Should I purchase a Chevrolet 1997 Malibu V6 3.1L engine?

5 messages, Last post on Aug 26, 2008 at 6:11 PM

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#3 of 5 Re: Should I purchase a 1997 chevy Malibu? [rkendrot] by pao Aug 04, 2008 (10:39 am)
Replying to: rkendrot (Aug 02, 2008 3:50 pm) it all depends on the maintenance history of the car....is it a one owner car....or has it been passed along several times already......based on your post....you get what you pay for.....so do you pay up front now...or pay to keep it running over time....
#4 of 5 by shadow5599 Aug 26, 2008 (10:46 am)
Be sure to listen carefully to the engine when it's COLD. Must have sat for at least an hour without running. The 3.1's are notorious for piston slap, which sounds like a diesel engine running when cold. As the engine warms up it does get quieter. The dealer removed and ripped apart my engine to replace 3 pistons under warranty on my 03 when I complained of this noise. I dont have the car anymore but the noise was starting to come back before the car was totaled in an accident. Other than that, I liked the car. I wouldnt buy any GM with a 3.1 since any I've heard, no matter what it's in have the piston slap noise to some degree and it's got to hurt resale value at the very least.
#5 of 5 by rik4 Aug 26, 2008 (6:11 pm)
i would not buy it but that is me not you. you desere better.