2012 Chevrolet Malibu

High concern

Owners filed 907 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the electrical system. It has been recalled 3 times.

Not among the Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid. Which Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
86,000 milesMedian miles at failure

645 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2012 Chevrolet Malibu problems

204 of the 907 complaints (22%) are about the electrical system.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Electrical System197
270
Steering117
401
Exterior Lighting · headlights103
120
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control101
301
Air Bags · airbags90
23023
Service Brakes · brakes51
802
Engine43
111
Seats33
201
Seat Belts31
102
Power Train · transmission23
000

2012 Chevrolet Malibu electrical system problems

22% of all complaints

204 of the 907 complaints are about the electrical system. This is what owners describe:

  • will not start13% · 27
  • stalls11% · 23
  • sets off warning lights on the dash11% · 23
  • loses power6% · 13
  • turns on the check engine light6% · 13
  • vibrates or shakes4% · 8

Share of the 204 electrical system complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
90,000 mi
median of 137 reports
Peak year of filing
2019
39 electrical system complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
2 · 9 · 0
in these complaints
Recalls on the electrical system
None
“The wiring to the fuel pump overheated and burned at the rear fuse box located in the trunk, melting the harness connector and charring the fuse box circuit board. This caused the vehicle to stop running. Luckily, it happened while idling and did not start a fire. This wire goes to the fuel tank and the fuse did not blow.”
Owner complaint, filed Jan 29, 2024
“2012 malibu esc warning light, traction control goes on. Brake light stays on while driving. When I stop at light or stop sign no brake light. Have almost been hit from behind at stoplight. If I stop and shut car off for a few minutes it will start without warning light.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 21, 2020 at 108,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2011: 1 complaints, 0 about the electrical system'112012: 10 complaints, 0 about the electrical system2013: 24 complaints, 4 about the electrical system'132014: 74 complaints, 10 about the electrical system2015: 94 complaints, 17 about the electrical system'152016: 79 complaints, 14 about the electrical system2017: 79 complaints, 21 about the electrical system'172018: 146 complaints, 29 about the electrical system2019: 167 complaints, 39 about the electrical system'192020: 87 complaints, 20 about the electrical system2021: 41 complaints, 14 about the electrical system'212022: 32 complaints, 13 about the electrical system2023: 23 complaints, 4 about the electrical system'232024: 25 complaints, 8 about the electrical system2025: 14 complaints, 7 about the electrical system'252026: 11 complaints, 4 about the electrical systemRecall 14V252000 (stability control)Recall 14E044000 (steering)Recall 15V269000 (seat belts)
All complaintsAbout the electrical systemRecall (red: the electrical system)

Complaints about the 2012 Malibu peaked in 2019, with 167 filed that year. No recall on file covers the electrical system, the subject of 22% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 11 so far.

3 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts15V269000
Filed May 8, 2015437,045 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured April 8, 2010, to October 11, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the flexible steel cables that connect the seat belts to the vehicle at the outside of the driver seat and the front passenger seat may be bent from being sat on while entering the vehicle. This repeated bending may result in the cable breaking.

Risk. If the cable breaks, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained in the event of a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the outboard lap anchor mounting bracket and inspect the flexible steel cable, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on November 16, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15031.

Steering14E044000
Filed Jul 21, 20147,304 vehiclesDorman Products, Inc.

Defect. Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.

Risk. A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)14V252000
Filed May 14, 20142,440,524 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.

Risk. Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.

All 3 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

1,339 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2012 Malibu. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 505engine 195electrical system 195transmission 77equipment adaptive/mobility 56wheels 41fuel system 36tires 36
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

PIT5236FService campaignAug 3, 2015electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

15-06-03-001FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 12, 2025electrical system

This service bulletin provides information to diagnose batteries that have set for a long period of time and/or cold weather climates and testing those batteries.

21-NA-043Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 31, 2025electrical system

This bulletin advises the dealers to maintain the vehicle stock on hand by doing a full inspection on the vehicles before being sold (prepping) to the customer.

PIP4723JService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 25, 2024electrical system

This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.

20-NA-132Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 3, 2024electrical system

This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on the requirements for 12V battery testing and warranty replacements.

PIC5650LService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 6, 2024electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the …

Showing the newest 6 of 195 bulletins about the electrical system, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2012 Chevrolet Malibu 4 DR FWD★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★10.9%

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Sep 30, 2026GA

See attached document for complaint.

