2012 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 2012 Chevrolet Malibu problems
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has an average number of complaints from owners compared to other midsize cars on the market. However, there are several common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common and severe problems is a timing chain tensioner failure. The timing chain guide is made of plastic and is a weak spot in the engine. Replacing the timing chain assembly costs $2,000 to $3,000 depending on local labor rates and the number of damaged components.
Fuel delivery problems are also mentioned. The fuel pump, and connectors fail regularly around 60,000 miles. Replacing the entire pump assembly costs around $1,300.
Steering problems, including a complete loss of power steering, are another frequent problem. The electronic steering motor fails around 100,000 miles, and a power steering failure message shows up on the driver information screen. Replacing the assembly is the only solution, costing about $1,000.
There are 3 recalls, better than other cars from 2012. Recalls include the brake lights, steering shaft u-joint, and seat belt anchors. Most serious is the u-joint failure since a separation increases the risk of an accident.
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is average-priced compared to other midsize cars from the same year with a price range of $7,732 to $12,374, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $22,110 to $30,200. Depreciation is average, losing about 40% of the original value in the first 5 years of ownership.
In addition to these problems, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of. These issues include transmission problems, electrical issues, and interior accessory faults. However, these issues are relatively uncommon and can be easily resolved with proper maintenance and care.
Overall, the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable car, but like any car, it requires regular maintenance to ensure its reliability and longevity. Regular maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections are essential to maintaining the car’s reliability. According to RepairPal, the annual maintenance cost for a Chevrolet Malibu is around $545, which is relatively low compared to other cars in its class.
What problems did the 2012 Chevy Malibu have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Engine Minor. ...
- Engine Cooling. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- In-car Electronics. ...
- Brakes.
Is Chevy Malibu 2012 a good car?
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Malibu its highest rating of "Good" in its frontal-offset and side-impact testing. In Edmunds brake testing, a V6 Malibu impressed us by stopping from 60 mph in a short, fade-free 122 feet.
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.
How many miles will a 2012 Malibu last?
Owners of the 2012 Chevy Malibu have been able to get their vehicles up to 250,000 miles. The average life span will be in the 160,000 to 200,000 range. These vehicles are pretty reliable. In order to get Your vehicle in to the 200k range You will need to make sure to take it in for regular maintenance.
What problems did the 2012 Chevy Malibu have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Noises And Leaks. ...
- Engine Minor. ...
- Engine Cooling. ...
- Exhaust. ...
- In-car Electronics. ...
- Brakes.
Is Chevy Malibu 2012 a good car?
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Malibu its highest rating of "Good" in its frontal-offset and side-impact testing. In Edmunds brake testing, a V6 Malibu impressed us by stopping from 60 mph in a short, fade-free 122 feet.
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.
What is a 2012 Malibu worth?
Used 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| LS Sedan 4D | $22,755 | $5,770 |
| LT Sedan 4D | $24,345 | $6,731 |
| LTZ Sedan 4D | $29,245 | $7,269 |
2012 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
- Exterior lighting problems
- Steering problems
- Electronic stability control (esc) problems
- Engine problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2012 Chevrolet Malibu
The NHTSA has received 878 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-18
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-08
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E05CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The front exterior low beam bulbs / wiring harness keeps burning out. I have replaced them twice already and they have blown again. What is going on already a headache just to even get to the headlights, now have to spend MORE money to repair.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-09
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E03CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The headlights keep.going out. I've replaced everything amd it keeps happening and it's not easy to even get to the headlight. This is a hazard as my 16 year old drives this car. We fix it and then it's out all.over again. This has to be a recall as I've done some research and im.not the only one with this problem. We've been pulled over and we just explained our frustration and they've been nice enough to send us on our way.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-13
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E06CF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: For 4 years the car intermittently would turn on all warning lights, shake, become hard to steer and steer in unintended directions. We paid $1500 for the dealer to fix it and we still had the problem. Today, the car will drive less then a mile and die. When we start the car all warning lights come on, the vehicle vibrates and struggles to keep speed of 5 mph or so then will die.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-12
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E0XCF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Electrical problem causing the passenger side low beam to keep burning out. Fourth time in one year. Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This issue causes a safety concern because you can be driving down the highway at night and all of a sudden you have no headlight.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-30
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E0XCF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: As I was driving my vehicle last Sunday the "Power Steering and the Service ESC" warnings came on my dashboard as well as the "Traction Control light" I audible sound came on and I lost power steering. When I went to drive my car to my service station everything worked fine for a few blocks the problem came back. I drove it to my local service mechanic and his scan tool gave an error code of CO545. I did some research on this issue and found that GM put out a Special Coverage #15356 for the power steering sensor. This coverage expired in 2021 however my vehicle did not have this problem until last week. My car only has 60,000 miles on it. Yesterday I took my vehicle to the GM dealer that I purchased my vehicle from and the said I have to pay $200.00 for them to diagnose the problem (which I understand) but the service writer told me that GM will probably not replace the parts needed because their "Special Coverage" expired in 2021. I am asking if the government can force GM to recall. I thank God that my wife nor my daughter was not driving the vehicle when this happened or they may have been hurt or worse fighting the steering wheel to keep the car going straight until I could stop it saftly.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-10
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E09CF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: Driving down the freeway and suddenly I get reduce engine power. I had to wait on the freeway until the car started up again
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-24
- VIN: 1G1ZD5EUXCF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Passenger low beam keeps going out within a couple days charged wire harness and bulbs keeps happening.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-26
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E02CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: ESC went out on vehicle on the interstate
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-11
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E01CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: 1. While driving I will lose all steering capability and get a ESC Off 2. Physically difficult to turn the wheel when going around turns and this happens we would be unable to control the vehicle 3. The problem has produced itself by the dealership and there is a Bulletin that provided coverage incase this happens but did not happen until after coverage expired and should have been a recall. 4. No has not been inspected by anyone else 5. Lights that came on were traction control and a notification stating ESC is turned off on the dashboard Marquee.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E00CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Vehicle will intermittently not start, have to tap on trunk fuse box to get the Malibu to start, the wire is too small and burns up, can’t find anyone to replace it, is a big issue with this generation of Malibu. Vehicle has shut off while on highways and stoplights on MULTIPLE occasions
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-16
- VIN: 1G1ZA5E01CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: After reaching 120,000+ miles on this vehicle I have been receiving the following warnings on the driver information screen in this order: POWER STEERING SERVICE ESC ESC OFF As a result of these warnings the steering wheel becomes stiff and very hard to turn either left or right at low speeds.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-01
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E04CF
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I purchased the vehicle in 2021 . It was running fine at first but recently . been having alot of issues with the vehicle. When parking the vehicle and you put it in park it moves forward . also been having alot of tire blow outs one after another for the past 8 months . also sometimes it drives proper and at times it starts swerving . the ride gets bumpy. I already replaced the arm controls also aligned the car . i believe there mechanically defaulted. Also having issues with the exhaust . fuel sensor also was replaced . Codes P0411 keep popping up. Literally I have put more money then I paid for the car. financially has drained me. When called the manufacturer about recalls they said those recalls were expired . The car has become somewhat dangerous. Also I believe When purchased the vehicle the emissions says 2013 on the bill of sale says 2012 . I just recently found the documents . Is there any way to find out right information for the vehicle . thank you my name is [XXX] phone number is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-23
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E00CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: My brake lights constantly go out. My fuses keep blowing. Every time I try to adjust my mirrors the fuses blow for the mirrors and brake lights. Also my headlights keep blowing and the headlight harness has been changed and everything. It is very dangerous not having brake lights, or being able to adjust my mirrors.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-13
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E06CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving the car, the power steering system will randomly stop working. While driving in a parking lot the power steering stops working , the car becomes hard to steer. ESC (or ECS?) disabled light comes on and the power steering light comes on on the msg center. This leads to possible loss of control of the car leading to possible collisions.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-01
- VIN: 1G1ZD5EU0CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: While driving i made a left turn and the vehicles steering wheel became stiff... hard to turn, while on coming traffic was headed my way. Almost got in an accident. Had to force to steering wheel to pull over to the side.They were a bunch of messages that said power steering ESC.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E0XCF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I Was driving and my power steering went out. I got it home turned it on and the power steering came back but the wheel keeps twitching. Tried to start it again and the power steering was out again.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- VIN: 1G1ZC5EU5CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The wiring to the fuel pump overheated and burned at the rear fuse box located in the trunk, melting the harness connector and charring the fuse box circuit board. This caused the vehicle to stop running. Luckily, it happened while idling and did not start a fire. This wire goes to the fuel tank and the fuse did not blow. The 30A fuse for the RR DEFOG was also burnt and not blown.There were no warnings or engine codes. After researching this online, it appears it is a common problem. This is the second time this happened. It also happened in 2017 with approximately 89,200 miles.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-24
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E02CF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Air bag disabled light came on got the code checked the connector for the air bag on the drivers side either came disconnected or is defective and it disabled all my air bags.
