Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Focus
For 2005–2019 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 46.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 54.0 for the Ford Focus. 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 (2005–2019), 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
46.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
14% fewer than the Ford Focus
- Complaints
- 13,067
- Sold
- 2,816,760
- Recall campaigns
- 37
- 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 Focus
54.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Chevrolet Malibu’s rate
- Complaints
- 14,134
- Sold
- 2,619,091
- Recall campaigns
- 27
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2012–2014 and 2018. Fewest: 2006, 2008, 2011 and 2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 40,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 62,872 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 60,000 mi
-
Manual clutch, flywheel and hydraulics
Typically around 56,081 mi · repair $1,070–$1,980
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 77,777 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Focus?
For 2005–2019 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 46.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Focus has 54.0, 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 Ford Focus?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Focus is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 40,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Focus years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Ford Focus: 2012–2014 and 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.