2021 Chevrolet Malibu Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 'Shift to Park' system issue is a significant concern, potentially disabling the vehicle's shutdown and leading to rolling.
- Powertrain and electrical system complaints are frequent, suggesting potential for costly repairs.
- Fuel economy is competitive for its class, rated at 26 MPG combined.
- NHTSA awarded the Malibu a 4-star overall safety rating, with 5 stars for frontal crash.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu
Critical Failure Risk
The 'Shift to Park' message prevents the vehicle from shutting off completely, leading to battery drain and potential security risks. This is a recurring electrical system issue.
Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$4,000 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
Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride over long-term dependability.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Horsepower
- 160-250 hp
- Torque
- 184-260 lb-ft
- Transmission
- Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Sedan
- MSRP Range
- $22,140 - $34,495
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. Powertrain
Most reportedUsage: 22 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 21 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Wiper Blades
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is 8.7/10. Reliability score is 8.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 96.
How practical is the 2021 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 444 litres.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.6/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Shift to Park System (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).
What is the MSRP range for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
MSRP range is $22,140 - $34,495.
What engine is in the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
Engine specs list Inline-4 • 4 • 2.0. Output is 160-250 hp • 184-260 lb-ft.
What transmission does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
10 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
What is the fuel economy range for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, fuel economy range is 22-32 mpg combined.
How many people fit in a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, body style is sedan.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 4/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 4/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common power train problems on the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
Top complaint category: power train (22 reports, 22.9% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 Honda Accord and 2021 Toyota Camry.