2018 Chevrolet Malibu Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Approach with caution due to a 'Below Average' reliability verdict.
- Engine power loss and stalling are the most significant reported issues.
- Electrical system problems, including 'Shift to Park' warnings, are common.
- The Malibu earned top marks in NHTSA crash tests, achieving 5 stars overall.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu
Critical Failure Risk
Owners report sudden loss of power, stalling, and inability to accelerate, often without warning. This is a significant safety concern.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$1,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
- Horsepower
- 160–250HP
- Torque
- 184–260 lb–ftLB-FT
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency and safety ratings.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who demand unwavering mechanical dependability.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Premium
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 160-250 hp
- Torque
- 184-260 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- MSRP Range
- $21,680 - $31,895
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 261 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 176 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes (Parts: Brake Fluid)
Est. shop cost: $120 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is 4.7/10. Reliability score is 4.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 9. Owner complaints: 1,135.
How practical is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.6/10. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 447 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is 6.6/10. Overall score is 6.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 7.1/10. Practicality 5.6/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes (Parts: Brake Fluid) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $1,000 - $1,500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Control Module (ECM) (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $600 • Max: $1,200).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
MSRP range is $21,680 - $31,895.
What engine is in the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.0. Output is 160-250 hp • 184-260 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
Does the 2018 Malibu require Premium gas?
Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
6 standard and 8 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, fuel economy range is 22-36 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 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 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
Top complaint category: engine (261 reports, 23% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
This model year has 9 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda Accord and 2018 Toyota Camry.