The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu lasts around 200,000 miles with some engine sensor and battery controller issues. At $14,925 to $18,575, it’s cheaper than many other midsize sedans, making it a decent value for shoppers on a budget.
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Chevy Malibu, although it’s still lacking behind some of the best sedans on the market, giving it an average score. Owner reviews praise the large touchscreen, upscale interior, as well as the smooth suspension.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are reasonably nice for a midsize sedan, the seats are comfortable on long drives, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread mechanical issues on the 2018 Chevy Malibu. Buyers should avoid models from 2016–2017, and go with a 2018–2022 which are more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is okay from the base engine, while the fastest model is reasonably quick for a midsize sedan.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2018 Malibu is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. There’s a standard rear seat reminder. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, as well as pedestrian braking.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 32 MPG, giving 457 miles of range from the 14.3 gallon tank. Gas costs are $44 cheaper than average, at $136 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2018 Chevy Malibu is cheaper than many other sedans on the market, although it depreciates quickly, too, giving it an average value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Chevy Malibu?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu offers an extremely comfortable ride, although owner satisfaction scores are lower than average.
- Edmunds rates the Malibu at 3/5, praising the 8-inch touchscreen stereo system, but doesn’t like the clunky six-speed transmission.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the 2018 Malibu a 4/5, enjoying the spacious interior, but owners don’t like the slow base engine.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
Common problems reported on the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu include the engine stalling, issues with the auto start-stop system, as well as the springs squeaking. Overall, these problems are similar to other midsize sedans, with average repair costs as the Malibu ages.
The engine stalling is the most widespread complaint form 2018 Malibu owners at around 38,000 miles. Usually the engine stalling is caused by a sensor failure including the mass airflow or O2 sensor which will cause a check engine light. Replacing sensors costs around $300, depending on which one failed.
Problems with the auto start-stop system have also been reported by 2018 Malibu owners at around 83,000 miles. The issue is usually caused by a problem with the battery control module which prevents the system from turning on and off automatically. Replacing the battery control module costs around $175, depending on local labor rates.
The springs squeaking also shows up on some 2018 Chevy Malibu models at around 15,000 miles. Usually, extra noise from the suspension is a sign of worn-out or loose springs. Worn-out springs cost around $550 to replace, while simply adjusting them costs around $150.
There are six recalls on the 2018 Chevy Malibu, which is more than many other midsize sedans from the same year. The most serious recall covers the fuel pump flange weld, which may fracture, causing damage to the fuel line. Chevy will replace the flange on affected models for free. Other recalls cover the rear seats, as well as missing bolts as well as the brake calipers. Chevy will replace and repair affected parts for free.
How Long Will the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Chevrolet Malibu can last around 200,000 miles, which is about 100,000 miles less than the top-rated Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than other midsize sedans, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $578 per year.
As a used 2018 Chevy Malibu reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the power seat motor for $450, A/C lines costing $575, as well as the wheel speed sensors which cost around $150.
The car is very reliable. I haven't had any issues with the car whatsoever. I have always been a fan of Chevrolet vehicles because it is a brand you can trust.
The only problem we have had is a slow leak in one tire we have not had any other problems but it was recalled earlier.
2018 Chevrolet Malibu is a very reliable car. It does not have any problem or show any signs of any problems.
This car is very reliable. I would buy it again if I had to buy a new vehicle. It has not needed repairs.
Very reliable. I have had to do nothing except standard maintenance work. It cruises quietly at highway speeds.
It is reliable. The vehicle should have been made with all the windows automatic. The car has a delay when pulling off like the car is dying, this causes hesitation when pulling off from red lights and stop signs.
I haven't had a single problem so far. It is been taken on trips of over 500 miles and is comfortable.
No it does not have any problems. It is a very reliable car. I bought it used so I had to get the batteries in the remote changed because they were dead and the car wouldn't start once but it was an easy fix.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is worse than other midsize cars in the base L model with only Bluetooth connectivity. Optional upgrades include 7 or 8-inch touchscreens with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety technology is bad since there’s no advanced features on the entry-level model. Available advanced safety features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, front pedestrian braking, low-speed automatic braking, automatic high beams, front and rear parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, following distance indicator, as well as rear cross traffic alert.
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Chevy Malibu is a good value since it offers decent reliability while also being affordable to own. The blue book fair purchase price is $14,925 to $18,575, with the most expensive being certified pre owned. It’s cheaper than a Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. When new, the price range was $21,680 to $31,020. Depreciation is worse than some other sedans, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Chevy Malibu?
There are four models of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu offered, from the base L all the way up to the more luxurious Premier. The 2018 Malibu is only offered with front-wheel drive.
L is the entry-level model with:
- 16-Inch Steel Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry and Ignition
- Cruise Control
- Air-Conditioning
- Tilt-and-Telescoping Steering Wheel
- OnStar
- Bluetooth
- Six-Speaker Audio System
LS is a step up, adding:
- 16-Inch Aluminum Wheels
- 7-Inch Touchscreen
- Chevrolet MyLink Infotainment System
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Laminated Side Windows
- Rearview Camera
LT is next in the lineup, which adds:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Heated Mirrors
- Eight-Way Power-Adjustable Driver Seat
- Rear-Seat Air Vents
- Satellite Radio
Premier is the flagship model with:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Driver Confidence Package
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control
- 8-Inch Touchscreen
- Nine-Speaker Bose Audio System
- Unique Exterior Styling
What Engines Come In the Chevy Malibu?
- The base engine is an average 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder. This engine generates 160 horsepower and it comes with a six-speed automatic transmission while getting up to 32 MPG.
- A step up is the stronger 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder. The engine power is good at up to 250 horsepower, and it comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission which gets up to 27 MPG. Performance is good, taking 6.3 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Chevy Malibu Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Chevy Malibu?
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is generally considered to be a comfortable car, with a spacious and well-equipped cabin and a smooth ride. Reviewers have praised the Malibu for its comfortable front seats and its quiet and refined ride, which makes it a good choice for long distance driving.
Passenger room is also great in the rear seats for a sedan of its size, offering enough legroom for taller adults.
How Much Storage Space Does the Chevy Malibu Have?
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu has a trunk with a volume of 15.8 cubic feet, which is fairly average for a midsize sedan offering enough room for 4-5 suitcases. There are also a lot of storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a center console with a large storage area, door pockets, and a small storage area in the glove compartment.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The ninth generation of the Chevy Malibu was launched for the 2016 model year.
2015: 4G data connection with WiFi hotspot capabilities added to all models.
2016: Fully redesigned for the ninth generation with new engines, styling, and technology.
2017: 2LT model renamed to Premier.
2018: Larger fuel tank on the L, LS and LT models, new Redline Edition package.
2019: Minor exterior styling changes, new transmission for 1.5L engine, upgraded stereo system.
2020: Hybrid model discontinued and the options packages have been renamed.
2021: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, new sport edition package with black exterior trim.
How Does the Chevy Malibu Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Chevy Malibu is a decent midsize car, although it is missing some of the standard safety features found on some other cars on the market.
The 2018 Nissan Altima and the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu are both mid-size sedans that offer a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and a range of advanced safety features. The Altima has a more powerful base engine and a sportier suspension, making it the better choice for drivers who prioritize performance. The Malibu, on the other hand, has a more fuel-efficient base engine and a longer list of standard features, making it a better value for the price. Both cars are decent choices for 2018, it’s worth test driving both to see which you prefer.
The Hyundai Sonata is another midsize sedan which costs around $1,000 more. Interior materials are more luxurious in the Hyundai Sonata, while the Chevy Malibu offers better passenger room. We recommend the Hyundai Sonata since you get more advanced features for the money.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Malibu?
Yes. I absolutely love my car. I have children, and we have plenty of space. It is great on gas as well. I also love the look of the car overall. It is very sleek and stylish. I would definitely recommend purchasing this car.
Yes, it is dependable and comfortable and has good gas mileage there is also plenty of trunk space and it is quiet.
Yes, it is an amazing vehicle. Great on gas. Very clean look. I love my Chevrolet Malibu so very much. Best car I have bought hands down.
Yes, it is a great vehicle. It has not broken down. I would buy it again if I had to purchase another vehicle.
Yes, excellent. It handles well, and it gets great gas mileage. It is also very easy to maintain and to drive.
Yes it is. The only problem I have is the delay that is in the engine or transmission. When pulling off the car has a delay as if the car is dying. It comes from the factory like that.
Yes it is! I love it! Comfortable and stylish for a. Mid-sized car. It is a good car for a family as well.
Yes it is a great vehicle. It drives very smooth. It is great in gas. The engine shuts off when I come to a stop to conserve gas. I love the backup camera.