Used 2011 Chevrolet Malibu Consumer Reviews
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Almost an excellent vehicle
Chris S, 08/09/2015
updated 02/13/2017
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
44 of 46 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2011 Malibu LT2 back at the beginning of 2015 and have been using it for nearly 8 months. I opted for a V6 because it was such an excellent price that I figured "why not?". That engine has some pull to it (roughly 250hp) and sounds pretty smooth. The only problem is the advertised fuel efficiency numbers aren't quite right. In the city of Seattle, I get around 15-17mpg and on the freeway, if I am on cruise control between 60-65, I get sneak up to 29-31mpg (with a level road surface). Any incline will drop the hwy mileage to around 24-25mpg. Stop and starts with the V6 are what really murder your fuel efficiency here. The seats are almost fine, but my back will hurt after long drives because the seats force your shoulders in a bit and my upper back is forced back - almost like a mild squeeze. Smaller bodies probably won't notice this as much (I'm 6'2 and have a wider build that the average person), but it's an annoyance. The quality of the Malibu LT2 is inconsistent. I have some kind of leather/suede-fabric hybrid that makes cleaning a bit tougher than it should be. The dashboard and door panels are composed of a cheap plastic material that scratches easily. The instrumentation and radio/temp controls are fine. Nothing fancy but nothing to complain about. The 6-speaker system is adequate for most people. You can get reasonable volumes without distortion in the audio but the system is built to cap everything off in that department before you hit those higher volumes that would degrade your listening experience. I've heard a 2013 Malibu's 2LT/LTZ stereo which uses a Bose system (I think) and it's a step up (though still doesn't quite compete with some higher-grade car stereos out there). As for reliability: I've had my car in a couple times this year - once for a piston replacement (fortunately under warranty, but just barely) and the other for simple coil and spark plug replacements, which are actually easy to replace, I just hadn't learned how to do it yet (a YouTube video can literally save you $500 in parts and labor for replacing one or multiple coils that sit atop your engine). All in all the Malibu for this year is decent. It has a solid look to it and offers decent options, depending on what trim you end up with. The LT2 or LTZ vehicles are the best available so if you do buy one, try and look for those trims. But from what I've been hearing about the newer Malibus - you're better off buying used 2014 and beyond because the 4cyl is closer to the Nissan Altima fuel efficiency ratings and the quality of the cabin materials has drastically improved. UPDATE: I got rid of my Malibu because the V6 engine kept having issues. I had a fuel pump issue, cylinder head issues, and more within 6 months. Had it in the shop 3 times. Jiffy Lube eventually destroyed the engine when they didn't put the oil filter all the way onto my engine after an oil change. The car was okay, if a bit cheap with cabin materials, but I've since driven a 2014 Malibu and they did a MUCH better job all around with that vehicle. Don't buy the 2008-2012 models if you can because your value is so much better in the newer ones (and the fuel efficiency is great).
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A sweet ride
duffer65, 04/18/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
30 of 31 people found this review helpful
A very comfortable car with good handling, decent power, and excellent economy. Have about 6000 miles on the odometer and have gotten up to 37 mpg (at 5 mph over freeway speeds) using a light throttle and cruise control. Very good in ice and snow here in the Northeast.
If you have it, sell it, and don't ever purchase
Kyle Phernetton, 01/27/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
70 of 79 people found this review helpful
What a mistake this piece of junk is. There are countless recalls and they are all on insignificant things. Do yourself a favor and google "2011 Chevy Malibu Engine Power Decreased" and read the reviews about this POS. There is no recall for a problem that costs not only $2,000 TO FIX, but can be deadly. Long story short, there is a faulty sensor that goes out somewhere between 50,000-120,000 miles (roll of the dice) that is going to without warning make your car shake and reduce your engine power. There are stories about people on the freeway that had this happen while driving and their car dropped to 25 miles per hour. Go in to get it fixed, $2,000 to replace the damage this stupid sensor has caused. Don't buy this car. Ever. For any reason. Until there is a full recall don't touch it.
