2012 Chevrolet Malibu

Vehicle Introduction: The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that offers a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder producing 190 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The available upgrades include a 3.6L V6 that generates 305 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 2.4L 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain offering 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Owners appreciate the Malibu’s spacious cabin, comfortable ride, and fuel-efficient engines. However, complaints have been raised about its lackluster handling, subpar interior materials, and transmission problems.

Engine

2.5L 4-cylinder

• Intake Manifold Runner Control Issues: The intake manifold runner control may fail, causing reduced engine power, rough idle, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runner control.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption: Some vehicles may experience excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the underlying cause of oil loss, such as worn piston rings or valve seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the severity of the issue (can range from $500+ to $2,000+)
  • Recalls: None Found

3.6L V6

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to timing chain slack and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems: Some vehicles may experience delayed or rough shifting, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Update transmission software or replace the transmission control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V442000 (Transmission Software Update)
• Premature Failure: In severe cases, the transmission may fail prematurely due to internal mechanical issues.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

• CVT Failure: The CVT may experience premature failure due to overheating or mechanical issues.
  • Solution: Replace the CVT.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure: The strut mounts may fail, leading to knocking or clunking noises, reduced suspension performance, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ per strut assembly
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Deterioration: The lower control arm bushings may deteriorate prematurely, causing vibration, uneven tire wear, and reduced stability.
  • Solution: Replace the lower control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues: Some vehicles may experience premature battery drain due to faulty electrical components or modules.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the underlying cause, such as a faulty alternator, starter, or electrical module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the affected component
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Corrosion: The door handles may corrode over time, causing them to stick or break.
  • Solution: Replace the affected door handles.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Bumper Cover Cracking: The rear bumper cover may crack or deform under stress, particularly in cold weather.
  • Solution: Replace the rear bumper cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking: The dashboard may develop cracks or warpage over time due to exposure to sunlight or temperature changes.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Seat Control Module Failure: The power seat control module may fail, preventing the adjustment of power seats.
  • Solution: Replace the power seat control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a comfortable and fuel-efficient sedan, but it is not without its issues. The most severe problems include transmission failure, intake manifold runner control issues, and excessive oil consumption. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and less expensive to fix. While the cost of repairs varies depending on the severity of the problem, owners can expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to over $5,000 for major repairs.