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Chevrolet Malibu
Sedan · Gas · 36 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 11 used midsize cars on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2025
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on model year.
6 problems reported (3 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 1 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTransmission failures
Hard shifting, slipping, or total failure reported around 100,000 miles in older generations (2010 cited); CVT transmission in newer models raises concerns about lifespan (75,000-90,000 miles mentioned).
- Very frequentEngine problems
Timing chain wear (2010–2016) leading to potential catastrophic damage; oil consumption/loss; turbocharger failures on 1.5L/2.0L engines; vacuum pump explosions; faulty sensors causing poor fuel economy and rough idle.
- Very frequentElectrical glitches
Includes "shift to park" errors draining battery (2016 cited), infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity issues, failure to start, key fob system resets, low-beam headlight failures due to corroded harnesses (2009–2012).
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentSteering issues
Power steering failures, especially in 2004–2007 models around 81,600 miles.
- RecurrentPremature wear items
Front wheel bearings failing before 100,000 miles; various oil leaks; HVAC control failures.
- IsolatedAuto Start/Stop system failure
Cited in a 2018 model causing the vehicle to stall in traffic and not restart.
The version owners recommend
2016+ Generation (specifically post-2013 refresh). Within this, the 2.0L turbo engine is mentioned as more robust and powerful, though the 1.5L turbo is more common. The 2014 model year is noted for including a 4G LTE OnStar upgrade. There is insufficient data to recommend a specific trim level (e.g., LT, Premier).
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Mazda6 and Nissan Altima.
Is the Malibu right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation and is heavily dependent on model year. The 2013 model year is universally panned, described as so poorly received that it required an emergency refresh for 2014 and was replaced by a new generation for 2016. The 2016+ generation (current) receives mixed to positive feedback, praised for being a quiet, comfortable highway cruiser with good fuel economy, modern features like Apple CarPlay, and representing strong value, especially when purchased used at a significant discount. However, even the newer models are consistently viewed as less reliable and having lower long-term durability and resale value than key Japanese competitors. Older generations (roughly 2004-2012) are frequently criticized for a litany of mechanical failures, leading to a reputation for being problematic after 100,000 miles, though some owners report high mileage with persistent but manageable issues.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented, comfortable American sedan that is quieter and offers more features for the money compared to a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord, but at the cost of perceived long-term reliability, higher depreciation, and inferior resale value. Frequently described as a budget alternative, with the Camry specifically noted for retaining significantly more value over five years. Some comparisons to the Nissan Altima as a similar value proposition. The consensus is that competitors like the Camry and Accord are more reliable investments, while the Malibu is a cost-effective choice for shorter ownership periods or when purchased at a steep discount.
Recommended configurations
An extended warranty is very frequently recommended due to concerns over transmission and turbocharger reliability. For the 2016+ generation, the 2.0L turbo engine is suggested over the 1.5L turbo for better performance and perceived durability. All-wheel drive is not mentioned as an option. A pre-purchase inspection is strongly advised, especially for high-mileage examples.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers prioritizing initial comfort, quiet ride, and feature content at a low purchase price, particularly for highway commuting. Recommended for shorter-term ownership (3-5 years) due to reliability concerns and high depreciation. NOT recommended for buyers seeking long-term reliability beyond 150,000 miles or high resale value. Essential to negotiate aggressively, as used values are significantly lower than competitors. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic is non-negotiable. Strongly consider a comprehensive extended warranty. For older generations (pre-2016), extreme caution is advised, with specific model years (2004-2007, 2008-2012, 2013) to be avoided.
Remarks
Owner feedback is highly generation-specific. The 2013 model year is an outlier with such negative reception it forced a mid-cycle refresh. The 2016+ generation marks a significant improvement in owner satisfaction, primarily around comfort and value, but does not fully escape GM's reputation for powertrain and electrical issues. Discussions indicate high inventory and rapid depreciation enable deep discounts on new and nearly new models, which is a primary driver of positive sentiment. Long-term reliability data for the 1.5L and 2.0L turbo engines in the current generation is still emerging, with isolated reports of high mileage (300,000+ miles on a 2017 1.5L) but more frequent concerns about turbo and transmission longevity. Analysis based on approximately 60 substantive owner discussions and inquiries.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Malibu (XL)2016–20265,295 complaints · 29 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (1854) · electrical system (1410) · power train (1158)
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the 2016-2026 Malibu generally describe it as a comfortable, quiet, fuel-efficient sedan that is often overlooked because of the declining sedan market.
