2021 Chevrolet Malibu Problems And Complaints

2021 Chevrolet Malibu User Complaints and Problems

Engine and Mechanical Problems

• Engine - One complainant stated that his Malibu lost power entirely while driving. In the past, most drivers would first get an engine power reduced warning on the dashboard accompanied by an engine power loss. Chevy identifies the root cause of the problem in the electronic throttle control and accelerator pedal sensor, which caused reduced acceleration. Other engine issues that you could face as a Malibu owner include delayed acceleration, and check engine light failure.
• Steering - Many owners of used Malibus have complained about a malfunctioning power steering module. They reported that the power steering would fail intermittently or completely in the midst of driving, which is a very dangerous issue. Usually, checking the power steering fluid can be a short-term remedy for most drivers. 

Electrical Problems

• Electrical system - For one complainant, the electrical system was the root cause of the problem. The affected car was equipped with an electronic key fob and a starter/turn engine-off button on the dashboard, and surprisingly the vehicle would lock itself from the outside while the engine was running. This issue seems related to a past problem that affected older Malibu units, in which the vehicle’s anti-theft system would fail abruptly. Thus, the driver would face a hassle, as even the keyfob wouldn’t lock or unlock the door locks.
• Headlights - For older Malibu owners, the headlights burned out gradually while driving, and the vehicle also faced problems with the low light beams. Owners affected need to check the sedan’s wiring harness connector and headlight assembly or switch. If you find any loose wires, it would be a good idea to repair or replace those components quickly.

Safety Problems

• Visibility - In a rare incident, the complainant stated that the sedan’s windshield developed a deep crack while driving through a sandstorm at 45 mph. The affected vehicle was a rental vehicle. Windshield issues have certainly been rare occurrences for the Malibu sedan.
• Seats - Both the front and the rear seats unlatched themselves after applying a hard brake, as one Malibu customer reported. This issue may be related to both of the recalls that the 2021 Malibu is currently resolving. Take your sedan to the nearest dealer to get any seat issues resolved quickly.

2021 Chevrolet Malibu Recalls

S.No	Date	NHTSA ID	Issues Noticed	Additional Remarks	Remedy
1	May 19, 2022	20V024000	The seat Cushion Frame is Not Welded Properly	An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.	Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge.
2	August 20, 2021	21V649000	The rear Seat Belt Retractor is Not Secured Properly	An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.	Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge.

Should you buy the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is touted as one of the top choices in an ultra-competitive family sedan segment, where space and efficiency are crucial factors for everyday commutes. Yet the Malibu has always been considered a substitute option, especially against its Japanese rivals, likely owing to its age and lackluster interiors. The Malibu is indeed a decent long-term sedan, with only 2 recalls and a few complaints in NHTSA’s registry. The sedan has even finished in the top half in the reliability ratings of many consumer websites, thus, making the Malibu a worthy option for buyers.