Chevrolet Malibu problems

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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).

photo of Chevrolet Malibu car production

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Chevrolet Malibu model years

chevrolet malibu 1975 photo
Malibu 1975
Chevrolet

2

1

0

  • 5
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  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1964 photo
Malibu 1964
Chevrolet

1

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2023 photo
Malibu 2023
Chevrolet

12

1

20

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2022 photo
Malibu 2022
Chevrolet

26

1

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2021 photo
Malibu 2021
Chevrolet

33

2

17

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2020 photo
Malibu 2020
Chevrolet

114

1

16

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2019 photo
Malibu 2019
Chevrolet

139

1

22

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2018 photo
Malibu 2018
Chevrolet

588

6

28

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2017 photo
Malibu 2017
Chevrolet

644

4

27

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2016 photo
Malibu 2016
Chevrolet

789

9

25

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2015 photo
Malibu 2015
Chevrolet

249

3

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2014 photo
Malibu 2014
Chevrolet

333

6

14

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2013 photo
Malibu 2013
Chevrolet

880

10

21

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2012 photo
Malibu 2012
Chevrolet

878

3

19

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2011 photo
Malibu 2011
Chevrolet

946

4

30

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2010 photo
Malibu 2010
Chevrolet

1336

4

23

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2009 photo
Malibu 2009
Chevrolet

1473

6

30

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2008 photo
Malibu 2008
Chevrolet

1000

5

25

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2007 photo
Malibu 2007
Chevrolet

983

6

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2006 photo
Malibu 2006
Chevrolet

1368

9

27

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2005 photo
Malibu 2005
Chevrolet

1383

6

22

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2004 photo
Malibu 2004
Chevrolet

1695

9

23

4.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2003 photo
Malibu 2003
Chevrolet

610

3

24

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2002 photo
Malibu 2002
Chevrolet

596

4

26

3.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2001 photo
Malibu 2001
Chevrolet

749

4

21

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 2000 photo
Malibu 2000
Chevrolet

979

5

25

2.6
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1999 photo
Malibu 1999
Chevrolet

848

3

24

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1998 photo
Malibu 1998
Chevrolet

1084

5

28

2.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1997 photo
Malibu 1997
Chevrolet

514

6

27

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1989 photo
Malibu 1989
Chevrolet

3

0

0

  • 5
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  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1986 photo
Malibu 1986
Chevrolet

1

0

0

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  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1983 photo
Malibu 1983
Chevrolet

1

3

0

  • 5
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  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1982 photo
Malibu 1982
Chevrolet

3

3

0

  • 5
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  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1981 photo
Malibu 1981
Chevrolet

3

3

0

  • 5
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  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1980 photo
Malibu 1980
Chevrolet

6

6

0

  • 5
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  • 1
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Malibu 1979
Chevrolet

4

6

0

  • 5
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  • 1
chevrolet malibu 1978 photo
Malibu 1978
Chevrolet

2

8

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
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Malibu 1974
Chevrolet

1

1

0

  • 5
  • 4
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  • 2
  • 1

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:

  • 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.

Chevrolet Malibu

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:

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

  1. Adam Gottlieb 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2009

    I purchased a used 2009 Malibu LS for my daughter, but unfortunately, we have experienced some issues with it. Despite the recalls not applying to my car, I have spent over $1000 on repairs, including the steering column, power steering, stability control, and traction control module. Replacing the front headlights was also a bit of a challenge, as it required removing the front end of the car, which took my son and I an hour to do. This was quite different from my experience with my Honda and Acura, where it only takes a few minutes. Additionally, the stereo stopped working, but I was able to find a reasonably priced replacement on E-Bay. However, it did require scheduling an appointment with the dealer to have it programmed, which incurred a $45 labor charge. Despite these challenges, the Malibu is a stylish car with great features. While there have been some mechanical issues, I believe that with proper care and maintenance, it can still be a reliable car.

