2015 Chevrolet Malibu 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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Common 2015 Chevrolet Malibu problems
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have several common problems, including issues with the electronic power steering system and the passlock sensor.
One of the most common problems with the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu is an issue with the electronic power steering system. If the power steering motor fails, it may require the replacement of the entire steering column. This issue has been reported by many owners of the 2015 Malibu, and it can be a significant inconvenience and expense.
Another common problem with the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu is related to the passlock sensor on the vehicle. The passlock sensor has been known to fail, causing the immobilizer to turn on and preventing the car from starting. When this happens, a new ignition lock is required to solve the problem.
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu also has a recall related to the key being removed while the vehicle is in park. This can result in the car rolling away, and Chevrolet will replace the key cylinder for free on all affected vehicles.
In addition to these specific problems, the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu has also been reported to have issues with the exhaust, electrical accessories, noises and leaks, in-car electronics, engine cooling, steering and suspension, brakes, and fuel system. These issues can range from relatively minor problems, such as battery replacements, to more significant issues, such as airbag deployment problems.
Overall, while the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu has received positive reviews for its technology, safety, and reliability, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these common problems and to consider them when making a purchasing decision. Proper maintenance and care can help to prevent many of these issues from occurring, but it is still important to be aware of the potential risks.
What are common problems with 2015 Chevy Malibu?
Top 2015 Chevrolet Malibu Problems
- Problems With Electric Power Steering System May Require Steering Column Replacement. ...
- No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor. ...
- Ignition Key Stuck Due to Failed Shifter. ...
- Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue. ...
- Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil.
Is a 2015 Chevy Malibu a good car?
The Chevy Malibu was a top safety pick ” and received the highest government safety rating 5 stars. It features a high strength steel safety cage six airbags and OnStar Crash response. You get an EPA-estimated 36 MPG on the highway with the refined and efficient 2.5L 4-cylinder engine.
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 long does a 2015 Chevy Malibu engine last?
The 100-150k number is assuming regular wear and tear and regular driving habits. The main thing you need to think about is the transmission. Malibu drivers have hit 200k, 300k miles with the same engine and transmission with careful driving. The car will experience wear and tear, no matter what.
2015 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:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2015 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
The NHTSA has received 249 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2015 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-20
- VIN: 1G11C5SL6FF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: As your driving the REDUCED ENGINE POWER pops up and dropped your speed down to 25-20 mph no matter how fast you're going no way to reset it unless you have a scan tool but then it comes back on scan tool says PEDAL ACCELERATOR POSITION SENSOR IS THE ISSUE put new one on and a day later same thing same answer now im putting second PEDAL ACCELERATOR POSITION SENSOR on
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-01
- VIN: 1G11B5SL1FF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 75 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted into first gear causing the vehicle to abruptly decelerate. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was 141,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-15
- VIN: 1G11B5SLXFF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while the key was in the ignition switch in the off position, the vehicle attempted to start independently. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-24
- VIN: 1G11D5SL1FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Wheel hubs causes car to think that it’s going faster(200mph) causing car to drop speed, locks steering wheel making it impossible to turn away from traffic and drive it’s an accident waiting to happen not sure why there isn’t a recall. Also batteries causes the battery system warning to be a major problem even if alternator is good. I’m not sure if the two batteries is a good idea. The stop/start feature can cause radio issues it’s like cutting the car off and turn it back on when brake is released radio comes back on.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-14
- VIN: 1G11D5SL8FF
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: My 2015 Chevrolet Malibu doesn’t have a key hole to lock it manually so I can’t close my trunk of my car. The latch assembly isn’t working properly so when I push the button it doesn’t lock. So I’m complaining about not having a key to lock the trunk of my vehicle.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-29
