Cars

2025 Chevy Malibu Reliability: Common Problems and Recalls

JH
John H
Senior Cars Expert
8 min read

2025 Chevy Malibu Reliability: Common Problems and Recalls

The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu continues the legacy of one of GM’s longest-running midsize sedans, now reimagined for a new era of automotive technology and consumer expectations. As buyers consider upgrading to this latest model, reliability remains a top concern. With a refreshed design, improved infotainment, enhanced safety systems, and a focus on fuel efficiency, the 2025 Malibu aims to win back market share from popular competitors like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. But how reliable is it, really? In this in-depth analysis, we dive into the 2025 Chevy Malibu’s reliability rating, common problems reported by owners, known recalls, and what potential buyers should know before making a purchase.

Overview of the 2025 Chevy Malibu

The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu benefits from a mid-cycle refresh that includes modern styling, updated interior materials, and next-generation tech features. Available in four trims—L, LS, LT, and Premier—the Malibu is powered by either a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a more powerful 2.0L turbo option. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

Notable improvements for 2025 include:

Despite these refinements, reliability remains a key metric for long-term ownership satisfaction. Let’s examine how the 2025 Malibu stacks up in this critical category.

Reliability Ratings: What Experts Are Saying

Early reliability data for the 2025 Chevy Malibu is limited, as the model is still relatively new in the market. However, industry experts and consumer reports provide preliminary insights based on early owner feedback, mechanical trends, and historical data from previous model years.

As of early 2025, the Chevrolet Malibu holds an average reliability score of 3.5 out of 5 from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. This rating places it slightly below the segment average for midsize sedans, which typically hover around 3.8–4.0. The score reflects concerns over potential electrical issues, transmission performance, and infotainment glitches—common pain points in modern vehicles with high-tech content.

It’s important to note that GM has made significant strides in quality control over the past five years. The 2025 Malibu benefits from improved build processes, better component sourcing, and longer warranty coverage compared to earlier generations. While not class-leading, the reliability rating suggests the car is generally dependable for daily use, assuming proper maintenance.

Common Problems Reported in the 2025 Chevy Malibu

Although the 2025 Malibu hasn’t been on the road long enough to reveal long-term reliability patterns, early reports from owners and dealership service departments have highlighted several recurring issues. Below are the most commonly reported problems to date.

1. Infotainment System Glitches

Owners of the 2025 Malibu have reported occasional freezing, slow response times, and spontaneous reboots of the new 10.2-inch Infotainment 3 system. While the inclusion of Google Built-In is a major upgrade—allowing for seamless Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play integration—some users have experienced connectivity hiccups with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

These issues appear to be software-related and are often resolved with dealer-installed updates. Chevrolet has already released a few over-the-air (OTA) patches in early 2025 to address bugs in the system’s user interface and Bluetooth connectivity. However, some owners report that the touchscreen remains overly sensitive or unresponsive in cold weather.

Recommendation: Ensure your Malibu’s software is up-to-date. If issues persist, visit a certified Chevrolet service center for a system recalibration or module replacement under warranty.

2. Transmission Shifting Issues

The 9-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, has been the subject of complaints regarding delayed shifts and slight hesitation during low-speed acceleration. Some drivers describe a “jerky” feel when accelerating from a stop, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.

This behavior is more noticeable in colder climates and during the first few minutes of driving. GM attributes this to the transmission’s adaptive learning algorithm, which adjusts shift patterns based on driving habits. Over time, these quirks often diminish as the system learns your style.

However, a small number of owners have reported more serious issues such as shuddering, hard shifts between gears, or the transmission entering “limp mode.” These cases typically require a software reset or, in rare instances, a transmission control module (TCM) replacement.

Recommendation: Allow the transmission to warm up in cold weather. If shifting problems persist beyond 500 miles, have the vehicle inspected under warranty.

3. Electrical and Sensor Malfunctions

Like many modern vehicles, the 2025 Malibu relies heavily on electronic sensors and modules for everything from climate control to safety systems. Some owners have reported intermittent failures in the following areas:

These issues are often traced to software bugs or loose wiring harness connections. In most cases, a diagnostic scan at a dealership uncovers the root cause, and fixes are typically covered under the 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

One recurring complaint involves the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), which sometimes displays inaccurate readings after tire rotations or seasonal changes. Recalibrating the system usually resolves the problem.

