CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Chevrolet›
  4. Malibu›
  5. 2025

2025 Chevrolet Malibu Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller
2025 Chevrolet Malibu Report

Overall Score

8.2/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection of the powertrain for any signs of unintended rollaway, a critical safety concern.
  • Expect average reliability; condition and maintenance history are key for used examples.
  • The electrical system, including the radio and infotainment, is a frequent complaint area.
  • Achieves a commendable 31 MPG combined fuel economy.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2025 Chevrolet Malibu

The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu presents itself as a practical sedan, emphasizing fuel efficiency and comfort for daily commuting. It achieves an impressive 31 MPG combined, making it an economical choice for covering long distances or navigating city streets. Safety is a strong suit, with top marks in frontal and side crash tests from NHTSA. However, potential buyers should be aware of reported issues, particularly concerning the electrical system and a serious powertrain complaint about unintended rollaway.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with the radio and infotainment system, including glitches and potential malfunctions. One complaint referenced a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for radio issues, suggesting a known defect.

Early detection can help you avoid a $300-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

5
Electrical System2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
31
MPG
City
28
MPG
Highway
36
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Commuters seeking fuel-efficient and comfortable daily transportation.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers who demand top-tier reliability with minimal potential for unexpected issues.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2025 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic (variable gear ratios)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Sedan
EPA Combined MPG
31

CarFocal account required

See the full 2025 Chevrolet Malibu buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Electrical System

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 1 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades

Est. shop cost: $80 - $120

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 5.

How practical is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 31 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu is 8.2/10. Overall score is 8.2/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.5/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2025 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 Brake System - Inspect Wiper Blades at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $600. Repair prediction highlight: Electrical System (Infotainment/Radio) (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $200 • Max: $800).

What engine is in the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.5.

What transmission does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

EPA combined estimate is 31 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

13 standard and 2 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

What body style is the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, body style is sedan.

What drivetrain does the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (variable gear ratios).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common electrical system problems on the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

Top complaint category: electrical system (2 reports, 40% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2025 Honda Accord and 2025 Toyota Camry.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.