The 2009 Malibu lasts around 250,000 miles with only some power door and headlight issues. At $5,089 – 5,597, it’s worth the money for a comfortable and dependable sedan.
Is the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Used Car?
- Yes, 2009 is a good year for the Malibu. Owner reviews like the spacious cabin, strong engine, and affordable ownership costs.
- Reliability ratings are average. Models from 2007-2009 are good, with engine problems showing up in 2010.
- Performance is average from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 is more fun to drive.
- The Malibu is a very safe sedan, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is good for a sedan, at up to 26 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Malibu?
- Consumer Reports says the Malibu is a well-rounded sedan, but owner satisfaction scores are below average.
- Edmunds gives the Malibu a 4.4/5 liking the powerful V6 engine, but disliking the cheap cabin materials.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Malibu 4.3/5 and enjoy the stylish interior and exterior, but dislike the lack of technology.
What Common Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Common issues with the 2009 Malibu include power door lock failures, damaged headlight wiring, and clunking noises while turning.
Power door lock failures are the most widespread problem, happening at around 60,000 miles. Replacing the door lock actuators fixes the problem, but replacing all four costs around $600.
Headlight wiring shorting out shows up on a lot of Malibu models at roughly 100,000 miles. Replacing the wiring harness and connector fixes the problem and costs about $120.
A clunking noise while turning is an issue reported by owners in the first 25,000 miles. Worn out tie rod ends cause the clunking, and replacing the parts costs roughly $500.
There are 6 recalls on the 2009 Malibu, with the most serious ones covering the steering shaft u-joint, which can lead to a loss of control if the bearing fails.
How Long Will the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A well-cared-for 2009 Chevy Malibu can last around 250,000 miles, similar to top rated rivals like the Mazda6. Regular annual maintenance costs are a bit higher than some other compact cars, according to Repair Pal, at $511 per year.
Most 2009 Malibu models will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace items including the A/C condenser for $500, drive belt tensioner costing $175, and the intake manifold gasket which costs $550.
If car is maintenance regularly the car is very reliable. If not regularly maintenanced then you may experience some problems.
The main problem o have encounter is with riew lights coming on saying tire is low, when in fact the tire is fine. I get my tires rotated and was told there is a sensor and when tires get rotated it messes with the sensors.
Yes it is reliable. At first needed a battery. Have had no major issues. Just small ones. Like rear doors don't always unlock with fob. Turn signals have to be done manually. Needs fixed.
Yes it is reliable. I do not have any problems with it. It always starts. It is good on gas. Great car.
Usually no problems other than sometimes the ac stops working. If the battery is disconnected then connected again the ac works again.
It has been and continues to be a very reliable car. The battery has had to be replaced twice and there have been a few minor issues with the rims of the tires. The tire pressure gauge is no longer viable, as I have not had the funds to have that fixed.
Yes I believe it is reliable because it has good gas mileage and it reliable to fit up to 4 or 5 passengers. It's also has a lot of room or space in the back to fit luggage or needed stuff. Only problem I see is it harder than other vehicles to change the 2 main light bulbs in the front as you need to take the bumper or go under the car in order to replace the light bulbs.
At the moment it is not reliable vehicle because it will not start having problems getting it to start.
How Much Is the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Worth?
Blue book values range from $5,089 – 5,597, making it about $1,000 more expensive than a Ford Fusion or Nissan Altima. When new, the price range was $21,605 to $26,880. Depreciation is similar to rivals, losing about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Malibu?
There are four models of the Malibu available. The infotainment system was last updated for the 2008 model, with new safety features added for 2011.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- OnStar
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With Satellite Radio & 3.5mm AUX
1LT is a step up adding:
- Chrome Exhaust Tips
- Steering-Wheel Stereo Controls
- Carpet Floor Matts
- Colored Side Mirrors & Moldings
2LT offers more features including:
- Chrome 17-Inch Wheels
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Remote Start System
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Heated Front Seats
LTZ is the luxury model and has:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Silver Exterior Trim
- LED Taillights
- 8-Speaker Stereo System with CD Changer
What Engines Come In the Malibu?
- The base engine is an average 2.4L-4-cylinder which makes 169 horsepower and gets up to 26 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.6L V6, which produces 252 horsepower while getting up to 23 MPG combined. Performance is good, taking only 5.8 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Malibu Come In?
How Big Is the Malibu?
The 2009 Chevy Malibu is a bit larger than other midsize sedans including the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata. Passenger room is excellent throughout the cabin with plenty of legroom for adults in the backseats.
Cargo space is better than many rivals offering 15.1 cubic feet of room in the trunk, enough space for 3-4 full size suitcases.
How Does the Malibu Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota Camry is a rival that is in the same price range. Interior materials and the ride are both better in the Camry, but the Malibu is roomier. We recommend the Malibu for 2009 since there are a lot of engine problems with the Camry, but the Camry wins most other years.
The Chevrolet Impala is another competitor costing about $1,000 less. Passenger space is better in the Impala, but the Malibu has much more up-to-date technology. We recommend the Malibu since it’s more reliable and offers more features for your money.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Malibu?
Yes, this is our daily driver. Very comfortable. Spacious, has room for booster seats and legroom for people on the taller side. Great handling, relaxed ride. Great heat and seat warmers.
Yes, no major problems, good on gas. Still going strong after 10 years. Inside dears are easy to clean and come up looking new. Comfortable and perfect for my family.
Yes, had some recalls. The recalls are fixed with no problem. Other than that nothing more than maintenance.
Yes it is. It is good mechanical shape. I have had a problem at all with. It looks good as well too.
Yes it is great. It drives nice, quiet and roomy. Has all the features I wanted. Trunk space is big and four doors.
Yes it is been a very good car. There have been only a few minor issues with it, mainly the rims of the tires. Other than that, it has just needed regular maintenance.
Yes it is a good vehicle because it has a lot of room for passengers and has good mileage. It also has awesome speed for a sedan as it a 3.6 motor and it also has a beautiful interior which it includes shiny wood and leather seats.
Yes I love my vehicle I love the style, I love the color, I love that it is has an aux outlet, it is great on gas and very stylish.