2006 Malibu, where to find performance parts?

[possom813]

I've google'd and can't find an online store that has what I'm looking for.

I want to upgrade the suspension on the family car. I figure instead of going with the stock stuff I could get better quality components from one of the performance shops for close to the same price and end up with a better setup.

I want new struts, shocks(if it has them, haven't really looked).

I need to achieve better traction and balance, I don't like the fact that when I take a corner/curve real hard that the car sways way too much.

I don't really want 'go fast' parts, just better suspension than what comes stock.

Where can I find this stuff? The websites that pop up when you type in '06 Malibu performance' are enough to make you want to claw out the eyeballs of epileptic chihuahuas, which is a shame, because those dogs are quite entertaining with a strobe and laser light.

[Chuggs]

What trim level is it? If it's not an SS, you should be able to at least get your hands on those upgrades (springs, struts & shocks, larger front & rear sway bars, etc.).

http://archives.media.gm.com/us/chevrolet/en/product_services/r_cars/r_c_malibu/06index.html

I tried searching Google for "2006 Malibu upgrades" and you're right -- pickings are slim. It looks like a lot of what's available will be universal setups, not anything specific to the Malibu. This sort of makes sense considering that the Malibu isn't a sports car or even a tuner like the Cobalt. Not that I modded mine any, but I went through the same headaches with my old '99 Malibu. One thing that you do have in your favor though is that GM reused so many platforms elsewhere. Engine mods for the Grand Am were applicable to my Malibu, so perhaps you can incorporate a few tricks from the Pontiac G6 (I'm pretty sure they shared architecture? :think: ).

[possom813]

It's not an SS, I don't really want to make it a tuner, I just want it to handle better.

[Chuggs]

I wasn't implying that you were making it a tuner. I was just saying that because it isn't a popular vehicle to mod, there isn't much of an aftermarket for it in terms of upgrades.

[possom813]

I guess what I meant is that I don't want to do any engine mods to it, maybe a cai, but that's about it.

I've called a few shops today that were open, but nothing notable for aftermarket parts.

I don't really want to use any universal kits.

[Chuggs]

I don't really want to use any universal kits.

Yeah, I hear ya. :LOL: You sound like me about 10 years ago -- guess that's why I didn't do anything with mine. :LOL: