Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu shows a moderate level of owner complaints and six recall campaigns. Key areas of concern include the engine, electrical system, powertrain, and brakes. While these indicate potential issues, each used vehicle's condition can vary. A thorough inspection and test drive are crucial.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 700 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V649000 Rear Seat Belt Retractor Not Secured Properly NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V668000 Missing Bolts on Start/Stop Accumulator NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V642000 ECM May Disable Fuel Injectors NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V576000 Insufficient Coating on Rear Brake Caliper Pistons NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V400000 PPS Incorrectly Suppressing Air Bags NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V358000 Fuel Pump Flange Weld may Fracture NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 281 complaints
- Electrical System 192 complaints
- Power Train 171 complaints
- Unknown or Other 151 complaints
- Vehicle Speed Control 114 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 84 complaints
Of the 700 complaints on file, 23 report a crash and 4 a fire; across all 700 complaints, owners report 17 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
ECM software error
How to check: Ensure no warning lights are on for the engine during start and idle.
Start/stop accumulator issue
How to check: Check for smooth gear transitions and lack of noise.
Insufficient caliper coating
How to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and listen for abnormal sounds.
Incorrect Passenger Presence System
How to check: Confirm airbag warning light functions correctly with a passenger in the seat.
Fuel injector disabling
How to check: Check for smooth engine start and consistent idle.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for abnormal engine noises or warning lights.
Red flag: Engine knocks or lights on
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for smooth idle and no warning lights.
Red flag: Rough idle or warning lights
- 03
Acceleration from stop
What to check: Feel for smooth acceleration without lag or noise.
Red flag: Hesitation or loud noises
- 04
City driving
What to check: Ensure smooth gear shifting and speed control.
Red flag: Hard shifts or speed surges
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for consistent power and stability at speed.
Red flag: Loss of power or vibrations
- 06
Braking
What to check: Test for responsive and quiet braking action.
Red flag: Brake noise or uneven stopping
- 07
Parking maneuver
What to check: Listen for steering noise or difficulty.
Red flag: Steering resistance or sounds
- 08
End of drive check
What to check: Inspect for any fluid leaks beneath the engine.
Red flag: Visible leaks or strong odors
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ECM software been updated?
- Were any recalls addressed?
- Have you experienced any transmission issues?
- Are there any current engine warning lights?
- When was the last brake service done?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Service records
- Recall repair documentation
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- ECM software update proof
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 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.