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Don't buy
Mel, 01/02/2017
updated 07/10/2017
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
23 of 25 people found this review helpful
Two days after buying it I had to put it in the shop a bunch of recalls feel unsafe to drive and transport my kids in
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2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 "Platinum Edition"
randyb4, 04/05/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
40 of 46 people found this review helpful
I just bought my first Malibu about a week ago and I am quite impressed at this vehicle. I really like the design of this car. I was never impressed with the older Malibu style but GM did a nice job on this body style. I must say that it has a "big car" ride and the 2.4 litre 4 cyl. engine puts out a fair amount power. I am over six feet tall and I have ample headroom.
Bought in 2015, still have in 2019
J H Mally, 04/27/2019
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I bought this car at 18 with almost 30,000 miles on it for about $14,500 from a little hometown dealership in MN. It had been owned by one family and it looked brand new, brakes had 3,500 moles and tires were meh but could last me a year. I have a love hate relationship with this car. It has been very reliable in my 4 years, but fixing it is a thorn in your side. To replace the headlights, you must remove the bumper and pop out the assembly. 2ish hours with two people, 3 times in 3 months. The wiring harness melted onto the bulb, had to replace it. Granted, there is just under 102,000 miles but I have done all of the general maintenance either early or when she told me it was needed; generally myself. One thing I haven't been able to figure out is a shaking that has happened only when I brake since I bought the car. I've replaced many things and still haven't been able to figure it out. The car feels unsafe and I've had many opinions just saying it's the brakes and rotors. I've replaced them once a year every year I've owned the car! I love it, but hate it. However, I do admit that, due to the nature of my job, I travel a bit. Highway miles, but a little rough on a car. Not sure what to do, upside down on it right now.
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A good car - worth the value
ehicks87, 06/26/2015
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
12 of 13 people found this review helpful
All around good car. I do about 80% highway driving and get an avg 31 mpg. People have to realize that this car is not a powerhouse; if you drive it like a high school-er you will be disappointed in your gas mileage. Treating your car nice goes a long way- tires-brakes-suspension-etc. Anyways, there's something about this car that makes me miss driving it when I'm in another vehicle. Especially my wife's dodge dart turbo..... Man that thing is a piece of crap.
Great car!
Shamrae, 05/08/2018
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
The car is great and is very roomy for a sedan. It doesn't get great gas mileage when traveling in the city, but it is comfortable. I wish the A/C vents had a switch to turn them off. A big complaint is that in order to replace the headlights, you need to take it to a dealership or car repair shop, because the whole front bumper needs to be taken off to access the headlights. Other than the dumb design of that, I really love the car!
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Great family car
barbara jones, 09/01/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
For the few years between carting kids to practice then college in a mini-van I had a sports car. THEN my kids had kids :-) and I needed a car that could hold up to three car seats / booster seats depending on grandkids in the back seat. There is room and the back seat is a "flat" bench with pre-installed hooks for carseats. Hook to the frame on both sides of the bottom, hook to the frame behind headrest and seats were appropriately installed and *I* did it! Easy in and out as I also transport my elderly parents in the car. Both front and back doors open wide (be sure passengers know that lest the next car get dinged) and I can have Mom put both legs out and on the ground, she holds the bracket and my hand and up we go. I regret that I don't have leather seats, which I've always had. However, the upholstery is of good quality and cleans with a babywipe. I'm picky about dust, etc, and it looks great just driving through a carwash. The computer in the car is so accurate I know when tire pressure needs attention, mpg readout is accurate, oil life
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1st Review. Under a month
egee, 03/20/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
Love. This. Car. We had an '05 and traded up this year (2012) for a '11. We got the baseline model for a really good price and then added a few features at Bestbuy for much cheaper than the dealer could do. I haven't had any problems with the gas mileage (getting about 28 combined). The only aspect that I'm not a fan of is the top of the dashboard. When the sun is directly overhead or in front of you, the reflection of the dashboard shines back into the windshield. It's can be distracting. Should have test driven during the evening... I've gotten used to it, but it can be a problem when you first get the car. The trunk is very deep, another plus.
liked it so much I'm on my 2nd one!
bwgr1985, 05/17/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
I bought an LS in 2009 and it was a great car. Took a few thousand miles to get the good gas milage but it was great to have even for a basic car. Well chevy was offering some great deals on the 2011s so I decided to upgrade to a fully loaded 2011 LTZ. I couldn't be happier. It's fun to drive even for a 4 banger and looks good on the road or sitting in the parking lot. The 09 had a 4 speed auto and this one has a 6 speed auto, so it does feel a little different on shifts and sometimes will lag between shifts but overall I just love this car. Recommend to anyone.
