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Model-year record

2010 Chevrolet Malibu
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2010 Chevrolet Malibu

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

1,360

Reports to NHTSA, 2010

Safety recalls

4

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Not rated

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

25

EPA estimate

Known issues

Steering issues lead owner complaints (33% of 1,360 reports), followed by electrical system (16%).

Steering33% · 455 reports
Electrical System16% · 214 reports
Power Train9% · 117 reports
Exterior Lighting8% · 115 reports
Air Bags8% · 106 reports
Service Brakes4% · 54 reports
Vehicle Speed Control4% · 48 reports
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)3% · 41 reports

+ 15 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 1,360 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11354218, ODI 11030572, ODI 10991051, ODI 10870322, ODI 10859777.

Individual complaint reports(1,360)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
SteeringJul 2026 · ODI 11751580Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving 30 MPH, the steering wheel was shaking and locked up, and the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle lost power steering functionality. The power steering warning light was illuminated. A dealer or an independent mechanic was not contacted. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or dealer to be diagnosed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and the contact was informed that the warranty on the vehicle had expired. The approximate failure mileage was 146,000.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jul 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11751580 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11738341Details +

Power steering has gone out.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11738341 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11737052Details +

1.The ESC system and power steering lights come on and sometimes go off making it extremely unsafe to drive due to not having proper control of the steering wheel. It is available for inspections at any time. 2.Being able to turn and use steering wheel correctly puts me and my family at risk for collisions. 3.confirmed by a code reader. And personal Mechanic. 4. No inspections have been made at dealership u called and they said there was no recall. 5. No other than the steering wheel moving on its own when at a stop light.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737052 at NHTSA →
SteeringMay 2026 · ODI 11736746Details +

Power steering went out and I'm told it's a sensor that is in the steering column. Very expensive to have fixed due to location of the sensor. I seen a recall for this problem however it is only good for 150,000 miles or 10 years. I just purchased this car 2 years ago with 172,000 miles. This recall should still be valid if it hasn't been repaired. I almost wrecked the car not realizing this happened while driving.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11736746 at NHTSA →
SeatsMar 2026 · ODI 11726490Details +

The driver's seat bracket broke causing the seat to sag to the right and for the back of the seat to rise up. Pictures were taken and are attached. Available for inspection until fixed. The view is from the front. My finger points to the failed weld. In an accident, the seat might break off causing the driver to sustain serious injury. The sudden shift in the seat could cause the driver to panic resulting in an accident. I have not yet taken it into the dealer for review. This problem has been reported to your website as well as RepairPal and The Center for Auto Safety websites. No one has, as of now, inspected this failure. There are no warning lights or other sources avaliable to inform of this danger.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11726490 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2026 · ODI 11722023Details +

The power steering goes out at times. When I start up or when I am driving my steering will get harder and I get a power steering warning on the dash. If I shut the car off, sometimes it goes away but most of the time it does not.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11722023 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2026 · ODI 11717933Details +

In 2014 there was a recall issue on 2004 to 2009 Chevrolet malibus 2.4 l motors with the electric power steering assist motor. They were to be replaced with labor and free cost. A recall is a safety issue that has no expiration date. In 2015 GM issued a special coverage adjustment for 2010 through 2012 Chevy malibus. This special adjustment is for those vehicles 2010 through 2012 to have the power steering assist motor replaced for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles from the original service date. The problem with that is I have a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu that has the exact same electric power steering assist motor that the 2004 through 2009 half but yet I only have a special coverage adjustment which is not even close to a recall where there is no expiration date on when the manufacturer would replace the electric power steering assist motor free of charge. The issue with the electric power steering assist motor was a malfunctioning of a bushing issues in the motor. I have the same electric power assist motor in my Malibu that all the recall Malibu's 2004 to 2009 have. So what made the difference after 2009 with this product the electric power steering assist motor? Today February 13th 2026 my electric power steering assist motor will only work when I reset the system. I almost had an accident because the power steering went out and I was driving. Took my Malibu to repair shop called Express pro in Indianapolis Indiana and they diagnosed it power steering assist motor failing. I do not fall under the special coverage adjustment although that's really for non-safety concerns a recall is first safety issues with no expiration date and my 2010 Malibu should be in the recall. I cannot afford $1,500 to get this motor replaced which I had no clue there was even a recall until today. The car will set until there is a recall issue which is the only fair thing to do when it was issued for 2004-2009 Malibu's since there was no change in the electric power steering assist motor.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11717933 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2026 · ODI 11717284Details +

My steering wheel is twitching & possibly failing due to the torque steering sensor & it is very unsafe to drive

