2011 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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Common 2011 Chevrolet Malibu problems
The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have several common problems by its owners. One of the most frequently mentioned issues is related to the engine, specifically the 2.4L engine that is known for timing chain issues
. This can lead to engine failure, which is a significant concern for many owners.
Another common problem with the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is related to the power steering system. The power steering pumps and rack and pinions are known to go out, causing difficulty in steering the car. This can be an expensive repair, as it may require replacing the entire power steering system
The coolant system is also a concern for many 2011 Chevrolet Malibu owners. If not properly maintained, the head gaskets can deteriorate, leading to coolant leaks and potential engine damage. It is essential to regularly check the coolant level and ensure that it is at the recommended level to prevent this issue
The purge valve is another component that has been reported to fail in the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. When the purge valve fails, it can cause system two lean codes or evap codes, leading to issues with the car's idle and overall performance. Replacing the purge valve can resolve this issue, but it is essential to address it promptly to prevent further damage to the car's engine
In addition to these specific issues, the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have problems with the transmission, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration. Electrical issues, such as problems with the power steering system and battery, have also been reported.
While the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have several common problems, it is essential to note that regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues. Routine tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections are crucial to maintaining the car's reliability and longevity.
In conclusion, the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu has several common problems, including engine issues, power steering system failures, coolant leaks, purge valve failures, transmission problems, and electrical issues. Regular maintenance can help prevent many of these issues, and it is essential to address any problems promptly to prevent further damage to the car's engine and overall performance.
Are 2011 Chevy Malibus good cars?
The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu strikes an excellent balance between ride and handling, exemplified by confident cornering and a smooth, quiet ride over varying types of pavement. The four-cylinder engine achieves its frugal efficiency in part due to the use of an electric steering system.
How many miles does a 2011 Chevy Malibu last?
How many miles will a Chevy Malibu last? These cars are estimated to last anywhere from 100,000 to 150,000 miles. That doesn't mean they're going to come apart at the seams the moment you hit 151k, but you're more likely to experience problems past that point.
Is there a recall on 2011 Chevy Malibu?
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, the air bag inflator may explode due to being overpressurized. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
How much does it cost to fix a 2011 Chevy Malibu?
Chevrolet Malibu Repairs and Prices
The average repair cost for a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is between $494 and $604.
What year was the Malibus bad?
The worst year for Chevy Malibu out of all the model years to avoid would be the 2002 and 2010 model years. 2002 had passlock and coolant leaking issues, and 2010 had multiple engine problems, leading to pricey fixes.
Is there a recall on 2011 Chevy Malibu?
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, the air bag inflator may explode due to being overpressurized. Tip: Recalls don't affect every vehicle of the same year, make and model.
How long does a 2011 Chevy Malibu LT last?
Based on ownership data, a 2011 Malibu should last over 150,000 miles with proper care, which is significantly lower than average. Transmission failures are expensive to fix, and are the main reason they are mechanically totaled. It happens when a transmission replacement costs more than the car is worth.
What is the most common problems with 2012 Chevy Malibu?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Engine Minor. ...
- Engine Cooling. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- In-car Electronics. ...
- Brakes.
2011 Chevrolet Malibu car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Malibu problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
- Engine problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2011 Chevrolet Malibu
The NHTSA has received 946 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-30
- 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
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-07
- 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.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-13
- VIN: 1G1ZE5E17BF
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I was under this car inspecting the exhaust system when I noticed the steel rear impact beam was rusty. Upon further inspection, I found that it was completely rusted and rotted out and was being held up by the wire for the license plate light. The car has quite a few miles on in but no other parts of the car are rusted like this. An automotive Engineer inspected it and advised us to replace it. There is no way for customers to know of this issue or easily watch out for it and I am concerned that this may be an issue in other Malibus. This is a huge safety issue as there was no rear protection during a crash due to the severity of the rust on this rear impact beam.
