1997 Chevrolet Malibu: headlights failing or too dim

Filed May 12, 2008 · Brakes, Electrical · 74,000 miles · GA

I would like to get a replacement,discount or free service on my 1997 malibu. I've had my car since 2004 and had to get another motor in 2005 which is needed now .this car has put me down a lot not only problems with the motor but the ignition locked up and I had to replace that as well as the brakes and rotors that last about 2 or 3 months. I also have a problem with the lights not working properly they only work on high beam. I can't find a more reasonable mechanic that's willing to repair the motor that I currently have due to the type which is a 2.4 and a used motor cost about half the price of a new one. Please help!

Filed Jul 12, 2004 · Brakes, Engine · 14,000 miles · IN

I bought a 1997-malibu ls brand new. Before it turned 14,000 miles had to have work done on brakes. Before even turning 30,000 miles I had to replace a complete brake job, (2nd set) tires, water pump, wheel cylinders, my head lights pop on, and I have a little over 33,000 miles.the dealer were I bought the car said unless they see the lights pop on.they could do nothing. Gm sent out a recall. Which I did take my car into dealer. I took it to the dealer I bought it from a few times.I moved back to indiana and took it to coyle chevrolet in new albany. I have had nothing but problems with this car.both dealers said there was nothing I could do as a consumer..I am mad as hell-and feel I was ripped off, and will not recommend to no one to ever buy a malibu. I had one in 1969. And, it was the best car. When you pay around $25,000.00 for a new car-you would think you would not have all the brake trouble. I to this day do not feel safe with these brakes. I am a single women and thought by buying a new car I would feel safer. Please check into this. As soon as I can afford to get rid of this car I plan too. I have spent several hundred dollars on out of pocket repairs. Battery-2 brake jobs-ABS brakes-wheel cylinders-roaries-water pump.

Filed May 25, 2004 · Electrical, Engine · TX

My first issue is with the lights on the malibu. My light developed condensation in them which in the rear caused the light to glow dim, and caused e to get pulled over on a number of times. In the front it has caused the glass shield to fog causing me to fail vehicle inspection. There have are many other electrical malfunctions on my car such as the theft lock system, the power moon roof, the manufacturer's cd player, the headlight control switch. Then it has a problem with emissions. The headliner is falling off the ceiling.

Filed Mar 4, 2004 · Electrical, Lights · IN

There have been repeated failures with this automobile. The passlock anti-theft system often locks up the ignition, the headlamp and tail lamp assemblies have excessive moisture in them, causing the bulbs to burn out, the air conditioner fan motor shuts off, and the drivers seat is loose. These problems have repeatedly been reported to the dealers, and they have been unable or unwilling to repair them.

Filed Jan 7, 2003 · Lights · GA

The vehicles headlights keep blowing out, cause is unknown. Please provide any further information. Ts

Filed Sep 19, 2000 · Lights · MI

Moisture buildup in headlight assemby of both sides. Also, during rain or car wash, water pours into passenger side floor. Unknown origin point of the water.

Filed Feb 8, 2000 · Lights · FL

Headlights get water caught in them and fog up, making visibility poor for the driver at night. Dealer has replaced the lenses, and problem is occurring again.

Filed Sep 30, 1999 · Lights · NY

Headlights are steaming up due to water entering inside of headlight, causing poor visibility.dealer told consumer to leave highbeams on for 1 hour to dry out the water.

Filed Mar 1, 1999 · Lights · VA

Headlight lens' have constant moisture in both lens, they freeze at night and eventually the bulbs will melt the ice, but lighting is distorted. I've reported this 4 times to dealer. The 1st time, they replaced one lens and after further complaints, their comments were "chevrolet won't authorize replacement any more replacements" so they take off the lens and wiping them dry. That lasts until the next rain. This is very frustrating especially when driving in freezing rain and fog. They never seem to dry out.

Filed Feb 12, 1999 · Lights · NY

After washing my 1997 chevrolet malibu I noticed that both front headlights were condensated covering 75% of both lenses. Vechicle was taken to the dealer, when I picked up the vechile I was told that was a normal condition and I was to drive the vechile for 2 to 6 hrs with the lights on to correct it. I primarily drive this car for vacations and I always have the car washed when I reach my destination. After driving many hours, it is ludicrous to think that I would want to drive for even one more hour. I feel that it is a defect, causing the headlights not to operate at 100% causing an unsafe condition, especially at night. I contacted general motors 1-800 number and was told the same thing that the dealer told me. I feel that the explanation is completely unacceptable and causes an unsafe condition. Both g m and the dealer refered to their bulletin number 638206a. Ii was also given a number from g m (990079295).

Filed Feb 9, 1999 · Lights · NY

Water goes into the front headlights, causing poor visibility.

Filed Feb 1, 1999 · Lights · NY

Moisture or water forms in the headlight casing and in the bulb area, causing the headlights to become dim or foggy, cause unknown. Dealer sealed the casing which did not remedy the problem. The consumer will be notified when it is to make replacement.*ak.et.