12 problems reported (4 recurrent, 8 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTransmission failure or replacement needed
- RecurrentInfotainment/CarPlay/Android Auto USB connection failures
- RecurrentBluetooth connectivity dropouts
+ 9 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentBattery and charging system issues, including faulty alternators
- IsolatedRadio/head unit unresponsive or needing replacement
- IsolatedDriver information center screen going blank
- IsolatedEngine piston failure due to factory defect
- IsolatedVVT solenoid, rear knuckle, and PCV valve wear
- IsolatedAcceleration/power loss in hot weather with regular fuel
- IsolatedWheel bearing failures
- IsolatedAuto start-stop related idle issues
- IsolatedElectrical gremlins causing multiple trouble codes
Is a 2016–2026 Malibu right for you?
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Malibu IX2016–20265,295 complaints · 29 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): engine (1854) · electrical system (1410) · power train (1158)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2016-2026 Malibu is mixed but leans positive among long-term owners, who describe it as a comfortable, quiet, fuel-efficient commuter that is often overlooked because sedans have fallen out of favor.
10 problems reported (1 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 6 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentInfotainment and connectivity failures
Including CarPlay and Android Auto not connecting over USB while still charging, and Bluetooth audio cutting out.
- RecurrentBattery and charging system problems
Including shorted or failed batteries, faulty alternators, and voltage irregularities causing multiple unrelated codes.
- RecurrentTransmission failure or replacement at low mileage
+ 7 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical gremlins and multiple diagnostic trouble codes
Sometimes traced to low voltage or communication line issues.
- IsolatedDriver information center screen going blank or losing menu access
- IsolatedEngine internal failure, including shattered pistons attributed to a factory defect
- IsolatedVVT solenoid, rear knuckle, and PCV valve replacements
- IsolatedAcceleration sluggishness in hot weather resolved by switching to premium fuel
- IsolatedWheel bearing or hub assembly failure
- IsolatedRadio and antenna failure requiring replacement under warranty
Is a 2016–2026 Malibu right for you?
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Malibu VIII2012–20166,187 complaints · 31 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): electrical system (2026) · engine (1753) · unknown or other (850)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is mixed and leans cautious.
16 problems reported (6 recurrent, 10 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentTransmission failure or slipping
Including total failure at 76k miles and partial failure with slipping in 2nd and 3rd at 96k miles.
- RecurrentTiming chain stretch, rattle, or timing issues on the 2.4L Ecotec
- RecurrentOil consumption on the 2.4L Ecotec
+ 13 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical problems and electrical gremlins generally
- RecurrentBluetooth and infotainment connectivity issues, including audio cutting out every few seconds
- RecurrentHeadlight issues
Including overheating that melted wire harnesses and difficult headlight replacement requiring raising the vehicle.
- IsolatedDriver information center screen going blank or menus becoming inaccessible
- IsolatedBody control module faults from moisture, causing mirror and lock switch failures
- IsolatedTemperature sensor or thermostat faults producing a code 4 and loss of air conditioning
- IsolatedTraction control sensor fault causing vibration and disabling traction control
- IsolatedDriver seat frame breaking
- IsolatedEngine head replacement at 100,000 miles
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedSerpentine belt and tensioner problems on the eAssist system
- IsolatedEngine codes related to the hybrid system on the Eco model
- IsolatedTemperature gauge problems after repair
Is a 2012–2016 Malibu right for you?
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Malibu VII2008–20129,307 complaints · 22 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (3798) · electrical system (2279) · exterior lighting (1191)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2008-2012 Malibu is predominantly negative, with the car widely described as mediocre, middle-of-the-pack, and not worth choosing over Japanese rivals unless the price is unusually low.
14 problems reported (2 very frequent, 3 recurrent, 9 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentTiming chain stretch, rattle, and related failures on the 2.4L Ecotec
- Very frequentElectrical problems and gremlins, including body control module issues from moisture
- RecurrentTransmission failures or shift solenoid problems around 100,000-150,000 miles
+ 11 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentHeadlight replacement requiring bumper removal
With reports of lights overheating and melting wire harnesses.
- RecurrentOil consumption and leaks on the 2.4L Ecotec
- IsolatedPower steering/EPS twitching and shutdown
- IsolatedTraction control sensor faults causing vibration and disabling traction control
- IsolatedDriver seat frame breaking
- IsolatedRadio and speaker failures
- IsolatedDashboard display failure
- IsolatedWheel hub wear around 140,000 miles
- IsolatedRear window switch contact issues
- IsolatedThrottle body faults causing reduced engine power and limp mode
- IsolatedFuel pump and sensor failures
Is a 2008–2012 Malibu right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Malibu VI2003–200811,501 complaints · 38 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (6566) · electrical system (2110) · exterior lighting (804)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for this generation is mixed but leans toward cautious acceptance as cheap basic transportation.
17 problems reported (4 recurrent, 13 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentElectrical gremlins
Including gear shifter lights that go out and require knocking the plastic to relight, and bulb sockets hot enough to melt bulb bases.
