2005 2.2 L good???

[jamesmetairie]

is the 2.2 litre 4 cylinder engine good on the average ? i,m considering purchasing a used malibu with the 2.2 .

[HyperFox]

It really all depends. The ecotec engine is excellent for what its designed. Fuel economy. Nothing more, nothing less. If you expect this car to have neck-snapping torque and acceleration, buy one with the 3.5L V6.

But otherwise the ecotec has been reliable, mine has 41,000kms. No major issues. It merges onto the freeway well, and can hold its own. Just dont expect it to be a ferrarri.

The major plauge for this car is the steering system, some models develop a popping noise when turning that eventually leads to failure of the power assist. (Its electric power steering btw) around $500 to fix. No big deal as this one is a 2k5.

Another issue with the steering is the standard Intermediate steering shaft. A quite a few gms have this, as a result of poor outsourcing.

Other then that, drive one, push buttons, then get into a base level accord. Drive it, and then tell us how many options you get for your money.

[jamesmetairie]

thanks for the reply. i heard the same engine is in the saturn "ion". i heard that "ion" is a totally bad news car with mucho repairs. i heard that G.M. developed a good 4 banger for the late model gran am,s etc. i,ve got a couple of cars with v/6,s(3.1). awesome rate of acceleration in my olds acheiva. but that damn intake manifold is enough to make you puke. that,s one reason i,m looking at 4 cylinders next go around. thanks again and drive safe. jim .

[HyperFox]

Hey no problem. I used to own a pontiac montana, with the LA4 3.4l And I know the pain of the lower intake manifold gaskets.. So far the ecotec has been pretty decent.