The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize car with a price range of $12,307 to $17,969. It’s not class-leading, but is a fine choice for shoppers looking for an easy-to-use daily driver.
2014 Chevrolet Malibu: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2014 model year include exterior styling updates, a new suspension, blind spot monitoring, and iPhone integration.
- Reliability ratings are above average, according to J.D. Power. It’s an improvement over older models with fewer complaints from owners.
- Two engines are available. The more powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder is also the most efficient.
- Fuel economy is good for its class. It ranks 4th out of 14 midsize cars, getting a combined rating of up to 29 miles per gallon.
- Safety ratings are better than other midsize cars, getting a 5-star rating in government crash tests. It also earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest award of Top Safety Pick+.
- The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu ranks 10th out of 14 midsize cars, based on owner reviews. It offers some good technology and a comfortable ride, but is a dull car and doesn’t stand out from the pack.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
The 2014 Chevy Malibu has fewer problems than the 2013 model year, but more than 2015. It has an average number of issues compared to other midsize cars.
Wheel bearing problems are the most common issue owners report with the car. They’re known to wear out and make excessive noise at 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Replacements cost about $450.
Engine problems, including a check engine light, are also mentioned by owners. Check engine lights turn on for many different reasons, and an OBD-II scan tool can help diagnose the source of the problem.
Brake problems, including an ABS light, are another issue with the Malibu. It’s frequently caused by the same wheel-bearing and hub issues. The sensors are known to fail at the same time as the hub.
There are 6 recalls affecting the 2014 Malibu, average for a car its age. Recalls include the windshield defrosters, transmission adjuster cables, brake rotors, brake vacuum system, roof panels, and the key can be removed while it’s not in park. The most serious is the ability to remove the key while in park since it can lead to a rollway situation.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2014 Chevy Malibu is average-priced compared to other midsize cars with a range of $12,307 to $17,969, depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $22,340 to $29,950. It depreciates at an average rate, losing about 40% of its value in the first 5 years.
- LS is the entry-level model with 16-inch aluminum wheels, cloth seats, chrome metallic interior trim, and a 6-speaker stereo AM/FM stereo system with 6 speakers and Bluetooth connectivity.
- LT is in the middle of the lineup with 18-inch aluminum wheels, power-adjustable leather seats, wood trim, dual-zone climate control, and the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen.
- LTZ is the flagship model and has upgraded 18-inch wheels, heated leather seating, keyless entry, push button start, and a 9-speaker Pioneer stereo system.
How Long Will the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A 2014 Chevy Malibu should last over 200,000 miles with proper care, average for its class. Maintenance costs are higher than average. Repair Pal estimates them to be $507 per year.
Yes, no problems. Still on the original battery. Four cylinder engine sounds like it works hard, but seems adequate for most types of driving.
I have not had any problems since buying it almost little over 5 years ago. It runs great. No issues or problems mechanically.
Not really any problems but it is not very good in ice or slick roads!! I do not feel safe driving when conditions are not good.
Yes, the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu lt is very reliable. It has no problems with it whatsoever, very smooth transition.
It is reliable, I feel like with any car with time there will be issues. We have had to replace the battery and can shaft which is normal for this year or car but other than that it is reliable.
We have not had any problems. Only cost has been oil changes and tires. The mileage has been good. We drove the car to California through the mountains this summer and had no problems.
None since we own it and has never had any recalls. It has plenty of airbags and safety features to make you confident.
I haven't had any problems with my Malibu. It is been really reliable car for me and my family. Has a lot of speed plus very comfortable riding for long trips.
2014 Chevrolet Malibu Walkaround and Drive
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is average on the entry-level Malibu, and good for its class on the LT and LTZ models.
- Standard technology includes a 6-speaker stereo system with AM/FM/CD playback, an AUX input, OnStar, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Upgrades include the 7-inch MyLink infotainment system, and an upgraded stereo with 9-speakers.
- For safety, the Malibu has 10 airbags, stability and traction control systems, and antilock brakes. Upgrades include a rear-view camera, blind zone, cross traffic, and forward collision alerts, as well as a lane departure warning system.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is good in the 2014 Chevy Malibu, but is not class leading. With the upgraded engine it does 0 to 60 in 6.4 seconds.
- The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder with 196 horsepower.
- An upgraded 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder is available and produces 259 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Malibu?
The 2014 Malibu is slightly smaller than other midsize sedans on the market. Passenger space is good in the front seats, but legroom is cramped in the back seats compared to its competitors. Cargo space is excellent at 16 cubic feet of room in the trunk, more than enough for 4 suitcases.
How Does the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other Cars?
The 2014 Chevrolet Malibu ranks 10th out of 14 midsize cars based on owner reviews, putting it near the bottom of its class.
At the top of the lineup is the Subaru Legacy, which is in the same price range as the Malibu. Both have similar power, but the Subaru has fewer complaints from owners. Passenger space is better in the Subaru, but technology comes out ahead in the Malibu. Overall, the Subaru is a better choice with standard all-wheel-drive, and a more reliable engine.
Another competitor is the Honda Accord, which is slightly more expensive than the Chevy. Reliability, technology, passenger room, and ownership costs are all better in the Honda, making it the clear winner between the two cars.
Final Verdict: Is the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Car?
After completing our research including 17 government and automotive websites, and 592 verified owner reviews, yes, the 2014 Malibu is a good car. It has excellent safety ratings, and is a comfortable car to drive. Where it misses some points is with cramped back seats, and long-term ownership costs are higher than its rivals. Overall, it’s a decent sedan, it just doesn’t stand out compared to other vehicles.