2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Introduction

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan that comes in five trim levels: L, LS, RS, LT, and Premier. It is available with two engine options: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

People like the Malibu for its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and user-friendly infotainment system. However, some people have complained about the car’s lack of power, especially with the 1.5-liter engine.

Engine

• 1.5-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine burns excessive amounts of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. This can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replace piston rings and valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Timing Chain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain may stretch or fail, causing the engine to lose power or stall. This can also lead to catastrophic engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain and related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 2.0-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine
  • No Significant Engine Issues Found

Transmission

• Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT)
  • Hesitation and Jerking
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or jerks when shifting gears.
    • Solution: Update transmission software or replace transmission components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Premature Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission fails prematurely, requiring a complete replacement.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $4,000 - $6,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Significant Suspension Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery discharges prematurely, even when the car is not in use.
  • Solution: Replace the battery or diagnose and repair electrical system issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Wiring Harness
  • Description/Symptoms: The wiring harness may develop shorts or breaks, causing electrical problems such as flickering lights or loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Significant Exterior Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard Rattle
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard rattles or makes noises, especially on rough roads.
  • Solution: Secure or replace loose components in the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The climate control system may malfunction, causing problems with heating or air conditioning.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace climate control components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has several potential issues, but they vary in severity and cost. Some issues, such as battery discharge and dashboard rattle, are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix. However, more serious problems, such as engine failures and transmission problems, can be costly to repair. Overall, the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has a few potential issues to be aware of, but it is important to note that not all vehicles will experience these problems.