The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that has been a popular choice among car buyers for many years. It is known for its sleek design, comfortable ride, and affordability. However, like any car, it is not without its issues. In this article, we will review the reliability and common problems of the Chevrolet Malibu to help you make an informed decision.
One of the most common issues with the Chevrolet Malibu is engine problems. Owners have reported issues with the engine stalling, misfiring, and losing power. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty fuel pump, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning ignition coil. Other common problems include transmission issues, electrical problems, and problems with the suspension and steering.
Despite these issues, the Chevrolet Malibu remains a popular choice among car buyers. It offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and a variety of advanced features and options. In the following sections, we will take a closer look at the performance and handling, technology and connectivity, ownership experience, competitive comparison, and advanced features and options of the Chevrolet Malibu.
Key Takeaways
- The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that offers a comfortable ride and good fuel economy.
- Common problems with the Chevrolet Malibu include engine, transmission, electrical, and suspension issues.
- Despite its issues, the Chevrolet Malibu remains a popular choice among car buyers due to its affordability and advanced features and options.
Chevrolet Malibu Overview
The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan that has been in production since the late 1960s. It is a popular vehicle among consumers due to its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. The latest generation of the Malibu was introduced in 2016 and has since undergone several updates.
Trim Levels and Features
The Malibu is available in three different trim levels: LS, LT, and Premier. The LS is the base model and comes with standard features such as a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, 6-speed automatic transmission, and 16-inch steel wheels. The LT adds features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Premier trim is the top-of-the-line model and comes with features such as 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, and a dual-pane sunroof.
Interior and Comfort
The Malibu has a comfortable and spacious interior that can accommodate up to five passengers. The LS and LT trims come standard with cloth upholstery, while the Premier trim comes with leather upholstery. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable. The Malibu also comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, satellite radio, and a 6-speaker audio system.
Exterior Design
The Malibu has a sleek and modern exterior design that is available in several different colors, including Black Cherry Metallic. The Sport Edition Package is available on the LT trim and adds features such as 18-inch wheels, body-colored outside mirrors, and a rear spoiler. The Premier trim comes with unique badging and 19-inch wheels.
Overall, the Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable and comfortable midsize sedan that is available in several different trims and comes with a variety of standard and optional features. It is a great choice for consumers who are looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle that is also comfortable and well-equipped.
Performance and Handling
The Chevrolet Malibu offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for long road trips. It has a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and rough roads with ease. The handling is also impressive, with accurate steering and minimal body roll. The Malibu’s handling is especially notable for a midsize sedan, making it a fun car to drive.
Engine and Powertrain
The Chevy Malibu comes with a standard four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission or a CVT transmission. The nine-speed transmission provides smooth and quick gear changes, while the CVT transmission offers a more fuel-efficient driving experience.
Fuel Efficiency and MPG
The Malibu’s fuel efficiency is impressive, with an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This makes it a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency in their vehicle. The CVT transmission further enhances the Malibu’s fuel economy, making it a great choice for long commutes or road trips.
Safety and Reliability
The Malibu has a strong safety record, earning a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also received a 4-star rating for rollover safety. The Malibu comes with a variety of safety features, including cruise control, an electronic parking brake, and a rearview camera.
In terms of reliability, the Malibu has received a score of 4 out of 5 from J.D. Power, indicating above-average reliability. Regular maintenance and upkeep can help ensure the Malibu remains a reliable vehicle for years to come.
Overall, the Chevy Malibu offers impressive performance and handling, with a powerful engine, fuel-efficient transmission, and smooth ride. Its safety and reliability ratings make it a practical choice for families or anyone who prioritizes safety and dependability in their vehicle.
Technology and Connectivity
The Chevrolet Malibu is a modern sedan that comes with a decent set of technology features to keep passengers entertained and connected on the go. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the infotainment and connectivity features of the Malibu.
Infotainment and Navigation
The Malibu comes with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen that is easy to use and responsive. The system comes with a six-speaker audio system as standard, but higher trims come with a Bose sound system that delivers crisp and clear audio quality.
For those who need to stay connected on the go, the Malibu also offers a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot that allows passengers to connect their devices to the internet on the go. The upgraded infotainment touchscreen with navigation is also available, making it easy to get directions to your destination without having to fumble with your phone.
Smartphone Integration
The Malibu comes with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, allowing passengers to mirror their smartphone’s screen on the infotainment touchscreen. This makes it easy to access your phone’s music, contacts, and other apps while driving.
For those who prefer a wireless experience, the Malibu also offers wireless Apple CarPlay, which allows you to connect your iPhone to the infotainment system without having to use a cable. The Malibu also comes with wireless device charging, making it easy to keep your phone charged on the go.
Overall, the Malibu offers a decent set of technology and connectivity features that make it a modern and convenient sedan for the tech-savvy driver.
Ownership Experience
Owning a Chevrolet Malibu can be a reliable and enjoyable experience. In this section, we will discuss the maintenance and costs, common problems, warranty, and customer reviews associated with owning a Chevrolet Malibu.
