One problem related to front seat belt has been reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
The plastic locking latchplate on both the front driver and front passanger seat have broken. The dealer fixed the first problem because it was still under warranty, but now that the driver's side has broken and it is out of warranty, it will cost over $100 to fix it. The vehicle has not been in a crash.