2017 is a bad year for the Malibu with a short 200,000 mile lifespan caused by engine and transmission issues. At $17,317 – 24,088, it’s too overpriced to recommend.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu: Key Points
- Reliability ratings are poor, with gearbox and electrical problems. 2018 offers improvements, and buyers should avoid 2016 and older models with more problems.
- Three 4-cylinder engines are available, ranging from weak to powerful depending on the choice.
- Fuel economy is great at up to 30 MPG combined.
- Safety ratings are excellent, getting a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests and a Top Safety Pick Award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
- We don’t recommend the 2017 Malibu because of serious mechanical problems on a car this new. It ranks 10th out of 12 midsize cars based on owner reviews.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
Top Critic Reviews
- Consumer Reports found the Malibu to be attractive with a comfortable ride, however there are lower than average owner satisfaction ratings.
- Edmunds gives it a 4/5 with a spacious interior, but weak acceleration and a lurching transmission.
- Kelley Blue Book rates it 4.1/5 with a lot of cool tech features, but it’s not as reliable as other midsize sedans.
What Problems Does the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Problems with the Chevy Malibu include transmission issues, failing to start, and engine sensor failures. Transmission improvements are available on the 2018 model, making the extra $2,000 worth the cost.
Transmission problems, including shift-to-park alerts and transmission failures show up at around 26,000 miles. There are common computer and damaged gears. If your car is out of warranty, repairing it can cost over $1,500.
Battery problems which lead to a failing to start show up at around 25,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by a dying battery, and a replacement costs about $250.
Check engine lights are very common at around 68,000 miles. Using an OBD-II scan tool is necessary to find the source of the problem. One frequent issue is the charge air sensor, and replacements cost $700.
There are 4 recalls, average for a midsize car from 2017. Recalls include air bags, fuel pump welds, and rear seat belt retractors. The most serious is the fuel pump, which can cause fuel leaks.
How Much is the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Worth?
Blue book prices range from $17,317 – 24,088, making the Malibu more expensive than the Passat and Sonata. When new, the price range was $21,680 to $30,975. Depreciation is average, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
How Long Will the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A properly maintained Malibu should last about 200,000 miles, which is 100,000 miles shorter than a Camry or Accord. Regular maintenance costs are very expensive at $613 per year, according to Repair Pal.
As a Malibu reaches over 100,000 miles, some items may need to be replaced including the EGR valve costing $250, power steering pump for $450, and valve cover gasket which costs $350.
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is very reliable. It is very smooth, I have no experienced any problems with it and I have had it for 3 years.
The 2017 Chevy Malibu lt is very reliable. I never had any major problems with this vehicle. I absolutely love it.
The car is very reliable and the only problems we had were when my wife backed out of the garage and took out the side mirror. Otherwise, oil, lube, etc.
Yes, it’s very reliable and I haven't had any issues with it. I have an easy time parking it and driving it around.
Yes I haven't had any problems with it and it gets good gas mileage. Plus Chevrolet let you know if you need to put air in your tires or get Noyle change
I have not had any issues with my car. It has always started and has the display let will alert you if something is not right.
Yes. Chevy Malibu is very reliable and dependable, It has served me well without any major mechanical problems
I have had some minor issues such as the power seat on the passenger side went out right away and the roof leaked also, however these issues are minor.
What Are the Models & Specs?
L is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Ignition
- OnStar
- Cruise Control
LS adds some features including:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Improved Sound Insulation
- 4G LTE With Wi-Fi Hotspot
LT is a popular choice with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Power Driver’s Seat
- Heated Mirrors
- Rear Climate Control
Premier is the luxury model adding:
- 18-Inch Wheels
- Larger Engine
- Leather Seating
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Heated Steering Wheel
There is a Hybrid model as well, with similar features to the LT, but with a more efficient gas-electric powertrain.
What Technology & Safety Features Are Included?
Technology is good for the price-range, with more features than other midsize cars.
- Standard technology includes OnStar, Bluetooth, and an AM/FM/CD stereo system with 6 speakers.
- Optional upgrades include a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen navigation system, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, USB connectivity as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, stability control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning systems. A rearview camera is only available on models with navigation.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance is excellent on the Malibu Premier model. The upgraded engine takes the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour in only 5.7 seconds.
- The weak base engine is a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo with 160 horsepower.
- Available on the Premier model is a more powerful 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo which has 250 horsepower.
- The hybrid model uses a 1.8L, 4-cylinder and electric motor for a combined rating of 183 horsepower.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the Malibu?
The 2017 Chevy Malibu is a midsize sedan, similar in size to the Mazda6 and Ford Fusion. Passenger room is good in the backseats, but the sloping roof limits the amount of headroom for taller adults.
Cargo space is average for a sedan, fitting 3 to 4 suitcases into the 15.8 cubic foot trunk.
How Does the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Compare to Other Cars?
The highest-rated midsize car is the Subaru Legacy. Where the Legacy stands out is with standard all-wheel-drive, but technology is better in the Malibu. The Legacy is better, with no major mechanical complaints.
Another rival is the more expensive Toyota Camry. The Camry offers outstanding reliability ratings, but the Malibu is quieter and more refined. Overall, the Camry is a better choice though, since they last longer and are more affordable to own.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Car?
No, there are too many negative reviews from Malibu owners including excessive battery drain and costly mechanical failures.
Overall, the 2017 Malibu is a year to avoid, and we recommend going with a 2018 or newer for fewer engine and transmission issues.
Yes, the car is spacious and drives very smoothly. I would recommend this car to someone who is a beginner driver.
Yes it is alright. Great condition and I never really have problems with it but when I do the parts are cheap and easy to find.
Excellent vehicle. One of the best we've ever owned. Dealer told us 37 mpg on highway, we get close to 40. Comfortable ride, low maintenance, would buy again..
Yes, it is a very good vehicle. I find it very easy to drive and I really like using it to go from place-to-place.
Yes, Good gas mileage and haven't had any problems with it. I would recommend it to other drivers Plenty of trunk space
I love it and don't regret a single thing. It was the greatest purchase I have made. The car suits my personality.
Yes ..has all the bells to let you know if your close to anything, back up cameras work great love the navigation system and the charger for your phone
Yes, in 2017 the body style changed, and it is mechanically solid. I have had no problems with this vehicle other than to provide regular maintenance, such as oil, filters, tires, etc.