Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has notable issues with steering and electrical systems, backed by over 700 complaints. Four recall campaigns focus mainly on airbags, steering, wiring, and transmission issues. While these issues are serious, the vehicle remains a viable option if problems have been addressed. Thorough inspection and questioning the seller about repairs made are essential.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2010 Chevrolet Malibu has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,363 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #19V019000 Driver's Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14E044000 Steering Shaft Inadequate Support of U-Joint NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V252000 Brake Lights may or may not Randomly Illuminate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V460000 The Transmission Shift Cable May Detach NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 454 complaints
- Electrical System 295 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 227 complaints
- Exterior Lighting 194 complaints
- Service Brakes 184 complaints
- Air Bags 144 complaints
Of the 1,363 complaints on file, 41 report a crash and 14 a fire; across all 1,363 complaints, owners report 47 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Intermediate shaft failure
How to check: Inspect intermediate steering shaft for damage or looseness.
Wiring issues
How to check: Check for malfunctioning or flickering lights.
Airbag inflator may explode
How to check: Ensure airbag recall repairs have been done.
Shift cable separation
How to check: Test gear shifting for smooth, accurate changes.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for any unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rattling sound.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard for any warning lights.
Red flag: Check engine or ABS light on.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Steering feels responsive and accurate.
Red flag: Difficulty steering or unusual noises.
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Vehicle accelerates smoothly without hesitation.
Red flag: Hesitation or jerking during acceleration.
- 05
Braking
What to check: Observe brake response and any noises.
Red flag: Vibration or grinding noise during braking.
- 06
Parking
What to check: Gear shifts smoothly into park and reverse.
Red flag: Hard to shift or not engaging properly.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag inflator recall been completed?
- What steering repairs have been done?
- Have there been any electrical system repairs?
- Can you confirm any transmission work done?
- Are the brakes and lighting fully functional?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Recent maintenance receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Title documentation
- Warranty transfer papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2010 Chevrolet Malibu? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.