The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize car with a price range of $7,732 to $12,374. Although the Malibu is more affordable than some competitors, higher ownership costs and weaker technology are reasons buyers should look elsewhere.
2012 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2012 model are minimal, and include some new accessories as well as a Crystal Red Tintcoat paint color. There’s a full redesign for the 2013 model year.
- Reliability ratings are great, according to J.D. Power, with fewer complaints than the older 2011 model.
- Two engine choices are available, including a V6 with a decent amount of power.
- Fuel economy is good raking in 6th place out of 15 midsize cars with a combined rating of up to 26 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than average, with 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests, and earning a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- The 2012 Chevy Malibu ranks 12th out of 15 midsize cars based on owner reviews. Outdated and low-quality components throughout the car make the Malibu a less attractive option than the rivals.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu has an average number of complaints from owners compared to other midsize cars on the market. There are fewer problems than the redesigned 2013 model.
A timing chain tensioner failure is the most common and severe problem. The timing chain guide is made of plastic and is a weak spot in the engine. Replacing the timing chain assembly costs $2,000 to $3,000 depending on local labor rates and the number of damaged components.
Fuel delivery problems are also mentioned. The fuel pump, and connectors fail regularly around 60,000 miles. Replacing the entire pump assembly costs around $1,300.
Steering problems, including a complete loss of power steering, are another frequent problem. The electronic steering motor fails around 100,000 miles, and a power steering failure message shows up on the driver information screen. Replacing the assembly is the only solution, costing about $1,000.
There are 3 recalls, better than other cars from 2012. Recalls include the brake lights, steering shaft u-joint, and seat belt anchors. Most serious is the u-joint failure since a separation increases the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is average-priced compared to other midsize cars from the same year with a price range of $7,732 to $12,374, depending on the model and mileage. When new, the price range was $22,110 to $30,200. Depreciation is average, losing about 40% of the original value in the first 5 years of ownership.
- LS is the entry-level model with 17-inch steel wheels, cloth seating, keyless entry, power mirrors and windows, OnStar, and a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, satellite radio, and an AUX jack.
- LT falls in the middle of the class and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio controls, USB connectivity, upgraded cloth seating, remote start, power driver’s seat, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- LTZ is the flagship choice with 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seating, heated mirrors, fog lights, LED tail lights, and an 8-speaker Bose stereo system.
How Long Will the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A properly cared for 2012 Chevrolet Malibu will last about 150,000 miles, which is shorter than some of the competitors on the market. Regular annual maintenance costs are average compared to other midsize cars. Repair Pal estimates them to be $543 per year.
Well I answered this with the previous question. No problems. Just the usual repairs. Replacing tires, brakes, etc.
Only issues have had were thermostat and an issue with headlights that were covered under factory warranty. Was quickly identified and corrected.
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu ltz w/1lz is extremely reliable. If maintenance is kept, the car keeps on going.
Very reliable, we have had no issues with the Malibu and have only needed to perform routine maintenance such as oil change, spark plug replacement, wiper blade replacement, etc.
It is pretty reliable. I have only had some minor issues with it, but they were ones that I could pay to get fixed.
My Chevy Malibu does not have any problems whatsoever. It is always reliable. I have never had issues with it.
The vehicle is pretty reliable. One thing is the headlights die and they are a pain to replace. You have to take the whole front off.
Yes it is very reliable dependable car I never had any problem with it my years of owning it.O love it.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is very basic in the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu compared to other midsize sedans, and is ready for the redesign for the 2013 model year.
- Base technology includes a 6-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo system, with a 3.5mm AUX input.
- Upgrades include Bluetooth connectivity, and a more powerful 8-speaker Bose stereo system.
- Standard safety equipment includes air bags, antilock brakes, stability control, and OnStar connectivity.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is good in the 2012 Chevy Malibu compared to other midsize cars from the same era. With the upgraded V6 engine, the car goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 169 horsepower.
- An available upgrade is the 3.6L V6, which has 252 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Malibu?
The 2012 Chevy Malibu is a midsize sedan, and similar in size to other cars in the same class. Passenger room is good in the front seats, but there are competitors with more legroom in the back seats. The 15.1 cubic foot trunk has enough room to fit 3 to 4 full size suitcases.
How Does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other Cars?
Ranking 12th out of 15 midsize cars on the market based on owner reviews, the 2012 Chevy Malibu is near the bottom of the class.
One of the highest rated competitors is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry offers better reliability ratings, and more affordable long-term ownership costs. Where the Malibu comes out ahead is with some nicer interior materials, and a more engaging driving experience. Overall, the longer-lasting Camry is the winner between the two cars.
A close rival in the Ford Fusion, which is in the same price range. Interior materials and technology are both better in the Ford. The Malibu offers a roomier cabin, and performs better on the road. Neither of the choices is a great sedan, and going with a Japanese competitor gives you more for your money.
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Car?
No, the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu is not a good car based on information from 793 verified owner reviews, and 16 government and automotive websites. The positives include a powerful V6 engine for the class, and an easy-to-use stereo system since there’s no touchscreen interface. Downsides are some serious mechanical problems, and lower quality interior materials than the competitors. Overall, the 2012 Malibu is just too outdated to recommend it over the better sedans on the market.