What is the most common problems with the 2015 Chevy Malibu?
The most frequent issues reported for the 2015 Malibu center on the transmission, with rough shifting and shudder on the six-speed automatic; oil consumption concerns on the 2.5L engine; electrical and infotainment glitches; and occasional steering or climate-control problems. Reliability varies by vehicle history and maintenance, but these areas appear most often in consumer reports and owner discussions.
A closer look at the data from owner surveys, watchdog reviews, and recall records shows that problems tend to cluster in a few systems. This article lays out the main categories, what owners report, and practical steps for prospective buyers and current owners to monitor and address them.
Mechanical and transmission concerns
When it comes to propulsion and shifting, drivers point to recurring symptoms that appear as the Malibu accumulates miles. The following items are the most commonly cited mechanical issues related to the drivetrain and engine performance.
- Rough or delayed shifting with the 6‑speed automatic
- Transmission shudder or feel of slipping during acceleration
- Occasional transmission hesitation or engagement problems
- Oil consumption reported on some 2.5L engines, potentially leading to low oil levels if not monitored
These mechanical concerns can be costly to repair, especially if they progress without timely maintenance. If you own or consider a 2015 Malibu, reviewing the service history for transmission work and monitoring oil usage is prudent.
Electrical and infotainment concerns
Electrical systems and the infotainment setup have generated a notable level of complaints, particularly in cars equipped with the MyLink system and early touchscreens. The issues below are among the most frequently reported by owners.
- Infotainment screen freezing, rebooting, or slow response
- Bluetooth connectivity or USB pairing dropouts
- Unexplained battery drain or intermittent electrical faults
- Instrument cluster display glitches or warning lights coming on without clear cause
Electrical problems can range from inconvenient to safety-related if critical information fails to display. Software updates, recalls, and timely dealer attention often help address persistent faults.
Other concerns and recalls
Beyond powertrain and electronics, other areas sometimes highlighted by owners include climate control, steering feel, and general reliability. The best defense is to check for open recalls and service campaigns tied to the specific vehicle.
- Climate control or air conditioning issues, including weak cooling or heater performance
- Power steering assist problems that make steering feel heavy or inconsistent at low speeds
- General electrical fault codes or sensor warnings triggering dash lights
- Open recalls related to safety systems (airbags, fuel system, etc.) depending on vehicle history
Where recalls exist and service campaigns have been completed, owners are typically better positioned to avoid ongoing problems. Verifying recall status via the VIN and ensuring necessary work is performed is advisable.
What to check when evaluating a used 2015 Malibu
Before making a purchase or planning maintenance, use a structured checklist to identify existing problems and reduce risk. The following steps help verify problem areas reported for the model year.
- Test drive to notice transmission behavior: shifts, delays, or shudder
- Check oil level and condition; look for signs of excessive consumption or leaks
- Inspect electrical components: infotainment, climate controls, lighting, and instrument cluster
- Assess steering stability and responsiveness; listen for any unusual noises
- Review recall and service history using the VIN; confirm all campaigns are completed
Thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic and confirmation of recall closures can help buyers avoid unexpected repairs and ensure better long-term reliability.
Summary
Across reported experiences, the 2015 Chevy Malibu’s most common problems cluster around transmission and engine performance, electrical and infotainment glitches, and occasional steering or climate-control issues. While some cars experience these problems more than others, proper maintenance, up-to-date software and recalls, and careful VIN-based history checks significantly influence overall reliability. Prospective buyers should verify recall status, review service records, and perform a comprehensive test drive to gauge the likelihood of future repairs.
