Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2017 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu has a notable number of complaints, particularly regarding the engine and electrical system. With 703 complaints and 4 recalls, potential buyers should be cautious and perform a thorough inspection. Some issues, like seat belts and air bags, have recalls but overall evidence is somewhat limited.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu has 4 NHTSA recall campaigns and 705 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 #16V870000 Insufficient Welds On Rear Side Air Bag Inflator NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 253 complaints
- Electrical System 161 complaints
- Unknown or Other 148 complaints
- Power Train 139 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 135 complaints
- Service Brakes 69 complaints
Of the 705 complaints on file, 16 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 705 complaints, owners report 14 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent engine problems
How to check: Check for unusual noises or poor performance during start and drive.
Electrical malfunctions
How to check: Test all electrical components, look for nonworking parts.
Power train issues
How to check: Feel for rough shifts or delays during gear changes.
Potential airbag malfunction
How to check: Verify airbag recall completion and check dashboard warning lights.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine knocking or rough idle.
Red flag: Persistent knocking noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe all dashboard warning lights.
Red flag: Any warning light remains on
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check smoothness of gear shifts.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Monitor for power loss or hesitation.
Red flag: Noticeable lag in acceleration
- 05
Braking
What to check: Test brake responsiveness and sound.
Red flag: Squealing or delayed stopping
- 06
Low-speed turns
What to check: Feel for steering ease and precision.
Red flag: Unusual vibrations or stiffness
- 07
Parking
What to check: Assess the functionality of parking sensors.
Red flag: Sensors fail to alert obstacles
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Any issues with engine performance?
- Have there been electrical repairs?
- Is the transmission in original condition?
- Have you experienced any safety recalls?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Complete service history
- Recall repair documents
- Accident history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty records
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2017 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.