Chevrolet Malibu vs Volkswagen Beetle
For 2005–2019 models, the Volkswagen Beetle has 24.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 46.4 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 (2005–2019), 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
1.9× the Volkswagen Beetle’s rate
- 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
Volkswagen Beetle
24.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
47% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 876
- Sold
- 352,627
- Recall campaigns
- 17
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2005 and 2015–2016. Fewest: 2011 and 2017–2019. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 73,525 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 64,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 50,100 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 75,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 47,364 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Volkswagen Beetle?
For 2005–2019 models, the Volkswagen Beetle has 24.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 46.4, 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 Volkswagen Beetle?
The most-reported problem on the Volkswagen Beetle is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 73,525 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Volkswagen Beetle years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Volkswagen Beetle: 2005 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.