Chevrolet Malibu 2021 recalls, problems, complaints and safety

NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Chevrolet Malibu 2021 and 89 complaints filed by owners. It has 70% fewer complaints than the average Chevrolet Malibu from 2016–2025 (299 per year).

These are recalls issued for this model and year, not for your specific car. A car may already be repaired or may not be included. Confirm with your VIN on NHTSA.

Recalls issued for the Chevrolet Malibu 2021

Seats
NHTSA campaign 22V359000 · 2022-05-19

What happens

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.

Consequence

An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 22V359000

Seat belts
NHTSA campaign 21V649000 · 2021-08-20

What happens

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.

Consequence

An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.

The repair is free at any dealer of the brand.

NHTSA 21V649000

Complaints from other owners

89 complaints filed with NHTSA by owners of this model.

1 with a fire · 1 injuries

Most reported problems on the Chevrolet Malibu 2021

• Powertrain and transmission: 28 (31% of complaints)
• Electrical system: 28 (31% of complaints)
• Engine: 14 (16% of complaints)
• Fuel and propulsion: 8 (9% of complaints)
• Air bags: 5 (6% of complaints)

Complaints are written by owners and NHTSA doesn't verify each one. They're useful to spot trends.

What to check before buying a Chevrolet Malibu 2021

• Confirm by VIN on NHTSA that the recalls on this list were repaired.
• On the test drive, check for smooth shifts with no jerks, slipping or noises; check the transmission fluid condition.
• Test lights, windows, locks, the screen and dashboard warning lights; have trouble codes scanned.
• Start it cold, listen for noises, look for oil or coolant leaks and exhaust smoke.
• Get an inspection from an independent mechanic before paying.

Safety rating (NCAP)

Chevrolet Malibu recalls by year

• 2016 : 9 recalls · 861 complaints
• 2017 : 4 recalls · 725 complaints
• 2018 : 6 recalls · 700 complaints
• 2019 : 1 recalls · 192 complaints
• 2020 : 1 recalls · 198 complaints
• 2021 : 2 recalls · 89 complaints
• 2022 : 1 recalls · 98 complaints
• 2023 : 2 recalls · 70 complaints
• 2024 : 2 recalls · 42 complaints
• 2025 : 1 recalls · 11 complaints

Frequently asked questions

How many recalls does the Chevrolet Malibu 2021 have?

NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls issued for the Chevrolet Malibu 2021. That doesn't mean every car has them open: confirm with the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. The repair is free at the dealer.

What is the most common problem with the Chevrolet Malibu 2021?

In complaints filed with NHTSA, the most mentioned component is: powertrain and transmission (28 of 89 complaints). Complaints aren't verified one by one, but they show trends.