Chevrolet Cruze vs Chevrolet Malibu
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Cruze has 20.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 37.4 for the Chevrolet Malibu. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2010–2020), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Chevrolet Cruze
20.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
45% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 3,717
- Sold
- 1,805,322
- Recall campaigns
- 26
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2010–2012 and 2014. Fewest: 2018–2020. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 56,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 61,987 mi · repair $260–$1,910
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 54,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 33,160 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 48,228 mi
Chevrolet Malibu
37.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.8× the Chevrolet Cruze’s rate
- Complaints
- 7,473
- Sold
- 1,999,747
- Recall campaigns
- 33
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2010. Fewest: 2014–2015 and 2019–2020. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 76,300 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 101,956 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 89,932 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 66,000 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 105,091 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Cruze or the Chevrolet Malibu?
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Cruze has 20.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 37.4, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Cruze?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Cruze is body control and other modules, typically around 56,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Chevrolet Malibu?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Malibu is body control and other modules, typically around 76,300 miles.
Which Chevrolet Cruze and Chevrolet Malibu years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Cruze: 2010–2012 and 2014; Chevrolet Malibu: 2010.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.