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5.9

fairly significant
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
13,615 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

This data is from the NHTSA — the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints are spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem.

So how do you find out what problems are occurring? For this NHTSA complaint data, the only way is to read through the comments below. Any duplicates or errors? It's not us.

2001 Chevrolet Malibu brakes problems

brakes problem

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2001 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Comments (Page 1 of 2)

problem #21

Sep 142004

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 64,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Third replacement of rotors and brakes within 3 years of owning car.

- Webster, NH, USA

problem #20

Jun 012004

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 8,000 miles
The front disc brake rotors were warped to the point where they needed to be replaced on three separate occasions approximately 8K miles apart.

- Royal Oak, MI, USA

problem #19

Nov 012002

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
2001 Chevrolet Malibu experiencing problems with brakes, turn signals, cooling system and theft deterrent light. The consumer experienced the following: A continuous brake problem with the rotors, the theft deterrent light illuminated, so the dealer replaced the ignition cylinder the signal lights worked intermittently and the dealer replaced the hazard switch. The right side hub assembly was replaced. There was water in the oil, therefore the intake gaskets were replaced due to leaking.

- Mechanicsville, MD, USA

problem #18

Mar 012005

Malibu

  • 28,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

At 36,370 miles had to replace the intake manifold and gasket on 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. The front rotors were replaced at 28,000 and the blower only worked on high speed.

- Shawmut, ME, USA

problem #17

Dec 042004

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 18,000 miles
I have had the brakes and rotors replaced twice since buying the car in April of 2001. I took the car to jim butler Chevrolet for the turn signal/flasher problem which was later recalled and I was reimbursed. I took it to don darr Chevy which fixed a faulty switch operating the air conditioner/switching to outside air. I had the car towed to dobbs when it would not start, they said it was the fuel pump and assembly module. Today, jim butler Chevrolet replaced the lock cylinder and ignition switch because of the theft system light and the car not starting.but was unable to find the cause of the daytime running lights not working. Oh! but they noticed a recall on the hazard lights and replaced it. They were the one who replaced it the first time. I also told them of the over crank/grinding noise after the car is started, happens occasionally. They could not duplicate, so no repair. I am not happy with this car or Chevy because of all the problems and the expense it has caused and cost me. I used to hold Chevrolet in high regard, but can no longer recommend anyone owning one.

- Cedar Hill, MO, USA

problem #16

Sep 282004

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
Consumer stated while applying the brakes pedal went to the floor. A loud grinding noise was heard coming from the front. Consumer took vehicle to dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced.

- Waldoboro, ME, USA

problem #15

Apr 202004

(reported on)

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 35,908 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

Left and right hub bearing needed to be replaced. Steering wheel vibrates when braking due to front rotors having excessive runout and pads worn out evenly. Also, consumer heard noise coming from hub bearing, dealer replaced bearing.

- Springfield, VA, USA

problem #14

Aug 012003

Malibu 6-cyl

  • 50,000 miles
The car has experienced vibrations when applying the brakes. The front rotors were turned and pads replaced but this did not correct the issue.

- Denver, CO, USA

problem #13

Nov 282003

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • 29,000 miles
Premature brake failure - 29,000 miles and car need new rotors and pads. Very light use, highway driving, no stop and go driving.

- Forestville, WI, USA

problem #12

Sep 232003

(reported on)

Malibu

  • miles
While traveling 35 mph owner applied the brakes and vehicle experienced total brake failure, along with excessive grinding noise. After inspection by a dealership owner was informed that the front pads were worn 50%, and the front rotors had warped. Owner was concerned about the extent of brake failure at low mileage.

- Worcester, MA, USA

problem #11

Aug 152003

Malibu

  • 53,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

When driving at highway speeds the vehicle stalled. The vehicle also lost power steering but the consumer managed to pull over. Problem had not been resolved. Two separated dealerships stated that there was nothing they could do to fix the problem until one dealer kept the vehicle for a week and stated that the vehicle experienced a "hicc up" and the vehicle was repaired. The left front wheel bearing was noisy and the left front hub was noisy. The fuel pump and ignition switch and the consumer had not experienced any more problems with the vehicle. Also the front rotors were replaced.

- Clinton Township, MI, USA

problem #10

Aug 092003

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
The brake rotors are warped for 2nd time, it happened at 40,000 miles, and now almost a year later after they were turned the brake rotors are warped again! I have looked on the web sites of other owners, and the same complaint has been their!

- Alexander City, AL, USA

problem #9

May 302003

Malibu

  • miles
Vehicle would vibrate when applied the brakes. Dealer was notified replaced five times pads/ rotors turned three times and replaced one. But problem still recurring. Please send copy. And further information.

