TireKick

Problems to check

2021 Chevrolet Malibu reported problems

These problems appeared in the records we reviewed. This is not a list of what happens most often, and it does not predict the condition of one car.

What to look for

Airbags owner reports

Moderate severity
Evidence: Limited confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.

Symptom
5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention air bags.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Rightway Automotive credit from Tallmadge Ohio on October 19, 2022 who then sold it to the current owner.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Bargain Auto Sales Inc from West Palm beach on August 25, 2021.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on November 23, 2022.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on August 31, 2022.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This vin is most likely affected by the aftermarket DTN inflator wheel airbag. Please let the final owner know of this. This vehicle was sold to Auto Boutique LLC from Jacksonville Florida on January 11, 2023 who then sold it to the current owner.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record

Electrical System owner reports

Critical severity
Evidence: Limited confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.

Symptom
5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention electrical system.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 39 to 76 miles.

Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

“Blower motor area caught fire while sitting in the driveway. Car door was opened about 20 minutes prior to my security camera catching smoke billowing from the vehicle”
NHTSAcomplaintMay 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

“I was driving and car suddenly reduced speed,engine light came on and message came across dash “engine power reduced” and a text was sent to tell me I have a transmission issue. Now car won’t drive past 25-30mph dealership indicated this is a faulty gas pedal which cost over $600 to repair. Did my research and this is apparently a “known” problem common in 2016-2022. Vehicles but is not an official recall. Also dealership said only “certain” vin numbers with this problem are covered. I have a 2021 and I am not one of them. Not fair. It’s a known problem it should be fixed.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

“I went to do an errand pulled in to parking spot put car into park shut it off. Car dash repeatedly said put car into park. All dash lights, would go on from left to right and shut off, this included the center console. I tried over and over to start car and shift but it wouldn’t go. It just kept repeating shift into park. It took 95 mins before the car would start. Then the RPMS would rev way past what they should. I lived 30 miles away. I made it home slowly. The next morning I took to my son tha is a GM certified mechanic. I’m not sure what he did but it’s running smoothly again.”
NHTSAcomplaintApr 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

“Vehicle has a repeated issue recognizing that it is in park when trying to turn vehicle off. This causes concern that the vehicle may not actually be in park, will not fully power down therefore draining the battery and leaving driver stranded, or lead to other body control module/shifting problems. This is a known issue with GM spanning multiple years and multiple models. The only official fix is to replace the entire shifter assembly with an updated version which can be a couple of thousand dollars. GM refuses to cover the cost knowing that they installed a faulty part during assembly.”
NHTSAcomplaintDec 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible fatal outcome.

“Dear NHTSA: I am submitting this complaint because my vehicle, a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu (VIN [XXX] ), is included in Emission Recall N252516900 issued by General Motors concerning the Fuel Pump Power Control Module. Despite that inclusion, I have experienced the following: - A prior near-fatal incident in 2023 when the vehicle unexpectedly shut off while stopped at a red light (engine stall) due to the root defect. - The dealer has informed me I now need a new 12-V battery (just over one year old), a new AC compressor, and a new drive/serpentine belt. - The defect referenced in the recall (interruption of fuel flow) is reasonably the root cause of these consequential failures (battery stress, accessory drive stress). - I have been without the vehicle for 11 days, have not been provided adequate interim mobility support, and have not received timely resolution from GM under my Case #XXX (agent Jasmine who has followed her company's protocol while remaining helpful and empathetic; supervisor Stephanie called October 17, 2025). Requested relief: 1. That GM be required to pay for the recall work (module replacement) **and** reimburse/cover the consequential damage (battery, compressor, belt). 2. Interim remedy: loaner vehicle or rental reimbursement for days without vehicle. 3. Acknowledgment of the safety risk posed by the defect and record of the stall incident. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)”
NHTSAcomplaintOct 2025Open source record

Power Train owner reports

High severity
Evidence: Limited confidence

Owner reports are bound to model year 2021.

Symptom
5 reviewed owner reports for this model year mention power train.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 116,006 to 120,669 miles.

