The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan, representing the seventh generation of the Malibu. Available as a four-door sedan, it offered a blend of comfort and practicality. Key trims included the LS, LT, and LTZ. New, its price ranged approximately from $22,000 to $28,000. It was popular for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively fuel-efficient engine options, appealing to families and commuters alike. This model year served as a transition before a major redesign.
The Good
The 2012 Malibu offers a comfortable and quiet ride, a practical choice for daily commutes (practical). Its fuel efficiency is commendable, and it provides decent performance for its class. The design is generally appealing and the interior is spacious. Buyers appreciate its value for the money, making it a sensible choice (emotional & practical).
The Bad
Weaknesses of the 2012 Malibu include a somewhat bland driving experience compared to competitors. Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system and transmission. The base engine can feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Be sure to inspect these systems thoroughly before purchasing. The interior materials can feel cheap in some areas.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4: Standard engine
- 3.6L V6: Available on LTZ trim
- Horsepower:
- 2.4L Ecotec: 169 hp
- 3.6L V6: 252 hp
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- 2.4L Ecotec: 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- 3.6L V6: 17 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 2.4L Ecotec: Around 9 seconds
- 3.6L V6: Around 7 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Base model, includes features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system.
- LT: Adds features such as alloy wheels, upgraded cloth upholstery, and satellite radio.
- LTZ: Top-of-the-line, includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and premium audio system. Could also include the V6 engine as an option.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | BAS Hybrid |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ORION |
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 | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
Ownership
History
History
All History
Events
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
Check
Check
Accident
Check
Check
Theft
Check
Check
Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu include issues with the transmission, such as hard shifting or slipping. Some owners have reported electrical problems, including issues with the infotainment system, power windows, and door locks. There have also been reports of excessive oil consumption with the 2.4L Ecotec engine. Recalls have been issued for various issues, including potential brake light failures and issues with the power steering system. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the transmission and the 2.4L Ecotec engine's potential for oil consumption. It's advisable to check the vehicle's history for any completed recall repairs and to thoroughly inspect the transmission and engine for any signs of trouble before purchasing. The 2012 model year, being a transition year, might exhibit some quirks that were addressed in later model years of this generation. Specifically, some owners have noted that the responsiveness of the throttle can be inconsistent. Checking for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner is also recommended.
How long will the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu last?
With proper maintenance, a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu can reasonably reach 200,000 miles or 15+ years of service. However, consistent maintenance is key. Neglecting oil changes or transmission fluid flushes can significantly shorten its lifespan. Long-term durability can be impacted by the previously mentioned transmission issues and oil consumption problems. Rust can also become a factor in regions with harsh winters. Preventative maintenance and addressing minor issues promptly are crucial for maximizing its lifespan.
Positive Owner Reviews
Mr Malibu
!!!!! NEW ARRIVAL !!!!! Mr Malibu is back with another good one. Extremely low miles, Engine & Transmission like New, Back up camera and touch screen radio with video playing capabilities installed for FREE!!, New tires, AC & heater awesome, Clean Title in hand, Keyless entry with a remote control key included, I can go on and on. Come get you this great deal before someone else beat you to it. Contact me to set up a test drive. Mr Malibu is always here to help anyway I can
Rock
Most not safe piece of xxxx like to got me and my baby killed they need to be sued for all of this xxxx there doing
Yes
The car met all my needs. Used for commuting and was Great on gas! Was our daily driver. Never had any major problems or issues.
Negative Owner Reviews
Kiki hamel
Very mechanically reliable but the head lights keep burning out and it's just irritating since the bumper has to come apart to fix it every week or two. Be sides that and the sound from running the ac unit which sounds terrible idling loudly . Very happy with car mechanically .
VERY PISSED
THIS VEHICLE HAS A BIG ISSUE ON THE RELAY FOR THE FUEL PUMP THERE ARE THOUSAND OF COMPLAINTS BUT NO RECALLS. IT SHUT OFF WHEN DRIVING AND I HAVVE REPLACED TWO FUSE BOXES AND 7 RELAY'S TO GET IT TURN ON YOU HAVE TO SHACK THE WIRE'S???? AND THATS SOMETIMES. PLEASE RECAL THJIS ISSUE
Kevin C.
This Vehicle is for the cheap. Only been 8 years and experienced numerous problems. The steering is so difficult. It's like playing tug of war every turn. The driver has no space. My elbows have no room. I'm 5'10 180. I'm not a big guy. Also the shocks and struts had to swapped at the 6 year mark.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu offers a decent array of built-in tech and safety features for its time.
Tech and Entertainment: Standard features included a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player. Higher trims added satellite radio, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth for phone calls. A navigation system was available as an option on higher trims. The infotainment system was relatively simple to use but lacked the advanced features found in newer cars.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It typically included features like cruise control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety Features: Standard safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Crash Test Ratings: The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu generally performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 4-star overall safety rating. IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most crash tests. Specific ratings can vary depending on the model and testing methodology, so checking the NHTSA and IIHS websites for detailed reports is recommended. The OnStar system was also available, providing emergency assistance, automatic crash notification, and stolen vehicle assistance.
Tech and Entertainment: Standard features included a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player. Higher trims added satellite radio, USB connectivity, and Bluetooth for phone calls. A navigation system was available as an option on higher trims. The infotainment system was relatively simple to use but lacked the advanced features found in newer cars.
Driver-Assistance: Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles. It typically included features like cruise control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
Safety Features: Standard safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Crash Test Ratings: The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu generally performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). NHTSA awarded it a 4-star overall safety rating. IIHS gave it a "Good" rating in most crash tests. Specific ratings can vary depending on the model and testing methodology, so checking the NHTSA and IIHS websites for detailed reports is recommended. The OnStar system was also available, providing emergency assistance, automatic crash notification, and stolen vehicle assistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Black Granite Metallic
Summit White
Silver Ice Metallic
Cyber Gray Metallic
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Gold Mist Metallic
Atlantis Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Cocoa/Light Neutral
Dark Titanium/Light Titanium
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu ranged from approximately $22,000 to $28,000 depending on the trim and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. The Malibu has experienced significant depreciation, which is typical for mid-size sedans. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's condition, mileage, accident history, and the presence of desirable features like leather seats or a sunroof. Cars with a documented maintenance history and clean title command higher prices.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Cost of Ownership
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is generally considered economical to own. Insurance costs are typically average for a mid-size sedan. Fuel costs are reasonable, especially with the 2.4L engine. Maintenance costs are also average, with readily available parts and relatively simple repairs. However, potential transmission issues and oil consumption problems can lead to higher repair bills. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on maintenance habits and addressing potential issues promptly. It's not costly to own if properly maintained.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
26 gallons
City Mileage
22 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
33 miles/gallon
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Rating
NHTSA
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Recalls & Defects
Electrical System:wiring
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:brake Lights:switch
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Vehicle Speed Control:cruise Control
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Recall date
2014-05-14
Recall no.
14v252000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured MAY 16, 2003, Through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx Vehicles Manufactured June 25, 2003, Through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 Vehicles Manufactured MAY 26, 2004, Through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura Vehicles Manufactured April 24, 2006, Through MAY 26, 2009. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Body Control Module (Bcm) Connection MAY Result IN Voltage Fluctuations IN THE Brake Apply Sensor (bas) Circuit. These Fluctuations CAN Cause ONE or More OF These Conditions: THE Brake Lights TO Illuminate Without THE Brake Pedal Being Pushed; THE Brake Lights TO NOT Illuminate When THE Pedal IS Pushed; Difficulty Disengaging THE Cruise Control; Moving THE Gear Shifter OUT OF THE 'park' Position Without Pushing THE Brake; and Disablement OF Crash Avoidance Features Such AS Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control, and Panic Braking Assist Features.
Consequence
ANY OF THE Above Failure Conditions Increases THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Attach THE Wiring Harness TO THE BCM With A Spacer, Apply Dielectric Lubricant TO Both THE BCM and Harness Connector and THE BAS and Harness Connector, and Will Relearn THE Brake Pedal Home Position, Free OF Charge. THE Manufacturer Distributed AN Interim Letter TO Customers ON July 14, 2014. THE Recall Began ON August 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 13036.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date
2014-07-21
Recall no.
14e044000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) IS Recalling Certain Replacement Intermediate Steering Shafts Sold Under THE Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions Brand Names, Part Numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, FOR Installation ON 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura Vehicles. THE Affected Steering Shafts MAY Have A Yoke That Inadequately Supports THE U-joint Bearing Resulting IN A Premature Failure.
Consequence
A Joint Bearing That Fails Prematurely MAY Cause Separation OF THE U-Joint Resulting IN A Complete Loss OF Steering Control, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Dorman Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Refund THE Purchase Price or Replace THE Steering Shafts, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began IN September 2014. Owners MAY Contact Dorman Customer Service AT 1-800-523-2492.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seat Belts
Recall date
2015-05-08
Recall no.
15v269000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2011-2012 Chevrolet Malibu Vehicles Manufactured April 8, 2010, TO October 11, 2012. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cables That Connect THE Seat Belts TO THE Vehicle AT THE Outside OF THE Driver Seat and THE Front Passenger Seat MAY BE Bent From Being SAT ON While Entering THE Vehicle. This Repeated Bending MAY Result IN THE Cable Breaking.
Consequence
IF THE Cable Breaks, THE Seat Occupant MAY NOT BE Properly Restrained IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Outboard LAP Anchor Mounting Bracket and Inspect THE Flexible Steel Cable, Replacing IT AS Necessary, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 16, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15031.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Insurance
Insurance for a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a BAS Hybrid with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other BAS Hybrid?
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu competes with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Nissan Altima. In terms of performance, the Malibu’s 2.4L engine is less powerful than some rivals' base engines, while the V6 offers competitive power. Feature-wise, it's comparable but might lack some of the advanced tech offered by competitors like the Ford Fusion. Reliability is where the Malibu falls slightly behind the Camry and Accord, which have stronger reputations. Price-wise, the Malibu is generally more affordable than the Camry and Accord, offering good value for money.
Alternatives:
Alternatives:
- Toyota Camry: Known for its reliability and resale value.
- Honda Accord: Offers a more engaging driving experience and strong reliability.
- Ford Fusion: Provides a stylish design and available hybrid powertrain.
Ranks #215 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 215 | 2012 Chevrolet Malibu | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu a Good BAS Hybrid?
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a decent choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable and practical mid-size sedan. It's ideal for commuters and small families who prioritize affordability and a smooth ride. It's worth buying as a used vehicle, provided it has been well-maintained and thoroughly inspected for potential issues like transmission problems and oil consumption. The LT trim offers a good balance of features and value. Avoid models with a history of neglect or excessive mileage. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
Bob on January 16, 2025
Bought this car new in 2012.Bought this car new in 2012. Just quit driving it with 373400 miles. Only replaced the water pump. Transmission was never touched, fuel pump, alternator, heat, ac still work and original. Maybe I was extremely lucky but this car was awesome.
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NowayHozay on November 27, 2024
My headlight keep going out connector has a shortage andMy headlight keep going out connector has a shortage and I think my ignition switch is going bad a ton of electrical problems considering this vehicle …. But does anybody know what it means when it says “engine power reduced on your dash board†like what could be the real cause of it i have gotten so many different answers !
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Rev. G. Ortiz on October 31, 2023
I find this to be a dangerous vehicle please readNot unlike many many Malibu's, very very serious transmission problem. That immediately stops you from driving and costs THOUSANDS of Dollars (plan on $5K+) to fix and Chevy knows about it and WON'T RECALL!! IT SHOULD BE RECALLED!! It's dangerous!! I would never have bought this car had someone left this review. I'll never buy another Chevy again because of this model and the shotty engine Chevy glued together. SHAME ON YOU GM/CHEVY!!!! This car is gonna get someone killed if it hasn't already!!!! For the good it does ride comfortably while it does run, trunk is roomy, and it does pretty good on gas.
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Kiki hamel on May 8, 2023
My plight personallyVery mechanically reliable but the head lights keep burning out and it's just irritating since the bumper has to come apart to fix it every week or two. Be sides that and the sound from running the ac unit which sounds terrible idling loudly . Very happy with car mechanically .
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Jim53 on December 2, 2022
Malibu. Sometimes TransportationThe reason that you cannot and should not believe the good reviews for ANY GM car is because the people who bought GM in 2009 are investing companies who also own the magazine companies. This car has horrible basic reliability issue throughout. It starts and runs sporadically. GM knows and DOES NOTHING.....
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Tina on September 21, 2022
Not and will not crank not to happy with itHere for the past month I have had problems with my car not cranking and still does that if I drive more than 30 mins
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Marty on September 4, 2022
Good car for the moneyI have had this car for 9 years now. It only broke down once (my fault). Other than that. It works for what I need it to. A bit slow but that’s what you get for the price. Very reliable, recommended for teens who drive cautiously.
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Akaira on May 21, 2021
Worst car I’ve ever ownedIn my research I’ve noticed thousands of people who have purchased this car and all have the same issue of the car starting when ot wants to. If GM is going to recall something they need to recall this Make and model because this is a common issue. I just got a whole brand new engine and its still starting when it wants to
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VERY PISSED on May 4, 2021
NOT AT ALLTHIS VEHICLE HAS A BIG ISSUE ON THE RELAY FOR THE FUEL PUMP THERE ARE THOUSAND OF COMPLAINTS BUT NO RECALLS. IT SHUT OFF WHEN DRIVING AND I HAVVE REPLACED TWO FUSE BOXES AND 7 RELAY'S TO GET IT TURN ON YOU HAVE TO SHACK THE WIRE'S???? AND THATS SOMETIMES. PLEASE RECAL THJIS ISSUE
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Jen, No longer a Chevy fan on February 14, 2021
Worst purchase Ive ever madeLet me start by saying I’ve been a loyal Chevy customer for over 20yrs until I bough this 2012 Malibu, I will never buy another Chevy. I bought this car brand new 5/12/12. I’ve had nothing but recalls and problems. This car sat for 2 years and didn’t run, before that I’d be driving and the car would turn itself off, I would have to disconnect and reconnect the battery to get it to go a few more miles just to have to disconnect and reconnect the battery so I could get it somewhere to park it. I called GM headquarters to try and get help and they told me it wasn’t their problem. I work in the insurance industry and a lot of my clients that own these cars are having the same problems. This car has done nothing but cost me a xxxx ton of money and it’s still under 100,000 miles. DO NOT PURCHASE A MALIBU!!!
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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.