How Many Miles Does a Chevy Malibu Last?

If you are in the market for a car known for its dependable fuel efficiency and impressive lifespan that can give other automotives a run for their money, the Chevy Malibu has you covered. This midsize sedan has been a car buyer’s favorite in both the used and new car markets for years now. Backed by consistently high ratings from J.D. Power, the Chevrolet Malibu is the perfect pick for those in need of a reliable car. Malibu owners report that with proper maintenance and driving habits, their Chevy Malibu can easily exceed 200,000 miles.

Here at Riverton-Elko Chevrolet, we’ve found that when our clients are looking for a car that can last, we can always be sure of the Chevy Malibu’s reliability. Chevy Malibu owners will tell you that their Chevy Malibu comes with an impressive fuel economy and intuitive safety features perfect for any road trip. If you’re interested in getting a dependable midsize sedan, the Chevy Malibu is a top contender.

Average Lifespan of a Chevy Malibu

As a highly-rated midsize sedan, the general lifespan of a Chevrolet Malibu ranges from 150,000 and 250,000 miles with regular maintenance. Many Malibu owners even report their Malibu models going beyond 250,000 miles.

Although a car’s model year can play a role in a car’s longevity, the Malibu has ranked consistently high throughout the decades. It is always important for a car buyer to check the vehicle’s history and ask for a test drive if possible. With consistently high ratings from J.D. Power in Quality & Reliability, the Chevrolet Malibu has a record of being the reliable car that drivers have needed for years.

Factors That Affect How Long A Chevy Malibu Lasts

Even with the Chevrolet Malibu’s strong reliability track record, it’s essential to consider certain factors as the Malibu ages. This model is built to last, and making minor changes in your driving habits, scheduling oil changes, and keeping up with regular maintenance will keep you and your Malibu on the road for even longer.

Changing Minor Driving Habits

Even though we spend so much of our time driving, we often don’t consider how our driving habits might affect our cars. When you’re thinking about how to get the most out of your Chevy Malibu, there are a few useful things we can consider.

Whenever you go to accelerate, take a moment to consider if you’re accelerating quickly. Fast acceleration can stress your engine more than gently pressing down on the pedal. With the Malibu’s turbocharged engine, making this minor change can go a long way. The same thing goes for braking. If you find yourself slamming on the brakes often, you might try to keep a longer following distance to reduce wear and tear on your brakes and engine.

Regular Maintenance

Taking care of your car quickly can help you avoid common problems that everyone hates. Something as simple as getting the recommended fuel grade will make your engine purr.

The Chevy Malibu’s automatic transmission comes standard with a Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT. Some specific model years might be different, so double-check your car’s manual.

Chevrolet generally recommends using STP Dexron/Mercon Automatic Transmission Fluid for the best results, which is what we use in our service center. To get the smoothest experience with your automatic transmission, plan on replacing the transmission fluid every 45,000-60,000 miles.

Whenever your car is brought in for servicing, ask to have a few minor things checked on as well. See if the dealership can check on the power steering fluid and your car’s coolant and brake fluid levels. Taking care of the smaller aspects of your car’s maintenance helps avoid bigger engine problems down the road.

Recognizing Common Problems And How To Fix Them

Although the Malibu is known for its dependability, you might encounter some issues as the years go on. Noticing when these issues come up and acting quickly will leave you better off in the future. You can always refer to your car’s manual and check on its warranty for more information.

Signs of Transmission Issues

If you start to notice your car shifts gears hard, hesitates shifting gears, slips gears, or shakes and jerks, you might have a transmission issue. This can be caused by a problem with the Transmission Control Module (TCM), a worn clutch, or issues with the transmission fluid.

In this case, double-check your transmission fluid levels and whether or not it’s contaminated. Filling or replacing your transmission fluid is a good place to start. If the issue continues, take your car to the dealership for a checkup.