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1ZA5EU5BF
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: On [XXX] around 1pm me and my mom were in a bad accident we were driving on [XXX] through Columbus Ohio to go down to Kentucky we were at least 50 feet from the truck that was pulling a camper when all of sudden the camper had no brake lights and was not moving my mom pushed the brake all the way to the floor you could feel the car trying to stop but it wasn’t stopping we were only going 25 and should have been able to stop . But we didn’t by till we were in the camper bumper driver side airbag went off but mine in the passenger seat didn’t forcing my head to fly forward then back my seat belt locked to hard I felt I couldn’t breath and I had just had my appendix removed two days before the accident I was screaming in pain I was later on took to the hospital to make sure I was not bleeding on the inside I now sit in my bed feeling hopeless in so much pain . Since I was been laying in bed I Kelly blue booked our 2011 Chevy Malibu to see what I could possibly get from it but then found out there was not one but three recalls Airbag, brakes, and seat belts but I was never notified i did some more digging and found out these are all new my question is why was I never notified about this we have had this car five years and I found all these recalls going all the back to 2020 and we have had it since 2021. I blame Chevy for my car accident they failed to tell me something major was wrong with my brakes and airbag. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-08
- VIN: 1G1ZE5E15BF
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, and the steering wheel became significantly difficult to steer. The power steering warning light and the ESC warning light were illuminated. The contact was able to pull to the side of the road. The contact was able to continue driving to her residence by using physical strength to turn the steering wheel. The contact stated that the failure had persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 99,401.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-11
- VIN: 1G1ZA5EU7BF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Passenger headlight keeps going out. Have had to replace 4 times in 3 years. Difficult taking off entire bumper
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E18BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering issue.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-10
- VIN: 1G1ZC5EU5BF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Several Times now my 2011 Malibu goes into limp mode, at the same time the ESC/TSC lights come on. It has left me stranded in the middle of intersections. Sometimes I can turn the car off and start it again and it sees to reset something because it begins to work again. It happens mostly at lower speeds or sitting in idle at light. Sometimes when I feel it stat to happen I put the car in neutral and rev it to 1500-2000 RPM, then I put it in gear and I can get going. Now I can't get the car to stay running. Shuts off as soon as I start it.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-12
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E15BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while her son was driving 30 MPH, the electronic power steering warning light illuminated, after which the contact became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly. The driver was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway and after restarting, the vehicle, the vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The electronic power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the electronic power steering control module. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 153,000.
STEERING,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-26
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E1XBF
- Components: STEERING,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at approximately 60 MPH and turning the steering wheel to the left to enter the left lane, the steering wheel was difficult to operate. The contact used extra effort while turning the steering wheel to keep from crashing into the highway barrier. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact was able to exit the highway and stopped the vehicle. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and the power steering functionality returned. The contact stated that later in the day the failure reoccurred. The contact repeated the process and the vehicle regained power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred a third time however, after turning off and restarting the power steering functionality had not returned. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed and determined that the power steering torque angle sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the seat belt warning light was illuminating with the seat belt securely buckled. The contact stated that the seat belt warning light was illuminated with the seat belt buckled. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 89,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E16BF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2008 to 2012 Chevrolet Malibu's have a confirmed problem by mechanics about the fuel system regarding the electrical components going bad. The fuel pump relay will overheat the wiring behind it, and will shut the car off, regardless of if it is driving or not.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-16
- VIN: 1G1ZE5E18BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: There wasnt an incident, but the power steering went out in my car and its a problem that the manufacturer knows about so i believe it should be a recall. I had the mechanics at Firestone look at my car and they told me that it needs a lower steering column bracket and motor assembly along with the torque input sensor. The service light came on when the power steering went out the light on the dash says Service ESC Power Steering.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-22
- VIN: 1G1ZA5EU8BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: My power steering Stopped working 4 times in the middle of the road all the power steering lights came on the dash Yes it is available for inspection It is a huge safety problem because the steering wheel stiffen up all of a sudden and u cannot move the steering wheel while driving, i had to stop my car in the middle of the road to avoid collision. I know it had a recall few years back so i took it to Regal Chevrolet dealership in Lakeland but they dismissed me saying Chevrolet wont pay them for this . It happens all of a sudden out of nowhere and it never shows any symptoms prior.it first appeared few years back .
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-21
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E10BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering stops working while driving at highway speeds. Power steering light illuminates on the dashboard. When this happens, it is barely possible to steer car to the side of the road to prevent accident or injury. Other than brakes defects, this is the most serious safety concern there is.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-03
- VIN: 1G1ZE5E12BF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Car started having issues with electrical had to put in a new fuel pump then a new ecm. Then car malfunctioned again with electrical issues relating to the wiring harness. There is a recall for my exact model and year but supposedly my car is not affected. I find this rather strange.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-23
- VIN: 1G1ZE5E11BF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Passenger side low beam headlight bulb connector melted/burnt. Caused low beam to go out on occasion - hit a bump and it switches on/off
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-12-25
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E14BF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the steel cable used to anchor the front driver’s side lap seat belt had fractured. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V269000 (Seat Belts). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E12BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the steering wheel pulled to the left independently. The contact pulled to the side of the road and restarted the vehicle. The steering control warning light was illuminated after the vehicle was restarted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was due to a faulty electronic steering assist motor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 1G1ZC5EU4BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Torque sensor and my steering column and as I did research GM new that it was faulty
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-11
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E19BF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: I purchased this 2011 Cheverolet Malibu brand new. A few years prior to me giving it to my daughter, I had to get the headlights replaced several times, one would go out a month or so after I had the other one fixed. I gave it to her in 2019 and lately every other week one or even BOTH of the front headlights have gone out. Also, the third brake lamp randomly goes out and now one of the rear brake lamps has gone out. There’s already over 100 complaints about these issues with this particular model but GM has yet to do a recall! WHY?? It’s clearly an issue with the vehicle and the fact that the ENTIRE front bumper has to come off to get to it is the dumbest thing I’ve ever seen!!! Headlights, of all things, randomly going out on a vehicle is not safe at all! There are people out here who have children in these faulty vehicles and clearly neither GM nor the NHTSA cares. What is it going to take for someone to do something about this, deaths???
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-01
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E1XBF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Driverside Airbag light will come on with Service Airbag message. This does occasionally turn off but comes back for days or weeks at a time. Driver side seatbelt light will randomly come on and stay on or turn off. Both airbag and seatbelt light may be on at the same time. If they are all off or the airbag light turns off it's only for a day or two. Most of the time it will be the airbag light only that is on and tends to stay on longer than seatbelt light.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-01
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E16BF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: It started out as a minor intermittent problem, alerting that I need to service traction and service esc. When this problem occurs, the car hesitates to accelerate from stop. Problem has gotten to the point that the vehicle is trying to die when idling for more than a minute or so and is struggling to accelerate. From doing research, I have found that this problem is very common in this Make and Model, with years varying. This is an issue that needs to be addressed as many people have experienced this and filed complaints and are spending lots of money out of pocket to try to find the issue.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-01
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E19BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving, my vehicle will abruptly lose power steering and the wheel will lock up. I am unable to turn my steering wheel. I have to stop my vehicle and turn off the ignition in order to the power steering to work properly. This only last for a few minutes and then it will happen again. This is dangerous and I have had to pull over on the highway to stop and start my vehicle. This first happened in March 2023. Also, my vehicles shows a SVC notification on the dashboard. And the tire pressure sensor is always on even with inflated tires. Lastly, my auto start does not work.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-18
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E15BF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering keeps failing. Steering wheel shakes. Power steering light with the ESC Service light come on. If I turn the vehicle off and back on again, Sometimes the power steering will work again.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-12-01
- VIN: 1G1ZA5EU0BF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
- Summary: The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The vehicle was previously serviced under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control). The contact stated that on various occasions while driving at various speeds, the traction control and power steering disengaged independently as the "Reduced Engine Power" warning message was displayed and the vehicle decelerated to 10 MPH. The contact also stated that the brake lights flickered intermittently without depressing the brake pedal. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the intake camshaft actuator, mass air flow, and manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensors needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 168,000.
2011 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, the air bag inflator may explode due to being overpressurized.
- Consequence: If the inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments may strike the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-522-9559. GM's number for this recall is N182206630.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured April 8, 2010, to October 11, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the flexible steel cables that connect the seat belts to the vehicle at the outside of the driver seat and the front passenger seat may be bent from being sat on while entering the vehicle. This repeated bending may result in the cable breaking.
- Consequence: If the cable breaks, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the outboard lap anchor mounting bracket and inspect the flexible steel cable, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 16, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15031.
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.
- Consequence: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.
- Consequence: Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.
Negative 2011 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Positive 2011 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
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You're going to love this car! It's incredibly comfortable and handles like a dream. With decent power and excellent fuel economy, you'll be able to go further for less. I've put about 6000 miles on the odometer and have been getting up to 37 mpg (at 5 mph over freeway speeds) using a light throttle and cruise control. Plus, it's been great in ice and snow here in the Northeast.
