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).
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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
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Vehicle year: 2023
What a fantastic car at an amazing price. I definitely recommend this car!
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Vehicle year: 2010
Great vehicle! Congratulations on your purchase of a 2010 Malibu LTZ 2.4L 4-cylinder. It's amazing how many features this car has that you've never heard of before. The ride is smooth and the steering is very responsive. Plus, it's surprisingly quick! Enjoy your new car!
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Vehicle year: 2016
The car drives smoothly and quietly, with a very comfortable and roomy interior. The trunk space is also quite large. I'm pretty sure it gets higher mileage than rated, as I drove it from New York to Montreal and arrived with 1/4 of a tank still full. The electronics are amazing! The large display is very easy to understand, and the car is equipped with every gadget you can think of, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, XM, Navigation, and of course, Wi-Fi availability, which is a blessing. I connected my kids' tablets to the Wi-Fi and drove for 7 hours without hearing them say the dreadful 'are we there yet?' even once. Additionally, if your daily commute involves driving in terrible slow traffic, you'll be happy with the noticeable gas savings. With the array of radio stations and music available at your fingertips, you'll never be bored.
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Vehicle year: 1999
Hi! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed reading about your experience with your car. It sounds like you made a great choice with the Malibu! It's always nice to find a car that has both power and good fuel efficiency. And I totally understand what you mean about the spaciousness of the interior- it's so important to have enough room without feeling like you're driving a boat. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with me!
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Vehicle year: 2021
Hey there! I'm a car guy and I wanted to share my experience with my Chevy Malibu Premier trim package. I absolutely love it! It's becoming harder and harder to find American-made cars, but this one is definitely worth it. I went with the black cherry metallic color and the black and gray interior, which always gets compliments. The 4 cylinder turbo and 9 speed transmission give great performance and I get about 30mpg combined city/highway mileage. It's also super comfortable for long road trips and the Bose sound system is top-notch. The only downside is the spare tire inflater system, which is totally worthless. But don't worry, my dealer quickly got me an actual tire and jack at no charge. Overall, I highly recommend the Chevy Malibu Premier!
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Malibu?
Jaren Braun 2025-06-06
Vehicle year: 2016
This car has unfortunately not lived up to its positive reviews. Despite experiencing a range of issues, including check engine light, transmission problems, and electrical issues, I have remained confident in my ability to handle the situation. While it has been frustrating to deal with these problems, I have taken a proactive approach in addressing them and have sought out the necessary repairs. Although the manufacturer and dealer have not been as helpful as I would have liked, I remain confident in my ability to find a solution. While this experience has been disappointing, I am still confident in my ability to make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing reliable vehicles in the future.
Ed Lueilwitz 2025-06-05
Vehicle year: 2011
I bought this car when I was 18 with almost 30,000 miles on it for about $14,500 from a little hometown dealership in MN. It had been owned by one family and it looked brand new. Although the brakes had 3,500 miles and the tires were meh, they could last me a year. I have a love-hate relationship with this car. It has been very reliable in my 4 years of ownership, but fixing it can be a thorn in your side. For instance, to replace the headlights, you must remove the bumper and pop out the assembly, which takes about 2 hours with two people. I've had to do this 3 times in 3 months. The wiring harness melted onto the bulb, so I had to replace it. Granted, there is just under 102,000 miles on it, but I have done all of the general maintenance either early or when the car told me it was needed, generally myself. One thing I haven't been able to figure out is a shaking that has happened only when I brake since I bought the car. I've replaced many things and still haven't been able to figure it out. The car feels unsafe and I've had many opinions just saying it's the brakes and rotors. I've replaced them once a year every year I've owned the car! I love it, but hate it. However, I do admit that, due to the nature of my job, I travel a bit. They are mostly highway miles, but it can be a little rough on a car. I'm not sure what to do, as I'm upside down on it right now.
Kurtis Toy 2025-06-03
Vehicle year: 2016
I purchased this vehicle with only 2 miles on it. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the brakes and electronic navigation system failing randomly. Additionally, the engine has not been performing well. I am currently in a dispute with the dealership regarding the engine, as they are refusing to honor the warranty due to my decision to service the oil elsewhere. Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful that the dealership will work with me to resolve these issues. This has been a disappointing experience, especially considering my positive experiences with other Chevy vehicles in the past. It has made me consider exploring other options such as Kia or Honda for my next purchase. (For reference, I have previously owned an Impala, Camaro, Silverado, and Cavalier).
