Does a Chevy Malibu have rear struts?
The Chevy Malibu is a popular midsize sedan known for its comfort, style, and reliability. One common question among car owners and enthusiasts is whether the Malibu is equipped with rear struts. Understanding the suspension system of your vehicle is crucial for maintenance and repair, so let's delve into the details.
Understanding the Suspension System
The suspension system of a vehicle plays a vital role in providing a smooth ride and ensuring stability while driving. It consists of various components, including springs, struts, and shock absorbers. In the case of the Chevy Malibu, the rear suspension design is particularly important.
Rear Suspension of the Chevy Malibu
Most models of the Chevy Malibu, particularly those produced from 1997 onwards, utilize a rear suspension system that includes rear struts. Here are some key points regarding the rear struts in the Chevy Malibu:
- Design: The rear struts are part of a multi-link suspension system, which helps improve handling and ride quality.
- Function: Struts serve as both a shock absorber and a structural component of the suspension, providing support to the vehicle's weight and absorbing road impacts.
- Maintenance: Regular inspection of the rear struts is essential, as worn or damaged struts can lead to poor handling and increased tire wear.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, the Chevy Malibu does have rear struts as part of its suspension system. Understanding this component is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. If you suspect any issues with your Malibu's suspension, it's advisable to consult a professional mechanic for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if your rear struts go out?
When your shocks and struts are going bad, the rear of your vehicle can squat excessively when you hit the gas pedal. The vehicle's momentum is transferred to the rear which causes the front end to rise, a factor in passenger motion sickness and unnecessarily high loading of the rear suspension components.
Can you replace just one rear strut?
How Many Shocks And Struts Need to be Replaced? Monroe recommends that you change your shocks and struts in pairs. If the front left strut has failed and needs to be changed, you should also install a new front right strut. Similarly, if the rear right shock needs replacing, be sure to change the rear left shock.
How much does it cost to replace struts on a Chevy Malibu?
The average cost for a Chevrolet Malibu Suspension Shock or Strut Replacement is between $748 and $813. Labor costs are estimated between $248 and $313 while parts are typically priced around $500.
Is there a recall on the rear suspension on the Chevy Malibu?
Chevrolet Malibu Recall Rear Suspension
General Motors will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and retighten the bolts as necessary, free of charge. Owner notifications have already begun and will be completed shortly. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-521-7300.
How do I know if my back struts are bad?
An easy test is to bounce each corner of the car by pushing down on the car then quickly letting go, it should stop moving quickly. If it continues to bounce after you have let go the strut/shock is bad and should be replaced. If you're not sure compare it to how other cars ``bounce''.
Is rear suspension expensive to fix?
The average cost to repair a car's suspension system can range between $1,000 and $5,000. But if only certain components need replacing, you might spend less than that.
What is the class action lawsuit on the Chevy Malibu?
In January 2022, Judge Paul W. Grimm approved a dismissal with prejudice in a class action lawsuit against General Motors that alleged the company hid a defect in its Chevy Malibu that can cause a sudden and dangerous loss of power.
Can I drive with bad struts?
Struts on the front-end of your vehicle are also crucial for steering and alignment. Driving with a broken strut will be extremely uncomfortable for you and your passengers, and is unsafe in an emergency. It can also damage other components in your car.
What does a bad rear strut sound like?
When shocks and struts are worn out you may hear a clunking or knocking sound. This sound is caused by metal-to-metal contact when the shock or strut bottoms out when hitting a bump. In addition, these noises could be a result in worn shock or strut mounting components.
Do you have struts on the rear?
In fact, most modern vehicles have struts on the front axle and shocks on the rear axle. You might have struts on both axles, but it is rare to have only shocks. There are 3 easy ways to figure out whether your vehicle has shocks or struts.
