MYRModel Year Report

2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic

○ Not enough data
2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic
RENDERED 2026-11-01T12:56:36.438Z

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
92
Recalls
1

Campaigns on file for 2005

Investigations
0

None on file

Top problem
Electrical system

47% of complaints

Complaints per year

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 2005: 92 complaints 2005 92 2007: 15 complaints 2008: 21 complaints 2008
1997: 3 complaints 1997 1998: 5 complaints 1998 1999: 4 complaints 1999 2000: 11 complaints 2000 2001: 13 complaints 2001 2002: 16 complaints 2002 2003: 16 complaints 2003 2004: 116 complaints 2004 2005: 92 complaints 2005 92 2007: 15 complaints 2007 2008: 21 complaints 2008
1997: 3 complaints 1997 1998: 5 complaints 1998 1999: 4 complaints 1999 2000: 11 complaints 2000 2001: 13 complaints 2001 2002: 16 complaints 2002 2003: 16 complaints 2003 2004: 116 complaints 2004 2005: 92 complaints 2005 92 2007: 15 complaints 2007 2008: 21 complaints 2008

2005: 92 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

47% · 43 reports

Most commonly citing control module and switch.

FIRE
Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. The contact stated that after using the cigarette lighter, smoke started to emit from the holder.

NHTSA ODI report, 2012-08-15

Steering

22% · 20 reports
CRASH
Show complaint excerpts

2 years ago I received a recall letter regarding steering wheel malfunction I took the car to the dealership and it was replaced, less than a year later the issues continued to occur.

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-05-15

Engine

9% · 8 reports
CRASHINJURY
Show complaint excerpts

Tl* the contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. Contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. As a result, the contact lost control of the vehicle which rolled over three times.

NHTSA ODI report, 2014-09-22

Also filed under Air bags

While driving on the interstate while using the cruise control, the vehicle started increasing speed and rpm’s. I could not turn off cruise by braking or using the off button on steering wheel.

NHTSA ODI report, 2024-01-21

Takata recall engine oil keeps disappearing every week ! There are no leaks ! There is no oil in the water that I can see !

NHTSA ODI report, 2018-01-27

Fuel/propulsion system

7% · 6 reports

Exterior lighting

7% · 6 reports

Safety timeline

1 recall · 0 investigations · oldest first

To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →

  1. R
    2014-09-08Electrical system14V400000 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.

    Check if this car was fixed →

Buy-smart checklist

2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic — pre-purchase inspection

Inspect

  • Electrical system: 43 reports on file for this year.
  • Steering: 20 reports on file for this year.
  • Engine: 8 reports on file for this year.

Verify these recalls were completed

  • Recall 14V400000 · Electrical system
Inspected by ______________ Date ______________

FAQ

Is the 2005 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 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 47% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2005 Chevrolet Malibu Classic have?
1 recall on file for this model year.

Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.