Chevrolet Malibu vs Ford Fiesta
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 37.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 56.1 for the Ford Fiesta. 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 (2010–2020), 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
37.4 complaints per 10,000 sold
33% fewer than the Ford Fiesta
- Complaints
- 7,473
- Sold
- 1,999,747
- Recall campaigns
- 33
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2010. 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
Ford Fiesta
56.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.5× the Chevrolet Malibu’s rate
- Complaints
- 3,160
- Sold
- 562,951
- Recall campaigns
- 12
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2011–2014. Fewest: 2010, 2017–2018 and 2020. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 30,406 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 46,000 mi
-
Manual clutch, flywheel and hydraulics
Typically around 40,000 mi · repair $1,070–$1,980
-
Transmission control module and sensors
Typically around 65,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 59,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Ford Fiesta?
For 2010–2020 models, the Chevrolet Malibu has 37.4 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Fiesta has 56.1, 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 Ford Fiesta?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Fiesta is harsh, delayed or erratic shifting, typically around 30,406 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fiesta years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2010; Ford Fiesta: 2011–2014.
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.