Please help with Questions...

[djh04]

Ok, I have read through a lot of everyones comments and questions on the 2000 Malibu (I own the same thing). I havent had any major problems (knock on wood)...As of now, my engine light keeps going off and on as well, this is the 2nd time it has happened. I also am trying to get my transmission fluid checked and everyone I call says that they cannot do it becuase they cannot find the transmission fluid thing to check the flluid amount. Sometimes, I can press the gas and it seems as though the transmission is slipping, and then on the other hand, at times, it is fine with no problems. I also, have to refill my antifreeze at least once every 1 1/2- 2 weeks becuase the light keeps comming on. Took it to mechanic and they said they ran pressure through radiator and nothing wrong and no leaks...these are all my problems and I hope someone can help me! You help is greatly appreciated! Especially if you can tell me where at on my car I can see my transmission fluid level.

[steve_o]

It appears that you are experiencing a lot of common problems with this vehicle.

What size engine?
How many miles?

Initially I would take the vehicle the an Autozone to have the codes read. They can provide the specific code and and what it means, or you can post it here and there is ways to look it up.

This vehicle does not have a Trans fluid dip stick. There is a plug adjacent (just across) from the oil drain plug. The vehicle must be running and level for it to be opened and the proper level is when the fluid just dribbles out.

Low coolant sounds like it might be a leaking intake manifold gasket, which GM 3.1 L engines have become famous. This might get you started.

[LancerZero]

I'm with steve_o on this one; sounds as though at least part of your problem (the antifreeze part) is your lower intake manifold, and if you're leaking at that rate, you may have worn out a head gasket or two as well.

The 2001 Malibu was only available with the 3.1L V6; that was the first year where a V6 was standard. How long have you had the antifreeze leak? I didn't have to add any more to mine (after it first emptied itself, of course) for months on end (and a couple thousand miles), until I had the money to fix it. The only vehicle I've had that leaked antifreeze so badly that I had to check weekly was a 1996 Lumina I had (yup, another Chevy 3.1L V6); at 106k miles, they had to replace some head gaskets and remachine/replace at least two cracked cylinder heads, in addition to the intake manifold. Nasty. And expensive.

[djh04]

Originally Posted by LancerZero

I'm with steve_o on this one; sounds as though at least part of your problem (the antifreeze part) is your lower intake manifold, and if you're leaking at that rate, you may have worn out a head gasket or two as well.

The 2001 Malibu was only available with the 3.1L V6; that was the first year where a V6 was standard. How long have you had the antifreeze leak? I didn't have to add any more to mine (after it first emptied itself, of course) for months on end (and a couple thousand miles), until I had the money to fix it. The only vehicle I've had that leaked antifreeze so badly that I had to check weekly was a 1996 Lumina I had (yup, another Chevy 3.1L V6); at 106k miles, they had to replace some head gaskets and remachine/replace at least two cracked cylinder heads, in addition to the intake manifold. Nasty. And expensive.

thank you so much for your relpy! I think i will take it to the dealer!