Average Reliability

2018 Chevrolet Malibu Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

9th Generation (GM2XX) · 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder (160hp) / 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder (250hp) / 1.8L hybrid (182hp combined) · $10,000 - $16,000

Known Issues — 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

MODERATE

1.5L turbo oil consumption — monitor carefully

MODERATE

Carbon buildup on 1.5L direct injection

MODERATE

Transmission hesitation on CVT-style transmission

MINOR

Infotainment MyLink/Chevy system freezing

MINOR

Premature tire wear due to alignment sensitivity

What to Inspect

  • Check 1.5L oil for consumption
  • Feel for transmission hesitation
  • Test infotainment system
  • Check tire wear pattern for alignment
  • Test all safety systems

Expected Maintenance Costs

ServiceIntervalCost
Oil change (1.5L turbo)every 7,500 miles$50-$80
Transmission fluidevery 45,000 miles$100-$160
Spark plugsevery 60,000 miles$80-$140
Brake pads (front)every 35,000 miles$90-$150
Cabin air filterevery 15,000 miles$15-$30
Wheel alignmentevery 30,000 miles$80-$130

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