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Chevrolet Malibu Problems

The Chevrolet Malibu has been GM's mainstream midsize sedan since 1964, but its reliability has varied dramatically across generations. With 57,766 complaints logged, the Malibu has had significant quality control issues in certain eras. Recent generations have improved, but the model's history requires careful year selection when buying used.

57,766
Total Complaints
93
Total Recalls
40
Model Years
80
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2010 2009
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1964 1974 1975

Common Problem Categories

Steering 11,328
Electrical System 9,438
Engine 4,136
Exterior Lighting 4,074
Power Train 3,268

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 10 0 0 0 Good
2024 30 1 8 0 Good
2023 84 1 10 2 Good
2022 192 1 12 0 Good
2021 192 2 0 0 Good
2020 568 1 24 0 Good
2019 570 1 18 2 Good
2018 2,280 6 66 12 Below Average
2017 2,292 4 50 14 Below Average
2016 2,834 9 74 6 Below Average
2015 772 3 60 34 Average
2014 1,110 6 64 24 Average
2013 2,704 10 98 28 Below Average
2012 2,918 3 186 48 Below Average
2011 3,020 4 142 46 Below Average
2010 4,384 4 144 34 Avoid
2009 4,680 4 128 26 Avoid
2008 2,964 5 108 18 Below Average
2007 2,500 5 106 4 Below Average
2006 2,940 6 118 12 Below Average
2005 2,770 5 134 76 Below Average
2004 3,278 5 156 22 Below Average
2003 1,544 1 104 10 Average
2002 1,508 1 56 2 Average
2001 2,010 1 102 2 Average
2000 2,758 1 142 16 Below Average
1999 2,454 1 122 4 Below Average
1998 2,960 1 106 12 Below Average
1997 1,386 1 68 0 Average
1989 6 0 0 0 Good
1986 2 0 0 0 Good
1983 2 0 0 2 Good
1982 6 0 0 0 Good
1981 6 0 0 0 Good
1980 12 0 0 2 Good
1979 8 0 0 0 Good
1978 4 0 0 2 Good
1975 4 0 0 0 Good
1974 2 0 2 0 Good
1964 2 0 2 2 Good

Chevrolet Malibu Years to Avoid

The 2009 Malibu tops the complaint charts with widespread transmission failures, power steering problems, and electrical issues that can leave owners stranded. The 2010-2012 models continued many of these problems, particularly the 6-speed automatic transmission shuddering and failure. The 2016-2018 Malibus with the 1.5L turbo engine suffer from excessive oil consumption, sometimes burning a quart every 1,000 miles. The 2004 Malibu marked a troubled redesign with engine and transmission problems. Avoid the 2013 model year which saw a spike in steering column lock failures that prevented starting.

Best Chevrolet Malibu Years

The 1964-1967 classic Malibus are collector favorites with simple, durable mechanicals that are easy to maintain. The 2019-2020 Malibus represent the refined version of the current generation with most bugs worked out and improved transmission programming. The 2007-2008 models offered good value with the proven 3.5L V6 and showed fewer major issues than surrounding years.

Frequently Asked Questions