Is the 2017 Chevy Malibu a reliable car?
The 2017 Chevy Malibu is generally considered an average-reliability choice within the midsize sedan segment; it isn’t known for chronic, widespread failures, but some owners report issues that can affect long-term dependability. For a used example, it’s wise to review maintenance history and recall status carefully.
Reliability ratings from trusted sources
Industry reviews and consumer surveys typically rate the 2017 Malibu as middle-of-the-pack in reliability for its class. The following points summarize common takeaways from these sources:
- Consumer Reports generally places the Malibu in the average range for reliability in its class, with some owners reporting transmission and electrical issues in certain 2016–2017 examples.
- J.D. Power’s quality and reliability assessments place the Malibu in the mid-pack for its segment, reflecting typical wear-and-tear expectations for an aging used car.
- Edmunds and Car and Driver emphasize practicality and value, noting that reliability is acceptable but not outstanding for long-term ownership compared with leading midsize sedans.
In short, these sources describe the 2017 Malibu as an ordinary option in its class, with model-year nuances and routine maintenance playing a large role in real-world reliability.
Common issues reported by owners
Owner experiences vary, but several recurring themes appear in discussions about the 2017 Malibu. The list below highlights issues that have shown up in reviews and forums, though they aren’t universal:
- Transmission behavior: some owners report rough shifting or hesitation, particularly as the vehicle accrues mileage or when not properly serviced.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches: occasional touchscreen freezes, Bluetooth connectivity problems, and unrelated warning lights have been noted by a subset of owners.
- General wear items and comfort-focused concerns: typical aging components such as brakes, tires, and suspension parts can wear at a pace similar to other midsize sedans, contributing to maintenance costs over time.
Bottom line: these issues are not universal, but they reflect common trouble spots in some examples. A well-maintained 2017 Malibu can be reliable, while poorly maintained units may exhibit these symptoms more often.
What to check before buying a used 2017 Malibu
Before purchasing a used Malibu, prioritizing certain checks can reduce reliability risk and surprise costs. The following list outlines important steps to take during evaluation and inspection:
- Verify recall status and service history: use the vehicle’s VIN to check for open recalls and confirm that recommended repairs have been completed.
- Assess the transmission and fluid history: ask for maintenance records showing regular transmission service and fluid changes if applicable, and test-drive to observe shifting behavior.
- Inspect the engine and emissions components: look for oil leaks, unusual noises, and ensure the oil changes were performed on schedule.
- Evaluate brakes, tires, and suspension: check for even wear and listen for squeaks or vibrations during a test drive.
- Test electrical systems and infotainment: confirm that the touchscreen, Bluetooth, navigation, and climate controls all operate smoothly.
- Review maintenance and accident history: obtain a CARFAX/AutoCheck report to understand prior ownership, service, and any incidents.
Concluding: A thorough pre-purchase inspection, combined with a complete maintenance and recall history review, will help you gauge reliability risk and choose a well-cared-for 2017 Malibu.
Summary
Overall, the 2017 Chevy Malibu offers mid-pack reliability within the midsize sedan category. It isn’t renowned for extraordinary long-term dependability, but with diligent maintenance and careful buyer checks—especially for transmission health, electrical systems, and recall status—a used Malibu from this year can still be a solid, comfortable, and reasonably economical choice in its class.
