Chevrolet Malibu vs Kia Forte
For 2010–2022 models, the Kia Forte has 21.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 34.8 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 (2010–2022), 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
34.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
1.6× the Kia Forte’s rate
- Complaints
- 7,497
- Sold
- 2,154,591
- Recall campaigns
- 33
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2010. Fewest: 2014–2015, 2019 and 2022. 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
Kia Forte
21.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
39% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 2,441
- Sold
- 1,154,385
- Recall campaigns
- 15
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2010, 2012 and 2014–2015. Fewest: 2016 and 2020–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 91,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 63,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 70,000 mi
-
Wiring harness, grounds and connectors
Typically around 62,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 83,511 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Kia Forte?
For 2010–2022 models, the Kia Forte has 21.1 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 34.8, 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 Kia Forte?
The most-reported problem on the Kia Forte is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 91,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Kia Forte years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2010; Kia Forte: 2010, 2012 and 2014–2015.
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.