- VIN: 1G11B5SL8FF
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Headlight lowbeams going bad every 4 or so months. Always divers side first. My electrical auto guy said he couldn't locate a problem with the bulb being burnt out.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-27
- VIN: 1G11F5SL1FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: have a 2015 Chevy Malibu that is randomly trying to start itself. The key fob is the original when I bought it. It has the auto start on the fob but is the kind that requires the key in the ignition to drive.car completely off (not in aux) but the key is in ignition, could be for 2 minutes or hours, and randomly it will try and start, but not fully turn the engine and actually start, just that little half second of a start and then go right back off. Today it did it 3 times in a row. Obviously I won’t be leaving my key in the ignition any longer as it does seem to require that,
VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-11
- VIN: 1G11B5SL1FF
- Components: VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: No airflow or heat from the windshield defroster. Happened on a cold morning and the windshield fogged up and blocked vision of the road.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- VIN: 1G11F5SL0FF
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: When turning off engine, multiple times had "Shift to Park" warnings and car does not shut down. Sometimes goes away after 10 - 20 seconds. Other times must restart car, place transmission back into park, open drivers' door and then turn off. Told by dealer that it is a known problem for multiple model years and vehicle models with multiple technical bulletins issued but no recall. Please review and require a recall if appropriate.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-13
- VIN: 1G11C5SL1FF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: When driving at highway speeds the car will show “Engine reduced power” and will either drop to 20-40 mph or shut off completely. Engine codes show as cam shaft sensor, crankshaft sensor and fuel pressure regulator. I had the cam shag and crank shaft sensors replaced and it stopped for a few months. It started doing it again this week and today it did it then shut off completely and won’t restart
AIR BAGS,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-21
- VIN: 1G11D5SL0FF
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEATS
- Summary: Air bag light is on dashboard and my driver seat won’t recline back up to a normal driving position. Brought it to the mechanic to have it checked and was told I am in need of a new driver seat do to a faulty airbag. The car is not even 10 years old yet and I can’t use the seat properly to drive safely.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-09
- VIN: 1G11C5SL9FF
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Code P2646 (among others) came up. This impacts driveability, safety and mileage performance. Problem was diagnosed by 2 separate mechanics, including Chevrolet dealer. First mechanic replaced recommended part twice but issue persists. No warning prior to the issue appearing. GM issued a Special Coverage Adjustment for the Chevrolet Malibu 2014 model (N192289160), but not the 2015 even though original bulletin (PIP5527K) says the issue applies to both 2014 and 2015 models.
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-06-08
- VIN: 1G11D5SLXFF
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The vacuum boost pump failed suddenly leaving the vehicle with no brakes and potentially causing catastrophic engine damage.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-11
- VIN: 1G11B5SL6FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and stalled without warning. The contact veered to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the front and rear batteries, and the alternator were replaced; however, the failure reoccurred within a month. The dealer was notified of the failure and an appointment was scheduled for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that a recall had not been issued for the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 98,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- VIN: 1G11B5SL5FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: There is an electrical issue with the vehicle, causing bad computer readings related to the O2 sensor, VVT valve/rocker arm solenoid. It causes shaking and bad acceleration. These parts were already replaced and within days of the “repair”, I am still having issues. If driving and I start to accelerate, it gets shaky and almost stalls the vehicle completely. If that were to happen while driving in the middle of the road then that could easily cause a wreck.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-24
- VIN: 1G11B5SL5FF
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Took my 2015 Chevy Malibu LS to a Hendrick dealership to be checked. It came back body elect concern and that the module needed to be replaced. I sent a email some months back and never got a response. I have two boys that ride in this car with me and since this air bag light has come on I don’t drive my car as much. Attached is the estimate given to fix that specific problem. My name is [XXX] and I can be reached at [XXX] Thank You. INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-18