Seats
Filed Aug 31, 2026NC

Car has 161,848 miles and the seat frame broke on the drivers side of my 2012 Chevy Malibu. It had a slight tilt to the right. It was taken to the Chevrolet Dealership and they inspected and verified that the frame welding was broken. I have a video from the service tech showing the broken frame. I took a screen shot of the video and attached it to this incident repot. I would be happy to share the video but it won't allow me to share on this page. I asked the dealership if there was any recall because I find it hard to believe that a seat frame would just break. I have gone online and read that multiple people have had this issue however, Chevrolet has done nothing about it. A few people have at least gotten somewhat of a compensation for having to replace something that should last the life of the vehicle. I was not one of them. I had to pay over a thousand dollars for a USED frame and labor. What is to keep this frame from cracking too? I think Chevrolet should do better.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 22, 2026SC

Electrical system problems that create unsafe driving conditions!! Vehicle has electrical glitches. Internal warning lights flicker on and off. Battery drains. Car randomly will not start. Multiple incidents. Car stalled on roadway without warning and would not crank. Luckily I was in a residential neighborhood with little to no traffic when this happened. I have had crank sensors replaced, fuel pump module replaced, fuses replaced and still problems occur. If this is a common issue with the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu, could you please issue a safety recall? Thank you

Electrical System
Filed Mar 26, 2026IL

Rear defrost stopped working. Hasn't worked in years. I took it to GM, they had a print out of a kit that I had to purchase to repair. This stopped working back around 2016.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 21, 2026TX

My airbag warning light and notification have came on and sometimes seat belt lights come on unexpectedly and will not go off I feel like this is a safety issue

Steering
Filed Mar 11, 2026OH

On March 4, 2026, my wife was driving the vehicle when she suddenly lost power steering. The steering wheel became extremely difficult to turn, creating a dangerous situation that could have resulted in serious injury. She was able to safely pull over and contact me. I carefully drove the vehicle home. The vehicle was taken to Jeff Wyler Chevrolet of Columbus for diagnosis and repair. The dealership confirmed that the problem involved the power steering system. The repair cost was $1,513.03. After researching the issue, I discovered that this 2012 Malibu is subject to a special coverage related to the steering torque sensor. General Motors had reportedly sent notification letters to owners, but we never received one. Had we been aware, we would have addressed the issue immediately. This defect represents a significant safety risk, as sudden loss of power steering could cause an accident or serious injury.

Steering
Filed Feb 25, 2026TN

I was driving and the steering wheel locked, the whole steering column has to be replaced it brought up a code saying torque input sensor i've only put 10,000 miles on this car and have only had it for 11 months

Seat Belts
Filed Feb 22, 2026KY

I have tried since July of 2025 to have a recall fixed I have been in contact with multiple dealerships for Chevy and none have contacted me to fix my recall I've left messages and still no response

Electrical System
Filed Feb 22, 2026KY

Was driving home on the parkway and the headlights shut off on their own had to call for roadside assistance to get my vehicle home they will work on dim but brights will not work and if I drive for more than an hour and a half they will not work at all the speed sensor keeps going bad after having it replaced multiple times

Steering
Filed Jan 15, 2026AZ

The “service ESC” light came on while I was driving on the freeway causing the steering wheel to lock up and I couldn’t turn the wheel. It was really stiff after it said “Service ESC” and “ESC Off”

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Jan 13, 2026111,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the power steering warning light was illuminated, and the message "ESC OFF" was displayed. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced an intermittent loss of power steering while driving. The contact stated that upon restarting the vehicle, the vehicle operated as intended; however, the failure initially became a persistent failure upon restarting the vehicle and then became a permanent failure. The contact stated that upon taking the vehicle to an independent mechanic for a tire replacement, the contact was also informed that the steering failure was related to Chevrolet Special Coverage Number: 15356. The contact was referred to the dealer, who informed the contact that the VIN was not included in a recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 111,000.

