Last updated: 2026-04-20
2023 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Report
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu scores 81/100 ("Excellent") with a complaint rate below the segment average. Data shows a dependable ownership experience across 1 recall and 23 owner complaints.
Recalls
1
Complaints
23
Complaint Rate
1.8per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$532
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,000
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Strong reliability record — a solid choice for buyers.
Top Issues to Watch
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
- AIR BAGS (4)
- POWER TRAIN (3)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is year 8 of the Ninth generation (2016).
- Redesigned for the 2016 model year.
- Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
- A refresh arrives in 2024.
- 9th generation Malibu (US).
What this means for buyers
Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.
2016: Ninth generation (2016) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2023: This Model Year
2023 is year 8 of the Ninth generation (2016).
2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu earns an Excellent 81/100 reliability score. 2023 is year 8 of the Ninth generation (2016).
At 1.8 per 10,000 vehicles sold, its complaint rate sits below the Sedan segment average, and most owners report a trouble-free ownership experience.
A solid choice for buyers prioritizing dependability, new or used.
Compared to the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu, which scored 1 points lower. See also the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Strong reliability score
- +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
- +Low major repair risk (11%)
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for Sedan
Cons
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Several electrical system issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu (7 complaints)
- −1 fire incident reported in owner complaints
Compare 2023 Chevrolet Malibu With
2023 Toyota Camry
Reliability: 79/100
2023 Nissan Altima
Reliability: 84/100
2023 KIA K5
Reliability: 71/100
2023 Hyundai Sonata
Reliability: 62/100
2023 Honda Accord
Reliability: 74/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 1 manufacturer recall issued
Other
HIGH RISK- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (7)
- AIR BAGS (4)
Recall Overview
1
recall on record
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu carries 1 recall — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
1.8
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 14.6
Safety Incidents
3
Crashes
1
Fires
3
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 Chevrolet Malibu Recall Details
1 recall has been issued for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
STRUCTURE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.
Consequence
An improperly welded front impact bar may result in the front crash sensors not performing correctly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle's motor rail for an incomplete weld. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
Buying a used 2023 Chevrolet Malibu? Check its history first
Every 2023 Chevrolet Malibu has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2023 Chevrolet Malibu NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 10.3%
Safety Technologies
Chevrolet MalibuRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$532
vs $526 avg for midsize cars
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.3
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
11%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Chevrolet Malibu Resale Value
The Chevrolet Malibu is estimated to retain about 58.3% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Chevrolet Malibu model overall and is not specific to the 2023 model year.
- Value Retained
- 58.3%
- Depreciation
- 41.7%
- Listings Analyzed
- 351
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Chevrolet Malibu depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
30 MPG
Running cost: $2,550/yr
Fuel + repair
27 city / 35 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu 1.5L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 27 | 35 | 30 | $2,000 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu.
Inspect turbocharger for missing screws or signs of power reduction
Test fuel pump functionality and check for error codes
Check for airbag deployment issues in crash history
Inspect tires for tread separation or sidewall blisters
Test auto-stop feature for proper function
Verify steering and lane assist systems for unexpected swerving
Check for electrical system malfunctions, including push-to-start issues
2023 Chevrolet Malibu Common Problems by Component
23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
7 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. Multiple complaints mention problems with the vehicle's push-to-start system, where the car fails to start or shuts off unexpectedly, with some incidents occurring around 31,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of the auto-stop feature malfunctioning, causing the vehicle not to move from a stop unless restarted. Safety implications are significant, as one report includes a fire while driving, and another involves a crash with airbag non-deployment and emergency telematics failure, resulting in injuries. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for buyers considering this model.
AIR BAGS
4 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu report issues with airbag deployment, particularly during collisions. In two cases involving crashes, airbags either did not deploy or only partially deployed, even when the impact occurred at the rear passenger side or involved significant speed. Another complaint highlights a diagnostic finding of an airbag malfunction, specifically related to the airbag on the horn. Additionally, an incident is described where multiple airbags deployed without a crash, following a tire failure. These reports occur at various mileage points, with one vehicle having approximately 29,000 miles. Safety implications include non-deployment during crashes and unexpected deployment, both of which could affect driver and passenger safety.