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Feb 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11717284 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11712376Details +

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while reviewing O'Reilly diagnostic report, it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was 159,000, and the current odometer reading was 174,804; however, O'Reilly service report listed the mileage at 192,000.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11712376 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11709371Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that under previous vehicle ownership, the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC); however, the recall repair failed to prevent a failure. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the rear brake light failed to illuminate as intended; however, when the brake pedal was released, the brake lights would illuminate. No warning lights were illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 270,000.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11709371 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2025 · ODI 11705344Details +

Power Steering Randomly Goes off taking the Traction Control with it. Terrible for the snow roads to have. Have to life the steering wheel slightly when starting to the car get it to work. Steering Angle Sensor or Torque Position Sensor Maybe??

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11705344 at NHTSA →
SteeringNov 2025 · ODI 11697960Details +

I lost power steering while driving, making the wheel hard to turn. While the car is idle, the steering wheel shakes. Also “ESC” pops on on the dashboard.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11697960 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2025 · ODI 11668298Details +

Lug studs repeatedly snap at wheel no matter how installed.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11668298 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2025 · ODI 11666537Details +

The blinker level does not automatically shut off after the turn is preformed. It never has. Yes it can be inspected if asked. Because of this fault, people driving behind me have thought I am turning and have attempted to go around my vehicle, almost causing collision on several occasions. This puts myself, my passengers, and the other vehicle in immediate danger. As well as the vehicle behind the one attempting to go around my vehicle. Yes it has been reproduced by multiple car repair shops. There is never a time that the turn lever has worked properly. When talking to the previous owner, he indicated that he also had the same problem since he purchased the vehicle. Many online vehicle specific forums have owners who talk about having the same problem and the accidents they've gotten in due to it. There are no warning lights. The blinker stays active as well as the dash light indicating the blinker is still on. The date indicated was the most recent it happened and almost caused an accident.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11666537 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11665447Details +

The car will drive but is unable to turn. It's like the steering wheel is locked.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Dec 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11665447 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2025 · ODI 11661972Details +

The issue I'm having is the traction light is on and my rear break lights stay on constantly. I took the car to a shop and had the break light switch replaced. Two days later the lights was back on. I did some research and there was a recall for the exact issue I'm have (NHTSA14V252) when I gave the Chevrolet dealership my VIN they said there were no recalls but there was three recalls but they are no longer open. Is there any thing I can do? Please help

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661972 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMay 2025 · ODI 11660211Details +

I was driving down the highway when the passenger side curtain airbags deployed for no reason. Air bag deployment stunned the driver, but fortunately did not cause accident.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11660211 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2025 · ODI 11651517Details +

My power steering quit working

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11651517 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMar 2025 · ODI 11649038Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact had been informed by other drivers that the brake lights failed to illuminate as intended while driving. Additionally, the contact stated that the brake lights randomly illuminated while driving. The traction control warning light was illuminated intermittently, causing the cruise control to become inoperable. The contact stated that as an independent mechanic, he had replaced the brake sensors twice; however, the failure persisted. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC); however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the failure might be related to the brake sensors. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.

Reported
Mar 2025
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11649038 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherFeb 2025 · ODI 11642738Details +

The shift lever does not want to release from park. I cant get it to go into drive. Traction light comes on and overrides cruise control. Refer to recall dated 5/14/2014 #14V252000 or GM recall 13036. It is in for repair now. Almost $500 for repair.

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11642738 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2025 · ODI 11640675Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving 30-40 MPH, the power steering assist warning light illuminated. The contact stated while making a left turn, the vehicle became difficult to maneuver and the steering wheel vibrated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

Reported
Feb 2025
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11640675 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2024 · ODI 11632940Details +

Steering not working correctly it is ver hard to turn steering wheel. Cluster lights went out so dashboard lights do not work, brake lights not working seems to be electrical problems with the vehicle

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11632940 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2024 · ODI 11632002Details +

This is in reference to GM Recall Number: 13036 - I noticed that from time to time the service traction warning comes on, service esc warning comes on, my cruise control stops working suddenly. I didn't think anything of it until I finally noticed my brake lights were illuminated in my back window without my foot being on the brake pedal. I replaced the sensor on the brake pedal hoping that would fix it and it did not. I looked up my VIN for active recalls and for some reason it's saying there are none. This is clearly the recall that is listed. I'm worried I'll be driving and someone may either rear end me or get confused thinking I'm braking when I am not. Very unsafe. I'm just unsure what to do. Any help would be appreciated as I need a vehicle and can't be without one.

