2019 Chevrolet Malibu
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 5 |
| 1981 | 3 |
| 1982 | 2 |
| 1983 | 1 |
| 1986 | 1 |
| 1989 | 3 |
| 1997 | 443 |
| 1998 | 976 |
| 1999 | 789 |
| 2000 | 922 |
| 2001 | 721 |
| 2002 | 567 |
| 2003 | 569 |
| 2004 | 1147 |
| 2005 | 975 |
| 2006 | 1115 |
| 2007 | 977 |
| 2008 | 987 |
| 2009 | 1509 |
| 2010 | 1360 |
| 2011 | 977 |
| 2012 | 906 |
| 2013 | 835 |
| 2014 | 351 |
| 2015 | 270 |
| 2016 | 836 |
| 2017 | 702 |
| 2018 | 694 |
| 2019 | 189 |
| 2020 | 196 |
| 2021 | 87 |
| 2022 | 96 |
| 2023 | 64 |
| 2024 | 39 |
| 2025 | 10 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
35% of complaints: power train — 67 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing floor shift and gear position indication (prndl).
Show complaint excerpts
I understand that the vehicle is outside of its original warranty period.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260901
Also filed under ENGINE
33% of complaints: engine — 62 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2019 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while at a light, the engine lost motive power and shut off. The vehicle began to roll backward. The emergency brake was inoperable. The vehicle shifted from park.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240826
Also filed under PARKING BRAKE
START/STOP ON POWERTRAIN / MOTOR CONTROL. MOTOR STOPS ON BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE AND STARTS UPON ? ? DECREASE IN PEDAL PRSSURE ? MOTOR STARTED AND RPM ACCELERATED BU ITSELF WHILE BRAKE PEDAL APPLIED, VEHICLE "SURGED" AND HIT POST.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190415
32% of complaints: electrical system — 61 distinct reports on file.
CRASH FIRE INJURY13% of complaints: service brakes — 24 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
On September 28th I was driving along the highway, went to take an exit, and the brake pedal was locked. I experienced a loss of braking, hard brake pedal and increased stopping distance.
NHTSA ODI report, 20221027
9% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 17 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021.
Campaign 21V649000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2019 Chevrolet Malibu — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (67 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (62 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (61 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V649000 (seat belts) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 35% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu 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.