Chevrolet Malibu eco 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).

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Malibu eco 2014
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chevrolet malibu eco 2013 photo
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Common Chevrolet Malibu eco problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Chevrolet Malibu Eco cars, several common problems have been identified:

  • Power Steering Issues: Complaints highlighted power steering problems as one of the common issues with the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu. Owners reported issues with the power steering system, which could lead to difficulties in steering the vehicle effectively.
  • Build Quality Concerns: Another common complaint among owners was related to the build quality of the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu. This encompassed various aspects of the vehicle's construction, potentially indicating issues with the overall durability and reliability of the car.
  • Alternator Failure: The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco faced recurring alternator failures, causing electrical and engine-related issues. This problem manifested in early alternator failures leading to electrical malfunctions, engine problems, and even instances where the car would not start or would shut off unexpectedly during gear shifts.
  • Suspension Issues - Toe Link Fracture: Some owners reported a potential fracture in the rear toe link of the 2013 Malibu, affecting the stability of the rear suspension. This problem led to three recalls due to safety concerns, with reports of steering going out mid-turn, requiring costly repairs and posing safety risks.
  • Electrical System Malfunctions: The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu faced numerous complaints related to the electrical system, with issues such as malfunctioning headlights, flickering lights, and accessories turning on and off unexpectedly. These electrical problems were significant, with reports of alternator failures causing various electrical issues in the vehicle.

These common problems reported by owners of the Chevrolet Malibu Eco cars highlight a range of issues affecting different systems of the vehicle, from battery-related concerns to significant mechanical and electrical malfunctions. Addressing these issues promptly and effectively is crucial to ensure the safety and reliability of these vehicles.

Chevrolet Malibu eco

What is the biggest problem with Chevy Malibu?

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 problems does the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco have?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

  • Exhaust. Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks. ...
  • Transmission Minor. ...
  • Engine Minor. ...
  • Engine Cooling. ...
  • Fuel System/Emissions. ...
  • Electrical Accessories. ...
  • Brakes. ...
  • In-car Electronics.

How does Chevy Malibu Eco work?

It's time to go the engine restarts seamlessly. This light Hybrid can't propel itself on battery power alone like a full hybrid can. But it is a simpler.

What year is the best Chevy Malibu to buy?

Both the 2014 and 2015 Chevrolet Malibu get top ratings for reliability and safety. The 2014 model also gets top marks for cost of ownership and is rated No. 1 in our 2014 affordable midsize car rankings.

Recalls Chevrolet Malibu eco

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Malibu eco.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Chevrolet Malibu eco 2013
  • Report Received Date: 2013-05-06
  • Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2012 and 2013 Buick LaCrosse and Regal, and model year 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Eco vehicles equipped with eAssist. These vehicles may have a condition in which the Generator Control Module (GCM) may not function properly. This could cause a gradual loss of battery charge and the illumination of the malfunction indicator light.
  • Consequence: If the vehicle is continued to be driven, the engine may stall and/or the vehicle may not start. In addition, there may be a burning or melting odor, smoke, and possibly a fire in the trunk.
  • Remedy: GM will notify owners and dealers will test the GCM and replace it, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on June 11, 2013. Owners may contact GM at 1-800-521-7300. GM's recall campaign number is 13136.

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