Reported
Dec 2024
Incident date
Jun 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11632002 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2024 · ODI 11626955Details +

Connector for airbags sensor wiring has a problem which is address in General Motors document Recall 13040A Dated April 2014. There is a warning on the dash about the airbags not operational. We have never been contacted by General Motors about this problem, but other Chevrolet Malibu owners are have the same problem.

Reported
Nov 2024
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11626955 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2024 · ODI 11617742Details +

The July 14, 2014 recall (13036) describes the issue perfectly. Brake lights come on when gas is pressed, goes off when brake pedal is pressed (very dangerous). Airbag, motor & traction control lights come on, message center says “ESC” “traction control”. We have had the car on multiple diagnostic tools saying it’s the module and the electrical isn’t communicating with the module… according to the recall, it is EXACTLY what is happening. We bought the car recently for our NEW driver not knowing and after HOURS of research and going to mechanics it seems to be the SAME recall but this car/VIN is not included in the recall. My child is going to get rear ended because nothing is fixing the issue and this vin doesn’t have any “recalls”

Reported
Oct 2024
Incident date
Sep 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11617742 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemSep 2024 · ODI 11613577Details +

I have replaced my transmission in 2019. Car still has transmission problems. I’ve replaced my passenger headlight and lamp but the light still won’t work. My brake lights or back blinkers don’t work even after changing the fuses. Tire pressure light won’t go off. I have had this car since 2010..

Reported
Sep 2024
Incident date
Jan 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11613577 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2024 · ODI 11607252Details +

THE PASSANGER AIR BAG LIGHT STAYS ON AND THE RADIO LIGHTS UP BUT NO SOUND FOR RADIO OR TURN SIGNALS.

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11607252 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2024 · ODI 11607367Details +

The front doors on the car lock and unlock them selves and often you have to climb into the backseat from the front seat to exit the car. This is a serious danger if you were in an accident or the car was on fire. Hi I am [XXX] and it’s almost impossible for me to climb over the seats the way the cockpit is made. When the car locks itself it’s impossible to unlock the car using the door locks inside by pulling them up or using the key in the drivers door nothing works. The car can be completely locked and hours later maybe the next day the drivers door will be open on its own. This is happened several times in the rain soaking the driver seat. The only way to unlock the doors if they lock on their own it’s to play with a key fob pressing lock unlock maybe 100 times and you might get lucky and it unlocks. I spent three days once before I could enter my car using the key fob as I explained earlier. The door came open one time while the car was going forward and luckily I was in a Walmart parking lot or there’s no telling what would’ve happened. When the car was shifted into drive the door locks clicked down but that still did not stop the door from opening. I purchased the car two months ago for $7000 and the dealer is going to do nothing they stressed as is. I have read online there are thousands of these complaints for the same thing and GM has not acknowledged the problem to date. Complaints I have read also stated they have done different repairs to the doors which are quite costly but they were to no avail. This seems like a very serious and dangerous problem being trapped inside a car especially in Florida where I live and the temperatures in a car can reach 140 degrees. If the car is running you can’t even exit the back doors once you crawl over the seats it has to be shut off. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Aug 2024
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11607367 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2024 · ODI 11595843Details +

• Yes, the vehicle is available for inspection upon request. • The failure of the power steering system made it extremely difficult to steer the vehicle, especially at lower speeds, which put my safety and the safety of others at risk by increasing the likelihood of an accident. It would turn on and go off by itself at random spurts, which was very unusual. • No, the problem has not been reproduced by another dealer. • The vehicle has not been inspected by the dealer’s service department. As well as, not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. • No it just randomly had a warning light one day when I got in it to crank it like a normal day. But never warned me before hand, but when it did come on, But it appeared on the dashboard indicating a power steering issue, and abs and brake warning light. The abs and brake warning light first appeared about two weeks before the complete failure of the system. Which I became without a vehicle for about 3 months because of it.

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11595843 at NHTSA →
SteeringMar 2024 · ODI 11575709Details +

Casi tengo un accident por q mi power steering dejo de funcionar se puso duro y e visto muchos malibu con el mismo problema

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11575709 at NHTSA →
SteeringFeb 2024 · ODI 11572419Details +

Power steering and yes it is. Not safe to drive because of the steering. The dealership has changed the part under the recall as well as the warranty Yes by several people No warning lights or anything came on to show that there was a issue

Reported
Feb 2024
Incident date
Mar 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11572419 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2024 · ODI 11567037Details +

The contact owns a 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the instrument cluster went blank and became inoperable. The vehicle was steered to the side of the road. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11567037 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2024 · ODI 11566487Details +

