Chevrolet Malibu is a sleek and stylish mid-size sedan perfect for families, but some model years are better avoided for a smoother ride. As a matter of fact, you should avoid quite a few models from Malibu.
Malibu will cease to exist as a new car by the end of 2025, as Chevrolet killed its last sedan in 2024. With consumers increasingly choosing SUVs and crossover models, carmakers find the business case for a mid-size sedan less tenable than ever before. A decades-old nameplate isn’t right for energizing consumers for new technologies, and plans to switch cars to electric platforms left no room for continuing the Malibu nameplate. It is inevitable that Malibus will be on the road for a long time to come, so here are a few generations to keep an eye out for and a few to avoid.
Chevy Malibu Years to Avoid
You must stay vigilant against quite a few of them. Almost five generations of Chevy Malibu vehicles are on our list of models to avoid. In 2000-2014 and 2016, you should avoid these years.
1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu (5th generation)
After 14 years, Chevrolet announced a new mid-size sedan that would bring back the Malibu name. A sense of nostalgia had taken hold in the late ’90s, and, in many ways, everything old had become new again. In contrast, Chevrolet brought back the Beetle name and slapped it onto a hunk of ’90s blandness while VW brought back the nostalgic and clever Beetle.
Between 1983 and 1997, engine and auto manufacturing technology had advanced light years, especially when compared to 1963 to 1977.
Engines ran efficiently and reliably thanks to fuel injection, high-output electronic ignition, and airbags, while crumple zones and antilock brakes made interiors safer and more secure. As a result, the 1997 Malibu should have been a superior car to any Malibu built before it – except in the end, it wasn’t.
Based on paper, the 5th-generation Malibu is a far better model than the previous generation. This Malibu, however, is the automotive equivalent of an appliance due to its general lack of personality. Basically, it will get you from point A to point B in relative comfort. I just blew by a CHP cruiser at 75, and he didn’t even blink. This may be the best car for speeding yet devised, according to Motor Trend.
2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu (6th generation)
Chevrolet released a redesigned Malibu in 2003 following a successful run of sales for the reintroduced Malibu. In contrast to the previous generation, the successor cannot be said to have dramatically improved things over its predecessor. The Malibu came loaded with options and accessories unheard of in previous generations, and it offered relatively generous power – the optional V6 produced 200 horsepower — but Motorweek was absolutely right when it said it was, “handsome, but not very distinctive.”
If the drive to get there is not meant to be an overly enjoyable part of the journey, then the 2004 to 2008 Malibu is another fine choice for getting you where you need to go. In spite of this, the interior looks are not going to be the worst of it. As well as the ride, it will be unpleasant. You will want to return the rental car and never buy one again, as the suspension sends shockwaves through the occupants.
Based on GM Epsilon, this Malibu competes more directly with higher-end European sedans. This was not accomplished. As the 6th-generation Malibu was designed with vague electric power steering, body roll, and an uninspired design, it was destined from the start to be abused by holiday rental car customers.
1973-1977 Chevrolet Malibu (3rd generation)
The Chevrolet Malibu became the biggest car iteration of the automobile’s long run, just as a lot of cars of the 1970s did. In response to new emission standards for automakers, power output decreased, and it appears that manufacturers added girth to every model to compensate for the loss of power.
Chevelle’s Malibu trim level was still available in 1973. The Malibu and Malibu SS were both available, but were removed from the top of the line – the Laguna took over. As a result of federally mandated 5 mph impact standards, this generation introduced huge chrome bumpers. While the suspension provided a springy and floating ride, it did not do much for handling, as cornering was not its strong suit. These were nicely-designed cars that offered comfort from bouncy and broad bench seats.
In the early years of this generation, models like the Chevy Malibu that starred in the movie “Drive,” starring Ryan Gosling and Bryan Cranston, were considered cool. The SS and Laguna high-performance models were discontinued at the end of the model year, and all Chevelle models were replaced with Malibus, starting with the Malibu Classic. The Malibu was not the most engaging car to drive, but it was built at a time when cars still had individual style.
