I have a '98 malibu. Since it has a closed transmission and no dip stick, is there a way to check the fluid level?

Sure is.
There is a check level plug on the end of trans axel close to the right axel.
It has to be warm or hot to check it with a certain run threw gear or something like that.
A good service manual will have the procedure.
What engine and trans does it have?
MT-2500

I'm going to be getting a 2000 Malibu, I am a former '95 Dodge Caravan owner, so I am VERY scared of tranny failure. Being that the tranny is sealed, what does this mean, I should not have to check the fluid, change the fluid, I don't get it. Why would they seal it?

They are not sealed. They just do not have a dip stick.
They have check level plugs on the trans.
Certain procedure you have go threw to check the trans fluid level.
They have to be serviced just like any trans but it is a different way to check fluid level.
The factory is saving money on no dip sticks.
MT-2500
Mt-2500 :smile:

I'm going to be getting a 2000 Malibu, I am a former '95 Dodge Caravan owner, so I am VERY scared of tranny failure. Being that the tranny is sealed, what does this mean, I should not have to check the fluid, change the fluid, I don't get it. Why would they seal it?

2000 is not a good model year for GM vehicles with the 4T40E or 4T45E transmission. If you're thinking of buying one, it would be wise to review the service records and see if the PCS has already been replaced or not. If it has not, there is a fair chance it may need to be in the future. Also, I would want to take this car on a 24 hour test drive to make sure (as much as possible) that everything works as it should. There are plenty of potential problems... I only mention the PCS thing because I work for a solenoid manufacturer so that sort of stuff is pretty close to home.

2000 is not a good model year for GM vehicles with the 4T40E or 4T45E transmission. If you're thinking of buying one, it would be wise to review the service records and see if the PCS has already been replaced or not. If it has not, there is a fair chance it may need to be in the future. Also, I would want to take this car on a 24 hour test drive to make sure (as much as possible) that everything works as it should. There are plenty of potential problems... I only mention the PCS thing because I work for a solenoid manufacturer so that sort of stuff is pretty close to home.

Oh great...well as far as I know the car has under 40k miles on it, I'm buying it from a family member so I'm only paying $3000, should I really think about backing out. The previous owner was good with upkeep and everything.