Love this Car
lbillups1, 08/13/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
Bought my Malibu in January of this year. There is nothing about it that I do not like. Base model, Summit White exterior. Fantastic gas mileage. I try to focus on my driving habits and make an effort to use cruise control when possible and as result I was able to achieve 39.4 miles per gallon on a recent round-trip to Columbus OH from Indianapolis. Goal was not to exceed 65 MPH. Weekly fill-ups (40% city, 60% highway) always average 27-28 MPG. The car looks sharp inside and out. Chevy created a real winner.
2011 malibu---shakey ,wobling steering wheel on take off till 20 mpr then good ride
larry183, 03/20/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
I bought a 2011 lt malibu,last september,from the min.I drove it home on take off ,steering wheel you could feel a shaking ,wobble.,GM said they know about the problem but donn;t know how to fix it yet....nice you buy a car and feel this every day ,so after 6 months i take a big lose and buy a used impala...chey wins i loose...gm said they will not help me,,i also get at best 23----to -28,5 mpg...my sons impala gets 30 most of the time...junk...car and company...trunk is so tight a food cooler cann;t fit
Can’t even work properly long enough to sell-POS!
Ali W, 12/22/2017
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
7 of 9 people found this review helpful
Unless you enjoy dropping hundreds-thousands of dollars on repairs every couple of months do not buy this car! As soon as it’s warranty expires it starts falling apart. Not to mention it’s nearly impossible to work on it yourself as GM specially designed it to require special tools and equipment to fix. Even simple problems like a broken speaker turn costly fast. I’ve already replaced the transmission, had to replace all 4 brakes multiple times, had the body control module “repaired” under a recall (which started going bad again a couple years later and no, they won’t fix it again), the cruise control won’t always disengage when you press the brakes (scarey!!!), the brake lights only work sometimes, the speakers only work sometimes, and the list only goes on from there. At this point I am trying to wash my hands of this piece of garbage by selling it and getting a little bit of money back, it’s only been able to go about 1-3 weeks at a before something else brakes so I have to keep sticking money into it so I can even sell it. I am also learning the hard way how fast these cars depreciate. My car is only 6 years old and sold for around $25,000 new and is now worth about $7,000, a little over half of what I paid a few years ago. That’s with only 94,000 miles and no rust, dents, or scratches. I wouldn’t tak another Chevy or even GM vehicle of someone paid me.
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From bad to worse to rotten
2011nomore, 01/06/2014
updated 01/17/2019
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
12 of 17 people found this review helpful
I had 3 Malibu's 2006, the first totaled by a drunk driver. 110 miles. The second:2006, totaled by a bus. Car accelerated into traffic. I reversed as my choice was a gasoline tanker and a bus. Chevy came out and did full work up. The results?: The dealership had installed an alleged GM certified remote start, upon the evaluation if The GM Rep. it was determined that someone jerry rigged a kit into the car, using the main computer, and several others as a power source. The result of the surges fried the circuitry. The 3rd was traded in after the insurance paid part of the total. This "new" vehicle had many miles on it already, but only had limited funds I started a new job and wanted a newer car for the traveling that would be required. 2011 : This car from day one has been a lemon. It is getting worse. I have 18 k on the car. I get 21 miles on open highway and 17 in city. I have been told by GM to put 20 more thousand miles to loosen it up. Door on drivers side leaks and has "been" fixed only to leak worse. At 40 mph there is a dinging in the right rear. At 60 mhp under load the steering column shakes and rattles the whole car. If you let off the gas it quits. Dealer told me this is "normal". Transmission fluid is dark brown..."normal" too. UPDATE: 3 recalls: Battery has been replace 3 times, due to a short in the "electrical" system. Antenna and grounding cable rotted off. Transmission kept surging. Taken to dealer via flatbed. After 38k miles. Dealer called and asked who put or changed trans fluid? When I asked why? It is I gallon over capacity. The stress from cavitation has taken its toll. The shifter is sloppy and can be put into reverse while driving forward. I met a service manager in the market. He told me that the car" has a long list of electrical issues, which would cost several thousand to fix." His advice was to sell it. I asked " to whom? " JUNK,TRASH, Will never buy another GMC! Mid September: Driving home car started idling rough and stalled, got it home and it quit. Flatbed to dealer. Cam shaft sensor left side.