Chevrolet Malibu vs Chevrolet Volt
For 2011–2019 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 34.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 118.0 for the Chevrolet Volt. 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 (2011–2019), 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
34.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
71% fewer than the Chevrolet Volt
- Complaints
- 5,918
- Sold
- 1,698,295
- Recall campaigns
- 32
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
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
Chevrolet Volt
118.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
3.4× the Chevrolet Malibu’s rate
- Complaints
- 1,860
- Sold
- 157,652
- Recall campaigns
- 8
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2012–2013 and 2017–2018. Fewest: 2014–2015. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 42,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 79,000 mi
-
Transmission control module and sensors
Typically around 40,000 mi
-
Hybrid or EV traction battery and inverter
Typically around 67,000 mi · repair $2,740–$5,240
-
Diesel aftertreatment: DPF, EGR, DEF and SCR
Typically around 59,352 mi · repair $1,360–$4,270
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Chevrolet Volt?
For 2011–2019 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 34.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Volt has 118.0, 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 Chevrolet Volt?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Volt is body control and other modules, typically around 42,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Chevrolet Volt years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Volt: 2012–2013 and 2017–2018.
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.