2017 Chevrolet Malibu

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, categorized by major components and engine/transmission options. The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu offered a blend of fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, appealing to many buyers. Engine options included a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 (160 hp, 184 lb-ft of torque), a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 (250 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque) and a 1.8L hybrid option. Most trims came with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.0L engine was paired with a 9-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the car’s spacious interior and smooth handling but often cite electrical issues and transmission concerns as drawbacks.

Category: Engine

1.5L Turbocharged Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as the “low oil” light illuminating or noticing a significant drop on the dipstick.
  • Solution: In some cases, piston ring replacement has been performed. Other potential causes, such as PCV valve issues, should also be investigated.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (piston ring replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, unusual noises (whining or screeching) from the engine bay, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Category: Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 1.5L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Hesitation when shifting into drive or reverse.
  • Solution: Transmission flush, software update or, in severe cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (flush), $100 - $200 (software update), $800 - $1,500+ (valve body), $3,000 - $5,000+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

9-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.0L Engine)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly when the transmission is cold. The car may also have difficulty finding the right gear at certain speeds.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush, software update or, in some cases, valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (flush), $100 - $200 (software update), $800 - $1,500+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Suspension

• No Issues Found

Category: Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The MyLink infotainment system can freeze, become unresponsive, or experience glitching. Bluetooth connectivity problems, screen blackouts, and navigation malfunctions have also been reported.
  • Solution: Software update or infotainment system replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (software update), $800 - $1,500+ (replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain, requiring frequent jump starts or battery replacement. This can be due to a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This might involve replacing a faulty module (e.g., Body Control Module (BCM), radio, etc.) or fixing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Exterior

• No Issues Found

Category: Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heated seats stop working.
  • Solution: Heating element or control module replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Category: Other

• No Issues Found

Summary:

The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu presents a mix of potential issues. Engine issues, particularly with the 1.5L turbo (oil consumption, turbo failure), can be costly. Transmission issues (harsh shifting) are a common complaint, and electrical problems (infotainment glitches, battery drain) are frequent and can range in cost depending on the source. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, like engine or transmission replacement, can be significant expenses. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing issues.