2023 Chevrolet Malibu Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Driver assistance2524.8%
- Engine1817.8%
- Electrical1211.9%
- Fuel system87.9%
- Airbags87.9%
- Powertrain (other)87.9%
- Visibility55.0%
- Steering55.0%
- Brakes44.0%
- Other / unspecified22.0%
- Body & structure22.0%
- Tires & wheels22.0%
- Suspension11.0%
- Exterior lighting11.0%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was inquiring about the front suspension and frame work is there a recall. My car is unstable in the front like frame is unbalanced
camera blurred when backing up been having a recall no remedy or paper sent out for it yet
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was constantly illuminated, and the message "Engine Reduced Power" was displayed while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the turbo charger assembly had failed and needed to be replaced. The contact declined to pay for the repair. The manufacturer was notified of the failure by phone and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The contact continued driving the vehicle, and the failure persisted. As per the manufacturer’s guidance, the vehicle was taken to Maxie Price Chevrolet Atlanta (3600 Atlanta Hwy, Loganville, GA 30052), and the turbocharger assembly failure was confirmed, and the contact was informed that the part needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the issue but denied assistance because the vehicle was not included in Special Coverage Program: N252508360. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
I am reporting a potential safety concern involving the brake vacuum pump in Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. I have seen multiple reports from owners describing vacuum pump failures, brakes becoming difficult to press, and brakes reportedly stopping working. Some owners have reported having to replace their vacuum pumps multiple times, while others have described serious safety incidents involving brake problems. I am concerned that these reports may indicate a recurring safety defect that could put drivers, passengers, and other road users at risk. A vacuum pump failure that affects brake assist could make it difficult to stop a vehicle safely and potentially cause a serious crash. I became aware of these reported safety concerns on October 13, 2026, after seeing multiple Chevrolet Malibu owners discuss these problems. This specific vacuum pump failure has not happened to my vehicle personally. I am submitting this report to bring these concerns to NHTSA’s attention and request an investigation into whether the affected Chevrolet Malibu model years have a safety defect that warrants a recall to prevent further crashes, injuries, or deaths.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
my back up camera stopped working it’s just a black screen now
Subject: Safety Complaint and Request for Assistance – 2023 Chevrolet Malibu Backup Camera Recall To Whom It May Concern, I am the owner of a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu that has been affected by the backup camera recall. The malfunctioning backup camera creates a serious safety hazard for me, my passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers. The backup camera intermittently fails to display properly when the vehicle is placed in reverse. When this occurs, I am unable to clearly see objects, vehicles, or people behind my vehicle as intended by the safety system. This significantly increases the risk of an accident, especially in parking lots, residential areas, and other locations where pedestrians may be present. I purchased this vehicle with the expectation that all safety systems would function reliably. The ongoing issue has caused me concern and has reduced my confidence in the vehicle’s ability to operate safely. A backup camera is an important safety feature, and any failure of this system places drivers and the public at unnecessary risk. Given the seriousness of this recall and the inconvenience and safety concerns it has caused, I respectfully request that Chevrolet review my situation and consider available remedies, including replacement of the vehicle, a vehicle trade-in assistance program, or another appropriate resolution that ensures my safety and restores my confidence in the product. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a prompt response regarding the options available to address this safety concern. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] 2023 Chevrolet Malibu INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop or while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated and jerked while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the used car dealer where the vehicle was purchased, but the contact was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
This all started when i had my car serviced for an oil change and began to hear some clicking sounds when I would start my vehicle. The fuel sealant is defective, the fuel caps were corroded, leaks oil, and causes the turbo on the engine to lag. I found this out as I was driving and tried to make a turn. When pressing the accelerator the vehicle lagged almost causing me to be involved in an accident on more than one occassion. When conducting on-line research I am not the only owner that has experienced this issue. It would appear that Chevrolet is aware that this is happening in its turbo models. I have an extended warranty that was purchased through the dealership. This issue caused them to replace the fuel sealant, the fuel caps, and the fuel pump. However, 2 weeks later my vehicle is still leaking a significant amount of oil. When I took the vehicle to be serviced, I was told that the sealant is broken again and gaskets have to be replaced. Upon researching this online other owners have experienced the same issues. I did share my online research with the service technicians. Their reactions were dismissive.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
October 7, 2026 this vehicle hydroplaned and I lost control of the vehicle. To the best of my knowledge, the steering wheel locked and when attempted to step on the brakes, no braking occurred. The vehicle slid into grass which then hit the guard railing on the interstate. After being inspected by collision shop techs, they have reason to believe the airbag sensor defected or was not installed to signal the airbags to deploy. The driver side door panel airbag did attempt to deploy but was unsuccessful.
