Chevrolet Malibu vs Hyundai Sonata
For 2005–2022 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 41.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 51.6 for the Hyundai Sonata. 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 (2005–2022), 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
41.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
20% fewer than the Hyundai Sonata
- Complaints
- 12,642
- Sold
- 3,074,256
- Recall campaigns
- 36
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. Fewest: 2014–2015, 2019 and 2022. 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
Hyundai Sonata
51.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.3× the Chevrolet Malibu’s rate
- Complaints
- 13,856
- Sold
- 2,686,273
- Recall campaigns
- 39
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2011–2013 and 2017. Fewest: 2005, 2010 and 2021–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 81,377 mi
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 97,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 74,750 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 71,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 80,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Hyundai Sonata?
For 2005–2022 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 41.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Hyundai Sonata has 51.6, 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 Hyundai Sonata?
The most-reported problem on the Hyundai Sonata is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 81,377 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Hyundai Sonata: 2011–2013 and 2017.
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.