Considering Buying Used Malibu

[pondod]

Hello all, I am currently considering buying a used 97-99 Malibu. I thought what better place to research than people who already own them! Anyone out there with any input is appreciated. Good or Bad! Thanks! Also if not a good choice, anyone know what else to consider in that size range?

[burly]

I bought my 2003 Malibu used with 9k miles on it for about 12k, with 24k and 2.5 years left on the factory warranty. I've had it for about 8 months now and I'm at 20k. I've had no major complaints or problems. My biggest complaint is the trim piece on the driver's side A-pillar is loose where it meets the dash - a very minor issue. I would highly recommend the 2003. I get about 20MPG in pure town traffic and 30-32MPG in pure highway. I average about 26-27MPG on a tank. The car has good and smooth power from the 3100 V6 and rides well. While I've not driven a 2.4L I4 equipped malibu, I don't think I would recommend it, as the 3100 has considerably more power and feels about right in the vehicle, so I think the 2.4 would be worked pretty hard moving its 3106lbs.

I have heard mixed reviews of the 00 and older malibus. Problems ranging from intake manifold gaskets to brake rotors to HVAC control malfunctions. The build quality seems to be touch and go in the older models. If it is in your budget to get the new 01-03 model, I would do so. Other cars in this class are the Dodge Status, Chrysler Sebring, Ford Taurus, Oldsmobile Alero, Pontiac Grand Am, and a bit bigger but similar are the Chevrolet Impalas and Dodge Intrepids.

I found the Taurus, the Status, the Sebring and the Intrepid and the Alero to be too small in one dimension or another. The Taurus didnt have enough headroom (I'm 6'4"), the same with Intrepid, while the Stratus/Sebring also lacked sufficient legroom.

Hope this helps. Let us know if you have any specific questions or comparisions.