could be bad mounts on either the tranny or engine?
Axle seal is bad and needs to be replaced
In the transmission.
In the Transmission
This could be the breaks needing replaced, could be a wheel bearing that needs replaced.
There should be two dipsticks under the hood on a Malibu. One will be plainly marked "OIL" or "ENGINE OIL." The other one is your transmission fluid. This is assuming your Malibu has automatic transmission. If your Malibu has a manual transmission (stick shift), then there is no dipstick for transmission fluid -- manual trannies get lubrication from the engine oil.
The 2004 Chevrolet Malibu transmission can be filled with any SAE certified transmission fluid. The manufacturer recommends that you never overfill the transmission.
Have your transmission fluid & filter changed ASAP.
A transmission shop will do it for about $200. Just had it done to my 1980 Malibu.
The 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has a 4-speed automatic.
The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has a 4-speed automatic.
The 2001 Chevrolet Malibu has a 4-speed automatic.
The 2005 Chevrolet Malibu has a 4-speed automatic.