2019 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Report
2019 Chevrolet Malibu: Strong crash ratings, but significant powertrain and electrical complaints, including 'Shift to Park' and sudden power loss.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu
Reliability Score
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu 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.
Known Issues for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shift To Park Malfunction Vehicle fails to recognize it's in park, leading to inability to shut off, battery drain, and persistent warning chimes. Often linked to internal microswitch/sensor in shifter assembly (TSB 19-NA-206 or 23-NA-119). |
Medium | Common | variable miles |
| Sudden Power Loss/Stalling Vehicle loses power or stalls unexpectedly while driving, including at highway speeds, creating an immediate crash risk. Often associated with engine or powertrain issues. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Brake Booster Vacuum Pump Failure Brake booster vacuum pump failure leading to hard braking, and in some cases, damage to camshaft and timing chain. |
High | Occasional | variable miles |
| Engine Hesitation/Reduced Power Vehicle hesitates, reduces power, or dies while idling or driving, sometimes accompanied by P1101 code. |
High | Common | variable miles |
| Unintended Acceleration Vehicle accelerates on its own with foot off the gas, posing a significant safety hazard. |
High | Rare | variable miles |
| Auto Start/Stop System Malfunction Auto start/stop system malfunctions, causing the vehicle to stall at lights or in traffic, sometimes rolling on inclines. |
Medium | Occasional | variable miles |
| Throttle Body Hose Detachment Throttle body hose pops off due to missing gasket ring or faulty retention clip, limiting acceleration. |
Medium | Rare | variable miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu:
Frequent issues include sudden power loss, stalling, hesitation, and transmission problems, often leading to the vehicle becoming inoperable.
Common complaints involve the 'Shift to Park' message, battery drain, and general electrical malfunctions, including one reported fire.
Issues such as sudden power loss, stalling, hesitation, and problems related to the brake booster vacuum pump affecting the camshaft.
Problems related to braking system components, specifically the brake booster vacuum pump, often linked to engine issues.
A notable percentage of complaints fall into a general category, indicating various unspecified or complex issues.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu
Is the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu received strong crash test ratings (4-star overall, 5-star frontal). However, it has 182 complaints, including 6 crashes and 6 injuries, with recurring issues in the powertrain and electrical system, such as sudden power loss and the 'Shift to Park' malfunction, which can compromise real-world safety. There is also one recall for rear seat belt fasteners that should be addressed.
What are common problems with the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu are related to the POWER TRAIN (37 complaints) and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (23 complaints). Specific common problems include the 'Shift to Park' malfunction, sudden power loss or stalling while driving, engine hesitation, and issues with the brake booster vacuum pump.
Has the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu been recalled?
Yes, the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu has had one recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V796000) concerning improperly secured rear seat belt retractors. This issue affects certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles and could increase the risk of injury in a crash if not repaired.
How do the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu's crash test ratings compare?
The 2019 Chevrolet Malibu received strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 4-star Overall Safety Rating, 5 stars for Frontal Crash, 4 stars for Side Crash, and 4 stars for Rollover. These ratings indicate good performance in controlled crash scenarios.
Are there any engine issues with the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu?
Yes, there are notable engine issues reported for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu, with 14 direct engine complaints and many more under powertrain. These include sudden power loss, stalling, hesitation, reduced power, and problems with the brake booster vacuum pump that can damage the camshaft and timing chain.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: While the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu has good crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant reported issues with the powertrain and electrical system, including sudden power loss and the 'Shift to Park' malfunction. Ensure all recalls, especially the seat belt recall, have been addressed, and consider a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on these known problem areas.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Chevrolet Malibu
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu. The data includes 182 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 6 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 4 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.