Based on 2 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and note any warning lights, noises, leaks, or stored codes.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the inspection and service records to check whether this car shows the reported problem.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Shift to park switch failed.”
NHTSAcomplaintJul 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that when shifting the gear selector into park (P), the "Shift To Park" warning message was displayed on the instrument panel, even though the vehicle was already parked. The failure was recurrent. A dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the failure was a known condition with pending repairs. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 113,674.”
NHTSAcomplaintJul 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a dealer for a recall repair related to the fuel pump control module. After the repair was completed, the contact experienced a new failure. While attempting to turn off the vehicle, the vehicle became inoperable and could not be turned off. The message “Shift to Park” was displayed while the vehicle was shifted to park. The contact stated that the vehicle unexpectedly turned off after the contact exited the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the shift lever had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 123,000.”
NHTSAcomplaintJan 2026Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“The component is D automatic transmission shift to park switch. The vehicle is and will be available for immediate inspection upon request. Safety was put at risk when the car lost power while they’re celebrating install in the floor of traffic, causing other cars to swerve around and blow horns. The underlying issue with the car was confirmed by independent service center. There was no reason to have your vehicle inspected all by manufacturer , police insurance for others the warning sign once the car installed and attempted to like it was gonna turn off with service ESC and the light stayed on for four hours”
NHTSAcomplaintDec 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: Limited confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“Transmission failed to engage gear properly after backing up. Grinding sounds heard when vehicle was in drive. Problem has been confirmed and inspected by Chevrolet dealership. Vehicle is available for inspection. Occupants safety was at risk because gears could have locked up during commute causing vehicle to be undriveable, leaving driver and passengers stranded. Blind spot feature is unavailable randomly, which can cause a possible side swipe crash. When radio is playing suddenly switches to bluetooth randomly.”
NHTSAcomplaintDec 2025Open source record

Seat Belts recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2021.

Symptom
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 105,000 to 105,000 miles.

Based on 1 report that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners. An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Seats recall

High severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record for model year 2021.

Symptom
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

What to inspect

  • Check the VIN for this recall and ask for the repair receipt if it was completed.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Confirm the VIN-specific recall status and keep the completion receipt.

Fix listed in the records: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.

Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a possible crash, fire, injury, or loss of control.

“General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism. An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury. Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.”
NHTSArecallOpen source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2022.

Symptom
This Warranty Administration bulletin is for information on General Motors New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program (U.S.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 48,000 to 105,200 miles.

Based on 40 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Warranty Administration bulletin is for information on General Motors New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program (U.S. Dealers Only).”
NHTSAtsbApr 2020Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Warranty Administration bulletin is for information on General Motors New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program (U.S. Dealers Only).”
NHTSAtsbAug 2020Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This Warranty Administration bulletin is for information on General Motors New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program (U.S. Dealers Only).”
NHTSAtsbDec 2020Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2022.

Symptom
This service bulletin provides information on GM Canada New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program for Original Equipment (OE) Tires and PDI installed Limited Production Option (LPO) Tires.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 48,000 to 105,200 miles.

Based on 40 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information on GM Canada New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program for Original Equipment (OE) Tires and PDI installed Limited Production Option (LPO) Tires. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2022Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information on GM Canada New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program for Original Equipment (OE) Tires and PDI installed Limited Production Option (LPO) Tires. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2022Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information on GM Canada New Vehicle Tire Warranty Program for Original Equipment (OE) Tires and PDI installed Limited Production Option (LPO) Tires. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record

Manufacturer warranty extension

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2022.

Symptom
This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 48,000 to 105,200 miles.

Based on 40 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period. ”
NHTSAtsbMay 2024Open source record

Manufacturer service campaign

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2017 through 2022.

Symptom
Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 34,500 to 101,500 miles.

Based on 43 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.”
NHTSAtsbAug 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.”
NHTSAtsbAug 2024Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.”
NHTSAtsbAug 2024Open source record

Manufacturer service campaign

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2022.

Symptom
Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 32,750 to 95,770 miles.

Based on 38 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the applicable vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record

Manufacturer service campaign

Moderate severity
Evidence: High confidence

Official record covers model years 2018 through 2022.

Symptom
Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase.
Why it matters
The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

Mileage in the reports

In reports that included mileage, this problem showed up around 32,750 to 95,770 miles.

Based on 38 reports that included mileage. This is not a failure rate or a prediction.

What to inspect

  • Ask the inspector to test the named system and record the result.

Ask the inspector to check: Independent pre-purchase inspection.

What may help

  • Use the official record to focus the inspection and service-history review.
Sources and limitsShow
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record
Source recordEvidence: High confidence

The records describe a problem worth checking before purchase.

“Amendments to the Song-Beverly Act (SBA) California warranty law provides vehicle owners with an opportunity to submit a written notice to GM before filing a lawsuit seeking a vehicle repurchase. If such a notice is not provided to GM, then the vehicle owner is prevented from seeking civil penalties in litigation. Vehicle owners of the affected vehicles will be mailed an owner’s manual and warranty insert containing this information in English and Spanish. ”
NHTSAtsbJun 2025Open source record

The records cannot show the service history, repairs, title, accidents, or condition of the car you found.

Check a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu at its mileage