MYRModel Year Report

2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic

○ Not enough data
2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic
RENDERED 2026-09-16T16:57:56.943Z

Not enough comparison years on file yet 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.

How is this computed?

COMPLAINTS PER YEAR

Complaints per year, Chevrolet Malibu Classic Bar chart of distinct NHTSA complaints filed per model year, 2004 highlighted. 1997: 3 complaints 1997 1998: 5 complaints 1999: 4 complaints 1999 2000: 11 complaints 2001: 13 complaints 2001 2002: 16 complaints 2003: 16 complaints 2003 2004: 116 complaints 2004 2005: 92 complaints 2005 2007: 15 complaints 2008: 21 complaints 2008
2004: 116 complaints
View as data table
YearComplaints
19973
19985
19994
200011
200113
200216
200316
2004116
200592
200715
200821

KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS

Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 53%

53% of complaints: electrical system — 62 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing control module and switch.

CRASH FIRE INJURY
Show complaint excerpts

THE PASSLOCK SYSTEM AND FUEL RAIL COMBINED CREATED A INJURY TO PEDESTRIANS THAT IS UNBELIEVABLE THE CAR TOOK OFF AFTER LEFT TURN INTO A PARKING LOT

NHTSA ODI report, 20130830

Also filed under ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) and FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

STEERING 21%

21% of complaints: steering — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic power assist system.

CRASH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING 10%

10% of complaints: exterior lighting — 12 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing turn signal and switch.

ENGINE 5%

5% of complaints: engine — 6 distinct reports on file.

POWER TRAIN 4%

4% of complaints: power train — 5 distinct reports on file.

SAFETY TIMELINE

I 20040701 — EA (closed 20050510)

LOSS OF ELECTRIC POWER STEERING

R 20140908 — electrical system

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.

Campaign 14V400000 — check if this car was fixed

BUY-SMART CHECKLIST

2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic — pre-purchase inspection

  • Test/inspect for electrical system issues (62 reports on file for this year).
  • Test/inspect for steering issues (24 reports on file for this year).
  • Test/inspect for exterior lighting issues (12 reports on file for this year).
  • Verify recall 14V400000 (electrical system) has been completed.
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 2004 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 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?

The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 53% of complaints on file.

How many recalls does the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic have?

1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.