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Dec 8, 2025TX

The brake caplier screw came out why driving the vehicle and broke the brake line and the vehicle lost control try to use the emergency brake and it didn't work vehicle crash

Electronic Stability Control (esc)
Filed Aug 11, 2025140,000 milesTN

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle briefly lost motive power and came to a complete stop. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. The contact stated that the ESC warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the steering wheel angle sensor. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 140,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 25, 2025166,000 milesKS

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH and following a slight right turn on the highway, the ESC warning illuminated, and the vehicle slowed down without the brake pedal being depressed. The failure was intermittent but became a recurring failure. The contact stated that the vehicle also slowed down unintentionally while making a left or right turn at slow speeds. The contact stated that in the middle of the turn, the vehicle slowed to a stop without the brake pedal being depressed. The ESC warning light illuminated while the vehicle was still in drive(D) and running. The vehicle came to a stop, and the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle continued driving. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer and was diagnosed with PSCM failure. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was not taken back to the dealer. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 166,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 1, 2025IA

Passenger side headlamp burned out took off bumper to inspect and the wiring pigtail to the headlight has melted causing it to malfunction so now in order to make it work you have to disconnect the daytime running lights so that the melting stops this is supposedly happened to a lot of Malibu's why there isn't a recall on this fire hazard is beyond me and it is a safety issue cuz you can't use your daytime running lights any longer. This issue has not been reported because upon investigation it's been reported many times and nothing gets done about it you have to pay for it yourself. This will be the last GM product.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 1, 2025IA

Rear windowed defroster suddenly start working upon inspection the rear electrical block that's inside the trunk had melted in the fuse to the defroster had gotten stuck and went on pulling it out it broke and after looking up complaints it seems to be an issue with Malibu and it could cause a fire but GM is doing nothing about it you have to pay for it yourself they released a bulletin to bypass the block but you have to install a whole new block which costs hundreds of dollars

Power Train
Filed Apr 24, 2025DE

The problem started with the steering wheel jerking by itself then the power steering went out. The only way to get power steering back is to turn the car off then turn it back on while turning the steering wheel manually then it’s hard to say how long you have power steering for. To get it fixed is around 1,500 for a 3 hour job.

Steering
Filed Apr 4, 2025107,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact received notifications of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14V252000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, EXTERIOR LIGHTING, VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL, ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) and 15V269000 ( SEAT BELTS); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The contact stated that while driving at 50 MPH, the steering wheel vibrated and seized. The "ESC" and “Traction Control" warning lights were illuminated. The contact used a scanner and diagnosed the vehicle with steering failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The dealer was made aware of the issue and wanted to charge the contact for the parts. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000. Parts distribution disconnect.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 26, 2025OH

The power steering assist has cause the steering wheel to move to its let by its self when not holding the steering wheel. I must hold the steering wheel firmly to keep it strait when driving. If i would let go the car will abruptly turn left and possibly drive off the road or hit a car, pedestrian, or whatever is in the way. It started with uncontrolled vibrating at a stand still motion. The car is 165,000 miles that's 15,000 miles from the recall. The car has been repaired a couple times I think only to have the same power steering assist internal parts break down and fail multiple times. I believe the amount of power (amps) the power steering assist draws is needed is to much and the system fails within a short time. The alternative hydraulic version on the V 6 doesn't put so much stress on the electrical system. This could be also why the headlights bulb sockets melt and why I see a 15 volt constant charge is being created from the charging system. Ruining the alternator and battery. Putting high levels of amps on the wiring. Leading to malfunctioning components that is filed for complaints. A major safety hazard for others. Fires and uncontrolled crash since the power steering assist moves the car into dangerous life threating crashes.

Electrical SystemFire
Filed Mar 8, 2025NM

Passenger and or driver side low beam headlight continues to go out. Mechanic has found connector keeps burning out the socket. Light is burnt out on bott sides. but connector is shorting out. Fire and safety issue. This issue is on a lot of chevrolet malibus and needs a recall initiated to correct these issues. I keep getting pulled over due to need to us high beams and not having low beams. This is reoccurring and getting expensive to be done over and over.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 4, 2025NH

Loss of power steering assist while driving. Safety issue puts driver and others at risk. Problem confirmed to be known by dealer service bulletin 15356. Special coverage has expired however many vehicles with issue still on the road. ESC light accompanies failure, restarting the vehicle resets system and allows function for short period until loss of steering while moving occurs again. Request GM extend the special coverage to all vehicles still in service or recall.