I own a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu with an open safety recall. General Motors/dealership has refused to repair the recall. The vehicle has also had multiple safety-related problems, including Service ESC warnings, jerking/poor acceleration, Service Safety Restraint System and airbag warnings, and a “Steering Assist is Reduced, Drive with Care” warning. On or about XXX, while driving, I experienced what felt like the brakes, wheel, and steering system locking up. I was unable to safely control the vehicle, resulting in a crash. During the incident, my head struck the steering wheel and I injured my hand, which has visible scars. No police were involved. I have a [XXX] daughter. She was NOT in the vehicle during the crash, but I do not feel safe transporting her in this vehicle because of the serious safety issues and what happened. The vehicle was later inspected through GM/dealership channels. I was told no diagnostic codes were found, and GM declined assistance. The dealership also stated the vehicle needs repairs related to the crash, including a passenger presence module. I am especially concerned that the open safety recall remains unrepaired. I have photographs of the vehicle damage and photographs of the scars on my hand. I can also provide my communications with GM and information regarding the recall. I am requesting that NHTSA review these safety concerns and the refusal to repair the open recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the vehicle failed to turn off. The “Shift to Park” message was displayed. Additionally, after the vehicle was parked and the engine was turned off, the vehicle independently started. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was towed to the dealer as per the manufacturer's request. However, the vehicle was not inspected. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where the portable diagnostic tester was attached to the vehicle. The diagnostic machine retrieved DTC: U0073, P0700, P25A2, U0101,U0129,U0146, U18D5, U18D7, U2413, U0073-00, U0100-00, U0140-00, U0151-00, U026A-00, U0420-00 and U0100. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and several cases were filed. The contact was informed that the vehicle would be scheduled to be towed to the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 3,000.
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving from a complete stop or while driving at various speeds, the vehicle hesitated and jerked while depressing the accelerator pedal. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the used car dealer where the vehicle was purchased, but the contact was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
My rear view camera is fuzzy and today it went out completely and the screen was black. Sometimes it shows what’s behind the car when I’m backing and then suddenly the screen goes black and I’m unable to see anything. It just started today 6/15/26z . I believe this is a safety hazard and could cause an accident while backing up putting myself and others at risk . There was no warning before this happened, I just noticed the screen was fuzzy on one side, then the fuzziness would go to the other side of the screen . I wasn’t sure what was happening until it completely went black .
I am writing to log an official safety complaint regarding my 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. This vehicle is included under active NHTSA Campaign Number 26V212000 (GM Internal Recall Number N262551720) for a defective rearview camera housing that allows moisture intrusion, causing the backup display to go blank.My vehicle has experienced a complete, permanent failure of the rearview camera screen. The backup display is entirely black/blank when the vehicle is placed in reverse, eliminating all rear visibility. This creates an immediate, active safety hazard during everyday backing maneuvers and non-compliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.Despite the recall being announced months ago, General Motors has failed to provide a timely remedy or allocate replacement parts to my local dealership. Because my camera has actively failed, I am being forced to operate an unsafe vehicle indefinitely due to manufacturer parts delays. I request that the NHTSA investigate GM’s failure to supply remedy components to vehicle owners experiencing active component failures, as this delay leaves a known crash risk unresolved.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
I own a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu with an open safety recall. General Motors/dealership has refused to repair the recall. The vehicle has also had multiple safety-related problems, including Service ESC warnings, jerking/poor acceleration, Service Safety Restraint System and airbag warnings, and a “Steering Assist is Reduced, Drive with Care” warning. On or about XXX, while driving, I experienced what felt like the brakes, wheel, and steering system locking up. I was unable to safely control the vehicle, resulting in a crash. During the incident, my head struck the steering wheel and I injured my hand, which has visible scars. No police were involved. I have a [XXX] daughter. She was NOT in the vehicle during the crash, but I do not feel safe transporting her in this vehicle because of the serious safety issues and what happened. The vehicle was later inspected through GM/dealership channels. I was told no diagnostic codes were found, and GM declined assistance. The dealership also stated the vehicle needs repairs related to the crash, including a passenger presence module. I am especially concerned that the open safety recall remains unrepaired. I have photographs of the vehicle damage and photographs of the scars on my hand. I can also provide my communications with GM and information regarding the recall. I am requesting that NHTSA review these safety concerns and the refusal to repair the open recall. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the hard skin material on the steering wheel was crumbling. The contact stated that the right and left hands were severely peeled. The contact inspected the steering wheel and placed a white glove on each hand and rotated the steering wheel. The contact became aware of a black substance on both gloves. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. In addition, the contact stated that another vehicle that the contact had owned was parked in the same spot for fourteen years. The contact stated that the weather did not cause any issues with the other vehicle. The contact received medical treatment for contact dermatitis. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
October 7, 2026 this vehicle hydroplaned and I lost control of the vehicle. To the best of my knowledge, the steering wheel locked and when attempted to step on the brakes, no braking occurred. The vehicle slid into grass which then hit the guard railing on the interstate. After being inspected by collision shop techs, they have reason to believe the airbag sensor defected or was not installed to signal the airbags to deploy. The driver side door panel airbag did attempt to deploy but was unsuccessful.