- VIN: 1G11C5SL2FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle was designed with the Auto START/STOP feature. The contact stated while at a complete stop, the vehicle turned off, causing the electrical features to cease and the instrument panel lights to turn off. The dealer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The contact related the failure to TSB Number: 10-00-89-005. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 67,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-01
- VIN: 1G11C5SL9FF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When it rains the driver side fills up inside with water causing a puddle behind the driver in the rear of the car. This causes mold inside the car and also creates condensation while driving. I googled it and many blogs have been discussing the problem. I brought it to 2 different shops and the air vents were blown out to no avail. I also called the dealer and they were not aware of any problems. I have allergies and this makes my car trigger attacks.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-01
- VIN: 1G11C5SL3FF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: When I come to a stop my auto stop engages and when i accelerate to continue driving my car won’t turn back on and stays dead for up to 20 minutes. I have almost been rear ended numerous times. It does this every single time. So now when I’m coming to a stop I put it in neutral before being at a complete stop.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-29
- VIN: 1G11C5SL2FF
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: My car keeps cutting out while I'm driving I've taken it to the Chevy dealership and they did a diagnostic test and it comes up with air intake system cat is running to lean
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-02
- VIN: 1G11C5SL4FU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: On multiple occasions since July of 2022 my vehicle has had a reduced engine power warning and caused dangerous situation where the speed limit was 70 and I couldn’t go over 25 and I was miles from an exit. Took it in had throttle body replaced, and it happened again. Took it in again replaced the gas pedal position sensor. Happened again replaced the throttle body again and this time we broke down in Nashville on our way to Florida. Then 10 miles away from Nashville same issue. I took it to the nearest dealer and here I wait, thousands of dollars into it and not knowing how to proceed.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1G11F5SL0FF
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: At 2:30AM car was sitting in driveway and the engine caught on fire burning the engine, front left tire etc.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-11-09
- VIN: 1G11F5SL9FF
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I bought my 2015 Chevy Malibu in 2016 at 36k miles. No wrecks, 1 owner before myself. No warning lights on when driving from the lot and the car was just what I wanted… tho always a little doubtful because it was pre owned 1) there was always this random, unusual, indescribable smell from the vents where I couldn’t breathe but no one else could smell or experience it. I just kept getting sick. 2) I thought “MY” first 30k miles or so was rolling too fast and 3-5 months in, the ENGINE light popped on. Immediately took it to Chevy who said my engine light was on due to an “airbag” but wouldn’t tell me which unless I paid 70$. 3) Still, driving was not affected so I kept taking it to the Chevy dealer every 3-6 months for the proper maintenance. About 2 years in I go for an oil change at CHEVY: one guy pours RADIATOR fluid in my OIL compartment during the oil change. Just before he realizes it’s the wrong thing and looks to see if I saw, I alert the manager who immediately drains the oil and says it won’t be affected.. and assures me everything is fine. ??? 4) 4 years ownership, the service stability track message started appearing and the ENGINE POWER REDUCED SPEED LIMITED TO 25 MPH starts popping up on the screen and simultaneously the car DANGEROUSLY goes from highway speed to 25mph. ONLY Jesus mercy! That’s a death trap in itself. Still no recalls and no help. Temp fix (get to safety, turn off vehicle, wait 30 sec-1 min and restart) 5) At 150k miles, I returned to get transmission flush.change.check whatever the best procedure was. Chevy says, I wouldn’t because it doesn’t have to be serviced on these vehicle. yet they send me coupons for trans services. 6)JUST put on new tires, oil, oil cabin, and engine filters changed. Car riding smoothly then 4 days later I start it and up pops a message about SERVICE POWER STEERING: drive with care! No Gearshift lights. And it’s an EPS system! Something is WRONG with these cars. 7) Paint defects along pass. side
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-01
- VIN: 1G11F5SL4FF
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 2015 malibu which is equipped with auto stop will shudder and die anytime you stop. Car has been taken to multiple shops to try and get it fixed but nothing done has fixed the problem. Car has become a danger to drive. Both batteries have been replaced but did not help.
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-07
- VIN: 1G11C5SL6FF
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that after entering the vehicle a broken white plastic gear part was found on the front driver’s side floorboard. The contact later discovered the air condition selector switch was inoperable and the defroster could not be used to defrost the windows. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the air conditioner mode switch actuator had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 132,000.
