Chevrolet Malibu problems
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from model years 1964–1983 and since 1997. The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. Originally a rear-wheel drive intermediate, GM revived the Malibu nameplate as a front-wheel-drive car in 1997.
Named after the coastal community of Malibu, California, the Malibu was marketed primarily in North America, with the eighth generation introduced globally. It is currently the only sedan offered by Chevrolet in the U.S.
First generation (Chevelle Malibu, 1964)
The first Malibu was a top-line subseries of the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle from 1964 to 1972. Malibus were generally available in a full range of bodystyles including a four-door sedan, two-door Sport Coupe hardtop, convertible and two-seat station wagon. Interiors were more lavish than lesser Chevelle 300 and 300 Deluxe models thanks to patterned cloth and vinyl upholstery (all-vinyl in convertibles and station wagons), deep-twist carpeting, deluxe steering wheel and other items. The Malibu SS performance package was available only as a two-door Sport Coupe hardtop or convertible and added bucket seats, center console (with optional four-speed manual or Powerglide transmissions), engine gauges and special wheelcovers, and offered with any six-cylinder or V8 engine offered in other Chevelles - with the top option being a 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) in 1964.
For 1965, Malibus and other Chevelles received new grilles and revised tail sections and had the exhaust pipes replaced but carried over the same basic styling and bodystyles from 1964. The Malibu and Malibu SS models continued as before with the SS featuring a blacked-out grille and special wheelcovers. Top engine option was now a 350 hp (261 kW; 355 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8. 201 of the 1965 Malibu SS cars got Regular Production Option (RPO) Z16, which include a heavily modified chassis and Chevy's new 375 horsepower 396 cubic inch V8. All were hardtops, although rumors persist that one convertible was built.
The Malibu SS was replaced in 1966 by a new Chevelle SS-396 series that included a big-block 396 cu in (6.5 L) V8 engine (Canadian market did not receive the SS396 but marketed the former Malibu SS nameplate until January 1967 when it was phased out), heavy duty suspension and other performance equipment. Other SS-396 equipment was similar to Malibu Sport Coupes and convertibles including an all-vinyl bench seat. Bucket seats and console with floor shift were now optional on the SS and for 1966 with the SS now denoting a car with a big-block engine, the bucket seats became a new option on the regular Malibu Sport Coupe and convertible, upon which any six-cylinder or small-block V8 could be ordered. Also new for 1966 was the Chevelle Malibu four-door Sport Sedan hardtop. Styling revisions on all 1966 Chevelles including more rounded styling similar to the full-sized Chevrolets with sail panels and tunneled rear windows featured on two-door hardtop coupes.
For 1967, the same assortment of bodystyles were continued with styling changes similar to all other Chevelles including a new grille and revised tail section with taillights that wrapped around to the side. New this year was a Chevelle Malibu Concours station wagon with simulated woodgrain exterior side panel trim. Front disc brakes were a new option along with a stereo 8-track tape player. The same assortment of drivetrains carried over from 1966 with the top 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8 dropped from 350 to 325 hp (261 to 242 kW; 355 to 330 PS).
Social links
Chevrolet Malibu model years
Common Chevrolet Malibu problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Chevrolet Malibu cars, several common problems have been identified across different model years. Here is a detailed list of these issues:
- Transmission Issues:
- The transmission system in Chevy Malibus, especially in models reaching around 100,000 miles, can experience problems like jerking, difficulty changing gears, and skipping gears due to faulty components like pressure control solenoids or broken transmission fluid pumps.
- Electrical System Glitches:
- Electrical problems are prevalent in Chevy Malibus, with issues like headlights burning out prematurely, turn signals and hazard lights malfunctioning, and electric power steering systems locking up, making steering difficult.
- Newer models have faced challenges with the electronic "Shift to Park" system failing to recognize when the car is in park, leading to difficulties in turning off the vehicle.
