Chevrolet Malibu recalls and complaints, 2015–2016, 2018, 2021, 2024
Every tracked model year in one table: NHTSA recalls, owner complaints and what they are about.
NHTSA lists 17 recall campaigns and 1,967 owner complaints for the Chevrolet Malibu model years VinSnap tracks (2015–2016, 2018, 2021, 2024). The most-recalled systems are air bags (5), electrical system (3) and back over prevention (1). Owners complain most about the engine (680), electrical system (542) and power train (412). The 2016 model year has the most complaints (861, next is 2018 with 708); raw counts are not adjusted for sales or years on the road. Complaints report 69 crashes, 16 fires, 49 injuries and 2 deaths.
Last updated: · Source: NHTSA recalls and complaints databases
Chevrolet Malibu recalls and complaints by model year
| Model year | Recalls | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Injuries | Deaths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 3 | 270 | 18 | 9 | 13 | 1 |
| 2016 | 9 | 861 | 24 | 2 | 17 | 1 |
| 2018 | 6 | 708 | 24 | 4 | 17 | 0 |
| 2021 | 2 | 89 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2024 | 2 | 39 | 3 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
Recall and complaint counts per model year from NHTSA. Crash, fire, injury and death figures are what owners reported in their complaints, not confirmed findings. Year links open that year's specs, recall list and complaint breakdown.
Most-recalled systems
| System | Recall campaigns | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| Air bags | 5 | 2015–2016, 2018 |
| Electrical system | 3 | 2015–2016, 2018 |
| Back over prevention | 1 | 2024 |
| Electronic stability control (esc) | 1 | 2016 |
| Equipment | 1 | 2024 |
| Fuel system, gasoline | 1 | 2016, 2018 |
| Power train | 1 | 2018 |
| Seat belts | 1 | 2016, 2018, 2021 |
| Seats | 1 | 2021 |
| Service brakes, hydraulic | 1 | 2018 |
Most-complained-about components
| Component | Complaints | Share | Year with most |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 680 | 35% | 2016 (310) |
| Electrical system | 542 | 28% | 2016 (233) |
| Power train | 412 | 21% | 2016 (174) |
| Unknown or other | 408 | 21% | 2016 (180) |
| Vehicle speed control | 302 | 15% | 2016 (158) |
| Service brakes | 177 | 9% | 2016 (97) |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 166 | 8% | 2018 (86) |
| Electronic stability control (esc) | 114 | 6% | 2016 (77) |
| Steering | 95 | 5% | 2016 (42) |
| Air bags | 88 | 4% | 2015 (49) |
A complaint can name more than one component, so shares can add up to more than 100%.
Which NHTSA model names are counted
NHTSA files recalls and complaints under exact model names. This page adds up: MALIBU, MALIBU ECO, MALIBU HEV, MALIBU LIMITED.
Frequently asked questions
How many recalls does the Chevrolet Malibu have?
NHTSA lists 17 recall campaigns across the Chevrolet Malibu model years 2015–2016, 2018, 2021, 2024, most often for the air bags (5), electrical system (3) and back over prevention (1).
Which Chevrolet Malibu year has the most complaints?
Of the years VinSnap tracks, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has the most NHTSA complaints (861), ahead of the 2018 (708). Counts are not adjusted for how many were sold or how long they have been on the road.
What do Chevrolet Malibu owners complain about most?
Across 2015–2016, 2018, 2021, 2024, NHTSA complaints most often name the engine (680 complaints), electrical system (542 complaints) and power train (412 complaints).
Are Chevrolet Malibu recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are done free of charge by franchised Chevrolet dealers. Recalls apply to specific build ranges, so check your VIN to see which campaigns cover your vehicle.