2001 Chevrolet Malibu: grinding or squealing brakes

Filed Jun 6, 2005 · Brakes, Suspension · 52,000 miles · WI

Car has vibrations at higher speeds 60+ was told it was tires/wheels they were replaced for $280 for tires and $200 for just steel rims. Car still vibrated at high speeds and also felt like rotors needed to be replaced-the kind of vibrating when braking. Replaced rotors and brake pads $49 a piece for rotors and $40 a piece for brake pads. Car continued to vibrate except when stopping. After time now (3 mos) when the car is vibrating and you go to slow down it shakes the car even worse. Was then told to replace the wheel bearings. Just did that yesterday they cost me $230 not only does the car still vibrate it has a grinding noise when you trun to the right now. Since ive bought it it has vibrations at high speeds and a "rubbing" vv, vv, vv noise when turing right. After replacing wheel bearings the car still makes all the noises and grinds now. Dont know what else to do to fix it, beginning to think im just going to have to replace the entire front end. Really used to trust chevy now im not so sure. I have had way too many problems with this car and I just bought it in july2004- ridiculous if you ask me.

Filed Dec 5, 2004 · Brakes, Electrical · 18,000 miles · MO

I have had the brakes and rotors replaced twice since buying the car in april of 2001. I took the car to jim butler chevrolet for the turn signal/flasher problem which was later recalled and I was reimbursed. I took it to don darr chevy which fixed a faulty switch operating the air conditioner/switching to outside air. I had the car towed to dobbs when it would not start, they said it was the fuel pump and assembly module. Today,jim butler chevrolet replaced the lock cylinder and ignition switch because of the theft system light and the car not starting.but was unable to find the cause of the daytime running lights not working. Oh! But they noticed a recall on the hazard lights and replaced it. They were the one who replaced it the first time. I also told them of the over crank/grinding noise after the car is started, happens occasionally. They could not duplicate, so no repair. I am not happy with this car or chevy because of all the problems and the expense it has caused and cost me. I used to hold chevrolet in high regard, but can no longer recommend anyone owning one.

Filed Sep 28, 2004 · Brakes · ME

Consumer stated while applying the brakes pedal went to the floor. A loud grinding noise was heard coming from the front. Consumer took vehicle to dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the brake pads and rotors needed to be replaced.

Filed Oct 6, 2003 · Suspension · IN

Right strut mount failed, causing a squeaky noise.

Filed Sep 23, 2003 · Brakes · MA

While traveling 35 MPH owner applied the brakes and vehicle experienced total brake failure, along with excessive grinding noise. After inspection by a dealership owner was informed that the front pads were worn 50%, and the front rotors had warped. Owner was concerned about the extent of brake failure at low mileage.

Filed May 14, 2003 · Brakes · WV

There was extended stopping distance and vibration in the steering wheel when the brakes were applied, also a grinding noise. The rotors were replaced twice, and the brake shoes and pads 6 times. Brakes need to be replaced every 10000 miles.

Filed Apr 15, 2003 · Body, Brakes · WA

After researching the service bulletins section of this website, I have come to realize that I have complained/had serviced about 85% of the same problems that are listed on your database. I purchased this car new, from everett chevrolet, wa in 2000. Since the purchase. Date, I had chevy do the following: new brakes (all the way around - once, front rotors/pads - twice), all new pistons, transmission replaced, miss on #1 cylinder - replaced 1 failed spark plug, left rear door squeaks when open/shut - lubed (has happened 3 times now), front left noise from struts/brakes - not able to verify as of yet (possible strut problem/lube), fan in dashboard has a sound in the middle (just above the cd player/radio) like there is a piece of paper caught in the housing (confirmed after 4 complaints, faulty fan motor), passenger front seat squeaks when occupied (dealerships have not been able to duplicate./fix), rearview mirror rattles while driving at highway speeds (tightened, still does it in hot weather). Bottom line, this is my first new car purchase and I am having serious doubts about keeping the car - as it only has 21,405 miles on it. With the 3/30 warranty. Coming up in oct. 2003, I am very much afraid that I have purchased a lemon and not looking forward to spending anymore time/$$$ on this vehicle. Any suggestions?

Filed Apr 2, 2002 · Brakes · PA

Vibration and pulsating when applying brakes, grinding noise can be heard. Dealer replaced front rotors and pads. Rotors were replaced a second time in october 2001 for premature wear. *jg

Filed Oct 10, 2001 · Brakes · TX

After vehicle sits for awhile, the brakes grab and squeal, dealer has replaced the front brake rotors and pads, rear brakes are noisy, dealer replaced rear drum assembly, cleaned and adjusted rear brakes, and greased backing plates, brake problem is not remedied.