The Chevrolet Malibu would have had an incredibly long and uninterrupted production run if it wasn’t discontinued from 1984 to 1996. Nonetheless, its lengthy lifespan is still impressive. It first hit the market in 1964 and a car wearing the same badge is still on sale today.

Another interesting fact is that just like the original, the latest Malibu continues to be available as a mid-size sedan. While those are interesting tidbits, this review is dedicated to the seventh-generation 2008 Chevrolet Malibu which also stays true to the original by being a mid-size sedan. That’s where the similarities end though, as it’s a unique vehicle otherwise.

Taking a Look At The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

The seventh-generation 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was nothing like the previous gen. General Motors ensured that the car was drastically different than the one it replaced. This wasn’t just in terms of styling, but engineering as well. The company made sure it was as competitive as possible because they were looking to take on popular Japanese mid-size cars (Accord, Camry, and Altima) with this offering.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu uses a slightly revised version of the General Motors Epsilon platform. Other vehicles that use this platform are the Pontiac G6, Saturn Aura and Opel Signum.

Trim Levels and Features

As far as trim levels are concerned, the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu came in a total of four versions:

• LS
• 1LT
• 2LT
• LTZ

The most affordable version – the LS – comes with steel wheels, but it does get keyless entry, air-conditioning, and a six-speaker sound system. The trim level that sits right above it – 1LT – comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels and steering-mounted audio control in addition to features you’d find on the standard LS trim level. 

The 2LT, meanwhile, makes use of the same 17-inch alloy wheels but uses a polished finish. It also gets a remote engine start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel as well as a shift knob, and heated and power seats. The top-of-the-line LTZ trim level takes things further with fog lamps, LED taillights, larger 18-inch alloy wheels, and an eight-speaker sound system.

There were not many optional extras for the higher trim levels, but one could option lower trim levels with features from more expensive variants. All that said, this year’s model of Chevrolet Malibu can’t be considered a well-equipped vehicle as it missed out on basic features like navigation and dual-zone climate control which were more than common at the time. 

Engine Options

When it comes to engine options, the LS, 1LT, and 2LT come equipped with a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine that pushes out 169 HP and 160 lb-ft of torque as standard. This engine is only available with a four-speed automatic transmission and a front-wheel-drive configuration. Things get a lot more exciting with the LTZ trim level as it makes use of a 3.6-liter V6 engine that’s capable of 252 HP and 251 lb-ft. The V6 engine was also available as an option on the 2LT trim level.

Transmission duties on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu with this gearbox were handled by a six-speed automatic. Despite being quite hefty at 3,500 pounds, the lower-powered four-cylinder engine does a decent job at getting it moving. The four-cylinder engine propels the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu to 60 MPH in just under 10 seconds, while the V6 would get there in 6.6 seconds. EPA fuel economy figures, meanwhile, were worse than those of its Japanese rivals.

2008 Chevrolet Malibu – What Made It Special

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu didn’t appeal to everyone. The mid-size sedan failed to deliver when it came to its interior. It felt lower quality than its rivals. That’s not all, it also missed out on an armrest. As we mentioned earlier, it also didn’t support navigation even on the most expensive trim level.

Where the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu made up for its shortcomings was the ride quality and handling. Both were impressive, and the car felt quite sporty when put through its paces. While the interior was made of sub-par materials, it was still roomy which added to its overall comfort. Lastly, the V6 engine found on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was one of its most special elements thanks to its punchy performance.

Are There Any Recalls on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu?

Yes, the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu had a total of 3 recalls. The most significant one involved its transmission. Cars equipped with the four-speed automatic faced a problem that caused them to roll while in park. The recall affected cars built between 2007 and 2010 and was fixed with the help of a revised shift cable. 

The second recall was also quite major as it had to do with the electric power steering. Affected vehicles would lose the electric assist which would make steering a lot more difficult, especially at low speeds. 

The last recall for this gen was regarding random brake light illumination. Affected Malibus would encounter an increased resistance in the Body Control Module connection which caused fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit.

What Are the Most Common Problems for a 2008 Chevy Malibu?

Although it wasn’t a particularly unreliable car, the seventh generation Malibu had its fair share of problems. Here’s a quick rundown of all the more noticeable issues you might encounter should you decide to get one of these cars. Of course, the better the condition of the car, the better your chances of enjoying care-free ownership. 

Start-up Trouble

There have been numerous reports from 2008 Chevrolet Malibu owners facing trouble starting up their vehicles. This problem occurs when the pass lock sensor in the ignition lock cylinder fails. This failure results in the anti-theft system acting up which stops the car from starting up. Fixing this problem, in most cases, involves replacing the ignition lock cylinder.

Incorrect Fuel Gauge

When there’s a problem that’s causing the fuel level sensor to act up, the fuel gauge will have incorrect readouts. The incorrect fuel gauge readout can also be accompanied by a check engine light. The cause for these problems occurs due to the fuel vapor line interfering with the sensor. Fixing this problem is fairly straightforward as it just involves repositioning the fuel vapor line. 

Key Problem

One comparatively smaller problem on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu involves the key getting stuck in the ignition lock cylinder. This small but inconvenient problem occurs due to automatic transmission shifter failure and fixing it can be quite costly.

Worn Gas Cap

One problem that affected almost every vehicle from General Motors during this period is gas cap failure. The gas cap fails when its gasket wears out. A worn or loose gas cap will also illuminate the check engine light on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. Fixing it is as easy as replacing it with a new one.

Intake Manifold Gasket Leak

The intake manifold gasket on the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu can fail and lead to engine oil or coolant leaks. While it varies on the severity of the leak, there are cases where it has caused an internal coolant leak. If this happens, and one continues to drive the car, it can cause major engine damage. This is why it’s advisable to replace the intake manifold gasket as a precautionary measure.

Turn Signal Switch Problem

Another common problem for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is with its turn signal switch. The switch is known to fail and cause the signal flasher to continue operating even when the switch is in the off position. There’s only one way to fix this problem and that’s by replacing the turn signal switch altogether. 

Blower Trouble

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu also suffers from a problematic HVAC blower motor. As a result of a bad resistor block, the blower motor can lose one or more speeds. There is also a possibility of it functioning completely. It is important to keep in mind that the problem is also almost always with the resistor block and rarely ever with the switch.

Ignition Failure

One more problem that’s reported quite a bit has to do with the ignition module or ignition coil failure. Either of these components can fail and cause the engine to misfire and lead to an illuminated check engine light. In some instances, the check engine light may flash when this is the problem.

What to Look For When Shopping For One?

When shopping for a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, you must look for the common problems it’s known to have. We have listed the most important ones above and under no circumstance should they be ignored. 

Also, look out for other problems like wear when it comes to the interior as it isn’t made out of the best materials. Clean examples of the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu are selling between $5000-8500, depending on the mileage and trim level.

Take a Tour of the Newparts.com Shop

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