Car advice - 2004 Chevy Malibu?

[Bobby McWhupass]

My car recently died a final death (repairs would cost more than it's worth) and I need a replacement quickly. There's a 2004 Chevy Malibu for sale, excellent condition, 50k miles, but I've heard bad things about the car and am leery. Does anyone have any real experience with them or anything noteworthy to say? I don't have the luxury of spending a lot of time shopping around nor a lot of money to spend at the moment.

 

[John L]

Is it the 4 or 6 cylinder. If its a 6 has the intake gasket been replaced? Drive the car any bumping noise from the front end? Have a trusted mechanic check it out ask for a carfax report. I have seen good and bad Malibu's. The intake gasket is an expensive fix if it needs it done. If the coolant is not pink but brown it will need it done. I have seen the struts get worn quick if they are driven hard. If the mechanic says its good I would buy it if its a good price.