POWER TRAIN
3 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu report issues primarily related to the turbocharger and fuel system within the powertrain category. Complaints frequently mention a missing turbocharger screw leading to engine power reduction, and a fuel pump secondary circuit error code (P023F) causing starting problems. Symptoms include the check engine light illuminating, the vehicle shutting off, and power reduction, often requiring towing and extensive dealership repairs. These issues appear around 40,000 miles, with one report of injury associated with the turbocharger problem. Potential buyers should be aware of these reported issues, especially regarding the turbocharger and fuel pump reliability.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the tires on the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu, specifically involving the front driver's side tire. Complaints frequently mention tread separation and blowouts, with one owner experiencing a blowout at highway speeds and later discovering a sidewall blister on the front passenger tire. The reported issues occur around 11,000 miles. These symptoms suggest potential safety implications, as a blowout at high speeds could lead to loss of control. Buyers may want to inspect the tires closely, especially those equipped with Continental Pro Contact tires, for similar signs of wear or damage.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu's fuel/propulsion system, specifically a leaking fuel line that resulted in a significant fuel spill and strong fuel fumes permeating the vehicle cabin. This complaint highlights a potential safety risk, as there was concern about the possibility of explosion or fire, although no warning lights were activated during the incident. Additionally, multiple owners describe unrelated electronic warning system malfunctions, such as erroneous crash avoidance system warnings and incorrect tire pressure alerts. These issues are documented at varying mileages, with one owner noting multiple occurrences without resolution. These reports suggest potential safety implications and may require attention for prospective buyers.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu report issues related to steering, particularly involving the lane assist and accident-avoidance systems. Complaints frequently mention the car swerving unexpectedly when the lane assist activates, even when the steering wheel is held straight, with one owner noting a near-collision due to this behavior. Another owner describes a scenario where the vehicle's steering corrected itself back and forth multiple times after a sharp maneuver, leading to a temporary loss of control until the car slowed down. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly in high-speed or emergency situations. Specific mileage ranges are not provided, but the described incidents occur during active driving conditions, indicating potential risks for drivers considering this model.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintThe contact rented a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a grinding sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The rental agency was contacted and made aware of the failure. The contact returned the vehicle on the next business day, and the failure was reported. The failure mileage was approximately 38,706. The VIN was unavailable.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (1 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaintAfter purchasing a brand new chevrolet malibu, about 4 months into droving it; the check engine light illuminated and the next day, an error message of “engine power is reduced” was displaying on the dash. The vehicle was turned over to the dealership and two different sensors were replaced. After a day of having the vehicle back after repairs, the check engine light illuminated again. I returned the vehicle to the dealership and was later told that they were unable to duplicate the scenario and the check engine light did not appear anymore. I picked the vehicle up and after another day of driving, the check engine light illuminated for the third time, again with the same engine power reduced message. Vehicle was slow to accelerate from a stop position. The dealership claims to still be unable to duplicate the scenario with no fix at this point.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintThis vehicle has been taken to Days Chevrolet on two different occasions no check engine lights will come on but as you drive it surges and almost cuts off at times I have taken it in for this problem may 1 2023 and June 19 2023 every time they tell me the car is running as it should it also has a popping and rattle in right rear and they say they can't duplicate the problem. This car is going to kill someone
When Do 2023 Chevrolet Malibu Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Chevrolet Malibu Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Chevrolet Malibu Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Chevrolet Malibu year is 2023 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (80/100) and 2024 (80/100).
2023
(Current Model)
2025
2024
Chevrolet Malibu Years to Avoid
The worst Chevrolet Malibu year is 2018 with a score of 62/100, primarily due to power train (157) issues.
Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Score Trend
Chevrolet Malibu reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 80/100 compared to 71/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 62/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2023 | 81/100 | Excellent |
| 2024 | 80/100 | Excellent |
| 2025 | 80/100 | Excellent |
Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
How many recalls does the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu have?
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Chevrolet Malibu.
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