2003 Chevrolet Malibu Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.07/5 Average
121 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Malibu gets little in the way of upgrades for 2003. There are two new colors to choose from -- Summit White and Medium Gray Metallic -- and a new seat fabric on LS models. ABS brakes are now optional on base models, but remain standard on the LS.

Pros:
  • Comfortable and roomy interior, low price, ample feature content.
Cons:
  • Poor expected resale value, not as refined as top-selling Japanese family sedans.

User Reviews:

Showing 61 through 70 of 121.00
  • Cheap - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought it new, and have only put 20k miles on it in over 2 years. A wheel bearing went bad at 8k miles. The stereo stopped working at 13k, the horn stopped working at 18k, engine belt had to be replaced at 20k. Brakes are shot now at 20k, tires are wearing pretty badly as well, and nope, I dont do any jerky driving or high speed turns. I also get random weird vibrations and noises. i have noticed tiny spots of rust forming on the roof and trunk. The rust is under the trunk lid as well, so Im wondering what is going on there. The car feels cheap in general, but I think I would have gotten my moneys worth if it werent for these annoying problems. Im afraid of many more problems happening after the warranty is up.

  • OK replacement for Accord - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I replaced my beloved 91 Honda Accord EX with the Malibu LS, with fear and trepidation. So far so good! Got a killer deal, too. Handles great, comfortable, and gas mileage of 26/32 like my Accord, after 25K miles. No service needed other than routine. It aint a Honda, but itll do for commuting in safety and comfort.

  • My first car - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    It was a great car , I bought it in 2009 with 120k on it I was 16 when I bought it, it was actually in a previous accident and was reconstructed but looked brand new, I never had a problem with any type of engine work or anything, I did get in a accident with it when I was 18 but I got it fixed and it was fine the only trouble I had with the car was electronic issues like my tail lights were always going out and getting me pulled over and always had to mess with the word and get new tail lights, but I had the car intill I was 22 and had to get rid of it for financial issues. But I would definitely buy another one!

  • Very Reliable Car - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought my Malibu new and have had it for two and a half years now. A very reliable car. Very nice factory stereo. I already have 30,000 miles on it, and its taking everything I give it. It has very good pick up. Makes it easy to get on the highway quickly. Overall Im very happy with my car and have no plans of replacing it any time soon.

  • I love this car!!!!! - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought my malibu about three months ago and i have to say that im amazed. At first I only bought it cause it was cheep but ive realized that it was probably the best decesion that ive ever made as far as cars go.

  • 2003 Malibu - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    For those saying poor gas mileage, try checking your tire pressure, air filter, and quit the jack rabbit starts. My city mileage is about 22 mpg. Good handling and acceleration. Large trunk. Good value for what you get.

  • Good, reliable transportation - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought this vehicle in May of 2003, and have had no major issues. The only minor issue I had (Check engine light came on), the dealer took care of. I find the car to be quite comfortable, and more than sufficient power. It is basic, but considering the cost difference vs the Camry, I did not feel like I was sacrificing much.

  • Scrap Heap the malibu - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    this "car" is nothing more than junk on bad tires. it is totally unreliable, makes strange sounds and beeps, and the horn honks for no reason. the radio has heavy static or gets 2 stations at the same time. the CD player ruined 2 tracks of a CD. the tires do not hold air. it has never been aligned properly. it gets a miserable 15mpg city and barely 20mpg hiway. it also randomly locks us out, locked me in once. dealership, salesman, and service are rude. none of the problems have been resolved. i was told the noises do not exist, then I started recording them. now there is no explanation. the service department even "scolded" me for not filling out a good service report. a real lemon!

  • My Malibu - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    Molding around car does not fit together and can not be replaced. Gas gauge went haywire after 10 months and needed service. Nice car but poor workman ship inside and out.

  • Good value - 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    Overall a good value for the price. Purchase cost is substantially less than Accord and Camry, with comprable operating costs.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area