4. AC Compressor and Climate Control Concerns

A handful of early 2025 Malibu owners have reported that the air conditioning system does not cool as efficiently as expected, particularly in hot climates. Symptoms include weak airflow, lukewarm air output, or the AC cutting out after prolonged use.

Preliminary investigations suggest that some units may have minor refrigerant leaks or compressor clutch issues. Chevrolet has not issued a technical service bulletin (TSB) specific to this issue as of mid-2025, but dealers are reportedly replacing compressors on a case-by-case basis under warranty.

Recommendation: If your AC performance is below par, have the system pressure-tested and inspected for leaks. Early intervention can prevent more costly repairs down the line.

5. Suspension and Ride Quality Feedback

The Malibu has always prioritized a comfortable ride over sporty handling, and the 2025 model continues this tradition. However, some drivers have noted premature wear in the front struts and rear shocks, especially when driven on rough roads.

Owners in regions with harsh winters or poor road conditions report hearing clunking or squeaking noises over bumps. While not widespread, these complaints suggest that the suspension components may be less durable than those in some Japanese competitors.

GM has not issued a recall for suspension issues, but a TSB is expected later in 2025 addressing noise reduction techniques and revised shock absorber mounts.

2025 Chevy Malibu Recalls: What You Need to Know

As of July 2025, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued three official recalls for certain 2025 Chevrolet Malibu models. These recalls address potentially serious safety concerns and should be addressed immediately if your vehicle is affected.

Recall 1: Faulty Front Passenger Airbag Inflator (NHTSA Recall #25V-103)

Issue: Certain 2025 Malibu models equipped with Takata-supplied front passenger airbag inflators may experience over-pressurization during deployment, causing the inflator to rupture. This could result in metal fragments being propelled into the cabin, posing a serious injury risk.

Affected Vehicles: Approximately 7,200 units built between January 15 and March 10, 2025, at the Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas.

Solution: Chevrolet is notifying owners and dealers will replace the front passenger airbag inflator at no cost. The repair takes about 45 minutes.

Owner Action: Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls to see if your vehicle is included. Schedule the repair as soon as possible.

Recall 2: Power Steering Loss Due to Software Glitch (NHTSA Recall #25V-211)

Issue: A software error in the electric power steering (EPS) control module may cause a sudden loss of power assist, increasing the risk of a crash—especially at low speeds or during parking maneuvers.

Affected Vehicles: Around 15,800 Malibus with the 1.5L engine and build dates from February 1 to April 5, 2025.

Solution: Dealers will update the EPS control module software free of charge. No parts replacement is needed.

Owner Action: This recall was issued in May 2025. If you haven’t received a notification, check with your local dealer using your VIN.

Recall 3: Incorrectly Programmed Engine Control Module (NHTSA Recall #25V-307)

Issue: In rare cases, the engine control module (ECM) may not be properly calibrated, leading to intermittent engine stalling or failure to start. This could occur without warning, creating a safety hazard on highways.

Affected Vehicles: About 4,500 units produced in late March 2025.

Solution: The ECM will be reprogrammed using the latest calibration software. The process takes less than an hour.

Owner Action: Ensure your contact information is up-to-date with Chevrolet to receive recall notices. This fix is critical for safe operation.

Warranty Coverage: What’s Included with the 2025 Malibu

Chevrolet offers one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the midsize sedan segment, which helps mitigate long-term reliability concerns. The 2025 Malibu comes with the following coverage:

Additionally, the 2025 Malibu includes a 2-year/24,000-mile trial of Chevrolet Connected Services, which offers remote diagnostics, automatic crash response, and stolen vehicle assistance.

These warranties cover most of the common issues discussed above, provided the vehicle is maintained according to the manufacturer’s schedule. Keep all service records and use authorized Chevrolet service centers to ensure warranty validity.

Long-Term Reliability Outlook

While early reports suggest some teething issues with the 2025 Malibu, the long-term reliability outlook is cautiously optimistic. Historical data shows that Malibu models from 2016–2021 had mixed reliability, with some engines (notably the 1.5L turbo) prone to carbon buildup and oil consumption. However, GM has addressed many of these mechanical flaws in the 2025 iteration with revised piston rings, improved oil filtration, and updated engine management software.

With proper maintenance, a 2025 Malibu should easily reach 150,000 miles or more. Key maintenance items to monitor include: