42 problems related to manifold/header/muffler/tail pipe have been reported for the 1998 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Engine locked up while driving at highway speed(70mph) due to failed intake gasket on 1998 Malibu 3. 1 . One flicker of oil light (oil had just been changed that morning by myself (experienced auto technician) . Engine had 52,000 miles, was 600 miles from home(appr), cost $750 to tow home, upon disasembly found failed intake gasket, purchased used engine,$600, $800 to have installed. Gm contacted in every forum avail. Refused to help in any way. Installed new gasket on used engine before installing, gm parts, now 37,000 miles later have intake gasket leak again.
Intake manifold gasket failed, causing coolant to leak. A known problem on this car, Chevrolet should recall it. Mine was replaced under warranty luckily. Rotors replaced one week after purchase, again, a common problem with this car.
Antifreeze began leaking from intake manifold onto engine block, causing intake manifold gaskets to be replaced.
3. 1 l intake manifold gasket was replaced once under warranty on my 1998 chevy Malibu. I was told by the repair center at the dealership that it may need to be replaced again.
The intake manifold gasket failed, it was leaking fluid over the engine. . Dealer ordered gasket kit and will fix when parts come in, could have caused a fire.
Engine coolant bypass to intake manifold fittings failed. Yh.
We have rotors replaced on this car twice in about 30dys dealer couldn't believe it. And the intake bolts were loose and it was losing coolant.