Signs of Electrical System Issues

If your car experiences issues recognizing gear shifts, the battery draining faster than usual, lights flickering, or the infotainment system does not show signs of turning on, your car might be experiencing some electrical system failure. For Malibu model years 2016-2020, some drivers have reported a “Shift to Park” warning even when parked. Electrical system problems can show up with faulty Body Control Modules (BCM), an issue with the wiring harness, or an issue with the car’s wiring.

You can see if cleaning a corroded connector or replacing faulty wiring and components can help. If you are hesitant about messing with the car’s wiring and electrical system, take it into the dealership for help.

Power Steering Malfunction

Issues with the power steering assist or a “Power Steering” warning light are clear signs of a power steering malfunction. This issue might be caused by a faulty Electric Power Steering (EPS) motor or the steering torque sensor. Getting a replacement for either the EPS or torque sensor can get rid of this issue.

Model Year Changes and Trim Level Variations

The Chevrolet Malibu has changed throughout the decades to provide the latest safety features, better fuel economy, and additions to the infotainment system for a better overall driving experience.

Chevy Malibu Base Model Features

The latest Malibu models for any trim level come equipped with features you are sure to love. Car buyers looking for an affordable, reliable car have loved the features that come with the Malibu LS and RS trim levels. Here are a few things you can find in all modern Chevrolet Malibus.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

The Malibu’s sturdy 27-36 MPG on the highway is greatly helped by its Continuously Variable Transmission standard on the Malibu’s engine. The CVT provides your engine with a continuous flow of power. So, instead of experiencing the “jerky” feeling of traditional fixed gear systems, the Malibu’s CVT-powered transmission will get you that smooth driving experience you have been looking for.

Another benefit of the CVT is its highly responsive acceleration. This comes in handy when you’re merging onto the highway or pulling out of a stop.

Chevy Safety Assist Suite

Coming standard on every latest Chevrolet Malibu, the Chevy Safety Assist Suite provides you with all the safety features you will need. Thanks to the sensors installed on all Chevy Malibu trim levels, you can drive knowing you’ve got someone keeping you safe. Safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane assistance indicators, forward collision alerts, as well as a helpful backup camera, will make driving the Malibu a breeze.

The Chevrolet Malibu’s power steering technology works alongside the sensors of the car. Meaning, your Malibu will keep you safely in the center of the lane. Another incredibly useful safety feature is its lane departure warnings that will alert you whenever you drift out of lane.

Chevrolet Infotainment System

For the past decade, the Malibu has come installed with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that’s sure to impress. This touchscreen has all the connectivity you will need for those fun road trips without the hassle. Connect your phone and enjoy seamlessly accessing your apps, navigation, and music. Use voice commands to control your phone while keeping you focused on the drive.

Advantages of the Chevy Malibu LT

The Chevrolet Malibu LT comes with all the features of the base trims, with some key additions you’re sure to love. The Malibu LT is the best option for those wanting the Chevy Malibu reliability with the most comfortable driving experience.

Remote Start

Whether you find yourself walking to your car in cold weather or on a hot summer’s day, the Malibu LT has you covered. Remotely starting your car means that when you step inside the cabin, you are getting the exact temperature you need. No more freezing in your car as you wait for your car to warm up. No more sweating in your seat while you wait for the AC to kick in. The remote start feature is just one of the many features of the Malibu LT to ensure a comfortable driving experience.

Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control

The Malibu LT allows for a more tailored driving experience with individual AC controls for both the driver and front passenger. Comfortably allowing the driver and passenger to control the temperature for the best possible experience.

Heated Exterior Mirrors

The LT’s mirrors make foggy and frosty windows a thing of the past. Having heated mirrors means you can safely and quickly hit the road in any weather conditions.

Get the Most Out of Your Chevy Malibu With Riverton-Elko Chevrolet

Here at Riverton-Elko Chevrolet, we are proud of the service and customer support we offer to our drivers. We put great importance on getting you in a car we know will last and one you will love. Whether you are looking for a dependable used car or something new, Riverton-Elko Chevrolet has you covered. With our emphasis on quality service and financing options that will work for you, let us get you and your Chevrolet Malibu on the road for longer.