$350 plus labor. Left dealership on my way home car started to shake shimmy and stalled. Back to dealer. Cam Shaft sensor right side $350 plus labor. UPDATE: Car has started making a dinging sound. Dealer told me idler pulleys. Inspection due in Dec. will check it. Call from dealer. Good news passed inspection as it is. bad news," The timing chain is slapping, due the retainer bar and 2 nuts falling off". These were ground up in the engine. Oil filter has aluminum and steel filings in it. "Oh seat on drivers side broke during test drive" Upon checking website: Since 2008 the Malibu 2,2 motor suffers timing chain failure between 50 and 100 thousand miles... Hmmm? Three dealers started in Dec asking for it in trade. Hmm? Offer me 110% of Blue Book. Took it to one dealer. "Well it is good mileage, 1500 max for it". Unbelievable!!!! JUNK from the day I bought it..... Warranties, equipment, Dealership and Chevy are junk. Attorney General no help, Lemon Law no help. 8 By 10 lighted sign in my front yard.: Chevy 2011 Malibu piece of junk. Car with bills, letters and dealers notes. See vehicle. Parked in my yard, All items that do not work are highlighted. Car is open for you the consumer to look at. Note: Tires losing air, rims standard are leaking. Now, gas tank is leaking. Yes, the worst car ever owned. Will not buy, lease or reccommend Chevy to anyone.
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Don't buy
Tcorker , 04/24/2019
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Purchased used with transmission having been previously replaced which should have been my first warning sign. 2 weeks after purchase car fails to start because of the starter wires coming loose. You have to remove the entire front end to relaxed the headlights which is BS all on its own. Transmission failed again at 90,000 miles required complete rebuild. Exhaust manifold split itself in half which is apparently very common in this engine. Random misfires and stalling surfaced after exhaust manifold and transmission replaced required MAF, crank, & O2 sensors to be replaced. Engine continues to sputter at idle. Gas mileage is terrible (15 city / 23 hwy). Currently at 101,000 and trying to sell. Comfortable interior. Looks nice. Will never buy American made again.
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Just purchased
chas, 11/01/2010
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
Just purchased in October 2010. A very pleasant and quiet driving experience especially on smooth roads. Much less quiet on bumpy roads. The car handles beautifully. I am already getting 5 MPH better overall than with my 2003 Buick and i am looking forward for even better mileage as i break it in. Average now is 27 MPG. The bucket seats are not as soft as i am used to but i think i can get used to them. Bluetooth and on star are excellent features and i am already using them.
Initially good, eventually very bad - must read!
Chris Warren, 11/06/2015
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
6 of 8 people found this review helpful
I had my Malibu 2LT w/ a V6 engine for 9 months. I had it in the shop FIVE times in that period. Once for a piston replacement, once for replacing spark plugs/cylinder coils, once for replacing wiring to cylinders, once for replacing water hose... the list of problems with this car are incredible! On one hand, the V6 has a nice smooth get-up-and-go feel to it. The engine sounds great but never forces the car to lose its composure on the road. The look of the Malibu is sharp - nothing over the top, but enough smooth but pronounced edges to make you have a quick glance. I couldn't believe this was a Chevy at first. But then I spent a lot of time in the car and realized that the seats aren't comfortable (they squeeze and push my arms forward a bit), lumbar support sucks (optional lumbar control is mostly for show and ends up being very bad for your back according to my friend who's a practicing chiropractic). The door materials are cheap and plastic-y, there's a lot of stuff you can tell will break easily. The glove box had numerous scratches from a small handful of passengers getting in/out of the vehicle. Chevy basically did a nice job updating the Malibu but failed to give it real quality interior. The 4-cyl engine MAY be decent - fewer moving parts = fewer things to go wrong. But I ended up with TWO V-6 engines because Jiffy Lube left my oil filter off and my engine seized a couple days later. They paid for the replacement engine, but funny-enough the second V6 has a couple of the same issues within weeks of it being installed! Fortunately they repairs were covered, but I lost two weeks of work over 2 months because of my car problems. Do not buy the V6 engine, as having 2 bad engines (one of which was "re-certified") means this is not a good car to buy to last you several years. Look toward 2013 and newer where the Malibu is getting much better initial quality scores and offers much better interior options.
