1997 Chevrolet Malibu Classic
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 3 |
| 1998 | 5 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 11 |
| 2001 | 13 |
| 2002 | 16 |
| 2003 | 16 |
| 2004 | 116 |
| 2005 | 92 |
| 2007 | 15 |
| 2008 | 21 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 3 total reports mention: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
IGNITION SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING
NHTSA ODI report, 20160314
RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE FROM CHEVROLET DIVISION OF GENERAL MOTORS SEPTEMBER 2014. GM RECALL 14350. IGNITION SHUT OFF PROBLEM. GM ADVISED ME BY LETTER TO TAKE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR REPAIR BY OCT 1, 2014.
NHTSA ODI report, 20141121
1 of 3 total reports mentions: wheels.
Show complaint excerpts
I WAS DRIVING IN NEW BERN WHERE I HIT A BUMP IN THE ROAD THAT BUSTED MY TIRE. I MADE A POLICE REPORT. THE CAR WAS IN MOTION ONLY GOING 3-5 MPH WASN'T ABLE TO GET GOOD PICTURE OF TIRE IT'S STILL ON THE RIM
NHTSA ODI report, 20151108
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Chevrolet Malibu Classic — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for wheels issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu Classic reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Chevrolet Malibu Classic have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.