Used 2012 Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A) Consumer Reviews
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$6,990 - $9,800
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Work Car
rlhinmi, Portage, MI, 07/16/2012
Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
39 of 41 people found this review helpful
Recently my workplace replaced the 2009 Impala I had been driving with a 2012 Malibu. The exterior design looks more modern than the Impala, but the ride is much more stiff. The steering is very light, reminding me a little of the Buick my grandparents had in the 80s. The build quality seems good--solid Ka-thunk when doors close. Interior graphics for the trip computer and clock seem dated. The power adjustment for lumbar support is a nice touch. In 1500 miles of mostly highway driving the car has been getting 22.5 MPG with E85, which is required by my workplace.
Maintenance nightmare
Anthony, Chester, VT, 05/20/2018
Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
16 of 19 people found this review helpful
With under 100k on this vehicle we have already replaced a transmission and then a timing chain. Not to mention smaller repairs such as wheel bearings, strut mounts, and sensors. If one side breaks, replace the other as well because it is not far behind. This car is treated very light with frequent service and oil undercoated every year. Seems to be broken more often then not. I would not recommend this year of Malibu to ANYONE.
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2012 Chevrolet Malibu for sale
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Not A Family Car
Matt, Detroit, MI, 12/09/2015
Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
27 of 35 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2012 Chevy Malibu LS new in 2012 due to us losing a company car, and we went cheap on the trim. I have 2 children (under 5), and I can't say that I'm all that impressed with my Malibu, especially when comparing it to my wife's 2009 Ford Fusion SEL. The Malibu's 2.4L engine is very underpowered for a sedan. The transmission has never downshifted smoothly when approaching a light/stop sign (I'm assuming GM programmed the transmission this way to improve fuel economy). The fuel economy isn't as advertised (especially around town). We've had 3 recalls on the car, and for only having 39,500 miles, there are more squeaks and rattles than my wife's Fusion. The brakes and tires have worn very quickly. My friend has complained about the same issue with the same car. The throttle hesitates, and it seems the torque converter has a difficult time applying power to the wheels at lower RPMs. The paint scratches very easy, and the trunk opening is so small. We cannot the same types of items in my Malibu as we can in the Fusion (stroller, infant's swing, etc). On the positive side, we haven't had any major issues with it so far, and it is a very comfortable car to drive. The cabin is very quiet, and the car is easy on the eyes. The car is good in the snow, and the Bluetooth technology works great. The car warms up quickly in the winter. It is probably a nice vehicle for a single driver, but for a family it doesn't quite get the job done. I wouldn't recommend buying this vehicle.
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Great Ride!
Matt, Lancaster, PA, 04/30/2019
updated 10/26/2021
Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is known to be a reliable ride that doesn't have severe maintenance issues. I've had mine for just over 4 months and so far so good. I have few issues with it. However, as someone who is over 6' I have issue with the overhead room. I find my head brushes the roof at times and I have to duck it down to avoid hitting the side of the car. The steering wheel also rides a little close to my knees. These are minor comfort issues in the grand scheme of the car. The turn signal makes an annoying sound, but otherwise it's a quiet ride. The acceleration is natural and it brakes quickly and smoothly. I'm very satisfied with my driving experience whether short or long distance. One issue I had was replacing the headlight. It's not easy and can be costly to have a mechanic do the job. I was not happy about this and I'm thankful this has been my lone, major complaint with this car.
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Years have done more damage than the miliage
Craig, Brunswick, GA, 01/26/2023
Chevrolet Malibu LS 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just over 80,000 miles in 10 years. The air-conditioning module went out but was not easily diagnosed . cost almost 800 most for electronic diagnostics labor. Driver Door window control needs replacing. The parts don't cost much but the LABOR costs are killing me. Even changing the lamp headlight bulb cost 150 in LABOR . For the most part the can runs well but the other stuff drives me crazy especially with such ow mileage
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