Four problems related to engine noise have been reported for the 2001 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 Chevrolet Malibu based on all problems reported for the 2001 Malibu.
Dt when starting the vehicle in the morning one could hear a metal pinging sound coming from the motor. It will rattle for a mile or two and the noise will quietly lower itself. Noticed this on July 1, 2005. This vehicle only had 40,000 miles on it. Had it diagnosed at the dealership, and they confirmed that it had a piston slap in the motor.
Vehicle has stalled numerous times at speeds of 30-40 mph. Vehicle taken to dealer 5 times, ignition was replaced, but did not remedy problem. Vehicle experiences hard start when cold, engine also makes noise.
Item#1) brought vehicle in for service for engine noise. Advised pistons needed replacment. Advised car was "safe to drive". Pistons on national backorder. Left copy of service repair order with saleswoman and advised her to contact general manager of dealership and Chevrolet of problem. Item#2) brakes, brought in vehicle for service on 02-14-2001 for brake instability on wet pavement. Advised brakes were "normal" after test drive. No on hoist inspection was performed . Brought in vehicle on 03-21-2001 for brakes and engine noise. Advised brakes were "normal" again, no action was taken regarding brakes after road test by dealership. Pistons needing replacment constitutes a failure of major drivetrain components and this vehicle will not be construed as "safe". A replacement vehicle must be provided or refund of all expenses and return of trade-in vehicle which was reliable.
While driving, vehicle shakes erratically. It vibrates from inside. Also, had new struts put on rear. Consumer stated that driver side head lamp out of adjustment, front brake pads make noise, engine makes tapping noise when first starting, there was a shimmy in vehicle while driving due to struts leak.