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The 2012 Malibu is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.
The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2012 Chevrolet Malibu owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.
Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
"Known problem for chevy, difficult and expensive to fix"
Anonymous A., OH (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.
"Trunk won't open"
Anonymous, MI (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LS 2.4-L 4 Cyl)"The fuel pump stopped working now and then."
Anonymous, WI (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LS 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.
"Headlight bulbs impossible to replace"
Anonymous, IL (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LT 2.4-L 4 Cyl)"Quit working so have to use key"
Anonymous A., OH (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.
""Intermittent loss of power steering, mostly upon starting car. Repaired by mechanic in March 2025, requiring replacing steering torque sensor, at a cost of $940.""
Anonymous A., CT (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LS 2.4-L 4 Cyl)Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.
Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.
Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.
Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.
AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.
Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.
Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.
Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.
""The vehicle began making quite a bit of noise while running, especially at slower speeds. My local GM dealer identified the problem but seemed reluctant to fix it. After it had persisted for a couple of months, I took it to a different dealer and they went ahead and fixed the problem, costing about $1800. I was able to schedule the repair when I was going out of town, so I was not without my vehicle enough to need a loaner or rental.""
Anonymous, IL (2012 Chevrolet Malibu LT 2.4-L 4 Cyl)