2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, categorized by component, engine/transmission option, and including detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated costs where available.

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu represented a significant redesign, aiming for improved fuel efficiency, space, and technology. Engine options included a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 producing 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 generating 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.8L hybrid option. The 1.5L engine was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.0L engine received an 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid used a specialized electronically controlled transmission. Owners often praised the Malibu’s sleek styling, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common dislikes included some reports of unrefined engine performance, particularly with the 1.5L engine, and concerns about long-term reliability.

Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4 (LUV/LUV)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms include low oil level warnings, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage if oil levels are not maintained.
  • Solution: In some cases, a revised PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve has been known to reduce oil consumption. More severe cases may require piston ring replacement or engine replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (PCV Valve) - $3,000+ (Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature turbocharger failure, resulting in loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and potentially engine damage.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (LTG)

• No Issues Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (MH8) (Paired with 1.5L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, especially when cold or during acceleration. Hesitation when shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill, software update of the transmission control module (TCM), or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (8L45) (Paired with 2.0L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or delayed shifting, especially when cold or during acceleration. Hesitation when shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and fill using the updated Mobil Dexron HP Transmission Fluid, software update of the transmission control module (TCM), or valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system can freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This affects navigation, audio, and climate control functions.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $800+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use for extended periods. Can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Identify parasitic drain sources (e.g., faulty modules, lights staying on), replace the battery, or repair/replace the affected component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (battery) - $500+ (diagnostics and component repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture accumulates inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or attempting to reseal the existing housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (headlight assembly replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has some noteworthy issues, particularly concerning the 1.5L engine’s oil consumption and the transmission’s shifting behavior. Electrical glitches with the infotainment system and battery drain also appear. While some problems are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, engine or transmission repairs can be costly. Overall, a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to assess the condition of the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.