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More than I expected!
hugheskirby, 02/20/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I purchased My Malibu to save money on fuel, and have a comfortable ride. My first stop for gas netted me over 32MPG. This car is very comfortable for me (6'3" and over 280lbs), although the door opening could be a little larger. I am finding the 2.4 4cyl engine to be adequate, but if you want the good MPG, you need to drive it light there is an egg between your foot and the gas pedal.
Love the car
ep1, 06/22/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I just came off a lease of a '09 Merc Milan L4 My my new Malibu is so much better in every catagory
Longtime GM customer very disappointed.
leftofthenorm, 07/08/2013
updated 07/11/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
I have owned 3 prior new GM vehicles. This one has been trouble from day 1. First it had rail dust, orange rust spots all over the car in which it took the dealer three times to fix. Then the wheels vibrated, which they never could fix. After spending at least 12 different trips to the dealer, I now have two bent rims. This car gets driven MAYBE twice a week by my wife. I will be trading this car in, and I am very disappointed with this car. Very cramped on the inside, trunk is very short, plastic trim comes off all the time. Exterior badging fell off. Horrible wheels. Horrible (20mpg) gas mileage. I will never buy a GM car again. So many recalls.
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A Chevy Family now!
Dennis, 12/17/2015
updated 04/12/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I can't say enough good things about this car! It runs super quiet, has great pick up and passing power, rides smooth, gets great gas mileage (27/mpg combined for me with 50/50 city/highway), looks sharp and has awesome audio system. I'm thinking of buying another one right one for one of my teenagers. It's been a while since we've owned a domestic car but the 2011 Malibu has changed our minds - we're a Chevy family now!!
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not a good car
louie1954, 09/03/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I got this car new I only have 12000 miles on it and i have complained from the first 500 miles that the car has a shake between 15 and 20 miles per hour. This has been addressed to the maintenance people at Ray Dennison with no satisfaction This is not normal per the maintenance people. I am now experiencing other things like a rumble when I accelerate. This car has been very disappointing I will never buy another probably never another chevy poor gas mileage
Very good value, solid daily driver
John Tittler, 06/28/2018
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS Fleet 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Solid vehicle, no major repairs in 7 years of ownership, mileage isn’t a plus, but excellent overall value otherwise.
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Extremely good car
ski, 11/25/2010
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I find this to be a very comfortable and quite car. It handles very well and I think it also looks very good. It also has very good mpg. I drive around 70 miles every day and this car makes the drive very pleasant. As a whole, I am very happy with this car and will certainly recommend it.
I guess i got lucky
Michael Manning , 11/30/2021
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I needed a car bad because my old Isuzu Finally died on me and I got my use out of it so my friend's dad had a 2011 malibu for sale the 4 cylinder eco tech I only paid 1.700.00 for it I bought a 96 dollar wheel bearing put it in myself and this car has been nothing but great it has 135.000.00 on the dash and it runs like brand new I thought the car had a V6 In it. It that strong I must say I enjoy driving it
Stay away! Electronic nightmare!
Calvin Scott, 07/10/2019
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have a 2011 Malibu that I bought from CarMax in late October 2018. It runs great. It handles great. Very smooth ride. I enjoy driving it. But it is an ELECTRONIC NIGHTMARE! Both headlights went out by early January 2019. Replaced ALL front lights on April 18, 2019, for $336 because the front bumper must be removed. VERY poor design. I had to have the driver’s-side headlight replaced AGAIN on June 26, 2019. And tonight, July 10, 2019, the driver’s-side headlight is out AGAIN! This is four headlight replacements in nine months. Should people have to replace headlights every few months? Should repair shops have to replace warrantied parts every two months because Chevrolet is incompetent? Again, just to replace just two low-beam headlights is about $250 because of the bumper issue. And, the rear-window defrost doesn’t work, the outlets (cigarette lighters) don’t work, and now the first two fan settings for heat and AC don’t work. Biggest nightmare of a car EVER! UPDATE: Even though I have a local repair shop that now has done this work twice, Chevrolet refuses to do anything until I take the car to a Chevrolet dealership.
