Is the Chevy Malibu 2009 a good car?

Yes, the 2009 Malibu can be a sensible budget midsize sedan if you find a well-maintained example, though reliability is mixed and aging components can escalate maintenance costs as miles add up.

The 2009 Malibu, redesigned for 2008, aims to combine comfort, space and straightforward features in a practical package. This article reviews how it performs, what to watch for in maintenance, typical ownership costs, and practical tips for buying a used model that now sits firmly in the used-car market.

Performance and design

The Malibu offers a balance of comfort and practicality, with two main power options and a focus on a smooth ride for daily driving.

Engines

The 2009 Malibu was available with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a four-speed automatic, or a 3.5-liter V6 for stronger acceleration. The four-cylinder is generally quiet at highway speeds but may feel underpowered in older, fully loaded configurations, while the V6 provides more punch at the cost of fuel economy. Transmission behavior is typically adequate, though some owners report rough shifts as the car ages.

Ride and handling

Rides are typically smooth and comfortable, with ample rear-seat space and a roomy trunk (about 16 cubic feet). Steering is light and steering response is tuned for everyday driving, though the car can feel less composed in aggressive cornering compared with some newer rivals. Braking is generally adequate, with standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes and stability control on many trims.

Strengths

What buyers commonly cite as positives in the 2009 Malibu.

• Comfortable, roomy interior with supportive seating


• Calm highway ride and respectable cargo capacity


• Simple, intuitive controls and straightforward features


• Solid safety equipment for its class (multiple airbags, ABS, stability control)


• Competitive used-car pricing and relatively easy maintenance for a midsize sedan

These strengths make the Malibu a practical choice for families or daily commuters who value space and ease of use over sportiness or the latest tech.

Drawbacks

However, there are caveats to consider before buying a 2009 Malibu.

• Reliability is mixed; some cars experience transmission issues, rough shifting, or electronics aging with mileage


• Interior materials can feel less refined than newer rivals


• Fuel economy varies by engine and can be modest, especially with the V6


• Technology and features are dated by modern standards

As with any older used car, these drawbacks are more pronounced when the vehicle has high miles or a spotty maintenance history, so a thorough inspection is essential.

What to check when buying used

Before committing to a 2009 Malibu, inspect and verify the following to increase the chances of a reliable purchase.

• Comprehensive service history, especially for the transmission, cooling system, and regular maintenance


• VIN-based recall status and completed repairs; ensure a clean title with no flood or frame damage


• Engine condition: listen for unusual noises, check for oil leaks around seals and gaskets


• Transmission performance: smooth shifting, no slipping or hard engagement


• Suspension and brakes: check for excessive wear, unusual noises, vibration or pulsing


• Electrical systems: test lights, HVAC, radio, windows, and sensors

Getting a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic and a history report can help identify red flags before you buy.

Fuel economy and ownership costs

Estimate the running costs and MPG ranges you might expect from a 2009 Malibu, depending on engine and drivetrain.

• EPA-estimated fuel economy generally ranges from roughly 21-24 mpg city and 30-33 mpg highway for the four-cylinder version


• V6 models typically see lower economy, around 19-21 mpg city and 28-30 mpg highway


• Typical annual maintenance and repair costs for an older midsize sedan can vary but often fall in the range of $500-$900 per year, depending on use and condition

Keep in mind actual numbers depend on maintenance history, driving habits, and local fuel prices.

Bottom line

The Chevy Malibu 2009 offers practical comfort, ample space, and affordability in the used-car market, but prospective buyers should prioritize a thorough inspection and a well-documented maintenance history to mitigate potential reliability concerns.

Summary

For buyers seeking a budget-friendly, roomy family sedan with straightforward features, the 2009 Malibu can be a reasonable option when in good condition. Its strengths lie in comfort and value, while drawbacks include aging electronics and mixed reliability. A careful pre-purchase check and realistic expectations about ownership costs will help you decide if this model fits your needs.

Is the 2009 Chevy Malibu reliable?

The 2009 Chevy Malibu is considered a reliable midsize car with an average annual repair cost and lower-than-average ownership costs. It has a good overall reliability rating, but some owners report common issues, particularly with the blower motor resistor, fuel level sensor, and potential power steering problems. Despite these potential problems, many owners find it to be a satisfactory and dependable vehicle.
 
You can watch this video for a review of the 2008-2012 Chevy Malibu, which shares many components with the 2009 model: 1mTopLineRacerYouTube · Jun 30, 2024
Positive aspects

• Good reliability rating: The 2009 Malibu ranks well for its class, with a good reliability rating of 4.0 out of 5.0. 
• Lower ownership costs: It has a lower-than-average annual repair cost of $532. 
• Long lifespan: With proper maintenance, the Malibu can last between 150,000 and 250,000 miles, or even longer. 
• Good safety features: It received top safety ratings in crash tests, with standard features like anti-lock brakes, stability/traction control, and multiple airbags. 

