What is the recall on the 2018 Chevy Malibu?
There isn’t a single recall that applies to every 2018 Malibu. Over the years, multiple safety campaigns have been issued for different VIN ranges and issues. To know the exact recall status for a specific car, you must check the vehicle’s VIN against official recall databases. This guide explains how recalls work, the kinds of issues that have prompted Malibu recalls, and how to verify your car’s status. Information is current through November 2025.
How to determine the recalls affecting your 2018 Malibu
Use these steps to identify whether your vehicle is impacted by an open or past recall and what action to take.
- Look up your VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall page. Entering the VIN will show any active or past campaigns tied to your car and their status.
- Visit the GM Owner Center and sign in to view Safety Recalls by VIN. The portal will list campaigns, required actions, and any recommended steps.
- Contact a local GM dealer with your VIN to confirm open recalls and schedule free service if needed. Dealers can verify the exact campaigns tied to your car and arrange repairs at no cost.
- Review any recall notification letters or emails you may have received from GM or your dealer. These communications often include campaign numbers and scheduling instructions.
- Keep your contact information up to date with GM and the dealer so you receive future recall notices promptly.
Recalls can be added or closed as investigations progress, so it’s important to verify the current status using official sources for the most accurate information.
Common recall topics affecting Malibu models
Historically, the Malibu has been subject to recalls in several broad safety categories that recur across GM vehicles. The topics below reflect the kinds of issues that have triggered Malibu campaigns over time. Always check the VIN for the exact campaigns that apply to your car.
- Fuel system and engine management issues, including recalls related to fuel delivery, pressure regulation, or related components that could affect performance or stalling.
- Airbags and inflators, including campaigns tied to Takata inflators and other airbag-related safety fixes that require replacement or reconfiguration.
- Transmission and shifting components, such as issues with shifters, parking gear engagement, or software that could affect transmission behavior.
- Steering and braking systems, including power steering assist, steering column concerns, ABS, and related electronic control modules.
- Electrical systems and wiring, with recalls for harnesses, modules, or sensors that could impact lights, indicators, airbags, or powertrain operation.
These categories illustrate common risk areas identified in Malibu campaigns, but the exact recall for any given 2018 Malibu depends on its VIN and the campaigns currently or previously associated with it.
What to expect during a recall service
When a recall is active for your Malibu, repairs are typically performed at no cost at an authorized dealer. The service may involve component replacements, software updates, or diagnostic testing, and the duration can vary depending on the campaign and parts availability. Bring your VIN and any recall notices to the appointment so the technician can pull up the precise campaigns that apply to your car.
Summary
To determine whether your 2018 Chevy Malibu is under a recall, check the VIN against official sources such as NHTSA’s Recall Lookup and GM’s Owner Center, and contact a GM dealer for confirmation and scheduling. Recall statuses change as investigations progress, so ongoing verification is important. If a recall is found, you are entitled to free repairs at an authorized dealership. By staying informed and acting promptly, Malibu owners can ensure their vehicle safety and compliance with current recalls.
