The Good
The 2006 Malibu offers a comfortable ride and a spacious interior (practical). Its fuel efficiency is decent for its class (practical). The design is understated and appealing to those seeking a mature look (emotional). It presents good value for money as a reliable and affordable family sedan (both). Performance is adequate for daily driving.
The Bad
The 2006 Malibu can suffer from electrical issues, particularly with the ignition switch and sensors. Some owners reported transmission problems and premature wear of suspension components. Rust can also be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Check for these issues during inspection before buying.
2006 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview
Here's a breakdown of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu's key specs:
- Engine Options:
- 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4: Available on base and LS models.
- 3.5L V6: Available on LT and LTZ models.
- Horsepower:
- 2.2L I4: Around 144 horsepower.
- 3.5L V6: Around 201 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy:
- 2.2L I4: Approximately 22 MPG city / 32 MPG highway.
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 20 MPG city / 30 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.2L I4: Approximately 9-10 seconds.
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 7-8 seconds.
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Basic features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
- LS: Adds features like cruise control, remote keyless entry, and upgraded cloth upholstery.
- LT: Offers alloy wheels, premium audio system, and available leather seats.
- LTZ: Includes leather seats, automatic climate control, and other premium features like sunroof and upgraded sound system.
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2006 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Mid-Size Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | LORDSTOWN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3297 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LZ9 |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $16,365 |
| Invoice Price | $15,465 |
| Delivery Charges | $625 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Transmission issues, such as slipping or rough shifting, have been reported by owners, potentially leading to costly repairs. Suspension components, especially struts and bushings, tend to wear out faster than expected, contributing to a less comfortable ride and requiring more frequent maintenance. Rust can be a significant issue, particularly in areas where salt is used on roads during winter. Body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels, are prone to corrosion.
Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the longevity of the engine and transmission, with some owners experiencing major failures after 100,000 miles, even with regular maintenance. Overall, while some 2006 Malibus can provide reliable service, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and conduct a thorough inspection before purchasing.
How long will the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Tech & Entertainment: Standard models typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player. Higher trims (LT, LTZ) offered features like a premium sound system, and sometimes a sunroof. Navigation was not a commonly available option.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited. Cruise control was available on LS and higher trims. Rear parking sensors were not a standard offering.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS) and front airbags. Side-impact airbags were available as an option on some trims. Traction control was available on higher trims.
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2006 Chevrolet Malibu received mixed crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). Some tests resulted in good scores, while others indicated vulnerabilities, particularly in side-impact collisions. Reviewing specific crash test results from these organizations is recommended.
Overall, the 2006 Malibu prioritized basic safety and entertainment over advanced technology. The available features were adequate for the time, but fall short of modern standards.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Prices and Market Value
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Cost of Ownership
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Efficiency
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2006 Chevrolet Malibu Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other Sedan?
Compared to the Camry and Accord, the Malibu's interior quality and refinement were generally considered lower. However, the Malibu often offered a lower initial purchase price. Feature-wise, the cars were mostly comparable depending on the trim level selected.
Alternatives to the 2006 Malibu include:
- Toyota Camry: More reliable and better resale value, but potentially more expensive.
- Honda Accord: Similar to Camry in terms of reliability and resale, but can be more expensive.
- Ford Fusion: Similar in price and features, but potentially a better driving experience.
- Nissan Altima: More sporty handling, but potentially less reliable than Camry or Accord.
Ranks #1226 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 1226 | 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Sedan?
Bazinga on May 7, 2022
SolidNot much special, but it's a solid car. Bought at 39k, put 14k on it since then and hasn't given me any issues. My grandfather owned an 2007 in the same color so when I saw it, I had to have it. Definitely would recommend, not a speed demon but solid for commuting and/or long distance travel with its 26mpg.
Marti on May 23, 2021
Better than a rentalI bought my Malibu used it was a rental car with 29,000 miles on it. I drove it back & forth to work,really fun basic sedan, was a joy to drive, the only reason I sold it was it had a lot of miles on it
Turk Harris on May 19, 2021
It's had a lot of problems since I've got fuel pumI need help figuring out why my Malibu won't start? I had a fuel pump put in by and friend or so called friend and now it won't even power on
Leann on April 5, 2021
An old car but has been very reliableThis has been a great car but power steering cut out twice which threres an open recall for (dealerships will replace free of charge) so buyer beware
Call me Drew on August 21, 2020
Very reliable. Ice cold A/C. Title ready!I have a beautiful 2006 Chevrolet Malibu LT V6 for sale. This car rides absolutely excellent, has ice cold AC, very nice interior, nice tread on the tires, and is ready to roll today. Give me a call this vehicle is title ready. I would love to show you this Immaculate vehicle. Test drives are available for scheduling!
baby568 on February 29, 2020
Nicest used car i boughtBought car for my daughter to go to and from school, lots of room and runs like butter, great on gas and a nice looking car
RichDM on October 23, 2019
Very good car. Got it used with 68k miles.Needed a used car and got this one. Very happy. No real problems. Two minor issues. Truck lock will not turn. Overfill gas tank and gas gauge ends up going to empty. Great A/C , good running car. Good gas mileage.
Virginia retired & ready to travel on August 22, 2019
2006 Chevy Malibu goes anywhere. Drove car yearlyThis car looked great when I walked up to it. Interior was classy, had extra storage. Vehicle lacked leg room, it worked for me as a 5 foot driver but was not good for my husband who is over 6 foot. I drove it through snow storms and never got stuck on the road or a parking lot
Teri Powers on August 7, 2019
Most ReliableThe Chevrolet Malibu has been a excellent car and is great on gas mileage to and from work each week .It is excellent for travel on road trips.
LJ95 on August 1, 2019
Been a good car for the past thirteen years!The car has been a good one! I purchased in 2007 and it had less than 13k on it! Could never get the USB port to work on all three and has some issues with the steering column locking up at acceleration speed and continuous problems with A/C (but this was after the 10 year mark so!) All in all it has been a good car, love the leg room in front, not so good in the back!
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.