Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Optima
For 2005–2021 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 42.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 47.2 for the Kia Optima. 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
about the same as the Kia Optima
- 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
Kia Optima
47.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
about the same as the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 6,754
- Sold
- 1,431,194
- Recall campaigns
- 18
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2011, 2013 and 2015–2016. Fewest: 2017–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 100,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 88,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 89,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 62,800 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Kia Optima?
For 2005–2021 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 42.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Kia Optima has 47.2, 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 Kia Optima?
The most-reported problem on the Kia Optima is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 100,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Kia Optima years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Kia Optima: 2011, 2013 and 2015–2016.
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.