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2000 Chevrolet Malibu Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 3.76
Based on 25 Owner Reviews ▶
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu was part of the fifth generation of the Malibu, reintroduced after a hiatus. It's a mid-size sedan offering a comfortable and practical driving experience. Key trims included the base model and the LS. The 2000 Malibu was known for its affordability and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for families and budget-conscious buyers. When new, it typically ranged from around $16,000 to $19,000. Its blend of value and practicality helped it stand out.
The Good

The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu offered a blend of practicality and comfort. Its advantages included a smooth ride, spacious cabin, and good fuel economy. It provided reliable transportation for families and commuters. While not a performance car, its value proposition and ease of use appealed to practical buyers, while the comfortable interior could win over those seeking a pleasant driving experience.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu included some reports of transmission issues and electrical problems. Owners should watch out for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters. The build quality wasn't always top-notch compared to some competitors. Regular maintenance is key to mitigating these potential issues. Suspension components and brake systems should also be carefully inspected.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview

Key Specs for the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu:

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Standard on base models.
    • 3.1L V6: Optional, and standard on LS models.
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Approximately 150 hp.
    • 3.1L V6: Approximately 170 hp.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Estimated 23 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
    • 3.1L V6: Estimated 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway.
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.4L Inline-4: Around 9-10 seconds.
    • 3.1L V6: Around 8-9 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Not Recommended: The 2000 Malibu was not designed for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base Model: Included standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • LS Model: Added features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, alloy wheels, cruise control, and sometimes a premium audio system. Options included leather seats, sunroof and antilock brakes.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2000
Make Chevrolet
Model Malibu
Trim -
Style -
Type Sedan
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City LORDSTOWN
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LG8
Engine Size 3.1L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu often revolved around the automatic transmission. Some owners experienced issues with slipping gears or complete transmission failure, especially at higher mileages. Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning power windows or door locks, were also relatively common. Rust was a significant concern, particularly in regions where salt was used on roads during winter.
Long-term reliability concerns included potential engine issues, particularly with the 3.1L V6, such as intake manifold gasket leaks. Suspension components, like struts and ball joints, also tended to wear out over time, requiring replacement. While there might not have been widespread recalls affecting all 2000 Malibu models, it's important to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any specific recalls related to safety issues like airbags or brake systems. Preventative maintenance, such as regular fluid changes and inspections, can help mitigate some of these long-term reliability concerns, but given the age of the vehicle, some issues are inevitable. Checking for any prior recall work is crucial when considering purchasing a used 2000 Malibu.

How long will the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu last?

Given its age, a well-maintained 2000 Chevrolet Malibu could potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, the average mileage would vary greatly depending on the previous owner's maintenance habits. Neglected models may only last to around 150,000 miles. Long-term durability weaknesses include potential transmission failures, rust issues, and wear and tear on suspension components. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, fluid flushes, and timely repairs, are critical for extending the vehicle's lifespan. Models driven in harsh climates tend to show more wear and tear. The electrical system can also be prone to issues as the car ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
2000 Malibu
This car met all my needs it’s a nice clean car that gets me to point A to point B with no problems I’ve owed this car for about a year and a half and it still runs amazing. Best choice I made.
M.S.L.
Normally I probably would have enjoyed this car but the Chevy Malibu from 1998- 2005 where notorious for overheating due to poor craftsmanship with the overflow reservoir and their cooling system failed bad. Causing a lot of overheating and eventually warping the heads and or gasket. I was constantly replacing parts thinking I finally fixed the problem only to find myself stranded, again. Carrying gallons of water not even bothering with coolant anymore because it would get hot and just dump it. At times if you looked in the rearview you could see water spraying out from underneath the car and shooting behind me. Gas mileage was excellent and it had a good get up and go when needed if it wasnt hot. Why they didnt recall the particular years that where effected I cant understand. But if you were to look up recalls on Chevy Malibus you would be amazed it even made it out on the market. I've since then learned a lot and can thank Chevy for that but wont buy a Chevy anything EVER again!
Willie2112
I think it's a excellent vehicle, it is not to expensive because it's older. But that doesn't mean it's a bad car, it always gets me from point a to point b no problem.
Negative Owner Reviews
Rodney Henrie
my mechanic replaced water pump, the water bottle you call a radiator cracked, the head gasket then blew only got 1000 miles $1500 later. walking again
wentzel
has hitches/delays in the acceleration.. engine makes loud tapping noise, ac broke, giant rust spots to the point of holes and pieces falling off, coolant leak / broke water pump, weird electrical issues..starter works when it wants to, multiple recall notices in the mail, service engine and abs lights on..... ALL AT UNDER 50,000 MILES . bought it for 7k and sold it for 500 2 years later. not worth putting in the cash to keep this thing. used the 500 towards a honda. to its credit even with all of these issues it still "ran" for over 2 years . never completely died on me. hated every second of owning it though
Used to like chevy
I bought this car brand new hoping for a good American car, but I got just the opposite, to start, the paint falls off and leaves the car looking like a rustbucket and it isnt particulary the nicest looking car, and part off this to blame is the winters, we get lots of snow soit really must rust the car, and the reliability in the winter is ok, for now, i guess. But the poorest thing about this car is the interior with the cheap cloth that stains easily, and the ajustable passenger seat doesnt exactly work the way it should. Then theres the engine, which sucks, and then theres the muffler that i had to replace, so far i think twice, one thing i forgot to mention, the power controls stopped working last year they work now though. But this is my last GM car, i'm on to bigger and better cars.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu came with fairly basic built-in tech and entertainment features for its time. The standard audio system typically included an AM/FM radio and cassette player. Higher trims might have offered a CD player as an option.
Driver-assistance features were limited, with options like cruise control being available on higher trims. Safety features included standard front airbags and available anti-lock brakes (ABS). Power windows and door locks were standard equipment.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be consulted to assess the vehicle's safety performance in frontal and side-impact collisions. Keep in mind that safety standards have advanced significantly since 2000. It lacked modern safety technology like electronic stability control or side-impact airbags, which are commonplace on newer vehicles. Optional features included remote keyless entry and upgraded sound systems. Given its age, the tech and safety features are considerably outdated compared to contemporary vehicles. Finding a model with ABS is preferable for enhanced braking performance.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black
Navy Blue
Sebring Silver Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Gray
Light Neutral
Tan