- Buckhannon, WV, USA

problem #8

Apr 152003

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
After researching the service bulletins section of this website, I have come to realize that I have complained/had serviced about 85% of the same problems that are listed on your database. I purchased this car new, from everett Chevrolet, wa in 2000. Since the purchase. Date, I had Chevy do the following: New brakes (all the way around - once, front rotors/pads - twice), all new pistons, transmission replaced, miss on #1 cylinder - replaced 1 failed spark plug, left rear door squeaks when open/shut - lubed (has happened 3 times now), front left noise from struts/brakes - not able to verify as of yet (possible strut problem/lube), fan in dashboard has a sound in the middle (just above the cd player/radio) like there is a piece of paper caught in the housing (confirmed after 4 complaints, faulty fan motor), passenger front seat squeaks when occupied (dealerships have not been able to duplicate./fix), rearview mirror rattles while driving at highway speeds (tightened, still does it in hot weather). Bottom line, this is my first new car purchase and I am having serious doubts about keeping the car - as it only has 21,405 miles on it. With the 3/30 warranty. Coming up in Oct. 2003, I am very much afraid that I have purchased a lemon and not looking forward to spending anymore time/$$$ on this vehicle. Any suggestions?

- Lynnwood, WA, USA

problem #7

Mar 312003

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
Excessive brake repair:front and rear since vehicle was purchased on 9/12/01 to 3/31/03: Brakes serviced on 12/14/01-machine front rotors and rear drums, 3/14/02-replace front brake pads and rotors machine rear drums, 8/12/02 R&R rear drums & machine R&R rear brake shoes & lube backing plate, 3/31/03 front brakes needed clean and adjust rear brakes. Mileage was respectively: 5836, 12450, 21975, 33533. All brake work done by dealer. Independent brake inspection on 4/3/03 shows front brakes needed and 20/1000ths left on rear drums. This will be the third set of brakes put on this vehicle before the manufacturer's warranty expires. Also rear drums are within 20/1000ths of drum spec discard prior to manufacturer's warranty expiration.

- Shepherd, MI, USA

problem #6

Dec 162002

Malibu 6-cyl

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
I purchased a 2001 Chevrolet Malibu in April 2001 VIN [xxx] and have had the following work/problems with the brake system repaired at capital Chevrolet where I purchased the vehicle. Dateproblem/repairsmileage Nov 2001abs warning light on, brake pads, rotors 7,754 Jan 2002front suspension9,080 Mar 2002front suspension12,000 May 2002brake pads & rotors14,555 July 2002abs warning light ON17,170 Oct 2002brake pads & hub21,055 Nov 2002abs warning light on, rotor, hub kit22,005 Oct 2002rotors21,310 Dec 2002caliper & brake pads24,066 from the information above, I can generally get about 7,000 miles on the brake pads. I have contacted General Motors customer service department (request # [xxx]) and was able to get an extended warranty on the vehicle in June 2002 after several complaints, however the brakes have needed repair several times since my original concerns. I am concerned about what happens if there is a catastrophic brake failure" my recent conversations with GM customer service department have been less than cordial. I have considered trading in the Malibu and purchasing another vehicle, but the trade in value offered for the Malibu is not acceptable. My question is: What kind of assistance does your Office Of Defects Investigation offer" I firmly believe there is a serious safety issue with the brake system on my vehicle and General Motors bears the responsibility for correcting the defect or replacing the vehicle. Thank you. Ts information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

- Juneau, AK, USA

problem #5

Jun 052002

(reported on)

Malibu

  • miles
The rotors have been replaced twice due to warpage whivh causes the vehicle to vibrate hile braking, the consumer believes this is a design flawwarped front brake rotors was turn down by the service department.

- Muncy, PA, USA

problem #4

Mar 262002

(reported on)

Malibu

  • miles
This is a government Agency. These cars are purchased as fleet vehicles. I have not had a problem at all with laqua Chevrolet, they have fixed these vehicles anytime there has been a problem. What I am very concerned with is, these brakes were just replaced last month and we are on the third set of brakes and rotors, and they had to be replaced again this month.. is there anything I can do regarding these 8 vehicles? I only sent you one of the VIN numbers, I have 7 more vehicles with the same problem. Thank you for your time and consideration to this matter. Nlm

- Oswego, NY, USA

problem #3

Oct 132001

Malibu

  • miles
Front brake rotors warped and braking effected. Front brake rotors had to be replaced. This should not happen to a new car with 5,200 miles. Service dept said this is not a uncommon problem. Brakes rotors should be made better!

- New Lenox, IL, USA

problem #2

Oct 022001

Malibu

  • miles
Engine pings with no reason, rotors are looking bad early on.

- Tujunga, CA, USA

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