Chevrolet Malibu vs Mazda MAZDA3
For 2005–2022 models, the Mazda MAZDA3 has 16.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 41.1 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 (2005–2022), 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
41.1 complaints per 10,000 sold
2.4× the Mazda MAZDA3’s rate
- Complaints
- 12,642
- Sold
- 3,074,256
- Recall campaigns
- 36
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2007 and 2009–2010. 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
Mazda MAZDA3
16.8 complaints per 10,000 sold
59% fewer than the Chevrolet Malibu
- Complaints
- 2,635
- Sold
- 1,565,366
- Recall campaigns
- 22
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2008 and 2010. Fewest: 2005 and 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 58,000 mi
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 65,915 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 51,250 mi
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 52,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
TPMS sensors and warnings
Typically around 52,558 mi · repair $230–$430
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Chevrolet Malibu or the Mazda MAZDA3?
For 2005–2022 models, the Mazda MAZDA3 has 16.8 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Chevrolet Malibu has 41.1, 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 Mazda MAZDA3?
The most-reported problem on the Mazda MAZDA3 is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 58,000 miles.
Which Chevrolet Malibu and Mazda MAZDA3 years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Chevrolet Malibu: 2007 and 2009–2010; Mazda MAZDA3: 2008 and 2010.
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.