2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid problems

General information about Chevrolet-Malibu hybrid
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

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

Common 2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid problems

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to the battery, transmission, and noises and leaks.

Transmission Issues: The 2016 Malibu Hybrid has been reported to have transmission issues, with some owners experiencing grinding noises after driving 150 miles or so. This problem can be difficult to diagnose and repair, with some owners reporting that multiple dealerships have attempted to repair their vehicles without success.

Noises and Leaks: The 2016 Malibu Hybrid has been reported to have noises and leaks, such as squeaks, rattles, wind noises, and air and water leaks.

These issues can affect the overall performance and reliability of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, and may be a concern for potential buyers.

What are the main problems with the 2016 Chevy Malibu?

Is Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid a good car?

The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid delivers good overall performance with well-rounded handling and brisk acceleration. It also returns excellent fuel economy.

How long do Chevy Malibu hybrid batteries last?

between 3 to 5 years

Your 2020 Chevy Malibu Hybrid battery will typically last between 3 to 5 years, but that can vary greatly depending on type of battery, weather conditions battery size, and driving habits.

How much does it cost to replace a battery in a Chevy Malibu hybrid?

The average cost for a Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid High Voltage Battery Replacement is between $3,498 and $3,530. Labor costs are estimated between $123 and $155 while parts are typically priced around $3,374. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

What is the most common problem with Chevy Malibu?

Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu

Transmission problems: Some Malibu models have experienced transmission issues, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration. Electrical issues: Some Malibu models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power steering system and battery.

Why did they stop making Malibu Hybrid?

This part won't be a surprise to anyone: cause of death is said to be low demand. The hybrid Malibu had a two-motor drive unit inspired by the Chevrolet Volt paired with a 1.5 kWh lithium ion battery pack. It got a very good combined 46 MPG, much better than the regular Malibu's combined 26 MPG.

How long does a 2016 Chevy Malibu battery last?

Your 2016 Chevrolet Malibu battery will often last between 3 to 5 years, but that can vary heavily depending on battery size, weather conditions type of battery, and driving habits.

How do I know if my 2016 Chevy Malibu battery is bad?

How do you know if your 2016 Chevy Malibu needs a new battery? The most common symptoms of bad 2016 Chevy Malibu batteries are if your car is slow to start after turning the key, or if your battery cables and connectors show signs of heavy corrosion.

2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid.

2016-07-08

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: HYBRID PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Malibu Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 27, 2015, to June 3, 2016. The affected vehicles have a shut-off switch for the high voltage battery for use when servicing the vehicle. This manual service disconnect switch (MSD) may not be properly installed and thus may not lock into position, unexpectedly disconnecting the high-voltage power while driving, effectively stalling the vehicle.
Consequence: A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the MSD and correct the installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 51230.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Chevrolet Malibu hybrid problems:

What's wrong with the Chevy Malibu 2016 - 2023? : r ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/whatcarshouldIbuy/comments/yfr3k9/whats_wrong_with_the_chevy_malibu_2016_2023/

Oct 28, 2022 ... Malibu's have a slew of problems. Stabilitrak, misfiring, limp mode, horrible engine, etc. It's so bad that I will NEVER purchase another ...

Bought Me a Used Malibu Hybrid | Chevrolet Malibu Forums

https://www.chevymalibuforum.com/threads/bought-me-a-used-malibu-hybrid.121579/

Sep 16, 2021 ... My 2016 Malibu hybrid developed all the symptoms of exhaust heat exchanger failure; leaking coolant into the exhaust, white smoke from exhaust, ...

2016 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 8 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2016-chevrolet-malibu/problems

Top 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Problems · Problems With Electric Power Steering System May Require Steering Column Replacement · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor.

Malibu hybrid 2016 battery possibly going bad | Chevrolet Malibu ...

https://www.chevymalibuforum.com/threads/malibu-hybrid-2016-battery-possibly-going-bad.124373/

Feb 6, 2023 ... Good evening. I have a 2016 Chevy Malibu 2016 hybrid model (reg) not LT. Yesterday I experienced a slight issue. I went to put the car in ...

2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid Consumer Reviews | Cars.com

https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-malibu_hybrid-2016/consumer-reviews/

The only drawbacks for me are that the engine is slightly noisier than its full gas counterpart and I have had issues with the braking system. I really love my ...