Caleb Zulauf 2025-06-02
Vehicle year: 2021
This car has had some issues since I purchased it in June 2022 with 57k miles from Off lease only. Within a month, the CEL (check engine light) came on with a P0420 code, which has to do with the catalytic converter not working efficiently. Despite my research indicating that most cars never need a new catalytic converter during their lifetime, or at the least, last up to at least 100k miles driven, I experienced this issue. However, I remained confident and continued to drive the car since it did not seem to affect its driveability. After two months, I noticed that the engine temperature gauge's needle had crept past the midway point and was moving near the red. I pulled over to let the car cool off and discovered that the coolant reservoir had only a tablespoon of coolant in it. I quickly topped it off with Prestone 50/50 coolant made specifically for GM cars and thought the problem was solved. However, the coolant level continued to drop, and I suspected a leak. Despite not seeing any visible signs of a leak, I remained confident and continued to top off the reservoir with coolant every week to ensure that the car was running smoothly.Within just a few months of purchase, my car began to experience a range of issues that were causing significant inconvenience and concern. Despite my best efforts to address the problems, they only seemed to worsen over time. Eventually, I discovered that the root cause of these issues was a leaking head gasket, which was on the verge of completely failing. While this was a major and costly repair, it was necessary to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of the vehicle. Although I was disappointed to have to make such a repair so soon after purchase, I was confident in my decision to take action and address the issue head-on. Ultimately, I decided to trade in the car, as I felt that it was no longer meeting my needs or expectations. While I would not recommend this particular make and model to others, I am grateful for the lessons learned and the opportunity to move on to a more suitable vehicle.
Felipe Roob 2025-06-01
Vehicle year: 2011
I owned three Malibu's 2006, unfortunately, the first two were totaled due to accidents caused by drunk drivers and a bus. The third one was traded in after the insurance paid part of the total. I purchased a 2011 model for my new job that required a lot of traveling, but it turned out to be a lemon. Despite having only 18k miles on it, the car has several issues such as poor gas mileage, a leaking driver's side door, and a shaking steering column. After taking it to the dealer, I found out that the car has several electrical issues and has been recalled three times. The service manager advised me to sell it as it would cost several thousand to fix. I am disappointed with the car and will not be purchasing another GMC.Upon driving home, my car started idling rough and stalled. I managed to get it home, but it quit on me. I had to call a flatbed to take it to the dealership. The left cam shaft sensor needed to be replaced, which cost $350 plus labor. However, as soon as I left the dealership, the car started shaking, shimmying, and stalled again. I had to go back to the dealership, and they found out that the right cam shaft sensor needed to be replaced as well, which cost another $350 plus labor. Unfortunately, the car has started making a dinging sound, and the dealership told me that the idler pulleys needed to be replaced. I have an inspection due in December, so I will have them check it then. Recently, I received a call from the dealership, and they told me that the car passed inspection, but the timing chain is slapping due to the retainer bar and 2 nuts falling off. These were ground up in the engine, and the oil filter has aluminum and steel filings in it. Additionally, the seat on the driver's side broke during a test drive. After checking the website, I found out that the Malibu 2.2 motor has a history of timing chain failure between 50 and 100 thousand miles. Three dealers have contacted me since December, asking for a trade-in. However, they only offered me 110% of the Blue Book value, which is unacceptable. I took it to one dealer, and they only offered me $1500 for it, citing its good mileage. I am extremely disappointed with this car, and I cannot recommend Chevy to anyone. The warranties, equipment, dealership, and Chevy are all subpar. I have tried contacting the Attorney General and Lemon Law, but they were no help. Therefore, I have put up an 8 by 10 lighted sign in my front yard that reads: Chevy 2011 Malibu piece of junk. The car is parked in my yard, and all items that do not work are highlighted. The car is open for you, the consumer, to look at. Please note that the tires are losing air, the rims are standard and leaking, and the gas tank is leaking. This is the worst car I have ever owned, and I will not buy, lease, or recommend Chevy to anyone.