2014 Chevrolet Malibu

The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan offering a blend of comfort and fuel efficiency. Available engines included a 2.5L inline-4 producing 196 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 259 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Malibu’s comfortable ride and quiet cabin. Common complaints include concerns about long-term reliability and some issues with the infotainment system.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners report excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil additions between changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings and potential engine knocking if the oil level drops too low.
  • Solution: Possible solutions include replacing the valve stem seals or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Misfires
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires can cause rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light to illuminate. The cause may be due to faulty ignition coils, spark plugs, or fuel injectors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause of the misfire, followed by replacement of the faulty part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported premature turbocharger failure. Symptoms can include loss of power, unusual noises from the engine (whining or screeching), and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement is the typical solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The HPFP can fail, leading to difficulty starting, rough running, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: HPFP replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners experience harsh or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Slipping between gears, or a delay in engagement can also occur.
  • Solution: A software update, transmission fluid flush, or valve body replacement may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, a transmission rebuild or replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter issues can manifest as shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, particularly during lockup.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners may hear clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. This may be due to worn or failed strut mounts.
  • Solution: Strut mount replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system can experience freezing, lagging, and intermittent screen blackouts. Bluetooth connectivity problems are also reported.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the head unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with rapid battery drain, even when the vehicle is not in use. This could be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the draw, followed by repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture can build up inside the headlight housings, causing condensation.
  • Solution: Replacement or resealing of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Air Conditioning Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions include weak airflow or no cold air coming from the vents. The AC compressor, condenser, or other components may fail.
  • Solution: Leak tests, compressor replacement, or other repairs based on the diagnosis.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate, sometimes intermittently. This can be caused by a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Window motor or regulator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu, while praised for its comfort, can be prone to certain issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption (2.5L) and turbocharger failures (2.0T) can be expensive. Transmission issues are a concern across both engine options. Electrical issues with the infotainment system are common and can be frustrating. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission replacements, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and thoroughly inspect any used 2014 Malibu before purchasing.