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu had a price range of approximately $16,000 to $19,000, depending on the trim level and options. Currently, on the used market, a 2000 Malibu is worth very little, typically ranging from a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars, depending on condition and mileage. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, and location. High mileage and poor condition significantly decrease value. The age of the vehicle also plays a major role in its depreciation. It has depreciated heavily due to its age and the advancements in automotive technology since 2000. A well-maintained example in excellent condition might command a slightly higher price, but it's still a very affordable used car.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Cost of Ownership

The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is generally economical to own, primarily due to its low purchase price. Insurance costs are typically low due to the vehicle's age and value. Fuel costs are moderate, especially with the 4-cylinder engine. Maintenance and repair costs can be variable. While parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive, the age of the car means more frequent repairs might be needed. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on how well the car has been maintained and the frequency of repairs required. Overall, it can be a budget-friendly option if major repairs are avoided.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Recalls & Defects

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe and CAP
Recall date 1999-10-29
Recall no. 99v302000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Fail TO Comply With Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 301, "fuel System Integrity." THE Fuel Fill Fitting IS NOT Properly Secured TO THE Fuel Tank. IN That Condition, Fuel Leakage Would Exceed THE Permissible Amount IN AN Fmvss Test. Fuel Leaks MAY Occur, Particularly After Refueling or When THE Tank IS More Than Half Full.
Consequence IF AN Ignition Source Were Present, A Fire Could Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Fuel Tank and Replace IT IF Necessary.
Notes GM Recall NO. 99075. Owner Notification Began November 18, 1999. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020. Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Exterior Lighting:hazard Flashing Warning Lights:switch
Recall date 2003-08-28
Recall no. 03v327000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Passenger Vehicles Have Hazard Warning Switches That MAY Experience Solder Joint Cracking Caused BY Rapid Temperature Transitions and THE Soldering Process. IF Solder Joint Cracking Occurs and Results IN AN Open Circuit, THE Turn Signals/Hazard Lamps Become Intermittent or Inoperative.
Consequence When THE Turn Signals ARE Inoperative, THE Driver Cannot USE Them TO Signal Intent TO Turn That Could Result IN A Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Hazard Warning Switch. Owner Notification Began ON February 5, 2004. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668, or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-630-6537.
Notes GM Recall NO. 03043.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date 2007-03-12
Recall no. 07e021000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-07-03
Recall no. 14v400000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON July 3, 2014, That They ARE Recalling 5,877,718 Model Year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand AM and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Install Two KEY Rings and AN Insert IN THE KEY Slot or A Cover Over THE KEY Head ON All Ignition Keys, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 9, 2014. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14350.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Insurance

Insurance for a 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other Sedan?

The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu competed with other mid-size sedans like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Taurus, and Nissan Altima. In terms of performance, the Malibu was adequate but not exceptional, lagging behind the Accord and Camry in handling and power. Feature-wise, it was generally less well-equipped than the Accord and Camry, especially regarding standard safety features.
Reliability was a mixed bag, with the Malibu often scoring lower than the Japanese rivals but comparably to the Taurus. Price was where the Malibu had an edge, being more affordable than many of its competitors, both when new and on the used market.
If reliability and longevity are primary concerns, a used Honda Accord or Toyota Camry from the same era would likely be a better choice, although they command a higher price. The Ford Taurus offered similar affordability and spaciousness, but its reliability record wasn't significantly better than the Malibu. The Nissan Altima offered a sportier driving experience. Ultimately, the Malibu is a viable option for those on a tight budget who prioritize affordability over features and reliability.