My 2010 Chevy Malibu randomly started having electrical problems a few weeks ago. My gauge cluster lights will not turn on and I cannot see my blinkers or other information I need in the gauge cluster. The gauge cluster lights wont come on so I cannot see how fast i am going at night. The brake lights illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed. The car is difficult to get out of park. After researching the problems I found that GM has issued recalls for the BCM on Chevrolet Malibus recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012. I then contacted my local chevy dealership and they told me my vehicles VIN does not fall under the recall they issued so I would have to pay to have the problems addressed. I explained to the dealership that this is a well known issue and how unsafe that it is and they then told me “There is nothing we do about it.”. I do not feel safe driving the vehicle and I feel that these issues that it is having will put my life at risk and others because these malfunctions will obviously increase the risk of a crash. I feel that it is wrong to have a customer pay for repairs on a part of a vehicle that has recalls and is a crucial safety component.

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11566487 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2024 · ODI 11564762Details +

Driving down the highway, the car completely shuts down, states engine deactivated, engine power decreased, and traction light on, had to attempt to safely pull over, had to be towed, still trying to figure what's wrong, completely unsafe!

Reported
Jan 2024
Incident date
Jan 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11564762 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2023 · ODI 11562183Details +

My airbag light just recently came on driver frontal airbag may explode NHTSA-19001900 Power steering NHTSA- 14E044000 u joint premature failure Electrical system all out of wack NHSTA-14V252000 bcm resistance result in voltage fluctuations in brake Power train- NHTSA 12V460000 4 speed automatic transmission the tabs on transmission shift cable end may fracture and separate

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Nov 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11562183 at NHTSA →
TiresDec 2023 · ODI 11562187Details +

215/50r16 tire regulating system ABS light is always on as tire pressure light

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11562187 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2023 · ODI 11560147Details +

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? the engine / it stopped while I was driving / dealer charged me $2000 for a replacement engine, then after that my Power steering gave out , My ESC turns off and on / car jumps while driving my whole dashboard goes crazy How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? the car stopped while i was driving multiple times , my kids were in the car for 2 of them, it stops with out warning. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes the Used car dealership i bought it from is well aware and basically not helping at all Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no , no warnings signs came on until after the engine was changed and they go on and off

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11560147 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherOct 2023 · ODI 11552677Details +

My brake lights are always on as if I am riding the brakes (which I am not) and when I apply the brakes they turn off. I also get a warning to service traction control and ESC. I understand that GM had a recall for this and the repair work was done on this vehicle but people are complaining that the repair is only temporary and the problem returns. I don't think I should have to pay for this to be repaired as it is a know problem with many GM cars, not just Malibu. The vehicle is useless as it is because it will definitely cause a accident.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11552677 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingOct 2023 · ODI 11551290Details +

The headlights will repeatedly stop working. I got both headlight bulbs replaced and two months later the passenger side low beam light was flickering. it would sometimes come back on if a bump in the road was hit or if it was tapped then it went out completely. This is very costly and unsafe to be driving at night with. It is most likely a problem with the headlight assembly. I have had the vehicle inspected multiple times and there was not anything reported to me. I can not afford to keep spending hundreds of dollars over and over again on the same issue. This is a continuous issue that I have seen in many other Chevy malibus and this needs to be fixed immediately.

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11551290 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemOct 2023 · ODI 11550567Details +

I submitted a complaint regarding traction service/escape alerts at any given time of my 2010 Chevolet Malibu and have not received an acknowledgment of my complaint. Therefore I am hoping it has been resolved. Thank goodness, the car passed inspection on 10/17/2023 for which the complaint of the traction service alerts have affected my yearly inspection for at least 3 years. I am asking for the status of your assessment of my complaint. Thank you. [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11550567 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2023 · ODI 11549929Details +

My service esc light and no esc light randomly pop up and I lose power steering in my 2010 malibu. I've heard there are warranties for this but only if your vehicle is at 150000 miles. Mine is at 160k. Ibe changed the torque sensor and motor to power steering. No fix. It seems that if gm knows about this problem, they should be responsible. I can't afford to keep dishing out money on parts that aren't working. Super annoying

Reported
Oct 2023
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11549929 at NHTSA →
Exterior LightingSep 2023 · ODI 11547223Details +

The issue is that there are times when the brake lights kick on when I’m not braking and they stay on and when I brake they turn off. I’m at risk and so are the people who drive in back of me. The lights kick on and they don’t know when I’m actively braking. I took it to the Merle stone a year ago now and they “fixed it” but it still occurred. No warning lamps/lights. It was my moms car before it became mine and she’s told me that when she drove it, it was already happening before it was gifted to me so I can’t pinpoint exactly when it started happening. I’ve searched the internet and I’ve came upon stories of other people with this same make and model have the same issue. I currently don’t that the invoice of when they “fixed” the issue but I could always contact the Merle stone and get a copy emailed (hopefully) if needed.