Great car
Jonathan P., 02/08/2018
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS Fleet 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great car to save money on gas and use for long trips.
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Absolutely THE BEST
Maranda, 03/04/2016
updated 09/06/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
This car is AWESOME. FUN TO DRIVE SUPER SAFE AND RELIABLE I HIGHLY RECCOMEND IT!!
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Smooth and quiet
Brandon, 04/02/2016
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Poor quality inside and out, with a lot of plastic. However, it's a comfortable and quiet car that's easy to drive in any weather.
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Unreliable and hefty
Rama V, 09/04/2017
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Don't buy this car. I got this for a good deal in 2013, at the time the car was 2 years old and had less then 40k miles on it. Should have got the extended warranty because the transmission gave out entirely last year after just 95k miles (!!). It cost $3500 to replace, which is likely more than the car was worth. Lots of little problems every service, easily costing me thousands over the last four years. This despite me taking it to the dealer for service every six months and following all recommended procedures. The mileage is quite poor, and the car is does not accelerate as quickly as one would hope. Also, if the headlamps go out, you have to remove the front bumper just to change it (pathetic design - really hope that GM engineer was fired). So what should be a $20 fix is instead $150 with the labor charges. The only upside to this car is the storage room and legroom, which are both quite good. But otherwise it is no-frills, and pretty poor build quality. I would not recommend this car to anyone.
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Great value for the money!
Tommy, 02/11/2018
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Be sure to look around any buy the one you want, some Malibus from this generation have different features than others like remote start, sun roof, color options, etc. Be sure to shop around and buy what you want! This car is awesome on long highway trips! Very comfortable and great gas mileage!
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delightfull dish
glenny3, 05/01/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
5 of 8 people found this review helpful
This car is a delight to drive.I have had a malibu before and went to a HHR [no where near as nice].I went back to a malibu this year .I could not pass up the deal i got with the rebate ,credit union discount and previous owner discount.It took a while [2,000 miles] to gain the good gas mpg .On the highway in cruise i get 35mpg with the 4 banger.Has plenty of power and rides smooth.Looks rich with the mocha exterior and cocoa/cashmere interior.I am a happy puppy with it .i hope it continues with no problems .I again say its a delightfull dish [car]
What's up with the MPG
oldnnew, 09/13/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
I rented a 2011 Sonata for 3 months and was pleased to get 23.5 mpg combined. I drive about 100 miles a day and the ratio of city/highway is 50/50. We looked at buying the 2011 Sonata, Camry or Malibu because they claim to get the same mileage. We ended up with an LTZ and I am lucky to get 19 mpg combined. Pure highway driving only gets me 21 mpg. Not happy with American cars right now and it is always the drivers fault with mileage even though the cars are all driven the same way.
Our second Malibu
jt1088, 01/16/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT2 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
After looking at all the competition, we bough a 2008 Malibu and put 50,000 miles on it. Last week the car was totaled in an accident. The safety systems performed well. We did another review of the 2011 competition, again the answer was Malibu. Hard to beat the features performance and price.
Love My Car
Debra, 09/02/2018
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
I purchased this car back in 2012 and it only had 11k miles on it. I am still driving it today. I have only had one major issue and the car was still under warranty. Had to do with the sensor going out-a problem that I believe happened with other Malibus but they did not do a recall. Dealer took very good care of me and my car. This is my second Malibu. Like this one much better. Lots of interior room and great deal of trunk space. I don't do a ton of hard driving so the car is still serving me well as it only has 58k now. Still running good-replaced the tires and keep it regularly maintained. I got this model before they put the USB ports and bluetooth feature in. Had to connect bluetooth thru the OnStar but when I upgraded my phone I could no longer sync it to the bluetooth and with a smartphone, no need to purchase OnStar. I can connect my phone or iPod using the auxillary port but I don't do often. Having driven many of the newer model cars and SUVs I am ready for some of the newest features - rear view camera, touchscreen, bluetooth capability; blind spot sensors just to name a few. I am not overly fond of the new style Malibu but I don't hate it. Will likely keep this car and lease a new car as it is all paid for. I traded a 2008 Dodge Avenger for this car and the Malibu was definitely an improvement in the ride and outside noise. The Dodge always sounded as if something was about to fall off with all of the rattling and cabin noise even though nothing was wrong and it was properly maintained.
