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2021 Chevrolet Malibu: common problems and reliability
· 2016-2026One of the best Malibu years.
The best Chevrolet Malibu year. All Malibu years
89 owner complaints, most about electrical system. 2 recalls.
Should I buy a 2021 Malibu?The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has 89 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are electrical system and power train. Owners most often flag transmission failure or replacement needed.
Safety record for the 2021 model year
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for 2021 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles (US, public record).
The Year Score compares this year with other Malibu years only. How we score it
Is 2021 a good year for the Malibu?
Across the 29 Malibu model years we track, complaint volume runs from 69 (2023) to 3,043 (2009). With 89 complaints, the 2021 Malibu sits below the model's median of 848.
These are raw NHTSA complaint totals, not adjusted for how many cars sold or how long each model year has been on the road. Older and higher-selling years accumulate more complaints.
Where owners report problems
Recalls affecting the 2021 Malibu
seat belts:critical fasteners
Campaign 21V649000General 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.
seats
Campaign 22V359000General 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.
What owners report on the 2016-2026 Malibu
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.
- RecurrentTransmission failure or replacement needed
- RecurrentInfotainment/CarPlay/Android Auto USB connection failures
- RecurrentBluetooth connectivity dropouts
- RecurrentBattery and charging system issues, including faulty alternators
- IsolatedRadio/head unit unresponsive or needing replacement
Owner insights for the 2016-2026 Malibu. Read the full 2016-2026 owner report.
Typical used price
Used Malibu listings typically run $13,498–$19,476 across 2016 to 2025 model years.
Other Malibu model years
Compare every Malibu year side by side to see how 2021 ranks against the rest.
Compare the Malibu against its rivals
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