Reported
Sep 2023
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11547223 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherAug 2023 · ODI 11539501Details +

Transmission went out at 88740 miles. Paid over $3000 for it and there are still issues. This car is junk. I feel chevy should have repair all these issues on this car. Now it's the throttle body and transmission issues. It's non stop issues. I Baby this car out of fear to no avail.

Reported
Aug 2023
Incident date
Aug 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11539501 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2023 · ODI 11535365Details +

You can be driving down the road and the car randomly loses speed and all the dash lights come on. Traction Control. Engine power reduced, ABS Brake light comes on. How is this problem not a recall yet? So many people have reported it and nothing has been done about it! Driving down the freeway is TERRIFYING and DANGEROUS! What is Chevrolet waiting for? A few serious accidents first? We already replaced the fuel pump and the timing chain!

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11535365 at NHTSA →
SteeringJul 2023 · ODI 11535178Details +

THE ESC IS HARD TO STEER AND THE SEATBELT LIGHT STAYS ON EVEN WHEN I'M WEARING MY SEATBELT

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
May 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11535178 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJul 2023 · ODI 11534616Details +

Head light wire is out , electrical wire is messing up . Car is shaking bad and won’t start . Air bag light is on

Reported
Jul 2023
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11534616 at NHTSA →
SteeringJun 2023 · ODI 11528235Details +

I was driving down the road after I bought the car and the steering suddenly went out the DIC said "service esc" and "service traction" and I could barely move the steering wheel I was lucky to be on a country road because if I was on the highway I could have lost complete control and caused an accident I took it to a mechanic and they said "the dielectric grease in the bcm connector wore out" when I googled it I saw there was a recall but when I contacted the dealer they said there was nothing they could do for me. this is very concerning as who knows how many malibus steering could randomly go out over such a stupid problem i could be available if you would like to inspect the car/systems

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11528235 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJun 2023 · ODI 11527991Details +

Brake lights come on as soon as you start the car.Go off when press the brake pedal.Its like they are reversed or something.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Dec 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11527991 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2023 · ODI 11526313Details +

Passenger side low beam headlight wiring harness connector keeps melting even after replacement. Noticed online that many owners are experiencing the same issue. Replaced harness multiple times and same issue reoccurs after two to three weeks of use.

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526313 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2023 · ODI 11524361Details +

Air bag light randomly pop on . Electrical system is so bad that I only have 1 head light and it’s very dangerous driving at night like that .

Reported
May 2023
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11524361 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(4)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Power Train · 12V460000Details +

General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 vehicles, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On these vehicles, the tabs on the transmission shift cable end may fracture and separate.

Risk: If the tabs were to fracture and separate, the shift lever and the actual position of the transmission gear may not match. The driver would be able to move the shifter to 'PARK' and remove the ignition key, but the transmission gear may not be in 'PARK.' The vehicle may not be able to be restarted and the vehicle could roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, resulting in a possible crash without prior warning.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a retainer over the cable end or replace the shift cable as necessary. This service will be performed free of charge. Notification to owners began on on November 9, 2012. Owners were instructed to not bring their vehicles for repair until January 2013. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-521-7300.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Steering · 14E044000Details +

Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.

Risk: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Electrical System · 14V252000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.

Risk: Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 19V019000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2011 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver frontal air bag, the air bag inflator may explode due to being overpressurized.

Risk: If the inflator explodes, sharp metal fragments may strike the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: GM has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front driver air bag module, free of charge. The recall began February 25, 2019. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-522-9559. GM's number for this recall is N182206630.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2010 Chevrolet Malibu 4-DR w/SAB NHTSA source

Overall
Not rated
Frontal
Not rated
Side
Not rated
Rollover
Not rated

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Malibu2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223326
Malibu2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223326
Malibu2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223025
Malibu2.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223025
Malibu3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive192923
Malibu3.5L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive182922
Malibu3.6L 6-cylFront-Wheel Drive172620

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2010 Chevrolet Malibu: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu?

Owners filed 1,360 NHTSA complaints about the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu?

The most-reported problem areas are Steering (33% of complaints) and electrical system (16%).

How many recalls does the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu have?

4 recalls have been issued that affect the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu, covering components such as power train. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu get?

The EPA rates the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu between 20 and 26 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.