Chevrolet Malibu vs Dodge Avenger
For 2007–2014 models, the Dodge Avenger has 45.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 53.1 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 (2007–2014), 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
53.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.2× the Dodge Avenger’s rate
- Complaints
- 8,011
- Sold
- 1,508,293
- Recall campaigns
- 22
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. Fewest: 2014. 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
Dodge Avenger
45.6 complaints per 10,000 sold
14% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 2,503
- Sold
- 548,708
- Recall campaigns
- 8
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2008 and 2012–2013. Fewest: 2007 and 2009. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 73,364 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 88,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 86,000 mi
-
Blower motor and blend-door actuators
Typically around 85,000 mi · repair $150–$460
-
Heater core and coolant heat
Typically around 75,000 mi · repair $860–$1,590
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Dodge Avenger?
For 2007–2014 models, the Dodge Avenger has 45.6 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 53.1, 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 Dodge Avenger?
The most-reported problem on the Dodge Avenger is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 73,364 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Dodge Avenger years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Dodge Avenger: 2008 and 2012–2013.
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.