  2. Graham Kassulke 2025-01-06

    Vehicle year: 2006

    I bought a car for my wife since her 1996 Ford Taurus was on its last leg. We decided to go for a used Malibu, which seemed like a great option compared to what we had and at a decent price. Unfortunately, after just one month, we noticed a knock in the steering when turning the wheel parked or at low speeds. This is a very common problem in many Chevy trucks as well. The dealership did a quick fix, but unfortunately, the issue reappeared just two months later. Now, if we want peace of mind with a real fix, it will cost us $500. In my opinion, Chevrolet has gone downhill with their products over the last 10 years. I would not recommend buying this car unless you have no other choice. The only good quality about it is the great power from the engine.

  3. Fletcher Rutherford 2025-01-05

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I purchased my car brand new from a Chevy dealership in 2008. Although I have had to replace several parts such as the transmission, catalytic converter, exhaust system, right front axle, trunk trim, and cupholder (which is rarely used), I am confident in finding a solution to the current issue. Despite recently replacing the battery, the car has been stalling and experiencing RPM fluctuations. I am determined to identify and resolve the problem. Do you have any suggestions?

  4. Albert McCullough 2025-01-04

    Vehicle year: 2000

    This car has been a bit of a headache since day one, with the brakes and rotors needing to be replaced on five separate occasions (it now has 67,000 miles on it). Additionally, the water pump, blower fan, and turn signal switch have all needed to be replaced. Unfortunately, I have spent over $1500 out of pocket on all of these 'not normal wear and tear' malfunctions. I have found that GM's customer service is not very helpful. Overall, I would not recommend buying this car.

  5. Brooks Hirthe 2025-01-04

    Vehicle year: 2018

    I am sorry to hear about the issues you have been experiencing with your car. It seems like the car stalls out unexpectedly and the power and air conditioning are not functioning properly. This can be a very frustrating and concerning situation. I would recommend taking the car to the dealer to have it inspected and see if they can identify the problem. I hope that they are able to find a solution for you soon. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Latest positive Chevrolet Malibu car reviews

  1. Ewald Kozey 2025-01-09

    Vehicle year: 2002

    Your car has over 100K miles and it has yet to break down. The only mechanical problem so far was when an electrical problem caused the fan not to work at the lower speeds. Although nothing about it is spectacular, there is nothing that is truly deficient. It still runs just about as smoothly as the day you bought it.

  2. Randal Wolff 2025-01-08

    Vehicle year: 2008

    I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your new car! It's great to know that you haven't had any issues since driving it out of the dealership. As someone who can be a bit picky about cars, it's wonderful to hear that you find it to be a true value and stylish as well. Plus, getting 20mpg in town and 29 on the highway is fantastic, especially with the 252 hp v-6. It sounds like you really love your car, and at 63 years old, you've certainly had your fair share of them. Keep up the great work, GM!

  3. Garrett Swaniawski 2025-01-07

    Vehicle year: 2006

    This gem was the end result of a trade-in after a recent purchase of a mini-van. I can't say enough about this car! It's super reliable and low maintenance, with a great interior and exterior. It has a spoiler, sunroof, remote start, aluminum rims with 18” tires, 6-disk CD changer with XM radio, cruise control, leather/cloth seats, leather steering wheel, and room for 5. It's a great car for any age - sporty and family-friendly, with a great and fun drive. It's also super comfortable, and gets 23-mpg city and 29-mpg highway driving 65 mph. I would buy this Super Sport again and again!

  4. Eliezer Brekke 2025-01-06

    Vehicle year: 1999

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car - it's a used one with 156,000 miles on it. While it has been reliable, I have had to replace the engine (luckily still under warranty), starter, alternator, battery, and do a tune up. I do need to replace the front brakes once or twice a year, but that's not too bad. However, recently the transmission has been acting up and unfortunately, I can't afford to fix it. One thing to note is that there is a bit of a grind when turning at a stop, but I've been told it's nothing to worry about. Overall, it's been a good car, but repairs can be a bit pricey (at least $200 even if you fix it yourself). Let me know if you have any questions!

  5. Randy McCullough 2025-01-06

    Vehicle year: 2013

    I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your new Malibu! It sounds like you made a great choice in upgrading to the ECO 2SA with leather. It's great to hear that you're getting better gas mileage and experiencing less engine noise. The feature that shuts off the engine at stop lights and restarts seamlessly sounds like a great addition too. Thanks for sharing your positive experience!

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