Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Fusion
For 2005–2021 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 42.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 69.3 for the Ford Fusion. 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 (2005–2021), 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 Malibu
42.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
39% fewer than the Ford Fusion
- Complaints
- 12,546
- Sold
- 2,958,788
- Recall campaigns
- 35
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. Fewest: 2014–2015 and 2019. 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
Ford Fusion
69.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.6× the Chevrolet Malibu’s rate
- Complaints
- 22,212
- Sold
- 3,207,373
- Recall campaigns
- 46
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2008 and 2010–2012. Fewest: 2005 and 2019–2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 75,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 52,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 91,500 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 90,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 67,927 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fusion?
For 2005–2021 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 42.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Fusion has 69.3, counting the same model years for both.
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.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Fusion?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Fusion is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 75,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Ford Fusion: 2008 and 2010–2012.
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.