Ranks #1319 Sedan

1 2023 Toyota Camry (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Accord (0.0★)
3 2023 Lexus ES (0.0★)
4 2024 Subaru Legacy (5.0★)
5 2022 Mazda MX-30 (4.0★)
6 2024 BMW M3 (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Mustang (5.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT (0.0★)
9 2023 Audi A3 (0.0★)
10 2023 Chevrolet Camaro (5.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan Altima (4.0★)
1319 2000 Chevrolet Malibu (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Sedan?

The 2000 Chevrolet Malibu is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking basic transportation. It's not a collector's item or performance machine, but a functional, affordable car. Given its age, it's only worth considering as a used vehicle. A well-maintained LS trim with the V6 engine might be slightly more desirable, but any purchase should be contingent on a thorough inspection by a trusted mechanic. If reliability is a top priority, other options in its class (like Honda or Toyota) would be better choices, albeit at a higher cost. However, if affordability is the primary concern and you're willing to accept the risks associated with an older vehicle, the 2000 Malibu could serve as a temporary or short-term transportation solution.

2000 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Reviews

3.76
Consumer Rating, Based on 25 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Rodney Henrie on June 26, 2022

Worse design ever, why build something to fail.

my mechanic replaced water pump, the water bottle you call a radiator cracked, the head gasket then blew only got 1000 miles $1500 later. walking again

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DawnMcR on March 10, 2021

No problems until 350,000 miles

The problem with overheating is usually due to having more water than antifreeze in the system. (Antifreeze is also a Coolant.) A quick fix for this is turning on the AC, which makes the 2nd cooling fan start up. We are an older couple with no automotive experience but have managed to diagnose and perform all necessary repairs (except harmonic balancer) ourselves by using the Hayne's Manual. We are pushing 400k miles (original motor & transmission) and have only recently found it struggling to climb mountains. This is in spite of the many delayed maintenance procedures, only about 3 or 4 actual tune-ups, traveling 1000s of miles while seriously overloaded, and quite often pushing it beyond the intended limits in every way (and in the harsh environments of TX & AZ). I used the single star rating to inform those looking for potential problems by reading bad reviews. This car is amazing as long as it hasn't been worked on by mechanics who think they know it all.

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Daily commuter on June 7, 2020

Extraordinary Reliability

I bought this car when I was attending college. It now has about 250,000 miles on It and everything still works. Air is cold, it passes smog check year after year. It is by far the most reliable car I have ever owned.

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2000 Malibu on June 1, 2020

Best dealership in Menasha

This car met all my needs it’s a nice clean car that gets me to point A to point B with no problems I’ve owed this car for about a year and a half and it still runs amazing. Best choice I made.

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Carlos on June 2, 2019

My very first car

It’s a nice car it’s like any other car if you take care of it ,the car will run always good also very good car for a big sound system

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pizzaguy on January 3, 2018

A Decent car for College or first job

Bought the car with 84K on the dial, one owner bought the car in Jan 2015. I have put a lot into this car mainly axles, brakes, and changed all of the cooling components minus the thermostat. Car has 140K now, delivered pizza and full time student for 3 years, left me on the road sometimes too because of cooling issues but day in and day out it starts and gets me where i need to go.

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M.S.L. on December 4, 2017

Chevy really messed up when they made this one.

Normally I probably would have enjoyed this car but the Chevy Malibu from 1998- 2005 where notorious for overheating due to poor craftsmanship with the overflow reservoir and their cooling system failed bad. Causing a lot of overheating and eventually warping the heads and or gasket. I was constantly replacing parts thinking I finally fixed the problem only to find myself stranded, again. Carrying gallons of water not even bothering with coolant anymore because it would get hot and just dump it. At times if you looked in the rearview you could see water spraying out from underneath the car and shooting behind me. Gas mileage was excellent and it had a good get up and go when needed if it wasnt hot. Why they didnt recall the particular years that where effected I cant understand. But if you were to look up recalls on Chevy Malibus you would be amazed it even made it out on the market. I've since then learned a lot and can thank Chevy for that but wont buy a Chevy anything EVER again!

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Philliesfan on July 24, 2017

Simple car

The Malibu was very basic with roll windows and manual locks. Drove smooth and was good for commute to college.

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Willie2112 on June 17, 2017

Most reliable car I've ever owned

I think it's a excellent vehicle, it is not to expensive because it's older. But that doesn't mean it's a bad car, it always gets me from point a to point b no problem.

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Dayedrah on June 9, 2017

best car ever

we have had this car for 16 year and is the best car for a family of 4. The car had not broken down the car is still running to this day. and i would recommend this car to everyone.

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.