Common problems

• Blower motor resistor: This can cause the AC and heat to only work on some fan settings. 
• Fuel level sensor: A faulty sensor can cause the fuel gauge to be inaccurate, and may be accompanied by a check engine light with codes P0455 or P0461. 
• Power steering: Some models have experienced power steering failures, and a safety recall for some models is a documented issue. 
• Ball joints: Worn ball joints can be a dangerous issue, sometimes requiring the replacement of the entire control arm. 

Things to consider

• When buying used, check the vehicle's history and have a mechanic inspect it for signs of the common problems mentioned above, especially power steering issues. 
• Regular maintenance, including oil changes, can help prevent long-term engine problems. 

What are the common problems for a 2009 Chevy Malibu?

Common problems reported for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu include issues with the electric power steering system, starting problems due to a failed Passlock sensor or ignition switch, and fuel gauge inaccuracies. Other recurring complaints include problems with the alternator, door lock actuators, and the oxygen sensor. 
Electrical and starting issues

• Electric power steering: The electric power steering system can fail, requiring a steering column replacement. This can result in very hard steering, which may be intermittent. 
• Passlock sensor: A failed Passlock sensor can cause a "no start" condition due to an anti-theft system fault. 
• Ignition switch: The ignition switch can fail, also leading to a "no start" situation. 
• Alternator: A failing alternator can cause slow windows, a dead battery, and flickering lights. 

Engine and emissions

• Fuel gauge: The fuel gauge may not read correctly, sometimes accompanied by a "Check Engine" light with codes like P0455 or P0461. 
• Oxygen sensor: A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to slow acceleration. 
• Engine knocking: Some models may experience engine knocking, often caused by worn rod bearings or low oil pressure. This can be a serious issue requiring engine repair. 

Other common problems

• Door lock actuators: The door lock actuators are known to fail, leading to problems with locking or unlocking the doors remotely.
• Wiper motor: The windshield wiper motor can fail, causing the wipers to work only sometimes.
• Sway bar: A loose sway bar can cause a rattling sound from underneath the car and may require replacement. 

How long does a 2009 Chevy Malibu last?

A well-maintained 2009 Chevy Malibu typically has a life expectancy of 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with many owners reporting their cars lasting well over 200,000 miles. Factors like regular maintenance, driving habits, and avoiding potential issues like problems with the power steering, transmission, or ignition switch will influence how long the vehicle lasts.
 
Factors affecting lifespan

• Maintenance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for reaching the higher end of the lifespan. 
• Driving habits: Aggressive driving can shorten the life of the engine and transmission. 
• Common issues: Be aware of potential problems to address them before they become major issues: 
  • Electric power steering system 
  • Passlock sensor causing "no start" issues 
  • Ignition switch failure leading to "no start" 
  • Fuel gauge and Check Engine light (P0455/P0461 codes) 
• Recalls: Check for any open recalls that may affect your vehicle. 

Tips for extending life expectancy

• Perform regular oil changes: This is one of the most critical maintenance tasks for engine longevity. 
• Address issues promptly: Don't ignore warning lights like the Check Engine light, as it can indicate a serious problem. 
• Follow the maintenance schedule: Adhering to the service intervals for other components like the transmission, brakes, and timing belt (if applicable) will prevent premature wear.

What year is Malibu the most reliable?

The most reliable Chevrolet Malibu years are generally considered to be the 2015 and models from the 2020-2024 seventh-generation lineup, which have received consistently high reliability ratings. Other years that are often cited as good options include the 2010-2012 range.
 
Most reliable years

• 2015 Malibu: This model year scored 92/100 on J.D. Power's Quality & Reliability rating, placing it in the top tier for reliability. It also featured advanced technology, such as 4G LTE with OnStar. 
• 2020-2024 Malibu: This range includes the most recent models and features a modern infotainment system, safety technology like adaptive cruise control, and multiple engine options, including a hybrid. 
• 2010-2012 Malibu: Part of the seventh generation, these models are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2012 model year is often highlighted as being a particularly good value. 

Years to be cautious of

• 2008-2012 Malibu: While the 2010-2012 models were reliable, the entire 2008-2012 range had known issues with steering, engine problems, and electrical glitches. 
• 2013-2014 Malibu: These years introduced a new engine and transmission but some reports suggest they may not be as reliable as the later models. 

General advice

• Always check a specific car's maintenance history before buying.
• Consider getting a professional inspection to check for potential problems.
• Consult resources like J.D. Power or CarComplaints.com for specific model year reliability ratings.