2021 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Report

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu presents a mixed safety profile. While its NHTSA crash test ratings are generally strong, with a 4-star overall rating, 5-star frontal, and 4-star side and rollover ratings, the vehicle has accumulated 62 complaints, including 1 reported injury, despite no reported crashes or fires. A significant concern arises from two recalls issued by GM. One recall addresses improperly welded driver's seat cushion frames, which could compromise driver restraint in a crash. The second recall pertains to improperly secured rear seat belt retractors, increasing injury risk for rear passengers. These recalls directly impact fundamental occupant safety systems. Analysis of the complaint data reveals a prominent pattern of issues related to the 'POWER TRAIN' (13 complaints) and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' (6 complaints, plus 5 under 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER'). Many complaints describe the vehicle failing to recognize it's in park, leading to inability to shut off the vehicle, battery drain, and concerns about unintended rolling. Several complaints also detail instances of the vehicle losing power, stalling, or hesitating to accelerate, often accompanied by check engine lights. These power train and electrical issues, while not directly linked to crashes in the provided data, pose significant safety risks by potentially stranding drivers or causing unexpected vehicle behavior in traffic. Specific examples from complaints include the car stalling at a dangerous intersection, transmission failing to engage properly with grinding sounds, and the vehicle losing power while driving, causing other cars to swerve. The 'Shift to Park' issue is particularly frequent, with multiple owners reporting the vehicle not recognizing it's in park, preventing full shutdown and raising concerns about unintended movement. The combination of strong crash test performance with notable mechanical and electrical reliability concerns, compounded by two safety recalls, suggests that while the Malibu performs well in controlled crash scenarios, its operational reliability and potential for unexpected failures warrant careful consideration.

Our recommendation: While offering good crash protection, potential buyers should be aware of the significant power train and electrical system complaints, particularly the 'Shift to Park' issue, and ensure all two safety recalls have been addressed.