Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu shows some potential issues in critical areas like the engine and electrical systems, backed by a fair number of complaints and several recalls. While the vehicle may perform adequately for daily use, particular attention should be given to verifying any pre-existing issues before purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu has 9 NHTSA recall campaigns and 841 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 #21V649000 Rear Seat Belt Retractor Not Secured Properly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V400000 PPS Incorrectly Suppressing Air Bags NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V358000 Fuel Pump Flange Weld may Fracture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V781000 Side Air Bag Fabric May Tear During Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V502000 Key May Be Removed When Not In Park/FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V272000 Electronic Stability Control Systems/FMVSS 126 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V151000 Side Air Bag Weld Studs May Separate/FMVSS 214 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V125000 Improper Air Bag Inflation NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #16V084000 Intermittent Failure of Audio Warning System NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 304 complaints
- Electrical System 222 complaints
- Unknown or Other 175 complaints
- Power Train 166 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 152 complaints
- Service Brakes 95 complaints
Of the 841 complaints on file, 23 report a crash and 2 a fire; across all 841 complaints, owners report 14 injuries and 1 death (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent engine issues
How to check: Listen for unusual noises or vibrations during a test drive.
Electrical system failures
How to check: Test all electrical components for full functionality.
Airbag deployment issues
How to check: Confirm recall compliance for airbag sensor and systems.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises.
Red flag: Loud knocks or rattles
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check if warning lights stay on.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
10-15 mph drive
What to check: Test brakes for smooth operation.
Red flag: Pulsations or grinding sounds
- 04
City driving
What to check: Observe electrical component responsiveness.
Red flag: Flickering lights or non-responsive radio
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for hesitation or surging.
Red flag: Delayed or rough acceleration
- 06
During turns
What to check: Feel for steering wheel vibrations.
Red flag: Heavy shaking or resistance
- 07
After parking
What to check: Check for fluid leaks under the car.
Red flag: Visible leaks on ground
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag issue been resolved?
- Were there any engine repairs?
- Have electrical issues been a problem?
- Is the recall work completed?
- Any major accidents or damage?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service history
- Recall compliance records
- Title and registration
- Accident history report
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2016 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.