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What are the complaints on a 2013 Chevy Malibu?

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu has a mixed reputation among owners and reviewers. The most frequently cited issues revolve around the automatic transmission and various electrical/interior annoyances. Overall reliability for this model year sits in the middle of its class, with some cars performing well and others showing trouble when maintenance is neglected.

Beyond generalized complaints, buyers should consider vehicle history, maintenance records, and VIN-specific recall data. This article synthesizes common issues reported by owners, service bulletins, and consumer research to help readers gauge what to watch for when evaluating a used Malibu from 2013.

What owners report most often

Below is a snapshot of the categories most commonly cited by Malibu owners from the 2013 model year, drawn from consumer reviews and service records.

Transmission concerns: Reports of rough shifting, hesitations, shuddering, or occasional slipping with the 6-speed automatic transmission. Some cases have been addressed with software updates or replacements under warranty.

Engine performance and fuel economy quirks: Some drivers note reduced fuel efficiency or perceived sluggish acceleration, particularly with the smaller 2.5-liter engine option; misfire or hesitation symptoms have also been reported in a few vehicles.

Electrical and infotainment glitches: Issues with power windows, door locks, dashboard warning lights, and infotainment systems that reset or freeze during use.

Interior and comfort complaints: Cabin rattles, door seal gaps, wind/road noise at highway speeds, and wear in trim or seating in certain trims or with higher mileage.

Summary: Transmission behavior and interior/electrical nuisances are the most frequently cited trouble spots among 2013 Malibu owners. Not every car experiences these problems, and many issues are resolved with maintenance or warranty work.

Mechanical and electrical issues in detail

Transmission and driveline

Transmission-related concerns are the most discussed category. Some owners report rough or delayed shifts, shuddering at low speeds, and occasional hesitations during acceleration. In certain cases, technicians have identified software updates or hardware replacements (such as valve bodies or torque converters) as fixes under warranty or service campaigns.

When evaluating a used 2013 Malibu, a test drive should specifically note whether shifts are smooth, whether the transmission responds promptly, and if any abnormal sounds or surges occur during gear changes.

Engine performance and fuel economy

Engine-related complaints tend to focus on acceleration responsiveness and fuel economy, with some drivers experiencing less-than-expected mileage compared with EPA estimates or prior experiences. Potential contributors include ignition, fuel delivery, and air intake systems, all of which can be addressed with routine maintenance and component replacements as needed.

Prospective buyers should review service records for spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and regular oil changes, and consider a compression or diagnostic scan if symptoms appear during a test drive.

Electrical and interior systems

A subset of Malibu owners report glitches in electrical components and interior systems, such as power windows, door locks, climate control, and infotainment interfaces. In some cases, issues are resolved with software updates or component replacements under warranty.

During purchase, check that all interior electronics operate correctly and that no warning lights remain illuminated after a full system check.

What to check when buying a used 2013 Malibu

Used-car checklist for the Malibu

To help prospective buyers, here is a practical checklist of items to verify before purchasing a 2013 Malibu. This list emphasizes areas that commonly show wear or require service in this model year.

Transmission history: Look for records of fluid changes, software updates, valve body work, or torque converter replacements. Have a qualified technician perform a transmission test drive to assess shift quality.

Engine health: Review oil-change history, listen for unusual engine noises, and consider a diagnostic scan to detect misfires or fuel-system issues. Check for consistent fuel economy and smooth idling.

Electrical and infotainment: Test all electronic features, including power windows, door locks, lighting, climate control, and the infotainment system. Note any intermittent resets or warning lights.

Interior and comfort: Inspect seating, trim, and seal areas for wear or rattles. Listen for questionable wind or road noise at highway speeds during a test drive.

Recall and service campaigns: Verify VIN against the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall database and GM's recall/service campaigns site to confirm open or completed campaigns.

Conclusion: A thorough pre-purchase inspection that focuses on transmission behavior, engine health, and electrical-system reliability will help identify cars that may require costly repairs later.

Recalls, safety notices, and reliability context

Official recalls and safety notices can affect a specific VIN, so verifying exact campaigns for a given Malibu is essential. Always cross-check the vehicle’s VIN with authoritative databases before purchase or financing decisions.

Notes on recalls and reliability: While some 2013 Malibu units may be free of major issues, others may have been affected by driveability and electrical concerns seen in the model year. Reliability ratings for this generation generally place it in the middle of its midsize sedan peers, with proper maintenance significantly improving long-term outcomes.

VIN-specific recalls: Use the NHTSA recall database and GM’s recall lookup to confirm any open campaigns for the exact vehicle you are considering.

Software and service campaigns: GM frequently issues software updates that can improve transmission behavior and other systems; ensure these updates have been applied when applicable.

Conclusion: For any used 2013 Malibu, VIN-specific recall status and a complete service history are critical to assessing true condition and future repair needs.

Bottom line

The 2013 Malibu offers a comfortable ride and roomy interior, but potential buyers should be aware of the more frequently reported issues around the 6-speed automatic transmission and certain electrical/interior annoyances. With diligent maintenance, attentive pre-purchase checks, and attention to recall status, many 2013 Malibus can provide reliable service. As with any used car, the history matters most.

