2021 Chevrolet Malibu: Is It Reliable?
Problems, Recalls & Buyer Verdict
Shopping for a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu? This page highlights owner-reported complaint patterns and recall history so you can inspect the right systems before buying. Current data includes 73 complaints, with Transmission / Drivetrain as the top reported area.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu Fuel Economy
✓ EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 2 2021 Chevrolet Malibu trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 2 trims analysed.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star ProgramOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
10.3% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
10.3% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has 73 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns on record. The most frequently reported component is Transmission / Drivetrain. NHTSA reliability signal: Minor Issues.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Malibu
- Model year
- 2021
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 73
- Crash-related complaints
- 0
- Safety recall campaigns
- 2
- Top reported component
- Transmission / Drivetrain
- Reliability signal
- Minor Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 32
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 29 / 36
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 4/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Most Common 2021 Chevrolet Malibu Problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Transmission / Drivetrain
Electrical Faults
Uncategorized Issues
Complaint patterns center on Transmission / Drivetrain, Electrical Faults, Uncategorized Issues. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Should You Buy a Used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car.
Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report.
What to Check Before Buying a Used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu
Inspection Focus
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of malfunction.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for electrical system repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Before You Close the Deal
- Inspect transmission/drivetrain for any signs of malfunction.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for electrical system repairs.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
What the Complaint Data Suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Complaints for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu are concentrated in the transmission/drivetrain and electrical systems, with a notable number of uncategorized issues. No crash-related complaints were reported, but the low confidence level suggests caution in interpretation.
- Transmission/drivetrain complaints account for the largest share of reported issues.
- Electrical faults are nearly as frequent as transmission problems.
- Engine problems and fuel system issues are less common but still present.
- Transmission / Drivetrain issues are the most reported component.
- Electrical Faults are a close second in complaint frequency.
- Uncategorized Issues represent a significant portion of complaints.
All 2021 Chevrolet Malibu Complaints by Category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 24 | — | — | — | |
| Electrical Faults | 23 | — | — | — | |
| Uncategorized Issues | 23 | — | — | — | |
| Engine Problems | 12 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | — | — | — | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 5 | — | — | — | |
| Suspension Failures | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Back Over Prevention | 3 | — | — | — | |
| Brake System | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Structural Problems | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Steering Defects | 2 | — | — | — | |
| Lane Departure | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Fuel System | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Gasoline | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Tire Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Seat-Related Issues | 1 | — | — | — | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 1 | — | — | — |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
Real Owner Complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. Type a keyword (e.g. “transmission”, “stalling”, “brakes”) to filter.
Took my car for an oil change 4/17/2026 dealership stated I had a recall on the 21 chevy malibu for Fuel injection module, They could not do the recall repair because they did not have the part. So the lady called me. 4/21/2026 to make appointment for recall for 4/23/2026. But la…
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Rightway Automotive credit from Tallmadge Ohio on October 19, 2022 who then sold it to the current owner.
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Bargain Auto Sales Inc from West Palm beach on August 25, 2021.
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on November 23, 2022.
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on August 31, 2022.
This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on January 11, 2023 who then sold it to the current owner.
I was driving and car suddenly reduced speed,engine light came on and message came across dash “engine power reduced” and a text was sent to tell me I have a transmission issue. Now car won’t drive past 25-30mph dealership indicated this is a faulty gas pedal which cost over $600…
My car stalls, jerks, and shuts off when in drive. More specifically when I turn it on, shift it in reverse, reverse, shift into drive. I press on the gas and nothing. Car doesn't move. I put it back in park sometimes it'll shut off most of the time it'll jerks and jerk while I …
The engine light was on and had my vehicle was stalling while driving in traffic. The service code P1101 was on and had my vehicle fixed. The light stayed off for few months then same service code is back on. I've read that there was a recall for 2019 models with same issue. My v…
I went to do an errand pulled in to parking spot put car into park shut it off. Car dash repeatedly said put car into park. All dash lights, would go on from left to right and shut off, this included the center console. I tried over and over to start car and shift but it wouldn’t…
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse(R), there was a loud popping sound coming from the rear of the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnose…
I was driving on the highway and the check engine light came on. The car slowed down due to lack of power. I got off at the nearest exit and the car stalled. I tried to start it but it kept clicking rapidly. The car died at a dangerous intersection so I put my hazard lights on an…
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer for a recall repair related to the fuel pump control module. After the repair was completed, the contact experienced a new failure. While attempting to turn off the vehicle, the ve…
Vehicle has a repeated issue recognizing that it is in park when trying to turn vehicle off. This causes concern that the vehicle may not actually be in park, will not fully power down therefore draining the battery and leaving driver stranded, or lead to other body control modul…
The component is D automatic transmission shift to park switch. The vehicle is and will be available for immediate inspection upon request. Safety was put at risk when the car lost power while they’re celebrating install in the floor of traffic, causing other cars to swerve aroun…
Transmission failed to engage gear properly after backing up. Grinding sounds heard when vehicle was in drive. Problem has been confirmed and inspected by Chevrolet dealership. Vehicle is available for inspection. Occupants safety was at risk because gears could have locked up d…
While driving when coming to a stop, my brakes became stiff causing me to almost hit the vehicle in front of me. Also, the car has been stopping while I am driving and on busy roads when I am at a stop light and press the accelerator to proceed, the vehicle just stop and cuts off…
Dear NHTSA: I am submitting this complaint because my vehicle, a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu (VIN [XXX] ), is included in Emission Recall N252516900 issued by General Motors concerning the Fuel Pump Power Control Module. Despite that inclusion, I have experienced the following: …
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to accelerate after a stop, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the transmission unexpectedly downs…
I own a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. Recently upon arriving at my destination and shifting the vehicle into park, the message "Shift to Park" was displayed with the gear shifter already in park(P). The primary engine was off but the electrical features remain on/operating. After abru…
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu Recalls
2 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. 2 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
2021 Chevrolet Malibu Buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?▾
Minor Issues. NHTSA currently shows 73 owner complaints, 0 crash-related complaints, and 2 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?▾
#1: Transmission / Drivetrain (24 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (23 complaints). #3: Uncategorized Issues (23 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?▾
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?▾
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, NHTSA complaints include 0 crash-related reports and 0 fire reports out of 73 total complaints. 1 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu have any recalls?▾
Yes. 2 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. A major recall area is SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS. 2 recall campaigns are on record for this model year. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?▾
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu looks comparatively lower-risk based on complaint volume, but model-year averages do not confirm the condition of any specific used car. Use the model-year trend to shortlist candidates, then confirm the exact vehicle condition with service records, recall status, and a VIN history report. Pay extra attention to Transmission / Drivetrain during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpector AI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Malibu reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
Rate the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu based on your ownership experience.
Add your rating:
Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Check the Exact Vehicle History Before You Buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.