Chevrolet Malibu vs Chrysler PT Cruiser
For 2005–2010 models, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has 17.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 63.9 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 (2005–2010), 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
63.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
3.7× the Chrysler PT Cruiser’s rate
- Complaints
- 7,149
- Sold
- 1,118,465
- Recall campaigns
- 7
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. 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
Chrysler PT Cruiser
17.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
73% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 770
- Sold
- 448,685
- Recall campaigns
- 0
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2009. Fewest: 2005 and 2007. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 87,144 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 85,270 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 91,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
For 2005–2010 models, the Chrysler PT Cruiser has 17.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 63.9, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser?
The most-reported problem on the Chrysler PT Cruiser is body control and other modules, typically around 70,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Chrysler PT Cruiser years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Chrysler PT Cruiser: 2009.
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.