2021 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.
33% of complaints: electrical system — 29 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing starter assembly.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
Blower motor area caught fire while sitting in the driveway. Car door was opened about 20 minutes prior to my security camera catching smoke billowing from the vehicle
NHTSA ODI report, 20260518
When I move my car to park and shut off the vehicle it shows a "shift to park" message. This keeps my car from shutting off on a regular basis.
NHTSA ODI report, 20230910
31% of complaints: power train — 27 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
Shift to park switch failed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260710
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that when shifting the gear selector into park (P), the "Shift To Park" warning message was displayed on the instrument panel, even though the vehicle was already parked.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260709
16% of complaints: engine — 14 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
A screen popped up saying âreduced engine powerâ I was already Omw to the shop to get one thing fixed.
NHTSA ODI report, 20260711
9% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 8 distinct reports on file.
7% of complaints: air bags — 6 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
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022.
Campaign 22V359000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Chevrolet Malibu — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (29 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (27 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (14 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 21V649000 (seat belts) has been completed.
- Verify recall 22V359000 (seats) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-15 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.