extended warranty, very expensive to repair. model should be investigated by all the complaints listed. | |||
| Throttle body was clogged, causing the accelerator pedal to stick. also, the vehicle has expoerienced premature brake wear. *ak | |||
| 2 | |||
| This car is a lemon (wife's car). in many instances, the car would not start at all, despite it being brand new. while parked or driving, the instruments would go haywire (pinning and moving violently), and the dash lights would turn on and off by themselves. in addition, my wife's brakes failed for a few seconds, then started working again. the front end makes a strange noise, and the ride is very harsh. been to the dealer many times for the electrical system problem, but they did not 'find anything wrong'! at this point, they should have given us professional customer service and a new car! this is the last time we are buying an american car. it's japanese and german from now on!! | |||
| 05/01/1998 | 2 | 04/01/1997 | |
| No summary | |||
| 07/20/1999 | 1 | 07/01/1997 | |
| We have had numerous things repaired or replaced on this car. everything from the carpet to the radio to warped rotors. we are currently trying to get out of our lease due to the number of problems that we are experiencing. it's become quite a nuisance to have and we are dissappointed and even angry at the fact that these many problems have gone uninvestigated by the dealer that we take it to for repairs. fortunately, there have been no serious malfunctions with the car causing accidents. we have an extensive list of repairs done to the car starting less than six months from the date of purchase. to date, we have had this car serviced for repairs on average, once every six weeks. | |||
| Right brake pad wore out/grinded, and left rotor was warped. dealer has been contacted. *ak | |||
| 01/01/1998 | |||
| The defective braking system malfunctioned, causing no braking ability and an accident. been to dealer several times. dealer replace brake pads/rotors/master cylinder and the wiring harness. dealer cannot determine problem. cause unknown. please provide problems. *ak | |||
| Front brake pads and rotors are prematurley wearing, cause unknown. dealer cannot identify the problem. *ak.et. | |||
| 01/06/1999 | 2 | 01/01/1997 | |
| Disc brake pads failed at 22k and again at 34k. dealer blames pad quality but will not warranty. center hinge on rear fold down seats has also failed twice. | |||
| 09/16/1998 | 1 | 09/01/1997 | |
| Brake system: i complained to the dealer on 7/13/98 that there was a rubbing/squeaking sound when depressing and releasing brake pedal. the dealer was unable to confirm sound. i reported the problem again on 9/16/98. the dealer stated that the rotors were grooved. the dealer resurfaced the rotors and applied stop squeal to the pads. less than two months from this service, the problem has recurred. returning to dealer for service on 11/11/98. suspension: i complained to the dealer about clunking sound when hitting bumps or gaps in road surface and of low pitch whirring noise in front wheel area (audible at speeds of 20-25 mph). first reported problem of clunking sound to dealer on 7/13/98. dealer attributed noise to loose gear assembly and replacedit. this problem recurred and was again reported to dealer on 9/16/98. dealer replaced lower front arm assembly. problem has recurred. returning to dealer for service on 11/11/98. | |||
| 05/01/1998 | |||
| Upon depressing the brake pedal, noticed a loud grinding sound coming from the front of the vehicle. consumer, therefore, contacted the dealer. cause was determined to be the brake pads and rotors which needed replacing. please provide any futher details. *ak | |||
| 05/15/1997 | 0 | ||
| Slowing down vehicle, heard a grinding, screeching noise. took to dealer & informed that the brake rotors/pads & calipers were shot & needed replacing. took vehicle back for same problem, but in rear wheel cylinder. *ak | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER | |||
| The calipers stick and wear the rotors down to the metal. dealer has repaired the vehicle .*ak | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS | |||
| 12/17/2003 | 88000 | 2 | |
| Excessive brake pad useage with this car. the intake manifold had to be replaced at 88,000 miles. i am very very dissatisfied with this car and do not plan on purchasing another gm at this time. *ak | |||