Steering
Filed Feb 21, 2025130,000 milesIL

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, he became aware that the electronic power steering assist was not functioning properly, requiring an increased effort to maneuver the vehicle. The service power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the power steering control module and power steering torque sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 15356; however, the vehicle had previously been repaired in 2019 and again in 2020, under the special coverage program. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 130,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 8, 2025103,000 milesIN

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at 40 MPH the traction warning illuminated. The contact stated that the ABS and the traction control were disabled. The contact stated that the failure was occurring at any speed. Additionally, the contact stated that the brake lights were randomly illuminating when he depressed the brake pedal. The contact stated that he had to depress the brake pedal with force for the brake lights to illuminate. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic was diagnosed and determined that the vehicle needed to have all four brake pads and rotors replaced and two front tires replaced. The vehicle was repaired, however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 8, 2025113,000 milesIA

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at 55 MPH, the temperature gauge began to indicate the vehicle was overheating after which the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine and air bag warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the oil pan gasket; resulting in damage to the engine, and ABS control module resulting in the air bag warning light. The contact was informed that the engine would need to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic, who again diagnosed a failure with the oil pan gasket. The vehicle was repaired, but again the failure occurred for the third time. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 113,000.

Exterior LightingFire
Filed Jan 7, 2025NC

Passenger and or driver side low beam headlight continues to go out. Mechanic has found connector keeps burning out the socket. Light is fine but connector is shorting out. Fire and safety issue. This issue is on a lot of chevrolet malibu and needs a recall fix.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 31, 2024SC

The catalytic converter and exhaust manifold are suspected to be malfunctioning. These components are part of the vehicle’s exhaust system, and their failure is believed to be contributing to hesitation and skipping during operation. Both components are available for inspection upon request. The hesitation and skipping reduce the vehicle’s responsiveness, creating a safety risk in traffic. This issue could hinder safe merging, overtaking, or maintaining consistent speeds. Additionally, malfunctioning exhaust components may lead to increased emissions and pose a risk of toxic gases entering the cabin if leaks are present. Check engine light displays. The problem has been confirmed by a professional auto mechanic during their inspection and diagnosis. The components have been inspected and diagnosed by an independent service center (the auto mechanic). They have not yet been inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representatives. No warning lamps or error messages were displayed on the dashboard prior to the diagnosis. The symptoms, including hesitation and skipping, began approximately [insert timeline, e.g., two weeks ago] and have been recurring during normal driving, particularly during acceleration or at lower speeds.

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Nov 20, 2024100,000 milesVA

The contact called on behalf of her daughter's boyfriend who was driving alongside her daughter in a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that her daughter's boyfriend was driving on the highway at approximately 75 MPH in the left lane when a tractor-trailer in the right lane veered into their lane and the rear end of the tractor-trailer clipped the front end of their vehicle. The contact vehicle began to spin out of control until it came to a stop on the side of the road. The vehicle was totaled. The air bags were not deployed. The vehicle was towed to a local tow lot. No warning lights were illuminated prior to the crash. A police report was filed. The boyfriend seated in the driver's seat, and the contact's daughter seated in the rear passenger seat were both injured, and the infant in the rear driver's seat in a car seat was not harmed. No other individuals outside of the vehicle were injured. Medical treatment was needed for the daughter's boyfriend and the daughter. The boyfriend injured his nose on the steering wheel, and the daughter's shoulder was injured. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 3, 2024CA

On [XXX], as I was leaving softball tournament in Poway Ca with my kiddos about 6 minutes into driving a message popped up on my dash "ENG PWR REDUCED & SERVICE TRACTION", I lost power to accelerate, I pulled over just before getting on the [XXX] freeway, turned car off and thought car would reset which it didn't. I was stranded with my kiddos. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Exterior Lighting › Headlights
Filed Oct 30, 2024VA

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and driving over a pothole or an object on the roadway, the front driver’s side headlight became inoperable. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed; however, the contact was informed that there was a failure with the electrical wiring inside the front driver’s side headlight. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken back to the independent mechanic and was diagnosed and determined that the wiring harness inside the front driver’s side headlight needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 22, 2024146,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while a passenger was seated in the front passenger’s seat, the passenger’s side air bag warning light intermittently illuminated while driving at various speeds. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with an inoperable passenger’s side air bag sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.

Seat Belts
Filed Oct 13, 2024AL

First, there is a problem with the transmission. The car will stall or stop abruptly while driving. Second, the automatic turn signals do not work. Third, the driver safety belt does tightly secure the driver.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 16, 2024KS

The front exterior low beam bulbs / wiring harness keeps burning out. I have replaced them twice already and they have blown again. What is going on already a headache just to even get to the headlights, now have to spend MORE money to repair.

Electrical System
Filed Aug 1, 2024FL

The headlights keep.going out. I've replaced everything amd it keeps happening and it's not easy to even get to the headlight. This is a hazard as my 16 year old drives this car. We fix it and then it's out all.over again. This has to be a recall as I've done some research and im.not the only one with this problem. We've been pulled over and we just explained our frustration and they've been nice enough to send us on our way.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 13, 2024FL

For 4 years the car intermittently would turn on all warning lights, shake, become hard to steer and steer in unintended directions. We paid $1500 for the dealer to fix it and we still had the problem. Today, the car will drive less then a mile and die. When we start the car all warning lights come on, the vehicle vibrates and struggles to keep speed of 5 mph or so then will die.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 12, 2024WI

Electrical problem causing the passenger side low beam to keep burning out. Fourth time in one year. Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. This issue causes a safety concern because you can be driving down the highway at night and all of a sudden you have no headlight.

Steering
Filed Jul 4, 2024NY

As I was driving my vehicle last Sunday the "Power Steering and the Service ESC" warnings came on my dashboard as well as the "Traction Control light" I audible sound came on and I lost power steering. When I went to drive my car to my service station everything worked fine for a few blocks the problem came back. I drove it to my local service mechanic and his scan tool gave an error code of CO545. I did some research on this issue and found that GM put out a Special Coverage #15356 for the power steering sensor. This coverage expired in 2021 however my vehicle did not have this problem until last week. My car only has 60,000 miles on it. Yesterday I took my vehicle to the GM dealer that I purchased my vehicle from and the said I have to pay $200.00 for them to diagnose the problem (which I understand) but the service writer told me that GM will probably not replace the parts needed because their "Special Coverage" expired in 2021. I am asking if the government can force GM to recall. I thank God that my wife nor my daughter was not driving the vehicle when this happened or they may have been hurt or worse fighting the steering wheel to keep the car going straight until I could stop it saftly.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 10, 2024TX

Driving down the freeway and suddenly I get reduce engine power. I had to wait on the freeway until the car started up again

Exterior Lighting
Filed Apr 27, 2024FL

Passenger low beam keeps going out within a couple days charged wire harness and bulbs keeps happening.

Steering
Filed Apr 26, 2024KY

ESC went out on vehicle on the interstate

Steering
Filed Apr 11, 2024TX

1. While driving I will lose all steering capability and get a ESC Off 2. Physically difficult to turn the wheel when going around turns and this happens we would be unable to control the vehicle 3. The problem has produced itself by the dealership and there is a Bulletin that provided coverage incase this happens but did not happen until after coverage expired and should have been a recall. 4. No has not been inspected by anyone else 5. Lights that came on were traction control and a notification stating ESC is turned off on the dashboard Marquee.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 19, 2024TX

Vehicle will intermittently not start, have to tap on trunk fuse box to get the Malibu to start, the wire is too small and burns up, can’t find anyone to replace it, is a big issue with this generation of Malibu. Vehicle has shut off while on highways and stoplights on MULTIPLE occasions

Steering
Filed Feb 16, 2024MO

After reaching 120,000+ miles on this vehicle I have been receiving the following warnings on the driver information screen in this order: POWER STEERING SERVICE ESC ESC OFF As a result of these warnings the steering wheel becomes stiff and very hard to turn either left or right at low speeds.

Suspension
Filed Feb 15, 2024NM

I purchased the vehicle in 2021 . It was running fine at first but recently . been having alot of issues with the vehicle. When parking the vehicle and you put it in park it moves forward . also been having alot of tire blow outs one after another for the past 8 months . also sometimes it drives proper and at times it starts swerving . the ride gets bumpy. I already replaced the arm controls also aligned the car . i believe there mechanically defaulted. Also having issues with the exhaust . fuel sensor also was replaced . Codes P0411 keep popping up. Literally I have put more money then I paid for the car. financially has drained me. When called the manufacturer about recalls they said those recalls were expired . The car has become somewhat dangerous. Also I believe When purchased the vehicle the emissions says 2013 on the bill of sale says 2012 . I just recently found the documents . Is there any way to find out right information for the vehicle . thank you my name is [XXX] phone number is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Electrical System
Filed Feb 13, 2024IL

My brake lights constantly go out. My fuses keep blowing. Every time I try to adjust my mirrors the fuses blow for the mirrors and brake lights. Also my headlights keep blowing and the headlight harness has been changed and everything. It is very dangerous not having brake lights, or being able to adjust my mirrors.

