The 2008 Malibu lasts around 250,000 miles with only some steering and door lock problems. At $4,352 – 5,429, it’s an affordable choice for a dependable sedan.
Is the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Used Car?
- Yes, 2008 is a good year. Owner reviews praise the affordable maintenance, dependable engine, and comfortable cabin.
- Reliability ratings are average. Models from 2007–2009 are all good, with transmission problems showing up in 2010.
- Performance is average from the 4-cylinder, but the V6 offers good power.
- The Malibu is a very safe sedan, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is good, getting up to 25 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Malibu?
- Consumer Reports says the Malibu ranks as one of the best sedans, but owner satisfaction is below average.
- Edmunds gives the Malibu a 4.6/5, liking the powerful V6 engine, and disliking the cheap interior.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Malibu 4.3/5 and enjoy the comfortable interior, but don’t like timing chain issues.
What Common Problems Does the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Problems found on the 2008 Malibu are not as serious as some other years and include failed power door locks, steering wheel vibrations, and burnt-out headlights.
Power door lock failures are the most common complaint from owners at around 55,000 miles. The door lock actuators wear out quickly compared to other cars, and cost about $600 to replace.
Steering wheel vibrations are another problem showing up at around 85,000 miles. A common source of the problem is worn out wheel bearings, but there can also be power steering or alignment issues. Wheel bearings cost $500, and new power steering parts are around $1,000.
Headlights burn out faster in the Malibu than other cars, lasting only about a year per set of bulbs. Replacing the headlight bulbs costs about $120.
There are 5 fairly serious recalls covering the transmission shift cable and power steering motor which can result in a sudden loss of power or accident.
How Long Will the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A properly cared for 2008 Malibu should last around 250,000 miles, similar to other midsize sedans like the Ford Fusion. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to rivals at $470 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most Malibu models from 2008 will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the fuel evaporative canister for $600, an oil pump costing $850, and engine mounts which are $250.
It is been extremely reliable for me. The only problems I have experienced with it have been issues caused by other/outside forces. Not the car itself.
Yes the car is extremely reliable. It has given us minimal problems in the three years that we have had it. I love that it lets me know when a tire is loss, when I need to do an oil change and the temperature outside.
Yes the Malibu has been on many family trips and always comes through like a champ. I love this car. I love it.
No it is not reliable. I have had issues with the car since I bought it. Repairs are too expensive and costly.
It is very reliable, it gets me where I need to go in a timely fashion. It's very safe and does not have any problems since the maintenance has been maintained in a good manner.
It has been a great car. I plan to replace it within the next few months. I will be looking at replacing it with another Chevrolet.
No not at the moment. The car is very reliable. I take very good care of my car. No the car does not have any problems.
It is pretty reliable. Since I got it I have only had to replace the battery and the starter. To be 11 years old it is pretty good.
How Much Is the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Worth?
Blue book values range from $4,352 – 5,429, making the Malibu around $700 less than a Honda Accord or Nissan Altima. When new, the price range was $19,900 to $27,095. Depreciation is similar to other midsize sedans, losing 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Malibu?
There are four models of the malibu available. Technology was just updated for the 2008 model year, with a new infotainment system added in 2011.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
- 6-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 3.5mm AUX Jack
1LT is a step up adding features such as:
- 17-Inch Alloy wheels
- Steering Wheel Mounted Stereo Controls
- Upgraded Interior Trim
2LT adds items including:
- 17-Inch Polished Alloy Wheels
- Remote Starter
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Heated Front Seats
LTZ is the flagship luxury model and has:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Dual Zone Climate Control
- Chrome Front Grille
- 8-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With 6-CD Changer
What Engines Come In the Malibu?
- The base engine is a fairly weak 2.4L-4-cylinder which makes 169 horsepower and gets up to 25 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.6L V6 making 252 horsepower and getting up to 22 MPG combined. Performance is very good, taking only 6.6 seconds to go 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Malibu Come In?
How Big Is the Malibu?
The 2008 Malibu is a bit larger than other midsize sedans like the VW Passat or Kia Optima. Passenger room is good throughout the cabin, and it offers plenty of legroom for adults in the backseats.
Cargo space is above average with a 15.1 cubic foot trunk, which should have no problem fitting 3-4 large suitcases.
How Does the Malibu Compare to the Competition?
The Chevy Impala is a rival from Chevy costing only around $300 more. Where the Impala stands out is with more passenger room, but technology is better in the Malibu. We recommend the Malibu since they last longer and are more up to date.
The Nissan Altima is another competitor, which costs about $300 more. Performance is better in the Altima, but there are fewer complaints from owners on the Malibu. We recommend the Malibu since long term ownership costs are lower with less problems.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Malibu?
Yes. It is drives smoothly and feels luxurious. I haven't experienced many problems with the vehicle since purchasing it.
Yes, it is dependable and great on gas! It barely gives us any mechanical issues and they are usually not expensive when it does need some work done.
Yes very good, I am very pleased. It has 147000 miles and gas minimal problems. I am happy and would buy another one.
Yes until mechanical problems start. Chevy's have to many expensive repairs and are known for certain parts giving you trouble.
Yes it has good gas mileage and good lasting car quality. It has a lot of miles but because of good maintenance, it has far surpassed its car life.
Yes it has been a great car. I bought it new, and have had very little problems with it. I definitely recommend it.
Yes I love the way it drives. It also is a very good dependable car. I really love the car. It very spacious.
It is a very good vehicle. It drives smooth and is very reliable. Gas mileage is ok. Comfortable ride. I love the look of the vehicle.