Chevrolet Malibu vs Chevrolet Sonic
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 33.7 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 (2011–2021), 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
33.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.7× the Chevrolet Sonic’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,202
- Sold
- 1,840,323
- Recall campaigns
- 33
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Fewest: 2014–2015 and 2019–2020. 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
Chevrolet Sonic
19.7 complaints per 10,000 sold
42% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 952
- Sold
- 483,310
- Recall campaigns
- 16
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2012–2015. Fewest: 2011, 2018–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 48,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 48,500 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 31,000 mi
-
Cooling system: radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan
Typically around 62,000 mi · repair $260–$1,910
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Chevrolet Sonic?
For 2011–2021 models, the Chevrolet Sonic has 19.7 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 33.7, 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 Chevrolet Sonic?
The most-reported problem on the Chevrolet Sonic is body control and other modules, typically around 50,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Chevrolet Sonic years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Sonic: 2012–2015.
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.