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2009 Chevrolet Malibu Review: One Of The Best Years For The American Midsize Sedan

Rating: 4.26
Based on 90 Owner Reviews ▶
Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu represents the seventh generation of this mid-size sedan, known for its focus on comfort and value. Available as a four-door sedan, the 2009 Malibu offered a more refined driving experience compared to previous generations. Key trims included the LS, 1LT, 2LT, and LTZ. Its popularity stemmed from its competitive pricing, comfortable ride, and attractive styling for the time. The original MSRP ranged from around $20,000 to $27,000.
The Good

The 2009 Malibu boasted a comfortable and quiet ride, appealing to those seeking relaxation. Practical buyers appreciated its fuel efficiency, particularly with the 4-cylinder engine. The stylish exterior design also offered an emotional connection, while the competitive price delivered strong value, making it a sensible choice.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2009 Malibu include reported issues with the transmission, particularly in models with the 4-cylinder engine. Some owners have also noted electrical problems and premature wear of certain suspension components. It's crucial to check for these issues during a pre-purchase inspection.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4: 169 hp
    • 3.5L V6: 219 hp
    • 3.6L V6 (LTZ): 252 hp
  • Horsepower: Ranging from 169 hp to 252 hp depending on the engine.
  • Fuel Economy:
    • 2.4L I4: EPA estimated 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
    • 3.5L V6: EPA estimated 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
    • 3.6L V6: EPA estimated 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.4L I4: Approximately 9.0 seconds
    • 3.5L V6: Approximately 7.5 seconds
    • 3.6L V6: Approximately 6.7 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • LS: Base model with standard features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • 1LT: Adds features like remote start, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio.
    • 2LT: Includes premium cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, and fog lamps.
    • LTZ: Top-of-the-line trim with leather upholstery, heated front seats, premium audio system, and the 3.6L V6 engine.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2009
Make Chevrolet
Model Malibu
Trim -
Style -
Type LS
Category Compact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In Canada
Manufacturing City KANSAS CITY
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LE5
Engine Size 2.4L
Engine Cylinders 4
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain -
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

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Events
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis
View VINCheck Report

What Problems Does the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Have?

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has some frequently reported problems. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4-speed automatic transmission paired with the 2.4L engine, are common. Owners report rough shifting, hesitation, and premature failure. Electrical problems, such as issues with the power windows, door locks, and the anti-theft system, are also noted. Suspension components, including struts and control arm bushings, may wear out prematurely, leading to a noisy and uncomfortable ride.
Several recalls were issued for the 2009 Malibu. These include recalls related to the transmission shift cable, which could detach and prevent the vehicle from shifting properly, and issues with the brake lamps, where the brake lights may not illuminate. Long-term reliability can be a concern if these issues are not addressed promptly. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls and ensure that all necessary repairs have been completed. Regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid changes, can help mitigate some of these potential problems.

How long will the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu last?

With good maintenance, a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or more. Many owners report 10-15 years of service. However, long-term durability depends heavily on consistent maintenance, particularly regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and addressing issues promptly. Weaknesses over time often include the aforementioned transmission problems, electrical glitches, and suspension wear. Neglecting these areas can significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan. Preventative maintenance is key to maximizing the car's longevity.
Positive Owner Reviews
John
Got 104k miles . Did the recall with the power steering. Oil change 2x a year. Just a great car for me. Someone with skinny arms can change the headlight without taking off the whole front.
Bubba
Our 2009 Malibu LS has 200,000/Kms on it and has been very reliable car. Of course it goes without saying that any vehicle will last if you maintain it! Great interior space, overall design is excellent.
Matthew Breeding
No problems. Sun roof is a nice touch to the car. Recommend for first drivers. It has space and its not a tight fit car.
Negative Owner Reviews
Alex White
There are a few small things wrong with this vehicle that I could mention such as the AC being very tedious, the automatic locks not working, and the blinker lever not working, but I'll just focus on the most prevalent issue...the headlight changing process. For some idiotic reason, the engineers who designed this car made it so you literally have to take the entire front bumper off if you want to change the headlights. Taking it to a repair shop will cost you $100-$150 because of the excessive manual labor hours. I decided to just look it up on Youtube and change it myself, but it still takes me an hour or so each time to do what should be an extremely simple procedure. It baffles me that a car would be designed like the 2008-2012 Chevy Malibu is, as I have never seen any other car that is anything close to what this vehicle. I have vowed to never buy a Chevy again of any kind unless I am reimbursed for the difference in cost it takes to get my headlight changed for the duration of my ownership of my Malibu. I will continue to encourage all my friends and family to never buy a Chevy again until Chevy is held accountable for this absolutely idiotic design flaw. The least I can ask for is an explanation as to why the car was designed the way it was. It still perplexes me to this day.
jtl12345
The 2009 Malibu LS is my first car. I still currently own it, bought it at 55k and it’s currently approaching 96k. For 2 years, this car was nice. No problems at all. Drove like a caddy and everything worked. Then the problems started happening. Neither of my door speakers work anymore, which is apparently very common. My drivers side rear TPMS sensor will not come back online no matter what is done, the dealer basically told me it is dead permanently. This causes a message to come up every time the car is started “SVC TIRE MONITOR” and the TPMS light is perpetually on. The TC is god awful, but I know that’s the case in many cars. It caused me to go off the road during one of the last snowstorms we had and as a result there is a very audible exhaust leak. The rear dome brake light does not work either. This was a recall on the car and when I took it to the dealer to get it fixed, nothing changed. And finally, I don’t know if it has something to do with our recent well below freezing temps or what, but occasionally when I drive the odometer goes up and down continuously. I can’t get up to speed for my commute up the highway every day. This car is such a lemon, I will never buy another Chevy vehicle again. 2/5 just because it held up for 2 years without issue.
Bodie
I own the base model LS with the 2.4 L Ecotech engine. This car look stylish and has an okay looking interior. As big as the car is, the trunk is small and interior room is limited. I drive this car to work everyday and it is underpowered. Going up any grade, even slight ones, the car feels heavy and struggles. The acceleration is poor. Mine has 145k miles and I?ve had to replace rotors, power locks, windshield wiper motor, a/c compressor, and several other parts. It has never left me on the side of the road but the lack of power, and though not major, replacing part after part, and the lack of comfort makes me regret ever buying this car. There are other cars of this class that are worth your money. Only pros are fuel mileage, styling, and sound system.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu came with a decent array of built-in tech and safety features for its time. Standard entertainment included an AM/FM radio with CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered features like a premium audio system with satellite radio.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern cars, but included features like cruise control and available remote start. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain).
Optional features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof, and upgraded wheels. Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) generally showed good performance, with overall 5-star ratings in some categories. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave the 2009 Malibu good ratings in its crash tests. These safety ratings contribute to the overall appeal of the car, particularly for families.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black Granite Metallic
Silver Ice Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
Blue Granite Metallic
Sport Red Metallic
Dark Cherry Metallic
Interior Colors
Cocoa/Cashmere
Ebony
Neutral

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu ranged from approximately $20,000 to $27,000, depending on the trim level and options. Current used market prices typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Malibu has experienced significant depreciation, as is typical for sedans in this class. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (both mechanical and cosmetic), trim level, and the presence of a clean title. Models with lower mileage, well-maintained engines, and fewer reported issues will command higher prices.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Cost of Ownership

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu generally offers economical ownership costs. Insurance premiums are typically moderate. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the 4-cylinder engine. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is affordable. However, potential repairs, particularly related to the transmission or electrical systems, can increase long-term costs. Budgeting for potential repairs is advisable to maintain affordability. Overall, it's a relatively inexpensive car to own, *assuming* major repairs are avoided or proactively addressed.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Insurance

Insurance for a 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a LS with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other LS?

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu competed with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Nissan Altima. In terms of performance, the Malibu's V6 engines offered competitive acceleration, but its 4-cylinder engine lagged behind some rivals. Features were generally comparable, although some competitors offered more advanced technology. Reliability is where the Malibu falls slightly short compared to the Camry and Accord, which are known for their longevity. The Ford Fusion offers a similar blend of features and value, while the Nissan Altima provides a sportier driving experience.
In terms of price, the Malibu was often more affordable than the Camry and Accord, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord would be better alternatives, albeit potentially at a higher price point. The Ford Fusion provides a comparable experience in terms of features and price, and might be worth considering. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual priorities and budget.

Ranks #1173 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★)
1173 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu a Good LS?

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is a decent choice for budget-minded buyers seeking a comfortable and stylish mid-size sedan. It's ideal for those prioritizing affordability and a smooth ride over outright performance and perfect reliability. It's generally worth buying *used*, but a thorough inspection is crucial, especially focusing on the transmission and electrical systems. Opting for a well-maintained LT or LTZ trim with the V6 engine can provide a better overall driving experience and potentially better reliability than the base models. If possible, review service records to ensure the car has been properly maintained. Prioritize models with no accident history and documented repairs.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Reviews

4.26
Consumer Rating, Based on 90 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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John on June 28, 2023

Reliable

Got 104k miles . Did the recall with the power steering. Oil change 2x a year. Just a great car for me. Someone with skinny arms can change the headlight without taking off the whole front.

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Anthony Anderson on July 19, 2022

Chevy Malibu

I didn't like the car the car particularly I just didn't look like anything fascinating but then I got one and realized it is pretty comfortable it's drives well handles well and it does what you needed to do and it's durable but the problem is car lot sold me and they knew it had a recall on it and didn't bother fixing it shame on you cars for less shame on you

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Lillian Muniz on May 12, 2022

is my car a recall car!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have a 2009 chevy malibu and i've been having electrical problems like crazy. I have changed the alternator, starter, battery, intake and exhaust coils, spark plugs and new coils, temperature sensor, thermostat, manifold. is my car a recall car if it is were do i turn it in at to get another car. The dashboard keeps saying ESC, lower power engine etc..I also replaced the computer, but still have the old computer the car came with. someone please help me with this situation.

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Bubba on April 2, 2022

Great overall car

Our 2009 Malibu LS has 200,000/Kms on it and has been very reliable car. Of course it goes without saying that any vehicle will last if you maintain it! Great interior space, overall design is excellent.

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AGradStudent on October 5, 2020

Popular for a reason

A reliable commuter, the '09 Malibu is popular for a reason. Great interior and exterior design, very good performance and ample space. The value for money is the biggest selling point. Great option for a student commuter.

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Matthew Breeding on September 24, 2020

Drives nice and smooth.

No problems. Sun roof is a nice touch to the car. Recommend for first drivers. It has space and its not a tight fit car.

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Carmelo on June 29, 2020

Very reliable and good value

Good value, safe, reliable, great shape for age and mileage. Only significant issue I've had was with the fuel injector, and that was fixed in 2012. Catalytic converter, headlights, and camshaft sensors were just fixed.

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Cj on March 17, 2020

Chevy go up to 4000 miles Strong car

Clean, Good car, Great price, High way mileage car and only 11 years old. Everything work, power everything, heated seats, CD player, Chevy are strong vehicles.

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Nothappycustomer on February 8, 2020

Don't do it!

I have had nothing but trouble with this car! Had it 3 years and lost 4 or 5 headlight plugs and the power steering has went out 3 times now gm won't cover it. Never again Chevy!

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Jennifer on December 16, 2019

Ive had this car for 10 years

This car has been a reliable car however it has become slightly outdated and my family has outgrown it. The trunk space is a bit small when you need to haul anything that has some height to it.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.