2015 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
- Consequence: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on October 14, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Buick 1-800-521-7300, and GMC 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 50490 and 50491.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Camaro, Equinox, Malibu, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The affected vehicles have front seat-mounted side impact air bags whose inflator may rupture upon its deployment.
- Consequence: In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of one or both of the side impact air bags, the air bag's inflator may rupture and the air bag may not properly inflate. The rupture could cause metal fragments to strike the vehicle occupants, potentially resulting in serious injury or death. Additionally, if the air bag does not properly inflate, the driver or passenger is at an increased risk of injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side impact air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on October 19, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 01320.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles October 24, 2011, to March 5, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the Slide or Tilt switch for the roof panel may not be adequately recessed to prevent the switch from inadvertently being pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 118, "Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems."
- Consequence: The Slide or Tilt roof panel switch may inadvertently be pressed and the roof panel may auto-close unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a pinch injury.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the Body Control Module (BCM) software to remove auto-close feature for certain switch positions, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15176.
Negative 2015 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Positive 2015 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
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I've owned a number of cars, including premium brands like Mercedes Benz, Jaguar, Cadillac Buick, and others. This car, however, has really impressed me with its value. It's built solidly with quality materials, and it rides, handles, and accelerates well. It's also comfortable on long drives and gets incredible fuel economy for its size and weight. The only downsides are the limited room in the rear passenger area and the blind spots in the rear. Recently, I drove the car from California to Alabama, averaging 80 mph and getting better than 36 mpg. Maintenance costs are fantastic, with regular maintenance costing only about $40 per visit, compared to over $400 per visit for my wife's Mercedes C Class. I won't even go into the maintenance costs I experienced as a Jaguar owner. Overall, this car compares quite favorably to similar offerings by Japan or Europe. I've put over 40,000 miles on it in one year and have had no significant problems at all. While it's not a sports car, it drives quite well and is very much like any other similar car like the Honda Accord or Nissan Altima. In my opinion, the car is a bit overpriced, but I was able to make up for that with GM's military discount, which brought the price into reasonable territory. Furthermore, I doubt that the car will hold its resale value the way Honda or Nissan does simply because it is a domestic offering. All in all, this car does what GM says it can do. It's a great value and a great car.
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If you enjoy looking out the front window while driving, then this car is perfect for you! However, if you prefer to look out the back window, this may not be the best option. In my experience, the 2.5L engine provides ample power. While the 2.0 Turbo offers an additional 40 h.p., it sacrifices fuel efficiency and may require costly repairs in the future due to its turbo engine.
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I recently had to rent a car while my 07 Camry V6 XLE was in for collision repairs. I must say, I was never fully satisfied with my Camry's ride. It was far too taught and the ride reminded me of a go-kart. However, as soon as I sat in the Malibu's driver seat, I was instantly comfortable. Of course, it's a 2015 and it's not a sport edition, so it may be disingenuous to compare the ride comfort of the Camry vs the Malibu, but even the later 90's Camry had a better ride than the 2007 Camry. One thing my V6 Camry is good at, however, is acceleration. It's a loud V6 at idle, but it moves swiftly. The base engine Malibu, on the other hand, is a bit slow on acceleration, and when it does respond, it is anemic and I almost feel like I may be injuring the thing when I step on the gas. But the ride is awesome. It's comfortable without feeling too plush, and not claustrophobic like some other newer model cars. The materials are much better than my Camry or any Chevy I had been in recently. Overall, if it holds reliable, this would be a solid choice if the base engine was quicker. If you can afford a step-up in engine level (turbo or a v6), it may just be perfect.