STEERING,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-21
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E05CF
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: POWER STEERING light shows on indicator panel sometimes without any problems steering. Sometimes it appears along with SERVICE ESC and some times power steering is lost. Turning the car off and back on usually resets the problem. It is extremley difficult to steer the car when this happens. It began intermittently about 3 years ago when a local mechanic looked at it but he couldn't find anything wrong. It's failing much more frequently (every other trip) now. It has about 62000 miles on it. So far, no accidents but a few close calls. Another problem is that the SERVICE AIR BAG indicator comes on when someone sits in the passenger seat and the car is started. It can be reset but it's an scary situation. I don't think this is related to the steering problem but not sure.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E05CF
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while using the driver's side seat belt, the attachment on the seat belt fractured. The seat belt became inoperable. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-20
- VIN: 1G1ZD5E02CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The brakes light keep going out they won’t blink the won’t turn on fuses are blowing
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-09
- VIN: 1G1ZC5E00CF
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Attempting to pull out of my parking lot, I was suddenly unable to steer my car. Immediately warning lights went on in the dashboard the car would not move. Luckily, I was not in the middle of the street or driving down the highway as I would have lost control of the vehicle. I had the car towed to Meineke and they reported that the power steering assist motor had failed. Prior to the incident, no warning signs had come on in my car.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-26
- VIN: 1G1ZB5E06CF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Since day one the ESC - Electronic Stability Control has constantly affected the performance of the car. The car is not able to reach its full power and causes sudden speed changes . This has happened for a long time with no fix
2012 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu.
- 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 2012 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Positive 2012 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
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Hey there! I wanted to share my experience with the new car my workplace provided me. They replaced my old 2009 Impala with a 2012 Malibu. The Malibu has a more modern exterior design, which I really like. However, I did notice that the ride is a bit stiffer compared to the Impala. The steering is also very light, which reminds me of my grandparents' Buick from the 80s. On the bright side, the build quality seems to be really good, with a solid 'Ka-thunk' sound when the doors close. The interior graphics for the trip computer and clock could use an update, but I do appreciate the power adjustment for lumbar support. In terms of fuel efficiency, I've been getting around 22.5 MPG with E85 in the 1500 miles of mostly highway driving I've done so far. Let me know if you have any questions!
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I bought my Malibu used, but it still rides like a brand new car. I absolutely love the smooth ride it provides, along with its great look. I opted for the top-of-the-line model with chrome 16-inch wheels, chrome door handles, low-profile tires, and leather/suede interior with power everything. I especially love how it sits low to the ground, giving you a sports car feel with the comfort of a luxury car. It also has great gas mileage and handles well in the snow. This is actually my fourth Chevy, and it's definitely my all-time favorite!
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This car is known for its reliability and has had no major maintenance issues. I've owned mine for just over 4 months and so far, it's been great. While I have had a few minor issues, such as limited overhead room for someone over 6', and the steering wheel being a little too close to my knees, these are minor comfort issues in the grand scheme of things. The turn signal can be a bit annoying, but overall it's a quiet ride with natural acceleration and smooth braking. I'm very satisfied with my driving experience, whether it's a short or long distance. The only major issue I had was replacing the headlight, which can be a bit difficult and costly to have a mechanic do. However, I'm still very happy with my car overall.