- Key Stuck in Ignition:
- Another common complaint is the key getting stuck in the ignition, often linked to issues with the automatic transmission shifter, which can be resolved by replacing the ignition lock cylinder.
- Specific Model Years to Avoid:
- Certain model years of the Chevy Malibu have been flagged as problematic, including 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2016. These years have been associated with various issues like engine problems, electrical faults, brake troubles, steering faults, and more, making them less reliable choices for buyers.
These common problems reported by owners of Chevrolet Malibu cars highlight the importance of thorough research and consideration before purchasing a used vehicle to avoid potential issues and ensure a smoother driving experience.
Is the Chevrolet Malibu a reliable car?
The Chevrolet Malibu is considered a reliable car, ranking 9th out of 24 cars in its class with a reliability score of 4.0 out of 5.0. Unfortunately, the model is prone to several issues, including loss of engine power, a failed passlock sensor, transmission failure, and headlight issues, among others.
What are the bad years for Chevy Malibu?
We recommend staying away from the 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, and 2016 models. Engine problems are the most common issues that appear when there's something wrong with the Chevy Malibu. This trouble can cause expensive repairs most drivers can't afford regularly.
Do Chevy Malibus last a long time?
However, it's not uncommon for the Chevy Malibu to outlive other midsize sedans in its segment. In fact, many models last over 200,000 miles or even more.
Are Chevy Malibus expensive to maintain?
A Chevrolet Malibu will cost about $6,460 for maintenance and repairs during its first 10 years of service. This beats the industry average for popular sedan models by $636. There is also a 19.26% chance that a Malibu will require a major repair during that time.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Malibu years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Malibu cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Malibu model years:
- Chevrolet Malibu 2004
- Chevrolet Malibu 2009
- Chevrolet Malibu 2005
- Chevrolet Malibu 2006
- Chevrolet Malibu 2010
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Malibu model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Malibu years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Malibu car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Malibu , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Malibu model years
A total of 820 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Malibu model years
There were a total of 187 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Malibu model years
There were a total of 688 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Malibu model years
There were a total of 23 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 20276 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Malibu . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Malibu 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-27
- VIN: 1G1ZD5ST3LF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Faulty Vacuum pump caused catastrophic engine failure. The vacuum pump exploded cracking the cam shaft sending metal shards into the engine. $12000.00 to repair and mechanic will guarantee the work because the replacement vacuum is an only OEM part. I was having braking problems prior to the vacuum pump failing. The brakes would intermittently freeze up and I couldn't get the car stop and had to use the emergency braking system to stop vehicle. Car is still at shop I can't afford the repair and I'm am still paying finance company for car. I have a disabled child and am low income. This has put hardship on me as I live in an area that does not provide public transportation. I don't know what to do.
Chevrolet Malibu 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-26
- VIN: 1G1ZB5ST7KF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: This is by far the worst car purchase I've ever made. I've had this car for 4 years now and ever since I purchased it, it has given me problems. The car shut down completely at the stop sign or stop light, even when pulling out of the parking spot. Battery replaced, fuel line/pump/gasket replaced, wire fixed, oils and fluids stay up to date, transmission fluid changed, and not one mechanic, not even GM can tell me what the problem is because they don't even know. No codes appear and diagnostics come back fine and clear. Every mechanic has fixed something they've thought could be causing the problem yet the problem still exists. This is a headache to deal with and dangerous for my family and me. This has been the worst experience ever experienced with any vehicle i have owned.
Chevrolet Malibu 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E06CF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while a passenger was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the passenger’s side air bag warning light intermittently illuminated while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with an inoperable passenger’s side air bag sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.
Chevrolet Malibu 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: 1G1ND52J33M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Unknown
Chevrolet Malibu 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E15BF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My vehicle battery light came on around 3 weeks ago. I thought my battery was going bad, since I had it for 2 yrs( I bought it from AutoZone 2 yrs ago w/ 2 yrs warranty). But instead it completely stopped and won't start. I had it towed and was told the timing chain broke in the engine and that I need a whole new engine (something I can't afford being on disability). So I am not only seeking if there is a recall with the engine, but if other drivers are having this same issue with their 2011 Malibu. I have about 77,000 miles on it. I'm having a hard time getting to my doctor's appt and picking up my grandkids from school. If nothing shows up, can you please reach out to GM to see if they can give me a discount/rebate to help me get my vehicle fixed. I'm desperate right now. Thank you for your time
Chevrolet Malibu 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1G1ZE5ST7HF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while shifting into park(P), the vehicle failed to turn off as needed. The contact stated that the message "Please Shift to Park" was displayed and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that after restarting the vehicle, the vehicle resumed normal operation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle with a defective gear shifter wiring harness, and a battery current sensor failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
Chevrolet Malibu 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: 1G1ZE5ST1GF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Reduced Power Engine" message displayed and the vehicle inadvertently decelerated. The brake pedal was firm while depressed and the vehicle failed to stop immediately. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the vacuum pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the vacuum pump deteriorated and went into the engine. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.
Chevrolet Malibu 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-14
- VIN: 1G1ZD5ST4KF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: My wife drove the car into the church parking lot and placed the shifter in park. Turned off the engine and the Display stated "place the car in Park." She restarted the car backed up and pulled back into the space, shut off the engine and it did the same thing again,. She got out and attempted to lock the car with the FOB and it stated place in Park, and Key fob in car. It wasn't , and she had started walking into the church with the audible alert beep and headlights behind her. I went out started the car shifted it into park and it did the same thing. I backed up a little bit engaged drive and slowly moved the shifter to park and it worked that time. Will take it to our certified mechanic tomorrow.
Chevrolet Malibu 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E00CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: First, there is a problem with the transmission. The car will stall or stop abruptly while driving. Second, the automatic turn signals do not work. Third, the driver safety belt does tightly secure the driver.
Chevrolet Malibu 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-12
- VIN: 1G11B5SL6EF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Hello. I have a 2014 Malibu. Recently it has been stalling when coming to a stop and yet there are no engine/warning lights on. Took it to numerous mechanics, spoke with people at the dealership service area and yet nothing! Nobody can figure it out at all. I’ve had the throttle body replaced, module piece, and a few other parts by someone who previously worked at the Chevrolet dealership and even they can’t figure it out. This is not only a safety hazard but a very uncomfortable feeling riding a car and having to put it into Neutral when approaching a light or stop sign ! My car will tell me if my turn signal is on for longer than 2-3 minutes so I’m not understanding why it won’t tell me why my car is shutting off. I’m frustrated because I’m paying different mechanics to figure it out and it’s still an unsolved problem! It would be nice if Chevrolet can look at everyone’s vehicle and not charge this time!! I have children so having them ride in a car that stalls is UNACCEPTABLE!
Chevrolet Malibu 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1ZD5ST3LF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while her daughter was driving at 65 MPH, the contact's daughter was run off the road by another vehicle. The contact stated that the air bags did not deploy. The contact stated that the vehicle was forced to crash into the guard rail. The contact's daughter was knocked unconscious and sustained a concussion due to hitting her head on the driver's door glass. The contact's daughter was transported to the local medical center. The contact stated that a police report was not filed because it was a single-vehicle crash. The vehicle was towed to a local tow yard. The vehicle was deemed a total loss. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was 94,073.
Chevrolet Malibu 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 1G1ZB5STXHF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle and shifting to the park, the message "Shift to Park" was displayed, and the vehicle could not immediately be turned off. After shifting the transmission selector several times, the message disappeared, and the contact was able to turn off the vehicle. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 15,000.
Chevrolet Malibu 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E19BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving 60 MPH, the power steering assist suddenly failed. The contact used an excessive amount of force to steer the vehicle. The steering stability control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the steering module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 68,987.
Chevrolet Malibu 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-07
- VIN: 1G1ZD5ST9KF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Purchased this vehicle (2019 Chevy Malibu) in September 2024. Put the vehicle in park and the display keeps saying "shift to park" when it's already in park.
Chevrolet Malibu 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-05
- VIN: 1G1ZD5ST3MF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The year and model of my vehicle has a known issue of shift to park and only selected Vin’s they will repair even though there is a recall and known issue. I can not safely park my car as it’s not reflecting it is in the park position
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Malibu
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 157 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Malibu.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Malibu 2023
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-14
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.
- Consequence: An improperly welded front impact bar may result in the front crash sensors not performing correctly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle's motor rail for an incomplete weld. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
- Model: Chevrolet Malibu 2022
- Report Received Date: 2022-12-14
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.
- Consequence: An improperly welded front impact bar may result in the front crash sensors not performing correctly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle's motor rail for an incomplete weld. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
- Model: Chevrolet Malibu 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-05-19
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
- Consequence: An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.
- Model: Chevrolet Malibu 2013
- Report Received Date: 2021-12-22
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SUSPENSION:REAR
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Buick Lacrosse, 2012-2013 Buick Regal, and 2013 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles sold or ever registered in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, or Wisconsin. These vehicles may have rear toe links that received an improper amount of electrocoating (e-coat) corrosion protection, which could cause the e-coat to become brittle and break away when contacted by road debris. Over time, the e-coat may chip away, exposing the metal toe link and making it more susceptible to corrosion. Corrosion may eventually cause the toe link to thin and ultimately fracture.
- Consequence: A rear toe link fracture may reduce the driver's ability to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear suspension toe links and adjuster fasteners, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 27, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212346640. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recalls 20V-764 and 21V-633.
- Model: Chevrolet Malibu 2016
- Report Received Date: 2021-08-20
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
- Consequence: An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.
Latest negative Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
-
Vehicle year: 2012
We have owned our 2012 Malibu for over six years now and we are extremely satisfied with it. Apart from regular maintenance such as brakes, tires, and oil changes, we have only had to replace the right front wheel bearing assembly. We love the smooth ride and reliability of this car, and it has clocked just over 83000 miles to date. Although it will need some brake/strut work soon, we know that's normal wear and tear. We have had a few minor issues since our last review, such as a piece of the front plastic undercarriage falling off, but we were able to put it back on ourselves. We also recently replaced the front tires. While the trunk release button was not working for a few months, it has started working again. Unfortunately, the left side speakers have stopped working, but we don't think it's worth the money to get them fixed. On the bright side, the right side speakers still provide good sound. We have noticed that the steering column is beginning to make some squeaking sounds when turning sharply, but we're not sure if it's something to be concerned about...yet.
-
Vehicle year: 2005
I noticed that there are quite a few negative reviews, but I have to say that I only agree with two of the criticisms: the cloth seats do stain easily and the lamps burn out quickly. However, I have driven this car for about 70K miles and have not experienced any other issues. The car runs smoothly and has a lot of pep thanks to the V6 engine. Additionally, the fuel economy is great. Although the car's looks may be a bit outdated now, I am still quite happy with it.
-
Vehicle year: 2005
I've had my new Malibu for 2 months and I'm really happy with my purchase. As someone who's driven a pick-up for years, I was pleasantly surprised by the car's excellent pick-up and smooth ride. The gas mileage has also been fantastic, with an average of 26 to 28 in the city and up to 36 on the highway (65 to 75mph).
-
Vehicle year: 2014
I think you made a great choice with the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ. The features are impressive and definitely worth more than what you paid for. When I took the car on a 300-mile drive to Laughlin, Nevada, it performed flawlessly and I even got close to 30 mpg for the round trip, despite some stop-and-go traffic on the way back.
