2006 Chevrolet Malibu Review: Unreliable & Outdated Boring Midsize Sedan

Alex Showalter

Apr 22, 2022

The 2006 Malibu lasts only 150,000 miles with steering and suspension problems. At $4,025 – $5,125, it’s expensive for a sedan this old with a lot of reliability concerns.

The Good

There’s more passenger room than other sedans, the cabin is quiet and the suspension is smooth on bumpy roads.

The Bad

There are a lot of plastic components in the interior, braking distances are long and the base engine is slow.

Is the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Used Car?

No, 2006 is a bad year. Owners complain about expensive mechanical issues, being difficult to park, and a weak air conditioning system.
Reliability ratings are below average. Avoid models from 2005-2006 and go with 2007–2009 models which have fewer complaints.
Performance is poor from the 4-cylinder, but the largest V6 is relatively quick.
The Malibu is a reasonably safe car getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
Fuel economy is good at up to 24 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

Ruby G

I love the Chevy Malibu Maxx!

The Chevy Malibu Maxx is a great car! The mileage to gas ratio is amazing, it only takes $20 to fill the gas tank completely. It's a super reliable car, we've traveled a lot with it! We've always been on time for oil changes and routine car maintenance so it's never had any problems. My boyfriend wrecked it 3 years ago and the only thing that happened was the bumper came off. Once we got that fixed there was absolutely nothing else wrong with it! I absolutely love this car.

Brandy B

It is safe and reliable. . .

Like - it is roomie, has just enough power. Dislike - sound system, fuel efficiency, really not able to think of much more.

Pam F

12 years and still going strong.

06 Chevy Malibu - I have driven it across the country numerous times without any issues. I have had to replace the breaks often but that has been the only issue. Other than that, it runs extremely well and my next car will definitely be another Chevy.

freud B

Still in good shape and has had little major maintenance.

Great get around vehicle. It has enough luxuries without being over expensive. Good mileage and engine power. It's old.

Jane s

Great gas mileage per gallon.

Gets good gas mileage despite Its age. Plenty of room for five adults. Maintenance can be done at home.

Nicole S

Why I love my Malibu and why you should too.

I love my Malibu. It is really spacious inside for being a compact car and the trunk is really big which is nice. I haven't had to put a lot of money into it and it has been a reliable form of transportation since I bought it in 2012. The future that I love most is the radio controls on the steering wheel.

Jo P

Smooth, comfortable ride.

I love how smooth my Malibu rides and how much room I have in the driver's seat. I love how comfortable the seats are for long drives, where I normally start feeling aches from sitting in other cars. I don't get those aches in this. The trunk space is amazing too.

Darlene J

It is good on gas and has low maintenance.

I like the size. It has good gas mileage. The body style has been constant over the years. Maintenance has been low.

Negative Owner Reviews

Ruby R

Runs very smoothly and I have never had an issue with its performance .

The performance of Chevy is great. I have been having my 2006 Malibu Chevy for about 5 years now and I have never had an issue with the performance. It's very spacious and comfortable. The best feature I love about this car is the ac unit. It cools very quickly and feels amazing

Alyssa D

Never get a Malibu unless you want to spend thousands fixing it all the time!

I like the motor and the paint color. The suspension is complete and total trash. I just put over $1,000 into just the suspension and not even one full week after the work was done I hear the same sounds as it was making before it got fixed. I like that my car has remote start and a key fob but I hate that my remote start will not work anymore due to check engine light being on. Check engine light is on for a small upstream emissions leak (carbon canister above gas tank) so in order to fix that the whole gas tank needs to come off for one small simple thing to be done. This car has problems with everything but the motor never get one of these cars unless you want to put thousands into everything but the motor!

Ashton F

It's good if you have a family, but otherwise get something smaller and easier to drive.

I don't like it. The thing is too big. Turns terrible. And I've have had nothing but issues with it since I bought it used.

Ryan H

Down the road: Malibu ownership.

Had my car since high school (around 8 years ago) and is still functioning. Does have a small coolant leak, ac and heater do not work, and turning signals can be a bit iffy but with a car that has been regularly used that's just normal. Wear and tear is only natural and these issues are easily fixable even now if I had the current income for repairs.

Sara A

The brakes squeak and pulse when using them but still gets good gas mileage

Reliable, been using it for years. Wish it didn't have as many problems as it does.

megan r

It is old and i need to replace it cuz the air conditioner sucks

Air conditioner sucks and makes weird noises moonroof doesn't open is just a sunroof

Cathy L

Have someone check the transmission before you buy it.

It is needing to many things on it fixed and I have 4 more years to pay for it. The transmission is bad. There is a CD stuck in the radio. It stinks and runs really hot.

Kimberly A

That it runs like a dream and, , Its clean car.

I thought about it as a family car and there's no room in it cramped up feeling not very comfortable as far as a good running car it runs really good has a lot of get up and going my mind it would be a car for younger people.

What Do Critics Say About the Malibu?

Consumer Reports finds the Malibu to be very outdated, with low owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds gives the Malibu a 4.3/5 liking the smooth ride, but disliking the cheap interior.
Kelley Blue Book users rate the Malibu 4.3/5 as well and enjoy the comfortable seats, but find ownership costs high.

What Common Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Have?

Problems with the 2006 Malibu are fairly serious including steering issues, brake sensor failures, and suspension noises.

Steering issues, including excessive noise, are the most common complaints showing up at around 50,000 miles. Excessive noise and play in the steering column happens and replacing the rack fixes the issue, costing over $1,400.

Brake sensor problems happen on a lot of Malibu’s at roughly 90,000 miles. Replacing the brake sensor solves the issue, but costs around $200.

Front suspension noises are widespread in the first 40,000 miles. Replacing the lower control arm will fix the problem, but prices are around $1,200.

There are 9 recalls with a lot of them being serious, including loss of power steering, and snapping transmission shift cables, which both increase the chance of an accident.

How Long Will the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Last?

A properly maintained 2006 Chevy Malibu will last about 150,000 miles, half as long as top competitors including the Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are affordable according to Repair Pal, at $340 per year.

Malibu models from 2006 will likely have over 100,000 miles, so shoppers should be prepared to replace alternators costing $500, brake master cylinders for $350, and the powertrain control module which costs $550.

Jillian T

I do not think mine has any problems. My family members all drive the same thing and we all love our cars.

Sheena W

It is very reliable. All cars have problems but it took awhile before any problem occurred with the brakes.

Chanel H

I feel it is very reliable. Over the past year I have had it problems I have had were minor that any car would have.

Alexandria R

I has no, mechanical problems. Basic wear and tear on breaks and such. The tires are bald but overall it's in great shape.

Derek B

Under proper care and maintenance the car has run well and been reliable for over ten years. Although, there was a recall on electric steering components, but that has been the only problem.

Patricia W

It is a very reliable vehicle. I do not have any problems with it at this time. I would pick another Malibu to drive when I purchase another car.

Ross K

It has been a very reliable car so far. After 120,000 miles, I have had minimal issues. I have had problems with the tires, and the gas gauge. The gas gauge does not read.

Steve S

For having it for so long there are some issues. The coolant leaks, turn signals can sometimes not work, and the ac/heater does not function but it still transports fine.

How Much Is the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Worth?

Blue book values range from $4,025 – $5,125, making the Malibu around $500 cheaper than a Nissan Altima or Mazda6. When new, the price range was $16,365 to $23,065. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 12% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Malibu?

There are four models of the Malibu available. Technology is very outdated with a complete redesign which adds a new infotainment system coming in 2008.

LS is the entry-level model with:

15-Inch Steel Wheels
Cloth Seating
Remote Keyless Entry
Power Windows & Locks
AM/FM/CD Stereo System With 4 Speakers

LT adds some features including:

16-Inch Steel Wheels
Premium Cloth Seating
Remote Start System
Improved 6-Speaker Stereo System

SS is the sport-focused model and has:

18-Inch Polished Alloy Wheels
Cloth & Leather Seating
Upgraded Sport Suspension
Traction Control System
Sport Seats

LTZ is the flagship luxury model featuring:

17-Inch Alloy Wheels
Leather Seating
Heated Front Seats
Sunroof

LS w/1LS

144 HP 28-28 MPG

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LT w/0LT

144 HP 28-28 MPG

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LT w/1LT

144 HP 28-28 MPG

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LS w/1FL

201 HP 27-27 MPG

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201 HP 26-26 MPG

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LT w/2LT

201 HP 27-27 MPG

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201 HP 26-26 MPG

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240 HP 23-23 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Malibu?