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- Interior
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Very disappointed
lorieric, 05/31/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
11 of 26 people found this review helpful
I purchased a a Malibu in the fall and I am very disappointed in the gas mileage, I drive mainly on the highway and only receive around 24 to 25 miles per gallon. I purchase this vehicle for the good gas mileage and chevy isn't standing behind their advertisements of 23 city to 33 highway.
Loyalty Rewarded
Stephen Clark, 11/09/2015
updated 05/15/2017
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
I have bought GM products starting with a 1967 Camaro through even a Chevy Vega and continuing to the present up to and including the aforementioned 2011 Malibu. My guess is that I have purchased over the years about 20 GM products, so this comment does not come from a closet Ford or Dodge owner. At 120,000 miles the transmission just quit. Everyone I know who owns something other than a GM product have in excess of that with no problem. I try to be loyal to not only the brand but the dealership. Basically, I was told by the dealer here in Idaho that your car is worth nothing and a transmission will cost you $3,500. So the car is at the dealership and I have had to borrow cars to get around. Your alternatives are few short of putting a for sale sign on the car and parking it at the dealership. There was no effort to try to ameliorate the frustration by either the company or the dealership. I will put in the transmission, but I will not return to Chevrolet or the dealership. The lesson to be learned from this to always get the cheapest price as there is no advantage to being loyal to a brand or a dealer. The travails continued after I picked up the car,with new transmission, it sounded awful when it started lots of valve clatter and before I got out of the parking lot the check engine light came on. On Star diagnostics said it needed to go back to the dealer. After having it for at least two weeks and paying them $3,500 the car was not running. The service manager was busy explaining it was not his fault and I was busy thinking that is a load of crap. To say I was angry and disappointed would be an under statement. He said it would take 40 minutes to change the now defective sensor; he was back in less than 5. Clearly they failed to make all the proper connections and it was just a question of correcting that. About the only concession was that I was not charged. The silver lining was Chevy. They stepped up and offered a discount on any GM product, after they failed to get anything from the dealer. I currently have a 2016 Malibu-from a different dealer-and I have been pleased with it. All of this could have been avoided had the dealer shown any concern. I have no intention of returning to the dealer and have heard nothing from them since I sold the car. The new Malibu does not shift nearly as often as the old and gets better gas mileage. With almost 40,000 miles on the new vehicle there have been no problems and with my driving pattern it returns over 35 mpg combined. I am completely satisfied at this juncture. We are looking at purchasing another vehicle. It very well might be another Chevy, but not from that dealer. Any concession would have kept me as a customer, but their shortsightedness might have provided a short term gain, but at a long term loss.
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Worst car I have ever owned.
whydoineedadisplayname, 03/01/2020
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 98,000 miles on it. I had to put front struts and sway bar links on it. Then around 105,000 the power steering had to be replaced and an exhaust leak fixed. At around 110,000 the timing chain and guides had to be replaced. Around that same time the transmission started having issues going into "overdrive" too soon. Then at 116,000 while driving, the car suddenly started missing and the check engine light came on. Major internal engine damage was found and it needed a new engine. This was the most expensive car I ever owned. I ended up buying a new car. I will never own another Malibu and I am undecided about GM now.
So Far...So Good
damytquinn, 11/05/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have owned this car for 20 months and wanted to wait until this point to write a review on this Malibu. This has been the most reliable car I have ever owned(and I have owned over a dozen new cars in 33years of driving). It has never been to the shop for any unscheduled service. I was not planning to trade when I did, but an unexpected windfall convinced me to trade and was glad I did! This car now has almost 25,000miles and still is as tight and quiet as the day I drove it from the dealership. Every thing works the way it is supposed to. I am averaging 26mpg in 70%/30%hwy-city driving which is NOT what I was hoping for when I bought this car, but it's not terrible.
Very Nice Car
manningdp, 03/19/2012
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought a 2011 Malibu for the daughter. Great value with all of the rebates. Great gas milage, dependable, comfortable car for the money. Would definetley recommend.
