It appears that my 2005 "Classic" with 46k miles has two bad bearing hubs. I believe that is the correct term. I just noticed this yesterday.

There is a distinct whin/mild grinding noise that seems to be coming from both sides. The difference being, the left side noise will be reduced if I turn the wheel slightly to the left. The right side is unaffected by turning either way. It 'whins' in any direction. This is noticeable above 15-20 mph. It has gotten worse the next day after I first noticed this.

46k miles seems early, but more so, the fact it is both sides.

Anyone know of any issues with these or the former Malibu's?

It could be the tires or brakes. Rotate the tires and check the front pads and rotors while you have the front wheels off. If the pads aren't worn out and the rotors aren't too grooved, and rotating the tires does not make a difference, then it would probably be the hub bearings. It's not too likely it is though.

The front wheel bearings on my '04 Classic went out around 40,000 miles, too. It was explaned to me by a forum member that he sells lots of these bearings. I replaced them and all the noise (same as yours) went away .

The front wheel bearings on my '04 Classic went out around 40,000 miles, too. It was explaned to me by a forum member that he sells lots of these bearings. I replaced them and all the noise (same as yours) went away .

Hmm well maybe they made some with substandard hub bearings. I'd still rotate the tires and check the brakes before replacing the hubs.

If you turn left, shifting weight from the left, and the whine decreases, then it is most likely your bearings. Changing tires around will not change the noise if its the bearing. Also, the brakes are pretty easy to inspect, to see if a pad is hanging up. I've had the thin metal tabs get hung up, but usually you can manipulate the noise by pressing the brake. Bearings can go bad earlier if the torque on the nut holding the hub on is not correct. Find that out what it should be, I think it's like 180 lbs.