Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (service brakes, ABS, rotors and pads, parking brake).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1997 Chevrolet Malibu owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
Suddenly brakes stopped working, and consumer's vehicle was involved in four collisions. . In the most recent collision consumer's vehicle struck the rear end of a truck at 30 MPH. Also, vehicle stalled and cuts off in traffic.
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. …
I have owned my Malibu since it was new in 1997. In its lifetime it has had 4 or 5 sets of rotors and at least 7 sets of brake pads. It is now ready for a new set of rotors and brakes. The last time these were replaced on the car was 2 years ago. GM knew about the brake problem from day one. The 1997 and 1998 models have had numerous brake problems with them. They don't do anything about it because no one has gotten killed from the problem. Do I have to die in a wreck before someone listens?? 2 years ago when I had it fixed I thought that would be the last time, but no, the brakes and rotors still don't fit my car right or they wouldn't wear like they do. GM need to fix the problem on my car. They seem to have corrected the problem on the 2000 models just fine.
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!
Bought car new 4-14-1997----problem car 32750 mi now Chevrolet ran away from this car and so did dealers---kept customer in the dark----waiting for 3 yrs or 36000mi suspension noise on going---rattle---creaking---glunking water pump leak at 23000 miles--fix est.$835.00--29295 mi suspension noisy yet 32655 mi on car. Relaced ignition lock cylinder $532.42---32600 mi replace 4 tires $314.00---32525 mi took 3 years to get brakes up tp par. Suspension still a problem.over all this car has problems from day one. Battery---windshield---poorly built auto. That's why I have low miles don't use it much.
ABS light comes on after I lose brake. Chronic problems associated with this year vehicle are ABS sensor, belt tensioner breaks away, cooling system heat controls, wiring to the rear lights. These are problems that this year model has that should be recalled. Especially when the break sensor goes out and brakes are lost. Why has nothing been done to force Chevrolet to fix these problems? It is not just one car but all of 1997 Malibu that has the problem. It is a definite safety issue.
The defective braking system malfunctioned, causing no braking ability and an accident. Been to dealer several times. Dealer replace brake pads/rotors/master cylinder and the wiring harness. Dealer cannot determine problem. Cause unknown. Please provide problems.
Engine check light and the ABS light illuminated while driving. Vehicle been to a repair shop on 3 separate occasions, and the problem had not been resolved. Vehicle had its gas tank cap replaced, and the brake system was overhauled. But problem recurred.
Brakes gone (again). Been replacing about every 10000 miles. This car has been one thing wrong after another. Already replaced lower control arms at 7500 miles, leaking antifreeze gasket, A/C control head (twice), and the brakes are ongoing.
Consumer took vehicle to dealer for recall repairs. After leaving the dealer steering wheel and the brakes locked. Dealer checked vehicle, and stated that it was okay. However, vehicle was still experiencing the same problem.
Brake complaints in other Malibu years
Frequently asked questions
How common are brake problems on the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu?
NHTSA has 111 complaints about the brakes of the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, 25% of the model year's 443 complaints. The component named most often is antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip (46 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1997 Chevrolet Malibu brake problems?
No. NHTSA lists no brakes recall for the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, though it has 4 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1997 Chevrolet Malibu brake problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 72,000 miles, and 36% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 3 crashes, 0 fires and 1 injury to brakes problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.