The Malibu is fitted with a variety of high-tech connectivity features, including OnStar and Bluetooth. Confirm both are working properly, pairing your phone and placing a call to confirm proper operation, and accessing the OnStar via the blue button. Ask the OnStar advisor to confirm that they can ‘ping’ the car via GPS. If unable, the integrated GPS module may need to be replaced. Bad GPS modules are relatively uncommon, but worth checking into.

Here’s a lengthy discussion about premature wheel-bearing failure at low miles, which seems common enough to warrant investigation. Have a mechanic assess the condition of the wheel bearings on the Malibu you’re considering, especially if a drone or roar-like sound is detected at highway speeds. In most cases, owners have been successful at having worn wheel bearings replaced under warranty.

If the used Malibu you’re considering has a leather interior, inspect all leather panels for signs or ripping, cracking or wear, calling any you note into pricing negotiations. Regular use of a leather cleaner or conditioner on the seats is also advised. Here’s some more information.

On models with the AutoStop system, issues with slow restarting, or momentary power accessory loss upon engine restart, have been reported by some owners. If you detect these issues on a test-drive, or later during ownership, note that many owners have had the issues remedied with replacement battery cables.

Here’s another discussion relating to modern engines consuming oil, in which owners debate how much oil consumption is considered normal. Some owners of Malibu models with the turbo engine report excessive oil consumption, and others report none at all. To some degree, oil consumption in a modern, high-efficiency engine is considered normal—though shoppers are advised to check the oil level on a test-drive, and monitor it religiously during ownership, noting any excessive consumption and having it documented by their dealer service advisor for possible future warranty claims. Note that part of the issue may relate to oil blowing past turbo seals, a normal characteristic of turbocharged engines, though not in excessive amounts. Have a GM mechanic check the charge pipes on the turbo engine for signs of excessive oil. Any turbo engine will coat its charge-pipes with a film of oil, though pooling is typically considered an issue.

Other possible issues include latch-related rattles from the rear seats over bumps, freezing and crashing of the MyLink infotainment system (more reading here) and the presence of a coolant smell (sweet, sugary and slightly burned) detected in the car. The latter issue may be the result of a leaky heater core, or a bad thermostat, and should be investigated ahead of purchase.

Finally, note that a notchiness, lumpiness or sticking sensation from the steering is likely caused by a bad or dying battery, though any detected issues related to steering feel or operation should be checked out by a mechanic.

Note that Malibu was affected by a lengthy list of recalls, which should be addressed by your local Chevrolet service centre.

The Verdict: Malibu seems to be a much-loved family sedan where comfort, practicality  and value are concerned—and most of the likely issues shoppers may face should be easy to spot on a test-drive, and easy for a mechanic to address.

Here’s some reading on all things Chevy Malibu from Autos.ca

Crash Test Results
IIHS: Top Safety Pick (2015)
NHTSA: 5/5 Stars

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