-
Vehicle year: 2015
Hello! I had to update my review of this automobile due to the character number restriction, but I'm happy to say that after leasing this car for over a year, I still love it! In fact, I have never been more impressed by the quality of an American automobile than I have with this 2015 Malibu LTZ2. For years, my family leased Nissan products, but after a disappointing experience with the 2008 Mariner Hybrid, we decided to give Chevrolet a try. And we're so glad we did! We've had this car for well over a year now, and it has given us ZERO problems. The ride is not only comfortable, even on rough roads, but it is also the quietest vehicle that I have ever driven! The controls and displays are well thought out and easily accessed. GM was very smart to develop the Though the comfort is alright, it would be even nicer to have a little more room. Overall, we were really impressed by the quality, reliability, and excellent design of the Chevy Malibu. I highly recommend that anyone considering a mid-size sedan give this vehicle a test drive. I'm sure you'll be impressed as well.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Malibu?
Weston Fisher 2025-11-27
Vehicle year: 2015
I recently had the opportunity to drive a 2015 Malibu rental for a week, covering approximately 300 miles. Despite some minor issues, I found the car to be comfortable and relatively quiet for its price point. It handled well on twisty and hilly terrain, and I felt confident and in control at highway speeds. The gas mileage was decent, averaging 26.1mpg during my mostly city/suburban driving with some highway use. However, the car's visibility was a major concern for me. The A-pillars and C-pillars created significant blind spots, making it difficult to see around corners or when backing out of parking spaces. Additionally, the interior materials could be improved, as the plastics were hard and the texture was not pleasant to the touch. Despite these issues, I understand that this is an entry-level economy car and do not expect luxury finishes. The biggest problem I encountered was the drive-by-wire throttle system, which made it difficult to control the car's power. Overall, I enjoyed my time with the Malibu and would recommend it to those who prioritize comfort and affordability over luxury features.Backing out of a parking space while going uphill can be frustrating, especially when the car's response to pedal input is unpredictable. In city driving, situations that require instant power, like making a left-hand turn into oncoming traffic, can be dangerous due to the delay in engine response. Although the throttle problem is not as noticeable on the highway, it can still be difficult to achieve the desired results. Overall, my experience with this car was tolerable as a rental, but I wouldn't consider buying one. By the end of the week, I was looking forward to getting back into my old car.
Fausto Rice 2025-11-27
Vehicle year: 1998
Hi there! I recently bought a car, but unfortunately it died on me. I had to replace the motor, which was actually the third time I had to do so. Despite being from 1998, my car runs pretty well now. I make sure to keep it well-maintained with regular oil changes and enough gas. With a little TLC, this car can be pretty nice. I drive it at least 30 miles a day and get about 20 mpg. I'm hoping that in two years, it will still be a reliable car for school. Thanks for reading!
Cornelius Wiegand 2025-11-26
Vehicle year: 2011
I have owned three new GM vehicles in the past, but unfortunately, this one has been problematic since day one. Despite multiple attempts by the dealer to fix the issues, including rail dust and wheel vibration, the problems persisted. Regrettably, the car has only been driven twice a week by my wife and now has two bent rims. Additionally, the interior is cramped, the trunk is short, and the plastic trim frequently comes off. The exterior badging has also fallen off, and the gas mileage is only 20mpg. As a result, I have decided to trade this car in and will not be purchasing a GM car again.
Colton Roob 2025-11-25
Vehicle year: 2013
I strongly advise against purchasing this car. The intake and exhaust solenoids failed twice within 7 years, causing the car to stall while driving. Additionally, the timing chain snapped just under 120k miles, resulting in significant engine damage. While the car did surpass 100k miles, I recommend that GM improve their manufacturing to produce more durable vehicles.
Milford Robel 2025-11-22
Vehicle year: 2013
The engine light is consistently illuminated, and the oil pressure solenoid has been replaced four times. Additionally, the gas gauge has never registered as full since the vehicle was purchased brand new in September 2013.