2017 Chevrolet Malibu

Introduction

The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Optional engines include a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.6-liter V6 producing 305 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

People like the Malibu for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available features. However, they dislike its lackluster performance, unrefined interior, and outdated infotainment system.

Engine

1.5-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may consume excessive oil, causing a drop in oil level and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace the piston rings and oil seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder

• No Issues Found

3.6-liter V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold gasket may fail, causing a vacuum leak and rough idle.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may delay shifts or shift harshly, causing a loss of power and a jolt.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission fluid and filter. If the issue persists, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Eight-Speed Automatic

• No Issues Found

Nine-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Fluid Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may leak fluid, causing a drop in fluid level and potential damage to the transmission.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the leak. Replace the transmission fluid and filter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mounts may fail, causing a knocking or rattling noise and a decrease in ride comfort.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the electrical component causing the drain. Replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Assembly Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlight assembly may fail, causing a loss of illumination at night.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, causing the air conditioning or heater to not work properly.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the faulty component within the climate control system, such as the blower motor, temperature sensor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu has several potential issues that can affect its reliability and performance. The most severe issues are related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. These issues can be expensive to fix, and some may require major repairs or replacements. While the Malibu has its positive attributes, it is important to be aware of these potential issues before purchasing or owning one.