NHTSA & EPA data · updated October 21, 2026

2023 Chevrolet Malibu recalls, problems & safety ratings

Quick answer

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu and 71 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are back over prevention (16), unknown or other (14), engine (13). It earned a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating. EPA-rated fuel economy is about 30 mpg combined.

The 2023 ranks #3 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.

Free. Shows whether a recall applies, plus specs, problems and ratings for your exact vehicle.

Recalls 2

Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

Back over prevention · sensing system · cameraNHTSA #26V212000 · 04/02/2026

Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.

Risk: A rearview image that does not display correctly reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2026. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N262551720. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.

Structure · frame and membersNHTSA #22V923000 · 12/14/2022

Problem: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.

Risk: An improperly welded front impact bar may result in the front crash sensors not performing correctly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle's motor rail for an incomplete weld. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.

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

Back over prevention16
Unknown or other14
Engine13
Electrical system12
Power train8
Air bags7
Fuel/propulsion system6
Steering5

By the numbers

71owner complaints filed
4involved a crash
1involved a fire
4injuries reported

Recent owner reports

10/13/2026 · Service brakes,engine

I am reporting a potential safety concern involving the brake vacuum pump in Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. I have seen multiple reports from owners describing vacuum pump failures, brakes becoming difficult to press, and brakes reportedly stopping working. Some owners have reported having to replace their vacuum pumps multiple times, while others have described serious safety inci…

09/25/2026 · Steering,air bags

I own a 2023 Chevrolet Malibu with an open safety recall. General Motors/dealership has refused to repair the recall. The vehicle has also had multiple safety-related problems, including Service ESC warnings, jerking/poor acceleration, Service Safety Restraint System and airbag warnings, and a “Steering Assist is Reduced, Drive with Care” warning. On or about XXX, while drivin…

09/16/2026 · Suspension,lane departure

I was inquiring about the front suspension and frame work is there a recall. My car is unstable in the front like frame is unbalanced

Safety ratings

2023 Chevrolet Malibu 4 DR FWD

Overall★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side crash★★★★★
Rollover★★★★★

Fuel economy

EPA ratings for common configurations of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu.

Malibu

Auto (variable gear ratios) · 4 cyl · 1.5 L · Turbo

27city
35hwy
30combined

Regular

Other model years

Compare every Chevrolet Malibu year

Questions

How many recalls does the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu have?

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu, most recently for back over prevention · sensing system · camera (04/02/2026). 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 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?

Based on 71 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are back over prevention (16), unknown or other (14), engine (13).

Is the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu safe?

The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu earned a 5-star overall rating in NHTSA's 5-star safety ratings.

Is the 2023 a good year for the Chevrolet Malibu?

The 2023 ranks #3 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 2023 Chevrolet Malibu get?

The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu is EPA-rated at about 30 mpg combined.

Own a 2023 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.

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