What a car for the price
npalino, 08/18/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had my malibu for almost a month now and it's the best car I have ever owned! I read all these reviews before I purchased and they are spot on. The thing performs like a 6 cyl and gets better gas mileage than the crummy aveo I traded in. Styling is terrific! When I pulled up to my girls house she thought it was a BMW. Few things I would change. 1st is the headroom' it's not bad when sitting in the vehicle but I often hit my head while entering. 2nd is there are no handles inside for the passengers to hold. 3rd, the heated seat switch is on the seat in an awkward place. Other than that it's perfect! Tight, quiet and fun to drive...big head turner too.$25,000 for luxury at it's best!
2nd review on this car
bwgr1985, 12/01/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
OK this is my second review of this car after having it for 7 months and putting almost 18000 miles on it. as stated before i owned an 09 LS and upgraded to an 11 LTZ. I liked the car enough to buy another one so that should say something. I still stand by the majority of my first review and I still love this car, but there is one major difference. GAS MILEAGE!!! The 09 had a 4 speed auto, this one has a 6 speed auto. So I should do better on gas mileage right? wrong. I drive mostly highway and got about 75 miles more on a full tank in the 09. still not bad, but chevy is flat out lying about getting 33 miles mpg. im getting 23 with 80% highway usage. otherwise great car.
Really impressed
vegasjohnson, 03/01/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So this is our second Chevrolet. Our first was the umpteenth generation of the Suburban (a 2007). It was an awesome vehicle. Amazingly reliable. So, after our lease was up we decided to try another. With a focus on fuel economy we decided to go with the Malibu. We love this car so far it is very nice and comfortable. Extremely Quiet and the ride is very strong. We love the power of the 4 cylinder and are very impressed with the styling. Love this CAR! GM, you have won us over.
2011Malibu LT
UsnoozeYoulose , 04/21/2024
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Overall this vehicle has been wonderful. It's got a great ride it rolls really well (by that I mean there's not much 'felt road resistance') and it feels solid. Maintenance has been minimal; no 'big ticket ' items. You must remember one thing: keep your jumper cables on the floor in the passenger compartment. Why? Because some genius at Chevy thought it would be a good idea to eliminate key entry for the trunk. The only way to open the trunk is electronically: button on driver's door or key fob. Neither work when the batter is dead. Surprise!!!
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- Reliability
- Value
11 years and going strong
Kelsey A, 02/12/2022
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have had my Malibu for 11 years and it still is going strong. No major repairs just tires, oil changes and air filters. The only con is the cup holders are not very functional with the center console. Other than that it runs great. It was our family vehicle but it is a bit small now that we have two kids and a dog so it is my commuter vehicle with the kids.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
11 malibu
saint69, 04/08/2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great looking car ,love to drive everyday!!
I love it
Me and my new BU, 11/08/2010
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just brought my car. I am in love. I was going for an 08 2lt, however i left with an 2011 1LT with a sunroof in blue.
Brakes and rotors
mthorsemama, 05/28/2013
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LTZ 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have less than 29,000 miles on the car, the front ROTORS have been resurfaced once and replaced twice ! Front BRAKES replaced once. The back ROTORS have been replaced once, and BRAKES replaced once. I have filed a complaint with GM. The mileage is not close to where they advertised ! In addition the transmission doesn't act right. I have been told there is no problem with it ! I would love to hear from others that have had brake and rotor issues, or anyone that has been successful at GM buying the while back ? ! Please....
GM is unrecognizable in goodness
myinnervoice, 11/28/2010
2011 Chevrolet Malibu LT1 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 10 people found this review helpful
I shopped Nissan, Hyundai, Toyota, Ford Escape, an used Mercedes Benz. After driving the Mercedes (2004 model), my daughter tried Malibu. She can hardly hear the engine. The car is smooth and GM dealership behaved as if they were a Lexus dealership. The deal of Malibu in Black Friday was amazing. It seems GM changed the money factors that day. The car is beautiful looking, with power. It has some indescribable feeling of exhilaration while driving it. A state of bliss that no Malibu in the past offered. It awakens self-confidence in drivers who feel much richer and free. Its a car for the young, suddenly. It help you aim high and see possible what one thought impossible before.