Eight problems related to brake disc pads have been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I have owned my Malibu since it was new in 1997. In its lifetime it has had 4 or 5 sets of rotors and at least 7 sets of brake pads. It is now ready for a new set of rotors and brakes. The last time these were replaced on the car was 2 years ago. Gm knew about the brake problem from day one. The 1997 and 1998 models have had numerous brake problems with them. They don't do anything about it because no one has gotten killed from the problem. Do I have to die in a wreck before someone listens?? 2 years ago when I had it fixed I thought that would be the last time, but no, the brakes and rotors still don't fit my car right or they wouldn't wear like they do. Gm need to fix the problem on my car. They seem to have corrected the problem on the 2000 models just fine.
Brake rotors warped and pads worn causing vibration while braking. Mjs.
While traveling and when depressing the brakes, brakes make a noise. Dealer has been notified, and brake pads were replaced. Consumer has to replace pads every 3 thousand miles. Only the outer brake pads are wearing, neither dealer nor gm can provide an explanation.
Ongoing problem with pulsation when applying brakes. At 21,000 miles/at low speed it appear moderate, and severe at high speed. Dealer was notified, and had front rotors turned. At 30,000 miles problem reoccurred. Dealer notified again, and returned front rotors, and replaced pads at consumer's cost. At 33,000 miles, again problem reoccurred while coming down the mountain at 60 mph and applying brakes, it caused severe vibration / pulsation. Feel free to provide any further details on this matter.
Front brake pads need replacement due to premature wear. Vehicle has low mileage, dealer notified.
Brake pads failed.
At 19,000 front rotors needed to be resurfaced, and at 24,000 miles rotors needed to be resurfaced again. At 47,000 miles front brakes, and 1 rotor needed to replaced. At 71,000 miles front rotors and pads needed to be replaced again. Dealer claimed it was normal to have rotors turned every 15,000-20000 miles.
Heard a loud noise when applying brakes, and brake pedal felt spongy. Been in dealer shop on five occasions to replace brake lining and front pads, but problem reoccurred every 3-4,000 miles. The manufacture knew of the problem but never informed the consumer.