Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu has moderate issues primarily focused on the engine, electrical system, and air bags, reflected by a significant number of complaints and three recall campaigns. The complaints and recall data indicate potential safety and reliability concerns, so thorough inspections and test drives are essential before purchase. Evidence is strong enough to warrant caution, but there may still be well-maintained units available.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu has 3 NHTSA recall campaigns and 270 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, for the 1 NHTSA-tested trim.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #16V502000 Key May Be Removed When Not In Park/FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V666000 Side Impact Air Bag Modules may Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #15V164000 Roof Panel May Inadvertently Auto Close/FMVSS 118 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 70 complaints
- Electrical System 68 complaints
- Air Bags 49 complaints
- Unknown or Other 35 complaints
- Power Train 31 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 28 complaints
Of the 270 complaints on file, 18 report a crash and 9 a fire; across all 270 complaints, owners report 13 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent stalling reports
How to check: Start the engine and listen for irregular idling or stalls.
Ignition issues
How to check: Verify key removal only in PARK position.
Side air bag inflator rupture
How to check: Check for completed recall repair documentation.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idling.
Red flag: Stalling or loud knocking sounds
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard for warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent check engine light
- 03
City driving
What to check: Ensure smooth transmission shifts.
Red flag: Hard or delayed shifting
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual noises.
Red flag: Grinding noise or longer stop distance
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor engine performance under load.
Red flag: Loss of power or hesitation
- 06
Turning
What to check: Feel for steering smoothness and response.
Red flag: Difficult or stiff steering
- 07
Parking
What to check: Check ignition key can’t be removed in incorrect gear.
Red flag: Key removal from ignition in gear
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition recall been addressed?
- Any recurring issues with the engine?
- Were air bag recalls repaired?
- Service history available?
- Have there been electrical repairs?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair records
- Maintenance history
- Title status
- Accident history report
- Warranty details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2015 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.