- RecurrentTransmission clunking
Slipping, and TCC/stator-related acceleration problems tied to the 4T45E automatic.
- RecurrentWarped front rotors causing violent shaking under high-speed braking
+ 14 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentFuel gauge failure traced to the fuel level sensor in the tank
- IsolatedPaint flaking and peeling
- IsolatedSeats breaking down and interior feeling loose
- IsolatedEngine oil leaks or consumption
- IsolatedPower steering system failure at high mileage
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedTie rod ends and lower control arms needing replacement past 130,000 miles
- IsolatedBrake light switch failure causing brake lights to stay on and cruise control to stop working
- IsolatedPasslock/anti-theft system preventing starts, requiring a wait or bypass
- IsolatedHeadliner material detaching and exposing insulation
- IsolatedRust on the underside and rocker panels
- IsolatedHard starting when hot, attributed to fuel pressure regulator or fuel pump issues
- IsolatedTiming chain issues on the 2.4L Ecotec
- IsolatedShaking at highway speed with drifting and engine noise
Is a 2003–2008 Malibu right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Malibu Maxx2003–20078,484 complaints · 33 recallshigh confidenceRead report
Most-reported areas (NHTSA): steering (5170) · electrical system (1391) · service brakes (530)
Our take, from owner reports
Owner sentiment for the 2003-2007 Malibu is mixed and leans cautious.
18 problems reported (7 recurrent, 11 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentWarped front rotors causing shaking under braking
- RecurrentTransmission concerns including clunking, slipping, and shift quality tied to the 4T45 transaxle
- RecurrentFuel gauge inaccuracy traced to the fuel level sensor in the tank
+ 15 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentElectrical gremlins including bulbs melting sockets
Shifter illumination failing, and assorted minor electrical faults.
- RecurrentRocker panel and underside rust
- RecurrentFuel pressure regulator failure causing hot-start and hard-start symptoms
- RecurrentFuel pump failure causing hard starting or stalling when hot
- IsolatedPower steering system failure
- IsolatedWheel bearing replacement
- IsolatedTie rod ends and lower control arms needing replacement at high mileage
- IsolatedWorn shocks and struts
- IsolatedBrake light switch failure causing brake lights to stay on and cruise control to stop working
- IsolatedCV axle boot tearing and axle wear
- IsolatedOil burning and leaking on the 3.9L V6
- IsolatedTiming chain issues on the 2.4L four-cylinder
- IsolatedHeadliner material detaching and exposing insulation
- IsolatedPaint flaking and interior seat breakdown on high-mileage examples
- IsolatedEngine oil leaks
Is a 2003–2007 Malibu right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2006. Years to avoid: 2016, 2013, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2004Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 11 | 1 | back over prevention |
| 2024 | 39 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 69 | 2 | back over prevention |
| 2022 | 97 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 89 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2020 | 198 | 1 | engine |
| 2019 | 192 | 1 | power train |
| 2018 | 708 | 6 | engine |
| 2017 | 1,411 | 4 | engine |
| 2016 | 2,481 | 9 | engine |
| 2015 | 270 | 3 | engine |
| 2014 | 713 | 6 | engine |
| 2013 | 1,817 | 10 | electrical system |
| 2012 | 906 | 3 | electrical system |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices130 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 26V212000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.
2024 · equipment:other:owners/service/other manualcampaign 24V575000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Cadillac XT4 and Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The vehicles may have the wrong owner's manual in the glove box. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
2024 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 26V212000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.
2023 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 22V923000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.
2023 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 26V212000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.
2022 · structure:frame and memberscampaign 22V923000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.
2021 · seat belts:critical fastenerscampaign 21V649000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
2021 · seatscampaign 22V359000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
2020 · seat belts:critical fastenerscampaign 21V649000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
2019 · seat belts:critical fastenerscampaign 21V649000
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
2018 · air bags:sensor:occupant classificationcampaign 18V400000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. During servicing, a Passenger Presence System (PPS) may have been installed that was not correctly calibrated to the vehicle's seat type. As a result, the PPS may not properly identify an adult passenger from a child passenger in the front passenger seat, potentially causing the air bag to not deploy when it should, or causing the air bag to deploy when it shouldn't.
2018 · service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:disc:calipercampaign 18V576000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper pistons may have an insufficient coating causing gas pockets to form, potentially reducing rear brake performance.
2018 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 18V358000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.
2018 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 19V642000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles equipped with 1.5L turbo engines. An error in the Engine Control Module (ECM) software may result in the fuel injectors being disabled.
2018 · power train:automatic transmissioncampaign 20V668000
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
115 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.0
2.0L 4-cylinder · 253 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2019–2026