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I absolutely love driving this car! I've owned a Malibu before and even tried out an HHR, but it just wasn't as nice. So, I decided to go back to a Malibu this year and I couldn't resist the amazing deal I got with the rebate, credit union discount, and previous owner discount. It did take a little while (about 2,000 miles) to get the good gas mileage, but now on the highway in cruise, I get an impressive 35mpg with the 4 banger. The car has plenty of power and rides smoothly. Plus, it looks so luxurious with the mocha exterior and cocoa/cashmere interior. I'm just thrilled with it and I hope it continues to run smoothly. Overall, I would say it's a delightful car!
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You have a solid vehicle that has not required any major repairs in the 7 years of ownership. Although the mileage isn't a plus, it still offers excellent overall value.
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I find this to be a very comfortable and quiet car. It handles very well and I think it also looks very good. It also has very good mpg. I drive around 70 miles every day and this car makes the drive very pleasant. As a whole, I am very happy with this car and will certainly recommend it.
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I can't say enough good things about this car! It runs super quiet, has great pick up and passing power, rides smooth, gets great gas mileage (27/mpg combined for me with 50/50 city/highway), looks sharp and has an awesome audio system. I'm thinking of buying another one right away for one of my teenagers. It's been a while since we've owned a domestic car but the 2011 Malibu has changed our minds - we're a Chevy family now!!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2011 Chevrolet Malibu problems:
Problems with an 2011 Malibu i just bought | Chevrolet Malibu Forums
Aug 17, 2015 ... I just bought a 2011 Chevy Malibu LTZ a couple of weeks ago, and I believe I am already experiencing problems. The car only had one owner ...
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 19 Issues
Top 2011 Chevrolet Malibu Problems · Problems With Electric Power Steering System May Require Steering Column Replacement · No Start Due to Failed Passlock ...
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Oct 31, 2021 ... The car has been reliable as far as consistent running, but has begun to break in other areas. The suspension, control arms, and wheel hubs all ...
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability - Consumer Reports
Owner Reported Trouble Spots · Brakes · Steering And Suspension · Exhaust · Transmission Major · In-car Electronics · Noises And Leaks · Fuel System/Emissions.
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
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Are you having problems with your 2011 Chevrolet Malibu?
Andres Pollich 2024-10-29
The car has less than 29,000 miles on it. The front rotors have been resurfaced once and replaced twice, while the front brakes have been replaced once. The back rotors and brakes have also been replaced once each. I have filed a complaint with GM regarding the advertised mileage not being accurate. Additionally, I have experienced issues with the transmission, but have been told there is no problem with it. If anyone has had similar brake and rotor issues or has been successful in getting GM to buy back their car, please share your experience. Thank you!
Giovani Fritsch 2024-10-27
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my car. I purchased it new and have only driven 12,000 miles. Unfortunately, I've noticed a shake between 15 and 20 miles per hour since the first 500 miles. I've brought this to the attention of the maintenance team at Ray Dennison, but haven't had any luck resolving the issue. Additionally, I've noticed a rumble when accelerating. Overall, I'm quite disappointed with my experience and don't think I'll be purchasing another Chevy due to the poor gas mileage. Thank you for listening!
Blake Torphy 2024-10-24
Although the car may not have the highest quality materials, it still manages to provide a comfortable and quiet ride that is easy to handle in any weather.
Halle Medhurst 2024-08-06
If you're considering buying from used dealers, be aware that they may charge more than the car is worth. This particular car model has been known to have motor troubles even with proper maintenance, especially around 70000 miles. If you do decide to buy it, it's best to pay for it outright instead of financing it. Additionally, it's recommended to have at least $5000 saved up for any potential car emergencies. When purchasing, make sure to get a good warranty, but avoid C.A.R.S PLUS PROTECTION as they don't provide much coverage. Keep in mind that this car may cause financial stress due to its brake system and sensor issues. If you have children, it may be best to look for a different car.
Orville Hauck 2024-08-02
I purchased this car with 98,000 miles on it and had to replace the front struts and sway bar links. Later, at around 105,000 miles, I replaced the power steering and fixed an exhaust leak. The timing chain and guides were replaced at 110,000 miles. Unfortunately, the transmission began having issues going into overdrive too soon around the same time. At 116,000 miles, while driving, the car suddenly started missing and the check engine light came on. Upon inspection, major internal engine damage was found, and a new engine was required. Despite the expenses, I made the decision to purchase a new car. While I will not be purchasing another Malibu, I remain open to other GM models.