Chevrolet Malibu vs Dodge Caliber
For 2006–2012 models, the Dodge Caliber has 44.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 60.3 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 (2006–2012), 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
60.3 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.4× the Dodge Caliber’s rate
- Complaints
- 7,948
- Sold
- 1,317,146
- Recall campaigns
- 7
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. 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 Caliber
44.5 complaints per 10,000 sold
26% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 1,806
- Sold
- 405,713
- Recall campaigns
- 5
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 0
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009. Fewest: 2006. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Subframe, cradle and frame corrosion
Typically around 109,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 92,459 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 68,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Control arms, ball joints and bushings
Typically around 56,000 mi · repair $230–$700
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Dodge Caliber?
For 2006–2012 models, the Dodge Caliber has 44.5 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 60.3, 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 Caliber?
The most-reported problem on the Dodge Caliber is subframe, cradle and frame corrosion, typically around 109,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Dodge Caliber years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Dodge Caliber: 2007 and 2009.
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.