I am reporting a potential safety concern involving the brake vacuum pump in Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. I have seen multiple reports from owners describing vacuum pump failures, brakes becoming difficult to press, and brakes reportedly stopping working. Some owners have reported having to replace their vacuum pumps multiple times, while others have described serious safety incidents involving brake problems. I am concerned that these reports may indicate a recurring safety defect that could put drivers, passengers, and other road users at risk. A vacuum pump failure that affects brake assist could make it difficult to stop a vehicle safely and potentially cause a serious crash. I became aware of these reported safety concerns on October 13, 2026, after seeing multiple Chevrolet Malibu owners discuss these problems. This specific vacuum pump failure has not happened to my vehicle personally. I am submitting this report to bring these concerns to NHTSA’s attention and request an investigation into whether the affected Chevrolet Malibu model years have a safety defect that warrants a recall to prevent further crashes, injuries, or deaths.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
October 7, 2026 this vehicle hydroplaned and I lost control of the vehicle. To the best of my knowledge, the steering wheel locked and when attempted to step on the brakes, no braking occurred. The vehicle slid into grass which then hit the guard railing on the interstate. After being inspected by collision shop techs, they have reason to believe the airbag sensor defected or was not installed to signal the airbags to deploy. The driver side door panel airbag did attempt to deploy but was unsuccessful.
While driving, the driver side tires (2) went flat and four (4) airbags deployed, this happened with no warning.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
On December 24, 2025, the contact's 2023 Chevrolet Malibu was involved in a severe side-impact collision. The vehicle was struck on the rear passenger side by a full-size pickup truck traveling at high speed (est. 60 mph) that failed to stop at a red light. The impact caused the contact's vehicle to spin approximately 180 degrees and strike a concrete median sideways, generating high lateral G-forces. FAILURE 1: AIRBAG NON-DEPLOYMENT. Despite the severity of the impact and the violent spin into a curb (rollover trip point), the side curtain airbags and front seat-mounted side impact airbags failed to deploy. The failure of the restraint system caused the driver to be thrown against the driver-side door structure, striking their head on the window and B-pillar. The driver sustained a concussion, cervical strain, and lumbar strain. Medical records confirm the injuries are consistent with impact against the vehicle interior due to non-deployment. FAILURE 2: EMERGENCY TELEMATICS MALFUNCTION. Immediately post-collision, the driver attempted to manually activate the OnStar/SOS emergency buttons. The system failed to connect to an advisor. Instead, the vehicle's infotainment screen malfunctioned, opening a voice-to-text transcription application. The system then bypassed the vehicle's internal telematics module and attempted to route the emergency call to the owner's personal cell phone, indicating a complete failure of the vehicle's emergency communication hardware. This resulted in a 34-minute delay in coordinating professional assistance. Contact notes; while this vehicle currently shows 0 open recalls, the failure mechanism (sensor non-response during side impact) mimics the defect described in NHTSA Campaign 22V923000 (GM Recall N222392300), where improper welding of the front impact bar causes crash sensors to fail. The vehicle is available for inspection. Police and medical reports confirm the incident details. No warning lights were illuminated prior to crash.
When I’m driving straight sometimes my lane assist will make the car swerve while my steering wheel is straight and even almost made me wreck into another car beside me trying to force the car to go right. Also the front crash assist goes off when I’m not even near a car. The front end of my car is rattling and I don’t know why.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Tread started separation on driver front tire
The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: Pro Contact, Tire Size: 245/40/R19, DOT Number: 6Y66WBR27. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at highway speeds, there was a blowout of the front driver's side tire. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The tire was replaced. The contact stated that later while inspecting the vehicle it was discovered that the front passenger’s side tire had developed a sidewall blister. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 11,000.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
I was inquiring about the front suspension and frame work is there a recall. My car is unstable in the front like frame is unbalanced
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Exterior lighting
Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.
From owner reports, verbatim
Subject: Safety Complaint and Request for Assistance – 2023 Chevrolet Malibu Backup Camera Recall To Whom It May Concern, I am the owner of a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu that has been affected by the backup camera recall. The malfunctioning backup camera creates a serious safety hazard for me, my passengers, pedestrians, and other drivers. The backup camera intermittently fails to display properly when the vehicle is placed in reverse. When this occurs, I am unable to clearly see objects, vehicles, or people behind my vehicle as intended by the safety system. This significantly increases the risk of an accident, especially in parking lots, residential areas, and other locations where pedestrians may be present. I purchased this vehicle with the expectation that all safety systems would function reliably. The ongoing issue has caused me concern and has reduced my confidence in the vehicle’s ability to operate safely. A backup camera is an important safety feature, and any failure of this system places drivers and the public at unnecessary risk. Given the seriousness of this recall and the inconvenience and safety concerns it has caused, I respectfully request that Chevrolet review my situation and consider available remedies, including replacement of the vehicle, a vehicle trade-in assistance program, or another appropriate resolution that ensures my safety and restores my confidence in the product. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to a prompt response regarding the options available to address this safety concern. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] 2023 Chevrolet Malibu INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .