Is the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?

It can be a dependable sedan with proper maintenance, but as the first year of a redesign it’s known for some transmission shift complaints and occasional electrical/infotainment issues. A well-documented service history makes a big difference.

What are the most common 2013 Chevrolet Malibu problems?

Frequently reported issues include harsh or delayed shifting, infotainment and electrical glitches, check-engine lights tied to sensors/ignition components, and front suspension noise from wear items like sway bar links or struts.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2013 Malibu?

Costs are typically moderate for a midsize sedan, with affordable routine services like oil changes, brakes, and tires. Costs can rise if transmission symptoms or electronic module repairs appear, so budgeting for occasional larger repairs is smart.

What are the best years of Chevrolet Malibu to buy?

Many shoppers prefer later years within a generation after early bugs are addressed; comparing 2013 to 2014–2016 models can be worthwhile. The best choice is usually the year and trim with the strongest maintenance records and the cleanest pre-purchase inspection.

What should I check before buying a used 2013 Chevrolet Malibu?

Test-drive for smooth shifting (including cold start), confirm all infotainment functions work, scan for stored trouble codes, and listen for front-end clunks over bumps. Also review service records for fluid changes, recalls, and consistent oil maintenance. For deeper ownership confidence, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and the recommended maintenance schedule for the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Reliability ReportC+ grade · moderate risk · system-by-system breakdown

78/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable and economical mid-size sedan, but be prepared for potential electrical and transmission headaches at higher mileage.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

The system most likely to surface first: automatic transmission (major severity).
Has 10 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:ignition.
Scores roughly in line with adjacent Chevrolet Malibu years — consistency that often signals a stable platform generation.

Is the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Worth Buying?

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu offers a comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, making it a compelling value proposition in the used market. However, prospective buyers MUST be diligent in pre-purchase inspections, particularly regarding its transmission and electronic power steering, which can present costly repairs. While not a top-tier reliability leader, a well-maintained Malibu can serve reliably with forethought.

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is an affordable used sedan, offering comfort and efficiency. However, the well-documented risks surrounding its automatic transmission and electronic power steering mean it's not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle. With a thorough pre-purchase inspection and a willingness to address potentia…

Best Model Years

2014-2015 (addressed some first-year kinks, pre-facelift)

Years to Avoid

Avoid the eAssist hybrid for complexity; earlier 6T40/6T45 transmission model years (pre-2013) were worse for transmission failures.

Biggest Strengths

Generally robust 2.5L Ecotec engine (if properly maintained)
Comfortable and quiet ride quality
Good crash test ratings

What Tends to Fail First on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.

Automatic Transmissionmajor~60,000-120,000 mi

The 6-speed automatic transmission (6T40/6T45) can develop harsh or delayed shifts, shuddering, and eventual solenoid or clutch pack failures, particularly the 3-5-R wave plate.

Electronic Power Steering (EPS)major~70,000-110,000 mi

The electric power steering assist motor can fail, leading to a sudden loss of power assist and requiring significant effort to steer. This was subject to recalls and extended warranties on other GM models with similar systems.

Engine (2.5L Ecotec) Oil Consumption & PCVmoderate~80,000-130,000 mi

While generally reliable, the 2.5L Ecotec engine can develop excessive oil consumption due to PCV system issues (PCV valve/cover), leading to vacuum leaks, rough idle, and potential damage if oil levels are not monitored.

Full repair-cost ranges, fix-before-you-buy notes, and inspection checklists are in the report.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Mileage Danger Zones

The mileage windows when the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.

30,000

Low Risk Zone

At this mileage, the Malibu is still relatively fresh. Focus on ensuring routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations were performed. Most issues are minor electrical gremlins or infotainment quirks.

60,000

Maintenance Zone

This mileage often coincides with manufacturer-recommended major service intervals, including spark plug replacement and transmission fluid checks. Suspension components may start showing early signs of wear.

90,000

Elevated Risk Zone

This is where the more significant known issues for the 2013 Malibu can begin to surface, particularly related to the transmission and electronic power steering. Thorough inspection is paramount.

120,000+

High Risk Zone

Beyond this point, the likelihood of major component failure, such as full transmission overhaul or significant engine work (e.g., PCV, timing if neglected), increases. Expect more frequent and costly repairs.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Ownership Cost Outlook

What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.

Annual Maintenance

$450-700

Moderate Repairs

$600-1,800 occasionally

How Long Does the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Last?

For best long-term reliability, aim for a Malibu with under 80,000 miles and a detailed service history, allowing you to get ahead of the common issues before they become critical.

What 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Owners Actually Say

What Owners Love

Quiet and comfortable highway ride
Good fuel economy with the 2.5L Ecotec engine
Intuitive interior layout and decent passenger space
Attractive exterior styling for its segment

Common Frustrations

Sluggish acceleration with the base 2.5L engine
Frustrating MyLink infotainment system glitches
Noticeable blind spots due to thick C-pillars
Interior materials feel cheaper than some rivals

Who Should Buy the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu?

Best For

Budget-conscious commuters seeking a comfortable ride
Drivers who prioritize fuel economy over performance
Individuals willing to perform proactive maintenance

Not Ideal For

Buyers seeking absolute, bulletproof reliability without maintenance worry
Performance enthusiasts expecting dynamic handling

How the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu Compares to Rivals

The 2013 Malibu sits squarely in the middle of the mid-size sedan reliability pack, offering a better proposition than some but falling short of the class leaders like the Accord and Camry in terms of long-term durability.

More Reliable Than

2013 Volkswagen Passat (DSG issues)
2013 Nissan Altima (CVT issues)

Comparable To

2013 Ford Fusion
2013 Hyundai Sonata

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Recall History

10 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."

VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles October 24, 2011, to March 5, 2015. In the affected vehicles, the Slide or Tilt switch for the roof panel may not be adequately recessed to prevent the switch from inadvertently being pressed. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 118, "Power-Operated Window, Partition, and Roof Panel Systems."

What breaks on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Other Chevrolet Malibu Years to Consider

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Chevrolet Malibu. Click any year for its full report.

All Chevrolet Malibu years ranked →Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid →Chevrolet Malibu common problems →

2013 Chevrolet Malibu Alternatives

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Frequently Asked Questions

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