2016 Chevrolet Malibu Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Engine power reduction and loss of acceleration are the primary concerns for owners.
- Electrical system and powertrain issues are also frequently reported.
- The vehicle earned top NHTSA safety ratings, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash.
- Numerous recalls, especially for air bags and fuel pumps, require verification of completion.
2016 Chevrolet Malibu
Critical Failure Risk
Owners report sudden loss of power or 'reduced engine power' warnings, often without prior indication. This can be linked to issues with the accelerator pedal position sensor (APP) or throttle body.
Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$1,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by small boot.
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing safety ratings over long-term reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S8)
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 290 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 214 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering)
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is 4.7/10. Reliability score is 4.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 11. Owner complaints: 1,407.
How practical is the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is mainly limited by small boot. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 328 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.7/10. Practicality 4.9/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (Power Reduction) (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $1,000).
What engine is in the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.
What transmission does the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, transmission is Automatic (S8). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
How many people fit in a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S8).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
Top complaint category: engine (290 reports, 20.6% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
This model year has 11 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Honda Accord and 2016 Toyota Camry.