Summary

In short, the most common complaints about the 2013 Chevy Malibu center on transmission behavior, electrical and interior reliability, and occasional engine/fuel-economy concerns. Prospective buyers should obtain a detailed maintenance history, perform a thorough test drive, and verify VIN-specific recall status to gauge overall condition and avoid costly repairs down the road.

What year of Chevy Malibu should I stay away from?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Malibu include the fifth-generation (1998-2003) and some specific later models like the 2011, 2014, and 2016-2019 due to common issues. The 1998-2003 models had frequent cooling system and electrical problems, while the 2011 faced airbag recalls and power steering failures. Newer models like the 2014 experienced transmission and engine problems, and the 2016-2019 years were prone to issues with power reduction and turbochargers.

This video discusses common issues with the 2016-2022 Chevy Malibu: 1mFixITYouTube · Mar 29, 2024
Years with major issues

1998–2003 (Fifth Generation): These early models are frequently cited for problems with the cooling system, electrical components, and steering/suspension.
2010–2011: Common complaints include transmission and electrical issues, power steering failures, and engine stalling.
2014: Experienced significant problems, particularly with its transmission, engine, and electrical systems.
2015: Reports of engine stalling and other mechanical concerns were common.
2016–2019: These models are linked to a defect causing "engine power is reduced" messages, which can lead to a loss of acceleration due to a faulty electronic throttle body or accelerator pedal sensor. Turbocharger failures were also reported in 2016 models.

Other model years to be cautious about

2013: Known for issues with HVAC systems, infotainment glitches, and battery drain.
2020–2021: Had recalls related to rear seat belt retractors.
2022: Also flagged by Consumer Reports as a model to avoid.

General advice

When purchasing a used Malibu, it is essential to get a vehicle history report and have a trusted mechanic perform a thorough inspection, especially for any model years you are considering.

What is the biggest problem with Chevy Malibu?

The most common problems with the Chevy Malibu include engine and transmission issues, particularly in certain model years like the 2016, along with frequent reports of electrical problems such as issues with power steering and ignition systems. Other recurring problems include HVAC malfunctions, oil consumption, and fuel system issues like a faulty fuel pump or sensor, with specific models having unique or more pronounced complaints.

This video discusses common problems with the Chevy Malibu, including ignition lock cylinder issues and power steering problems: 1mSimple Mechanic AdviceYouTube · Nov 27, 2024
Engine and transmission

Stalling and power loss: Some models experience sudden engine stalling or loss of power, sometimes related to the accelerator position sensor or other engine components.
Sluggish performance: Hesitation during acceleration can occur due to issues like a high-pressure fuel pump rollover pin shifting out of place.
Oil consumption: Some models, such as the 2013 and 2016, have been reported to have high oil consumption.
Rough shifting: Transmission problems, including rough shifting, are reported across various model years.

Electrical

Power steering failure: Electric power steering systems can fail, sometimes requiring replacement of the steering column or the entire power steering unit.
Ignition system problems: Issues with the ignition system, such as a failed Passlock sensor, can lead to a "no-start" condition.
Battery drain: Some models are prone to recurring battery drain.
Instrument panel and lights: Problems can include dashboard lights not turning on or faulty instrument panel dimming modules.

How reliable is a 2013 Chevy Malibu?

As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and quality to be its strongest features and value to be its weakest. 157 out of 231 of owners (68% of them) rank the 2013 Malibu five out of five stars. Overall, consumers seem aligned in their opinions of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu.

What is the class action lawsuit for the 2013 Chevy Malibu?

A major class-action lawsuit filed in July 2022 alleges that 2013-2022 Chevy Malibu models have a defective cam-driven brake vacuum pump that can cause brake failure and other engine damage. A separate, earlier lawsuit filed in 2019 alleged an "engine power reduced" defect in certain Malibus due to a faulty pedal position sensor.
Brake vacuum pump defect lawsuit (2013-2022 models)

Allegation: A defective cam-driven brake vacuum pump can fail, leading to a loss of braking ability, a hard brake pedal, and increased stopping distances.
Additional damage: The failure can also damage other engine components, such as the camshaft, because the pump is mechanically driven by it.
Cause: The lawsuit claims the failure is caused by debris or oil sludge clogging the vacuum pump's oil inlet screen, preventing proper lubrication.
Case filed: Johnson v. General Motors LLC.

Engine power reduced defect lawsuit (earlier models)

Allegation: A defect in the accelerator pedal position sensor can cause the vehicle to suddenly enter "Engine Power Reduced" mode at highway speeds.
Cause: The lawsuit claims that the sensor was faulty, causing a dangerous and unexpected loss of power.
Case filed: Rothschild v. General Motors LLC.

Note: The Johnson v. General Motors LLC case is the one most prominently associated with the "2013 Chevy Malibu" in recent years, due to the brake issue affecting that year and many subsequent models. The earlier lawsuit over the power reduction defect has faced legal challenges and dismissals, according to a report from Class Action Lawsuits.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.