Maintenance and Costs
The maintenance costs of a Chevrolet Malibu are generally affordable. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, can help prevent more costly repairs down the road. According to Kelley Blue Book, the estimated cost of maintaining a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu over five years is $4,600.
Common Problems
Like any car, the Chevrolet Malibu may experience some common problems. Engine problems, such as stalling, misfiring, and losing power, have been reported by some owners. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty fuel pump, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning ignition coil. Passlock sensor failure, transmission problems, and headlight issues have also been reported in earlier models (1999-2013).
Warranty and Customer Reviews
The Chevrolet Malibu comes with a standard three-year/36,000-mile warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. According to Edmunds, the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu received an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10, based on customer reviews. The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu received similar ratings, with an overall rating of 7.5 out of 10.
Overall, the Chevrolet Malibu is a reliable car that can provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Regular maintenance can help prevent more costly repairs down the road, and the standard warranty provides peace of mind for new owners.
Competitive Comparison
Against the Competition
When it comes to the midsize sedan segment, the Chevrolet Malibu faces some tough competition. Let’s take a look at how it stacks up against some of its main rivals.
Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is a popular choice in this segment, known for its reliability, comfort, and value. While the Malibu offers a more affordable starting price, the Accord boasts a more premium interior and better gas mileage on the highway. However, the Malibu does offer more trunk space, making it a better choice for those who need to haul larger items.
Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata is another strong contender in this segment, offering a sleek design and plenty of standard features. While the Malibu has a slightly higher starting price, it offers a smoother ride and better gas mileage on the highway. The Sonata, on the other hand, has a more spacious interior and a longer warranty, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and peace of mind.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is one of the most popular midsize sedans on the market, known for its reliability and quality. While the Malibu offers a more affordable starting price, the Camry boasts better gas mileage and a more premium interior. However, the Malibu does offer more trunk space and a smoother ride, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.
Kia K5
The Kia K5 is a newer addition to the midsize sedan segment, offering a stylish design and plenty of standard features. While the Malibu has a more affordable starting price, the K5 offers better gas mileage and a more spacious interior. However, the Malibu does offer a smoother ride and more trunk space, making it a better choice for those who prioritize comfort and practicality.
Overall, the Chevrolet Malibu is a solid choice in the midsize sedan segment, offering a good balance of affordability, comfort, and practicality. While it may not be the most premium or spacious option on the market, it’s certainly worth considering for those who want a reliable and affordable sedan.
Advanced Features and Options
The Chevrolet Malibu is a well-equipped midsize sedan, offering a range of advanced features and options to enhance the driving experience. In this section, we will take a closer look at some of the key features available on the Malibu.
Driver Assistance and Safety Packages
The Malibu comes with a range of advanced driver safety features, including lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
For even more confidence behind the wheel, the Malibu offers driver confidence packages that include features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change alert with side blind zone alert. These features can help you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid potential hazards.
Premium Options
For drivers who want a more premium experience, the Malibu offers a range of options to enhance comfort and convenience. The gauge cluster can be customized to display important information in a clear and easy-to-read format, while heated front seats provide added comfort on cold days.
Other premium options include adaptive cruise control, which can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, which can help you avoid collisions when changing lanes or backing up.
Overall, the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is a well-equipped midsize sedan that offers a range of advanced features and options to enhance the driving experience. Whether you prioritize safety, comfort, or convenience, there is a Malibu model that can meet your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What issues do Chevy Malibu owners frequently encounter?
Chevrolet Malibu owners frequently encounter issues with their engine, including stalling, misfiring, and power loss. Other common issues include power steering failures and rough idling. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a faulty fuel pump, dirty air filters, or malfunctioning ignition coils.
How dependable is the Chevrolet Malibu over time?
The Chevrolet Malibu is generally a dependable vehicle over time. However, like any car, it can experience mechanical issues over time. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
Can you list some drawbacks of owning a Chevy Malibu?
Some drawbacks of owning a Chevy Malibu include a lack of storage space, limited legroom in the back seat, and a relatively low fuel economy compared to other midsize sedans in its class. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with the transmission and electrical system.
What’s the average mileage lifespan for a Chevrolet Malibu?
The average mileage lifespan for a Chevrolet Malibu can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, driving habits, and road conditions. However, with proper care and maintenance, a Chevrolet Malibu can last for well over 100,000 miles.
What should potential buyers consider before purchasing a Chevy Malibu?
Potential buyers should consider factors such as the vehicle’s age, mileage, and overall condition. They should also research common issues and maintenance costs associated with the make and model. A thorough test drive and inspection by a trusted mechanic can also help identify any potential issues.
Are there any recurring maintenance costs associated with the Chevrolet Malibu?
Like any vehicle, the Chevrolet Malibu requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Recurring maintenance costs can include oil changes, tire rotations, and brake replacements. However, regular maintenance can help prevent more costly repairs down the line.