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Firstly, I would like to express that the negative reviews appear to be from individuals who have either rented the car (and therefore have limited experience with it), purchased it second-hand, or are uncomfortable with the Eco 4cyl engine. Personally, I purchased my 2015 Malibu LS brand new after trading in my 2006 Malibu LT. I absolutely adore the start/stop engine feature, which automatically turns off the engine after braking for extended periods of time, and then restarts it once you release the brake. This feature is present in quite a few cars, and you hardly notice it, but it saves a significant amount of MPG's, especially in traffic! As an added bonus, you still take off just as fast, if not faster, than you would have if the engine had remained running. The trunk can be opened via key fob or a small button on the middle tail light when the doors are unlocked. The Malibu is a huge step up from my previous car, with more space in the front and back, and a slightly larger trunk. If you're a fan of Chevy, looking for a midsize sedan with some
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I'm so glad to hear that you bought your wife a 2015 Malibu Gem! It sounds like a great car - quick and decent on gas. I personally prefer the 2013-2015 2.5 litre Malibu as well, and I'm not a huge fan of the 2006-up. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2015 Chevrolet Malibu problems:
2015 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 2015 Chevrolet Malibu? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2015 Chevrolet Malibu.
Chevrolet malibu 2015 issues - Maintenance/Repairs - Car Talk ...
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Jul 18, 2023 ... Gen 8 Problems/Service Issues/Troubleshooting ... I have a 2015 Chevy Malibu LT having issues with check engine ... common in 2014 and 2015 2.5s.
Theo Torphy 2025-02-17
I've had my Malibu for a little over a year and I absolutely love it! From the moment the salesman pulled it up for me to test drive it, I knew it was the car for me. It was brand new with only 3 miles on it. I've been on a couple of road trips and the smooth ride and comfort have been amazing. My link and XM radios are among my favorite features. However, I have always disliked the start-stop function and wished there was a way to disable it. It doesn't seem to save much gas and I hate the feeling that my car has stalled. A few days ago, when I came to a stop and the feature engaged as normal, I let my foot off the brake and my radio cut off for a few seconds, then came back on. I thought nothing of it at first until it happened a second time, but this time the check engine light came on and now I'm alarmed. I took it into the dealership to find out that the auxiliary battery that powers the features in the car while the engine is shut off is drained and needed to be replaced. I've only had my car for exactly 13 months and this battery needs to be replaced? Luckily, it's under warranty, but what happens when the warranty is up? Will I have to replace this battery every year? Will it cause electrical problems? I also fear that the starter will not last because of the constant starting. As much as I love this car, this lack of reliability has disappointed me and makes me worry about how this car will hold up after it's a few years old. I know a battery is nothing and hopefully nothing else happens that is not covered under warranty.
Armando Carroll 2024-11-21
Despite experiencing three engine malfunctions, including metal shards in the oil, in the first year of ownership, I am confident that this Malibu is a reliable vehicle. My two previous Malibus ran for 250,000 miles with few problems, and I am sure that this one will perform just as well.
Deron Lemke 2024-11-06
This car is extremely uncomfortable to drive. As a long-time Chevrolet and GM customer, I am disappointed with the quality of this vehicle. Unfortunately, GM has not provided any support or assistance. When I reached out for help, I was told that I should have shopped around more. This response is unacceptable and does not reflect the level of customer service that I expect from GM.
Omer Streich 2024-08-22
If you're considering purchasing this car, I would recommend doing some research on the start/stop system beforehand. During my test drive, I experienced some issues with the system, such as a delay in the battery warming up and a slight miss while driving on the highway. Additionally, the transmission felt clunky in regular traffic. In comparison, my previous Nissan Altima had a smoother ride and better gas mileage, without a start/stop system. While the salesman did not mention this feature, it's important to test drive the car for an extended period of time to fully evaluate its performance. I hope this information helps you make an informed decision!
Nikko Fahey 2024-05-02
I rent cars very often due to work, and this time they gave me a Malibu. Although I usually ask for something else, I was pleasantly surprised. However, I found the driver's seat to be uncomfortable as it is too low and obstructs the view over the dashboard. If you raise the seat, your right leg has to press down on the seat to reach the pedals. Perhaps this car is designed for people with longer legs. My biggest complaint, however, is the steering. I suspect it may be due to the car being a rental and having been abused, but the steering gives a sudden change whenever I turn it slightly right. This can be extremely dangerous, but I was too lazy to switch it out.