| 5 | |||
| Heard a loud noise when applying brakes, and brake pedal felt spongy. been in dealer shop on five occasions to replace brake lining and front pads, but problem reoccurred every 3-4,000 miles. *ak the manufacture knew of the problem but never informed the consumer. *yh | |||
| 12/01/1998 | 4 | 05/18/1997 | |
| While traveling and when depressing the brakes, brakes make a noise. dealer has been notified, and brake pads were replaced. consumer has to replace pads every 3 thousand miles. only the outer brake pads are wearing, neither dealer nor gm can provide an explanation. *ak *ml | |||
| 05/01/1997 | |||
| Air conditioner cuts off, engine fails to start (security system), carpet has disentegrated, front end problems, brake pad replaced and belt. *ak | |||
| 05/03/1999 | 1 | ||
| Brake rotors warped and pads worn causing vibration while braking. mjs | |||
| 03/26/1998 | 4 | 11/05/1997 | |
| Brake pads and rotors failed several times causing pulsating. | |||
| 08/24/1998 | |||
| Front brake pads need replacement due to premature wear. vehicle has low mileage, dealer notified. *ak | |||
| 10/31/1997 | 1 | 04/05/1997 | |
| Brake pads failed. | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR | |||
| 03/09/2004 | 3 | ||
| Consumer was concerned with the front brake rotors, brake rotors were replaced on two separate occasions, but problem recurred. *ak | |||
| 11/20/2003 | 78000 | 3 | 12/01/1997 |
| Brakes gone (again). been replacing about every 10000 miles. this car has been one thing wrong after another. already replaced lower control arms at 7500 miles, leaking antifreeze gasket, a/c control head (twice), and the brakes are ongoing. *ak | |||
| 09/20/2002 | 1 | 09/12/2002 | |
| Grinding sound while turning to the left-has been there since i bought the car-the dealer would not fix it when i took it back a week later- i feel there is a problem with it and it should have been taken care of within the time that i first bought the car without a charge!*ak | |||
| 05/06/2003 | 15000 | 3 | 04/07/1997 |
| Coolant leaking, engine overheats after highway driving. brakes and rotors fail consistently within 15000 miles of replacement. *nlm | |||
| 3 | 07/01/2000 | ||
| I have had to change the front disc brakes at least 5 times and the rotors twice in the 2 years since i have owned the vehicle. the air bag sensor has not been functional since 1 month after i bought the vehicle. it also has a problem with the abs system, causing the brakes to wear so fast. i believe the system should be recalled due to safety issues. i have checked on the internet with other owners and most of them have the same issues with the brakes as i do.*ak | |||
| 03/29/2001 | 5 | 10/01/1998 | |
| Anti- theft system activates ramdomly and the ignition will not start. has been in the shop for repairs numerous times without success. the abs light comes on at random. the rotors wear out excessively on this car. the cruise control cuts itself off while driving. we have also had sensors replaced on the air conditioner twice. those are just the major problems.*ak | |||
| 1 | 07/18/2000 | ||
| Consumer replaced rotors due to the noises they made when the brakes were used and they did not fit properly, they were too loose and they shifted. *slc | |||
| 06/10/2000 | 0 | ||
| Brakes cause front end to shake. dealer states that the only solution is to turn the rotors. *ak | |||
| 10/10/1999 | 3 | 05/01/1999 | |
| I have had three new front control arms put on. now the rear suspension is bad. the brakes wear out fast because the rotors are junk, they need to be replaced every 15k to 20k miles. the car has 47k miles on it and i have owned it for 20k of those miles and have had the rotors replaced once and they need it again now. the brakes need replaced often as a result of the rotors wearing down so quickly. i don't know why this is but i urge chevy/gm to offer a solution shortly or they will lose a lot of loyal customers. i have spoken to a number of malibu owners with similar problems. *ak | |||
| 08/01/1997 | |||
| Front end shakes at highway speeds,brake rotors failed,tires worn at 30000 miles. *ak( dot number: tire size: p21560r15 ) | |||
| 1 | 03/01/1999 | ||
| The front rotors and drums squeak. nlm | |||
| 01/04/2000 | |||
| Front rotors worn out excessively. yh | |||
| 1 | 09/01/1997 | ||
| Brake rotors are defective. yh | |||
| 04/14/1997 | |||