1978-1983 Chevrolet Malibu (4th generation)
Chevy ditched the Chevelle from its lineup at the end of the ’70s, but kept the Malibu badge for a new mid-size model. In response to energy shortages, recession, and government regulations, American drivers began seeking more economical vehicles. As a result, the vehicles that were built in response became smaller and, for some reason, very boxy.
During the 1979-1983 production period, the Malibu was a plainly-styled, poorly built car. In addition to a drop in power output, sales had also fallen. Engines ranged from a 3.3-liter inline-six to a 5.0-liter V8, the latter with only 150 horsepower, compared to today’s 1.6-liter 3-cylinder Toyota Corolla’s output of 205 horsepower. Even though Detroit and its biggest industry suffered from the Malibu, there are still reasons to buy one.
Except for a few estate sale cars, most of these cars are no longer on the roads. The drag races will be where you can see them. Thanks to their powerful V8 engines and lighter weight than the Chevelles of the 1960s and 1970s, these Malibus are great drag racers. Dilapidated basket cases can also be picked up cheaply and turned into track monsters since they haven’t appreciated like some classic cars. Previously a dull grandma car, it is now the hottest thing on the strip.
2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu (8th generation)
The quality of domestic automakers improved in the 1990s, while the range of features and accessories expanded in the 2000s. By 2012, the Malibu appeared to have solidified its position within Chevrolet. Furthermore, the styling and handling had greatly improved over the previous two generations, despite being still an affordable and basic family sedan.
When Car and Driver compared the 2012 Malibu Eco with five comparative models from the competition, it came in dead last, despite having improved over its previous versions. Although the car did receive high marks for highway cruising, it received poor marks for its mild hybrid drivetrain and a lack of cabin space. Despite complaints from the press, the revised Malibu received a striking new interior featuring several high points, including two gauge pods reminiscent of muscle cars from the late 1960s. Plastics had mostly disappeared, and the material had shown dramatic improvement.
It’s not a showstopper from the front, but the 8th-gen Malibus still looks good from the rear, particularly with its quad taillights. As a used car, these are still excellent options and represent a great deal, especially since many of them are priced below $10,000.
2016-2025 Chevrolet Malibu (9th generation)
A great car exists at the wrong time with the current and final generation of Chevrolet Malibu. Due to this failure to update the car for its final five years, Chevrolet is killing a good car. Ultium, GM’s new platform underpinning its electric vehicles, will soon be produced at the factory that produces it. Honestly, it’s a shame since the Malibu was really coming into its own. Car buyers in the United States just didn’t care.
Throughout the last Malibu, you will find premium materials, elegant design, and plenty of technology. There is a choice of heated and powered everything as well as touch screens on everything else. In addition, both power and economy are excellent. There are two engine choices available: a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine that produces 160 horsepower, while the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 250 horsepower.
With hybrid drive, the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu can achieve up to 48 mpg, an impressive figure for a car that comfortably seats four adults.
With a Bose 9-speaker system, MyLink, remote start, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic braking, this affordable auto platform offers even more convenience and safety features. The departure of this model is a real disappointment, as crossovers and SUVs are not the same to drive as a good sedan. The American auto industry will perhaps realize what it has lost some day.
1964-1967 Chevrolet Malibu (1st generation)
Classic American cars, especially muscle cars, are well known for their legendary Malibus engines, which provided incredible power options during the muscle car era. In reality, things didn’t necessarily start out that way. As a Chevelle trim package in its debut year, Malibu was available with a 120-horsepower 194 straight-six in a 1964 Chevelle Malibu SS. The six-cylinder may have been SS, but it didn’t stand for “Super Sport.” Additionally, the top-of-the-line 283 V8 offered only 220 horsepower.
The Chevelle Malibu was quickly transformed into a premium muscle car by product managers who realized the error of their ways. In 1965 and 1966, a 396 V8 Malibu SS was available with 325 horsepower. However, the following year, the Malibu SS trims were discontinued. For those looking for a Chevelle with the best factory trim options, Malibu trims continued to be available.
There were often a dizzying array of options and packages available when buying a new car in that era. However, the Chevelle found a following and did well enough to survive for a few years. It was a mid-size car built for the masses, but it was unique, and it is today a highly sought-after collector’s item – nicely kept SS models can fetch upwards of $60,000.