The base engine is a very weak 2.2L 4-cylinder with only 144 horsepower, which gets up to 24 MPG combined.
A step up is the more powerful 3.5L V6 which has 201 horsepower and gets up to 23 MPG combined.
The most powerful engine is the 3.9L V6 making 240 horsepower and getting up to 19 MPG combined. Performance is good, taking only 7.8 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Malibu Come In?

How Big Is the Malibu?

The 2006 Malibu is slightly larger than many other midsize sedans including the Honda Accord and Ford Fusion. Passenger room is excellent throughout the cabin, with a lot of room for adults in the backseats.

Cargo space is great for a sedan, with 15.4 cubic feet of room in the trunk.

How Does the Malibu Compare to the Competition?

The Chevrolet Impala is a competitor from Chevy costing about $1,000 more. Where the Impala stands out is with more room and power, but the Malibu handles better. We don’t recommend either sedan since they both have a lot of mechanical issues.

The Toyota Camry is a top rated rival which costs about $1,200 more. Reliability ratings and interior materials are both nicer in the Camry, but the Malibu is roomier. We recommend the Camry since it will last longer.

Ranks #12 Midsize Cars by Owners

2006 Toyota Camry

4.43

2006 Toyota Camry Solara

4.41

2006 Chevrolet Malibu

3.94

Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Malibu?

Jillian T

Yes. It gets good gas mileage and it is a smooth ride. I love the way my car sits and how easy it is to figure out. I also love the steering wheel and the seats.

Sheena W

Yes, it drives good fast and smooth. I love the sound quality and the gas saver. I love how the seats adjust rather you want to be up high or sit very low and laid back. Very cool car.

Chanel H

Yes, I have had mine for over 1 year and I've had minor issues during the year. I feel safe with my daughter in this vehicle.

Alexandria R

Yes it is a good strong reliable vehicle that has no issues, I love the features in, the car. The motor is strong, the parts are reliable, and fairly cheap the mechanics stand behind the work.

Derek B

It is a decent vehicle. Gas mileage is okay, and it handles pretty well in nice conditions. The car is somewhat compact, so if you need to haul a lot of material that could be an issue.

Patricia W

I love it. It is a great vehicle. It is very reliable, gets good gas mileage. I would buy another one.

Ross K

Excellent. It is reliable, fun to drive, big but not too big and has gotten me through a lot. I highly recommend it.

Rachael L

Yes. I've driven it since high school (8 years ago) and it is still functioning with no major repair issues. Some wear and tear but nothing of major concern and can easily be repaired.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Ed Hein on August 24, 2023

Very reliable

I really love our 2006 Malibu Maxx LTZ. It is Sport Red, black leather inside. This is our 3rd Malibu Maxx, only issue I have had with it is the electric steering which was replaced on a re-call. It is the most practical car for my famly and very roomy. It tows our 16 ft. Ski boat very well, with added trans cooler, all loaded up. Don't ever tow with over drive engaged. We now have 140,000 miles on it, change engine oil every 2000 miles, and trans oil every 35,000 miles. This is a practical good looking car that has never let us down. Too bad it isn't made anymore.

Marquisha R on April 3, 2021

The vehicle is decently sized, not too small so it fits out family. My vehicle is reliable and everything works properly, decent gas mileage.

My Chevrolet Malibu is reliable and a great family car.

Nelson M on March 26, 2021

Not much to say about the 2006 chevy Malibu. Runs well and not a head turner.

It's not big on power. Handles nicely and runs smooth but not a lot of power in the motor. Overall a comfortable ride and low maintenance costs.

Dawn P on March 23, 2021

Very good car that will hold up to anyone's abuse.

The vehicle is very reliable and is durable we use it for everyday living and travelling. The body of the car has very little rust..The motor will run forever and did very few oil changes. Would recommended this car to anyone it has been a very good car considering that my father in law is very hard on vehicles he is hard on them has wrecked several but this one is very durable. They even take it fishing and camping.

Cameron S on March 17, 2021

It's gives me no problems.

It's keeps on running and keeps on running well.

Bruce O on March 12, 2021

It's a good starter car will get you to point A to B.

Had multiple issues with my fluids leaking, starts running more heavily on freeways even with all fluids up to date, had problems with my front wheels, car has been reliable for the most part besides having the battery die on me a couple times.

Chris T on March 11, 2021

I think it was made with a lot of errors.

I like to roominess of the vehicle and there are no blind spots. I don't like there have been so many recalls. I also don't like that I have personally had to repair so many things on the car.

Rebecca T on March 1, 2021

This car has a hatchback.

We have had absolutely no problems with our car. The performance has been really good. We have had this car for 3 years and it is been really reliable as far getting us from A to B. Its comfort level is fairly comfortable. It has power windows power seats rear defrost.

Tiff R on March 1, 2021

Buy the Malibu, no regrets.

I have had issues with the throttle, due to a recall. I find the Malibu to drive very smooth, and is very roomy. Since the Malibu is older it does now have times accelerating and sensors going off, but in its prime ran and got from point a and b with no worries, and the same today.

Jennifer B on February 28, 2021

The car gets 34 miles to the gallon.

I have a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. It is a good, fairly basic vehicle. I have a nice stereo with a CD player. The inside is very comfortable and the trunk is a good size. The car gets good gas mileage. It also handles well on the road. Seeming to be a good family vehicle and/or a great commuter car.

Candice R on February 23, 2021

Chevy Malibu Ltz 2006 front wheel drive

The room in the back seat is very spacious. Definitely love the feature of the split seats in the back which allows for hauling long items in the trunk. The seating is very comfortable on long rides. Love the fact of the side airbags for extra security. The most issue is the wearing of the brake pads. The radiator is pretty easy to dent if any sort of animal is hit while driving.

Tyl B on February 23, 2021

It's a reliable car that doesn't break down often. It's starting to show its age though

It's pretty good and pretty reliable in general as far as being a good daily driver

Gloria T on February 22, 2021

It is an LTZ model of Chevrolet Malibu and I am able to adjust the seat distance and height of the seat. Also if you have short legs you can bring the pedals closer to you.

I like the comfortable ride it gives me. It gives me very good gas mileage. The interior and the trunk are both roomy. I have no complaints.

Nan L on February 17, 2021

My car is much better quality and much more reliable than most people think.

No complaints about my Malibu. My Malibu has a smooth ride. It is very reliable. The Malibu gets good gas mileage.

Marcia M on February 14, 2021

Easy to use and reliable on the road.

Well reliable, comfortable for travel, can hold a lot throughout the car especially the trunk, it also is sturdy on the road especially long distant. Can easily be used to carry loads of things.

Brittany M on February 12, 2021

Very reliable nice looking car. Love driving it.

Fuel gauge not working and is leaking oil. Runs and drives really well. Has over 230,000 miles on it and is still a great vehicle. It is very reliable it starts every time. The small issues it has with it does not affect how it runs at all. Very comfortable vehicle and handles very well.

LoRay T on February 12, 2021

The Life of the Malibu: A great value for the money

The Malibu 2006 handles really well. The miles per gallon of gas is great. The size of the vehicle is workable for the average family because it seats a family of 5 comfortably. We haven't really had any major problems with the car the original, engine, radiator, transmission still functional and there is over 250,000 miles on the car. The malibu has proven to be a value for the cost.

Liz H on February 4, 2021

Great Car To Start With!!

A great car that will get you to where you need to go. Gas mileage is a lot better than expected and driving to work on the highway every morning does not use as much gas as I thought. The car has never broken down or had problems. The steering wheel buttons don't work anymore.

John D on January 24, 2021

It's safe and reliable. Haven't had any issues or problems.

Great car, very few problems in the first 100,000 miles, good gas mileage and comfortable to drive. Easy to change the oil, spark plugs are a different story, but American made so parts are cheap and easy to find.

Samantha R on January 17, 2021

The hatchback feature is great for loading and unloading items.

It is a comfortable vehicle with plenty of changeable space to haul items or ride in. It is been very dependable despite its age and mileage. It gets good gas mileage too.

Pam F on January 10, 2021

12 years and still going strong.

Daniel J on January 1, 2021

Looks good, and has great gas mileage

Had the car since 06 and only taken it to the shop a few times. Seats are adjustable, rides smooth, no blind spots, good gas mileage. The only thing currently wrong with it is the transmission but it's from basic wear and tear. Would recommend this car to a used car buyer!

Margaret P on December 31, 2020

A great car for short and heavy people.

My Chevy Malibu has a feature for someone short like me. With a press of a button the pedals lift as much as 8 inches so that I can reach them without being on top of the steering wheel. It has seat warmers, also, which is new and a comfort for me. In fact, this vehicle is very comfortable and luxurious compared to other cars I have owned. I can open the trunk before I get to the car from the grocery store. The trunk is quite roomy and the back seats can be folded down for more space. For me, the color made a great difference. I saw another Chevy Malibu, same year but in dark navy inside and out. Besides being uncomfortable to sit in, I felt closed in and unable to see. For me, the silver car I have with light grey interior is much nicer. I drove this car before I bought it and knew immediately, this was the one for me. The original owner took exceptional care of the car and even though, he was a smoker. The dealership took great care that it did not smell. I have always had luck with Chevys and have driven other makes before. For comfort, style and great options, I would recommend the same car I own. . Chevrolet Malibu.

Kim G on December 30, 2020

It is reliable, I have never had any issues from the engine. Just normal maintenance and it runs great

My malibu is over 10 years old it is a lower end or basic model. I ah e power windows but that's about it, cloth seats and standard radio/cd. I have taken it from Colorado to Washington state when it was brand new the ride was great. I also drove it from Colorado to Virginia and from Virginia to Alabama when we moved to each State. Now that it is older the seats are not as comfortable for longer rides. I also I have never had any engine problems or other mechanical issues. It is a bit underpowered. But it is only a 4 cylinder. Over all I would buy the car again and would love to upgrade to a newer model

Jim Miller on December 30, 2020

Getting the bugs out

We just purchased a 2006 Malibu Hatchback with 188,000 miles. The body and interior is in fantastic shape, but most all interior switches like the brake pedal switch, the remote mirror switch, the cruise control unit on the steering wheel and the blinker handle switch all needed to be replaced. My code reader states that the first to second transmission relay is bad and causing the check engine to stay on. An estimate to replace the solenoid in the tranny is $1200. I replaced all the interior switches myself but the tranny work will have to be done by a qualified technician. I like the car and once the repairs on the tranny is done, I'll have around $2700 dollars in it.

Brandy B on December 23, 2020

It is safe and reliable. . .

Like - it is roomie, has just enough power. Dislike - sound system, fuel efficiency, really not able to think of much more.

Rachel C on December 21, 2020

Runs good but having a problem with back lights. They won't turn on because of problems with cars alarm

It's roomy which I like. It drives smooth and when u push the gas it goes, there's no pause

YASMIN M on December 18, 2020

My car is old but its very dependable and reliable.

I like my car because its dependable and reliable to take us from place to place. I don't like that my family is growing and soon there will be not enough space for all of us.

Brooke J on December 17, 2020

Mechanical problems & customer service

Has been recalled twice for power steering, can feel the shifting of gears. I would suggest buying a older version of this car. Anything below 2010 has been recalled multiple times and Chevy had refused to pay for its faults. In all honesty I am buying a new car in the next couple of months and I am not continuing with Chevy. I do not trust their cars especially after dealing with the recall. I would suggest finding something that is safer and a company that actually cares to help.

Ruby G on December 16, 2020

I love the Chevy Malibu Maxx!

Stephanie T on December 16, 2020

It has a sunroof/moonroof combination.

I absolutely love my Chevy Malibu. It runs great, it gets 28 mpg on average, it has heated seats on both the driver's seat and the passenger seat, and it has a sunroof/moonroof combination. The one thing that I wish my car did have is an aux cord. So many people nowadays listen to music off their phone so the only thing I would change about this vehicle is adding an aux cord to listen to my own music. I would highly recommend this car to anyone!

Chelsea W on December 14, 2020

The car is not brand new of course but it is still in great condition.

Still in good condition. Drives smooth. New tires just put on about 4 months ago. All dash lights work, indicator lights work. Can only use bright lights though. No physical damage except to front vent where plate is. All car doors open and close, lock buttons work, window control buttons work. Cruise control functions, radio functions. No AUX input, CDs work.

Alyssa D on December 12, 2020

Never get a Malibu unless you want to spend thousands fixing it all the time!

Mika R on December 10, 2020

Smooth driving in the Malibu.

My Malibu is honestly a wonderful car. It drives very smoothly, and has a bit of power behind the engine that I appreciate. For its age, it has plenty of high-tech features that make driving it a blast. I love everything about it. It is been a fantastic first car for me, and I cannot wait to drive it again.

Marsha B on December 9, 2020

The color of silver & being a hatchback with sunroof provides a perfect car for reg trips to the grocery store, plenty of storage space & plenty of fresh air flowing around you

I love my car for how smooth of a ride it has given me over the years. Also being such a small compact car with such a great engine that gets really good gas mileage. Even though it is small, & seems like way too small, the hatch opens up for lots of storage room. If you might need more space to store more stuff, the back seat folds down to make even more storage room. Great running car. Only thing I don't like about this car, is if it had a bigger engine, than I could drive farther distances without very many problems later. The other thing I never liked was that the engine is too small to travel on a reg basis on the highway over 50 miles an hour on & on The car doesnt like it a lot of the time. The sunroof that I have with the car, I love a lot

melissa c on December 6, 2020

It is good on gas .it needs some body work because it is rusting but otherwise is good

It has only regular maintenance repairs the upkeep is not expensive. I drive it to work a few days a week/the cd player at times will not eject the cd so I just listen to the radio

Amber O on December 3, 2020

2006 Chevy Malibu, very reliable

My Chevy Malibu is a great car. 2006 model, and it's currently running great. It's got almost 140,000 miles on it. I plan on riding it until it gives. Pretty sure if I maintain it with oil changes and tire changes that it'll give the years I need until I can afford a new vehicle myself.

Karrie Q on November 24, 2020

Everyone should get one!!

Great on gas mileage. . Enough room to take a long road trip! Passenger front seat comes forward so more storage. Trunk is huge!

Denise B on November 20, 2020

It has been reliable. I have not had major engine repairs.

Electrical system is not working. I will have to drop the dash to repair. The car has to many fuses in multiple places and makes everything hard to impossible to repair without taking to shop and cost a small fortune to repair.

Marianne L on November 18, 2020

A great car with great gas mileage and good sound system controlled 2 ways

I love the car, It has ac, a CD player and a good radio. The steering wheel has buttons where you can switch stations on the radio or CD player. The lights can be on automatic and they come on when you start the car and stay on for a few minutes after you shut it off. Very comfortable and great gas mileage.

Judy s on November 15, 2020

It gets good gas mileage especially on long trips.

Although it is a smaller car, it has a to of get up and go. It has good gas mileage. It also has comfortable seating for five.

Sara M on November 15, 2020

My vehicle is a 4 door 6 cylinder with heated seats, which I like! I also like that it is roomy. My complaint would be that it seems very low to the ground.

Gets me where I need to go and it is a safe vehicle to transport children.

Olivia B on November 14, 2020

Remote starter, four airbags, ss body, four doors and all electric.

The Chevrolet Malibu is comfortable, built in features are many: v4 engine provides excellent gas mileage, four door allows rear passengers easy access into vehicle, all power and four airbags.

Wendy H on November 6, 2020

I like the way it looks. I love the quality of the car. I hate it costs so much

It handles great and has great safety features. Great value. Gets good gas mileage

Jennifer A on November 2, 2020

It is simple to fold down the seats and easy to put them back up.

I have had less problems with this car vs. The other cars I have owned. It is great on gas mileage, easy to drive, and is easy to get a car seat in and out. It has great leg and foot room in the back seat. I love the hatchback, it is huge and I can get almost anything packed in the back. Plus the back seats go flat so I can get an entire dresser back there.

Angie R on November 1, 2020

It is my car. It has lasted me this long and stayed in this good of condition because I take care of it.

I've enjoyed my car. Bought it brand new. Only spent money on things that were worn down by typical wear and tear.

Emily B on October 29, 2020

It is a hatchback which gives me more room to store things in.

The gas mileage isn't as good as it should be for a small vehicle such as this one. However, my vehicle is a v6 which is better than the 4-cylinder I used to drive. I like a car with speed and this one has enough. It is a very comfortable car to drive and has enough room for me to back things in it.

Bill g on October 29, 2020

Runs well has had minimal issues

Car is good on gas, nice with four doors, not so great for a larger or taller person since the entrance is lower and makes you crouch to get in

Michelle D on October 17, 2020

Faulty Malibu brake lights.

There is an ongoing issue with this particular make/model of car (Chevy./ Malibu) the brake pedal and tail lights have a tendency of occasionally working backwards. There is a simple fix for it but no permanent solution. When you get the problem fixed it returns again in approximately 3 months.

keith f on October 16, 2020

Reliability of an automobile

Very dependable, never have problems mechanical related to anything. Gas mileage is right on where estimates were.

Olivia F on October 15, 2020

It is very comfortable, not too big or too small. Very spacious. Rides smoothly.

My check engine light is always on. It is very stained on the inside and it is virtually falling apart. The seats are tearing and it smells like feet.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.