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I introduced my wife to the 2011 Malibu (Summit white) LT1 model when it was new, and she loved it so much that she bought it. In May 2013, I decided to buy my own 2012 (former lease) with 14,000 miles for a great price. It's the same color, but it's an LT2 model and loaded with heated seats. We often joke about it, saying that it feels like we're driving an expensive car that we only paid $17,000 for each. We know that there are cars out there that cost $50k+ and are all about name brand and status symbols, but we can't afford those. In our own way, this Malibu is our Mercedes or Audi. We feel grateful to own two cars with the same color and park them in our driveway at our cozy home. We know that there are less fortunate people out there who only wish they could own a Malibu like ours. We are very happy and proud to have them.
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I bought my car new. Before I purchased it from the dealer, it was driven by a salesman to Florida. The only major issue I have had is that the tires lose air frequently, even after getting new ones multiple times over the years. Despite this, I am very happy with my Malibu. It's been with me since 2012 and now, in 2023, it has 218,000 miles on it!
Additional sources
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Are you having problems with your 2012 Chevrolet Malibu?
Coy Hettinger 2024-11-22
I bought my 2012 Malibu brand new with only 400 miles on it. I have diligently changed the oil every 3000 miles and have only put 80,080 miles on the car since then, and it’s now 2019. Unfortunately, the other day it suddenly stopped running, and upon inspection, it was discovered that a cam sensor had failed along with the timing chain. Despite my meticulous maintenance, there was no indication that this was happening until it was too late. Regrettably, there is now metal in my oil, and the car is essentially beyond repair. I had hoped to get at least 150,000 miles out of this car without any major issues, especially given my careful upkeep. However, I am confident that I did everything in my power to maintain the car and that this was simply an unforeseeable mechanical failure.
Aric Labadie 2024-11-21
Although I have had some issues with this vehicle, I am confident that it can be a reliable car with proper maintenance. I purchased this Chevrolet Malibu in January 2018 and it will be paid off in January 2023. I have driven it for short distances, about 15 miles per day. I have had to replace the engine once, but with regular maintenance, I am confident that it will continue to run smoothly. I recommend that potential buyers do their research and consider all options before making a purchase.
Hunter Osinski 2024-10-27
I bought the car used a year ago and it was running great. I have been diligent in keeping up with oil changes and maintenance. However, recently the heat and air stopped working. My husband attempted to fix it, but it turned out to be an issue with the car's wiring. As a result, some of the panel features are also not functioning properly. I have had some trouble with this car, which is unfortunate. While I cannot recommend this particular Malibu, I encourage you to do your research and find a car that meets your needs.
Jess Jaskolski 2024-10-04
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my 2012 Malibu LT1 4cyl. I purchased it brand new to replace my 1998 Malibu base 6cyl, and I have to say, I'm really happy with my decision. I have a 66 mile one-way trip to work, which includes 50 miles of open interstate driving and a bit of stop-and-go traffic through town. I opted for the 4cyl because it was more affordable at 19K, compared to the 6cyl which started at 30k. I convinced myself that the 34mpg would make me feel better, and I'm happy to report that I'm averaging 28mpg, which is even better than my previous 6cyl's average of 26mpg. The only issue I've had so far was when the map sensor failed and needed to be replaced, but it wasn't a warranted part. Overall, I'm really pleased with my purchase and would definitely recommend the 2012 Malibu LT1 4cyl to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient car.
Alessandro Kemmer 2024-08-07
This car is stylish and comfortable to drive, but unfortunately I've experienced some issues with starting it. While Chevy claims they are not aware of any problems, I have my doubts. The car has left me stranded three times in the past two weeks, turning over but not firing. I ruled out the fuel pump, fuse, and relay, so it must be something else. I ended up trading the car in to a different dealer than where I bought it. Interestingly, when I took my new car in for routine maintenance, I was informed that the Malibu had been sold but then bought back because no one could figure out the intermittent starting issue. The dealer ultimately decided to sell it for parts or junk due to its age and mileage. On a positive note, the car's trunk was quite spacious, although the opening was a bit small for larger items.