2021 Chevrolet Malibu recalls, problems & safety ratings
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 90 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are unknown or other (31), electrical system (30), power train (28). It earned a 4-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is 26–32 mpg combined, depending on engine.
The 2021 ranks #4 of 14 Malibu model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (390). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.6 per model year.
Recalls 2
Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.
Seats
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
Risk: An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.
Seat belts · critical fasteners
Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
Risk: An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.
Common problems
From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.
Most-reported problem areas
By the numbers
Recent owner reports
This car has the same issues even after you get it replaced . this car is not a good car I have spent so much money replacing the oz sensor .the radio, and the turbo keeps going out . this car has a lot of recall that should be handle to make sure that this car is running good . they should replace this turbo charge . the car always stall and cut off at a light or when you driv…
Shift to park message
The problem with this model is the CVT Trasmission thats in the vehicle when put into drive mode it stalls to change gears and want change gears for about 5 min then it kicks in to go it does that very often i have took it to the dealership and spent tremendous mount of money the transmission are crapy and stalls the car when put into drive mode please help im not the only one…
Safety ratings
2021 Chevrolet Malibu 4 DR FWD
Fuel economy
EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu.
Malibu
Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.5 L · Turbo
Regular
Malibu
Auto 9-spd · 4 cyl · 2.0 L · Turbo
Regular
Other model years
Questions
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu have?
NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, most recently for seats (05/19/2022). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu?
Based on 90 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are unknown or other (31), electrical system (30), power train (28).
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu safe?
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu earned a 4-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.
Is the 2021 a good year for the Chevrolet Malibu?
The 2021 ranks #4 of 14 Malibu model years for fewest complaints (2012–2025), with fewer complaints than the average year (390). It has 2 recalls vs. an average of 3.6 per model year.
What gas mileage does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu get?
EPA ratings for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu range from 26 to 32 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
Own a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu in South Carolina?
Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.
Related vehicles
Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved October 21, 2026. NHTSA model names used: MALIBU, Malibu.