| Vehicle would shake while driving. suspension was bad in the front. also, battery did not work & needed charging/ windshield needed replacing due to wind singing/ vehicle would stall/ brake rotors were warped, and tires were wearing out excessively due to the poor suspension. vehicle at dealer. *ak | |||
| 3 | 09/01/1997 | ||
| 12 service visits, suspension control arms, rack and pinion, steering gear bad, brake rotors warped. all have been replaced 2 to 3 times and several reapir attempts with tape and bushings. other items as well. *ak | |||
| 03/17/1999 | 03/01/1997 | ||
| Failed again 28,800;indpndt shop says original rotors 2thin 2turn after miked;rotors have never been turned;no grooves. *ak | |||
| 01/04/1999 | 3 | ||
| Front brake rotors warped & uneven. has happened twice before. had the rotors turned at least twice. mechanic could not locate cause of problem. *ak | |||
| 05/03/1999 | 1 | ||
| Brake rotors warped and pads worn causing vibration while braking. mjs | |||
| 05/17/1998 | 6 | ||
| Whenever brakes are applied, while driving at 40mph, they make squealing noises. they would also lurch & jerk. have been to dealer, and dealer replaced rotors. the noise in the brakes still exists. *ak | |||
| 03/26/1998 | 4 | 11/05/1997 | |
| Brake pads and rotors failed several times causing pulsating. | |||
| 07/20/1998 | 2 | 04/01/1997 | |
| Rotors installed improperly causing brake failure. | |||
| 2 | 06/17/1997 | ||
| Brake lower control arms had excessive clearance, damaged joints. rotors out of round causing severe vibrations upon braking. | |||
| 04/30/1998 | |||
| Brake problems; the brake rotors have been turned once and replaced twice because of warping. turned on 3/6/98 with 14,574 miles.; replaced on 4/30/98 with 18, 225 miles, and 7/31/98 with 25, 039. when applyng the brakes, the steering wheel would pulsate and shake. *ak | |||
| 10/31/1997 | 1 | 04/05/1997 | |
| Brake rotors failed, causing grinding noise. | |||
| 08/04/1997 | 8 | 07/29/1997 | |
| Consumer purchased vehicle 7-29-97/ 8-04-97, the steering rack was determined defective. whenever turning a curve the rigt front tire rattles, otherwise any bump in the road causes the vehicle to make rattling noises. dealer has replaced steering rack eight (8) times already, and says that until gm redesigns steering rack there is no need to replace again. *ak brakes vibrate, front rotors warped. clicking noise comes from the motor of the driver side window express down feature. consumer had vehicle in shop 8 different times, however the rattling noise has not been corrected, manufacturer has a newly designed steering rack, however consumer declined due to pursuing the lemon law. lower control arms replaced, caused a thumping noise. *slc | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM | |||
| 10/25/2000 | 05/01/1997 | ||
| Loud squeaking noise coming from the idle pulley. had that part replaced with new part. by the time i got home noise was back. brought car back to mechanic this morning. he is checking to see if new part was defected or if belt needs replacement. i am very disappointed with the malibu's performance. in the 3 years that i have the car, i have replaced front and back brakes, alternator, battery, etc. etc. and now the idle pulley (hopefully nothing else major). | |||
| 1 | 03/01/1999 | ||
| The front rotors and drums squeak. nlm | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM - SHOES/LININGS | |||
| 5 | |||
| Heard a loud noise when applying brakes, and brake pedal felt spongy. been in dealer shop on five occasions to replace brake lining and front pads, but problem reoccurred every 3-4,000 miles. *ak the manufacture knew of the problem but never informed the consumer. *yh | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM - WHEEL CYLINDERS | |||
| 05/15/1997 | 0 | ||
| Slowing down vehicle, heard a grinding, screeching noise. took to dealer & informed that the brake rotors/pads & calipers were shot & needed replacing. took vehicle back for same problem, but in rear wheel cylinder. *ak | |||
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - MASTER CYLINDER | |||
| 01/01/1998 | |||
| The defective braking system malfunctioned, causing no braking ability and an accident. been to dealer several times. dealer replace brake pads/rotors/master cylinder and the wiring harness. dealer cannot determine problem. cause unknown. please provide problems. *ak | |||