2020 Chevrolet Malibu

▲ Better than typical

2020 Chevrolet Malibu
RENDERED 2026-09-16T17:18:42.880Z

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.

How is this computed?

COMPLAINTS PER YEAR

2020: 196 complaints

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.

ENGINE 30%

30% of complaints: engine — 59 distinct reports on file.

POWER TRAIN 30%

30% of complaints: power train — 58 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing floor shift and control module (tcm/pcm/tecm).

Show complaint excerpts

The vehicle's transmission shifter mechanism has failed for a second time, preventing the vehicle's computer from communicating with the gear shifter.

NHTSA ODI report, 20260908

Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

The contact owns a 2020 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while attempting to shift the vehicle into park, the transmission failed to shift into park after several attempts.

NHTSA ODI report, 20260724

While attempting to enter a high-speed expressway, the transmission malfunctioned, preventing normal acceleration.

NHTSA ODI report, 20260709

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 29%

29% of complaints: electrical system — 57 distinct reports on file.

CRASH

Show complaint excerpts

So while I was driving my car going 60 on the highway it seemed to be having electrical issues all the lights on my dash popped on then popped off and only a few lights actually stayed on I can't remember exactly but the check engine and my abs...

NHTSA ODI report, 20260731

Also filed under STEERING

SERVICE BRAKES 24%

24% of complaints: service brakes — 48 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic and air.

CRASH INJURY

Show complaint excerpts

I am writing to formally report a critical safety issue with my 2020 Chevrolet Malibu, which resulted in a severe accident and posed significant risks to my safety and the safety of The issue involves the brake vacuum pump, which failed while I...

NHTSA ODI report, 20241202

This vehicle was purchased on February 10, 2023 under false pretenses, deceit, and fraudulent activities by Frank Leta Honda of Missouri.

NHTSA ODI report, 20230425

Also filed under STRUCTURE

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL 9%

9% of complaints: vehicle speed control — 18 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing throttle.

CRASH

SAFETY TIMELINE

R 20210917 — seat belts

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

I 20251021 — EA (open)

DTN Air Bag Inflator Rupture