1998 Chevrolet Malibu

1998 Chevrolet Malibu

The 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that was available with two engine options and three transmission options. The base engine was a 3.1-liter V6 that produced 155 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine was a 3.8-liter V6 that produced 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a five-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, and a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The Malibu was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, it was also criticized for its lack of power and unimpressive handling.

Engine

3.1-liter V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust manifold cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, exhaust fumes in cabin
  • Solution: Replace exhaust manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

3.8-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Five-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Four-speed Automatic

• Slipping transmission
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

CVT

• Belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, grinding noise, warning lights
  • Solution: Replace CVT belt
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Slipping transmission
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty accelerating, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace CVT
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace front struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear shock failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncing ride, poor handling, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace rear shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery warning light, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights
  • Solution: Replace headlights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Taillight failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering taillights
  • Solution: Replace taillights
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat belt buckle failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty fastening seat belt
  • Solution: Replace seat belt buckle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 02V172000; 06V293000
• Radio failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No sound, display issues
  • Solution: Repair or replace radio
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable vehicle with a few common issues. The most severe and expensive issue is the CVT transmission failure, which can cost up to $5,000 to repair. Other issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and alternator failure, are less severe and less expensive to repair. Overall, the Malibu is a good choice for a used car, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing.