2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited Safety Report
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited Safety Analysis
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Low (0) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | High (811) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 22 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
77 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Chevrolet onlyUnknown Or Other
74 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Chevrolet onlyPower Train
56 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Chevrolet onlyElectrical System
46 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Electrical System issues Chevrolet onlyVehicle Speed Control
36 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Vehicle Speed Control issues Chevrolet onlyService Brakes
32 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Chevrolet onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
Reliability Score
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Issues Engine problems include rough idling, hesitation, and knocking, often indicated by a check engine light. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Brake System Failures Brake booster pump failures have caused limited braking and severe damage to internal engine components. |
High | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Transmission Problems Issues with shifting into park, including the 'Shift to park' message and incomplete park engagement. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Electrical System Failures Frequent check engine light illumination and electrical system malfunctions. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited:
Brake system issues are the most common, including brake failure and abnormal sounds.
Engine problems are frequent, often indicated by a check engine light.
Transmission issues, particularly with shifting into park.
Electrical system failures, including check engine light issues.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 1 complaint involved crashes.
When I was driving my car with my child in it my break tightened up and I couldn’t apply them to stop I had to let my foot off the gas and let my car slow its self down safely. When I got my car home my husband looked at it and found out that my vaccum pump had went out and part of it broke off in the engine. This is very unsafe and this needs to be investigated because people can’t know when the ...
Brake booster pump failed ( gm part # 12704586 ) Causing limited braking and severe damage to internal engine components, camshafts ,timing chain have been damaged This is a ongoing problem in which i have had this pump replaced at my expense several times. The problem stems brake booster pump is lubricated using the engine's oil . Booster pump has a small screen to filter oil, this filter...
When I put the car in park and try to turn the car off the Shift Park message comes on preventing me from cutting the car completely off. I put in back in drive or reverse then back in park it still dings and shows the message. I takes a number of repeating these steps for it to stop and turn off and this is happening every time I'm trying to turn the car off.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while shifting into park(P), the vehicle failed to recognize that the transmission was in park(P). The contact had to manipulate and maneuver the gear shifter several times before the vehicle recognized that the gear shifter was in park(P). The message to "Shift-to Park" was illuminated. While receiving a routine oil change, the veh...
Stability track warning randomly appears while driving and spontaneously causes total brake failure and the brakes fail to slow or stop vehicle. It has newer brakes but it’s very dangerous to drive. Currently being sent to Chevrolet dealership
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost power. Additionally, the message “Engine Power Reduced" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed and determined that the throttle body sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle wa...
I am filing a complaint regarding ongoing and worsening issues with my Chevrolet vehicle, which appear to point to broader defects involving the engine and electrical systems. Months ago, while driving, the car suddenly lost power and displayed "Engine Power Reduced." I had to keep using it due to work needs. Over time, it hesitated more during acceleration and felt increasingly unsafe. When I fi...
Shift to park message and park not fully engaging. This caused the vehicle to roll back when parked on an incline.
Took my car to Chevy dealership to diagnose my car, as it was rough idling, causing hesitation, and knocking... all while the check engine light was on. They showed me two codes my car was giving from the check engine light. They said he would look further into it. They told me I needed a tune up, though I had gotten a tune up 4 months prior. They fixed some things and charged me over $4,000. The...
I am writing to report a serious and unacceptable issue with the exterior paint and clear coat on my 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The clear coat has become dull and faded on the hood and roof, and the side panels are beginning to chip and peel, despite regular washing and maintenance. This paint deterioration started well before what would be expected in a properly manufactured vehicle finish, especial...
To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally report a recurring safety-related issue with my 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The vehicle consistently displays a “Shift to Park” warning message, even when the gear selector is properly in the Park position. This malfunction prevents the car from turning off completely and poses a serious safety and reliability concern. This issue first occurred while t...
Vehicle will display on dashboard “Shift to park” while the vehicle is placed in “P”. The engine will turn off, but the power remains on until the battery is disconnected from the vehicle. Codes have been verified by the Chevrolet dealership.
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that upon depression of the brake pedal, the brake pedal made an abnormal grinding sound and became stiff. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact's husband replaced the brake sensor; however, the failure recurred several days later. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V272000 (Electronic Stabi...
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that after shifting to park, the message to shift to park was displayed. The failure occurred intermittently and had become more persistent over time. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
MY SHIFT TO PARK LIGHT IS COMING ON
Water leaks into the trunk and back seat of the vehicle because the seal around the upper brake light in the rear glass is faulty, causing a mildew/mold odor in the trunk. It is not available for inspection as I had it repaired and sold the vehicle. The problem was confirmed by the glass company to did the repair for much less than the quote the dealership provided. The vehicle was inspected by th...
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that occasionally while attempting to accelerate the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while stopped at a traffic light. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving; however, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicl...
Shift to park message on odometer after vehicle is already in park
Happened around 46000 miles after receiving a recall notice in the mail about the pedal positioning sensor causing a reduced engine power signal, and immediately reducing speeds on the interstate. Local Chevy dealership replaced. Fast-forward 80K miles and the same incident is happening, however likely not going to be covered by GM. Same message, same code being detected.
Car showing warning : engine power reduced Car decelerate unexpectedly Car won’t accelerate past 20 mph intermittently - when putting car in park, car won’t recognize when in the park positioned and shows warning : shift to park
Showing 20 of 811 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
Has the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED been recalled?
No, the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED has no recalls on record with NHTSA as of our latest data update.
How many complaints does the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED have?
The 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED has 811 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 20 involved crashes. 11 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
The 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED involve engine (77 complaints), unknown or other (74 complaints), power train (56 complaints). Other affected components include electrical system, vehicle speed control, service brakes.
How many crash reports does the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED have?
There are 20 crash reports associated with the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED out of 811 total complaints (2.5% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED have?
There are 2 fire reports for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED out of 811 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED.
How many injuries are reported for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
11 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED is proceed with caution. It has 811 complaints, 0 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
The components with the most failures on the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED are: 1. ENGINE (77 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (74 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (56 complaints), 4. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (46 complaints), 5. VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (36 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 77 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
Be cautious of potential brake and engine issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid severe safety risks. The 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED has 811 NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
The 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED receives a reliability score of 55/100, indicating average reliability. This is based on 811 owner complaints, 0 recalls, and 22 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine Issues and Brake System Failures.
What are the known issues with the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED?
Known issues with the 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU LIMITED include: Engine Issues, Brake System Failures, Transmission Problems, Electrical System Failures. These are based on patterns found across 811 NHTSA complaints.
What are the most common safety issues with the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
Common issues include brake failures, engine problems, and transmission issues, particularly with shifting into park.
Can you explain the 'Shift to park' message issue?
This issue causes the 'Shift to park' message to appear, preventing the engine from turning off completely.
What should I do if I experience brake failure?
Seek immediate professional diagnosis and repair to ensure safety.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be cautious of potential brake and engine issues. Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid severe safety risks.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited. The data includes 811 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 20 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 11 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-14