Steering
Filed Feb 13, 2024OH

While driving the car, the power steering system will randomly stop working. While driving in a parking lot the power steering stops working , the car becomes hard to steer. ESC (or ECS?) disabled light comes on and the power steering light comes on on the msg center. This leads to possible loss of control of the car leading to possible collisions.

Steering
Filed Feb 9, 2024NY

While driving i made a left turn and the vehicles steering wheel became stiff... hard to turn, while on coming traffic was headed my way. Almost got in an accident. Had to force to steering wheel to pull over to the side.They were a bunch of messages that said power steering ESC.

Steering
Filed Jan 31, 2024IA

I Was driving and my power steering went out. I got it home turned it on and the power steering came back but the wheel keeps twitching. Tried to start it again and the power steering was out again.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 29, 2024WI

The wiring to the fuel pump overheated and burned at the rear fuse box located in the trunk, melting the harness connector and charring the fuse box circuit board. This caused the vehicle to stop running. Luckily, it happened while idling and did not start a fire. This wire goes to the fuel tank and the fuse did not blow. The 30A fuse for the RR DEFOG was also burnt and not blown.There were no warnings or engine codes. After researching this online, it appears it is a common problem. This is the second time this happened. It also happened in 2017 with approximately 89,200 miles.

Air Bags
Filed Jan 25, 2024WI

Air bag disabled light came on got the code checked the connector for the air bag on the drivers side either came disconnected or is defective and it disabled all my air bags.

Steering
Filed Jan 21, 2024NJ

POWER STEERING light shows on indicator panel sometimes without any problems steering. Sometimes it appears along with SERVICE ESC and some times power steering is lost. Turning the car off and back on usually resets the problem. It is extremley difficult to steer the car when this happens. It began intermittently about 3 years ago when a local mechanic looked at it but he couldn't find anything wrong. It's failing much more frequently (every other trip) now. It has about 62000 miles on it. So far, no accidents but a few close calls. Another problem is that the SERVICE AIR BAG indicator comes on when someone sits in the passenger seat and the car is started. It can be reset but it's an scary situation. I don't think this is related to the steering problem but not sure.

Complaints 1-50 of 907, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2009
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202512100Routine
202444200Routine
202372210Routine
202299100Routine
202190210Routine
2020200101Fatalities reported
2019193110Routine
2018700640Above average
2017705440Above average
2016841921Fatalities reported
2015270391Fatalities reported
2014351681Fatalities reported
201383710100Above average
2012 — this page9073130High concern
20119784170Above average
20101,3634140Above average
20091,511693Fatalities reported
2008989552Fatalities reported
2007977620Above average
20061,118960Above average
20059756343Fatalities reported
20041,148970Above average
2003569341Fatalities reported
2002567410Above average
2001721412Fatalities reported
2000922563Fatalities reported
1999789320Above average
1998976553Fatalities reported
1997443602Fatalities reported

Compare every Malibu year →

2012 Chevrolet Malibu: questions buyers ask

Is the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

It is not among the Malibu years to avoid. Owners filed 907 complaints, against about 755 for a typical Malibu year. The most common complaint is about the electrical system (22%). In NHTSA crash tests it scored 4 stars overall.

What is the most common problem with the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu?

The electrical system: 204 of the 907 complaints (22%) are about it. Owners most often say it will not start (13%), stalls (11%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (11%). The typical report comes at 90,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu have?

3 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed May 8, 2015. The largest, 14V252000, covered 2,440,524 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2012 Chevrolet Malibu problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 86,000 miles. For the electrical system the midpoint is 90,000 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu?

The manufacturer filed 1,339 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the engine (195), the electrical system (195) and the transmission (77). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

A high number of complaints describe fires or crashes.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: May 8, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.