1968-1972 Chevrolet Malibu (2nd generation)
While the new Chevelle Malibu in 1964 had all the right styling cues for 1964, the updated second-generation Chevelle that was introduced in 1968 upped the ante. Also, the 1968 Chevelle Malibu arrived at a time when horsepower numbers were rising, giving Chevrolet an opportunity to compete with GTOs, Torinos, and Belvederes also coming from Detroit.
In place of the original’s straight lines and square-cut corners, the Chevelle received a fastback-style trunk and a long sloping roof. Even when parked, it looks faster, which consumers like.
Again, Malibu badges were applied to luxury trim models with increasing power levels. A $347.60 option package for the Malibu SS396 gives you 375 horsepower and the legendary V8.
The Malibu’s power was increased with the addition of a powerful 454 V8 option in 1970. Despite the possibility of ordering one with a six-cylinder, they represent less than 10% of all production. Those are rare, but the 454SS are the most valuable today because they are the most rare. There is nothing wrong with owning a Malibu, but they will cost you north of $100,000. There’s nothing cooler than this Malibu, but it’s also pricey.
What Are the Common Problems with Chevy Malibu?
Engine Woes
Loss of engine power: The problem can be caused by a variety of things, such as a malfunctioning ignition coil, a stuck fuel injector, or a problem with the vacuum pump (most common in newer models).
Engine leaks are present. There are some types of engines that leak oil from the valve cover or the seals on the intake pipe.
Check Engine Light Issues
Bad sensors or problems with emissions can lead to the Check Engine Light, which is often accompanied by engine codes such as P0455/P0461.
Transmission Woes
You might have broken solenoids or internal wear and tear if your clutch shifts or slips a lot. It will not be long before the transmission fails. It was necessary to replace the automatic transmissions on some older cars, such as the 2004 Malibu.
Electricity Problems
Situations with “no start”: Failure of the passlock sensor, ignition key, or battery may result in the engine not starting.
Electrical Glitches
The instrument panel lights can be out of commission, the headlights can flicker, and the power windows can become unresponsive due to various kinds of electrical gremlins.
Other Common Problems
Fuel pump failures: Particularly in older models, fuel pump failures can result in engine failure or difficulty starting the engine.
Problems with your air conditioning: Overheating can be caused by inefficient air conditioners or leaks of coolant.
Steering problems: Models like the 2004 Malibu can have problems with electric power steering, and repairs can be expensive.
What Year Is Considered the Worst Year for Chevy Malibu?
Out of all the model years to avoid, 2002 and 2010 would be the worst. There were passlock and coolant leak issues in 2002, and multiple engine problems led to pricey repairs in 2010.
What Year Did the Chevy Malibu Have the Most Engine Problems?
Chevrolet Malibu engines have been plagued with varying degrees of engine problems. Multiple engine complaints are most common in model year 2010.
How Many Recalls Does Chevy Malibu Have?
There have been 43 recalls on the Chevy Malibu, covering all Malibu models, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
How Many Miles Will a Chevy Malibu Last?
Over 200,000 to 300,000 miles can be covered by the Chevy Malibu. Various factors can influence how long your Malibu will last, including its age, maintenance, and how many miles it has already traveled. If you want your Malibu to last longer than 200,000 miles, keep it in good shape.
Is Chevy Malibu Expensive to Maintain?
For the first ten years, maintaining and repairing a Chevrolet Malibu will cost $6,460. Compared to popular sedans, this is $636 more expensive. At that time, a Malibu is also likely to need major repairs 19.26% of the time.
Is the Chevy Malibu a Reliable Vehicle?
According to the Consumer Reports, the Chevy Malibu ranks 9 out of 24 in its category and gets a 4 out of 5 reliability rating. When compared to its competitors, like the Toyota Camry, the Malibu is a great choice, except for a few cautionary years.
Which Are the Best Years of Chevy Malibu?
Chevy Malibu is considered to be one of the best models in the world in the model years 2015, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. In addition to providing top-notch modern features, they have better reliability than their previous models.
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Conclusion
Choosing the right car for your family can be a challenge. It might be a good idea for you to take a test drive at the dealership closest to you and see how it works for you. Getting a first-hand experience of the vehicle and having it checked by a professional are just as important as doing your research on the model of your choice.
