2005 Chevrolet Malibu Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.29/5 Average
172 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The side curtain airbag option now includes front-seat side-impact airbags.

Pros:
  • Pros: Smooth ride quality, above-average fuel economy with V6, plenty of passenger and cargo space, ample safety and convenience features, innovative remote start feature.
Cons:
  • Lackluster interior, subpar brakes and steering, down on power compared to competitors, no manual transmission available.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 172.00
  • I would never buy this car again - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    When I purchased this car in 2007 I was happy because It looked prtty good. But after a few months past thats when the problems started. First it was the linement which Im still working on getting it corrected. Ive had this problem for years I dont know what it feels like driving a car that has good linement. I cant check my trans fulids I have to go to the dealership which I know will charge me a arm and a leg. Now my engine is shaking when I put the car in P or D. That started when I changed the air filter. the list goes on and on.. I hate this car..

  • Worst car I owned - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I dont know what people see in this car, but it is the worst car I have ever owned in my life. Family always told me to stick with toyota camry or Honda Accord, I wanted something different, and boy did I made the biggest mistake of my life. A hollow car with very bad steering and tie rod ends breaking every 10 to 20k miles. Its started to rust and good luck if you want to do some extra mods on this vehicle because it will make sure to either use stock products or it will make you pay arm and leg to drive around again. GM should be shamed of themselves and I will NEVER, EVER BUYING A GM FOR SURE. And anyone who want to take chances, good luck with disappointment. Youve been warned.

  • Truly the perfect sedan - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    My 2005 Chevy Malibu has 56,500 miles and has never given me any problems, barring the occasional Malibu moment. The 2.2L 4-cylinder engine is surprsingly robust and highway passing is not as difficult as it generally is with these type of engines. The interior, while considered boring by many, is to me just practical enough without being completely ugly. The cargo space, both in the passenger cabin and the trunk is very surprising. Several employees at department stores have doubted that large objects could indeed fit in my spacious trunk, but they were also surprised that a full-size outdoor grill slid in with ease. Overall, my only complaint about the car is the lack of reading lamps.

  • Good Car LS V6 - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    two yaers done me good so far But if its hard to start when hot hit the gas while cranking if it dont twince. My radio just went out got A Refurbished for $185 works good now. the staring wheel got tight once coming out one tight parking space. I put in park and hit gas a littie never had that proplem agan. My wife share this car drop me off and go home and go to work and pick me up 60 miles a day alway ready to go.

  • 286,000 miles and still going - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    Most inexpensive car Ive ever owned. Absolutely no unexpected issues. Normal brake and tire wear about 80k miles each, 1 set of spark plugs, 1 belt, 2 tie rod ends and 1 battery. Ive used Mobile 1 and change oil at 9k, and had the trans. serviced twice. As youve guessed I drive for my job a lot, and I dont baby it. V-6 Fuel mileage averages about 34 highway, 28 overall. Would consider a trade but afraid I cant find a more dependable car.

  • Needs Work - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I purchased this car with 26K miles on it and now has 70K. It has had a starter issue since purchase keep saying nothing wrong and wont fix. Lights burn out constantly, now the body control module has gone out. Great fuel economy, smooth ride, fun car, just has to many problems for the price I paid. Im hoping the body control module solves all the electrical problems going on because I could not even drive the car while waiting the last 3 weeks for the backordered part to come into the dealer. Also this part can only be installed by the dealer because of programing my cheaper mechanic can not do it. Im not thrilled, most likely will go foreign next time around.

  • Best for My Money - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I bought this Malibu in 2005 right off the lot new. It has never ever failed me. Great on mileage and I am averaging over 28 mpg with it. It owes me nothing. Comfortable, built well and except for the brakes, Disc in front and Drums in rear getting hard spots and will need to be turned)I have no issues with this car. Best car I bought for the money. Last year it got me through the snow when my wifes Volvo S-80 wouldnt. Great traction with the tires I am using in snow. I suggest using Bridgestone Blizack tires on this car for added snow performance.

  • Had for 3 years - Great car - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    I see a lot of the negative reviews, and the only things I agree with are the ease at which the cloth seats stain and the lamps burning out. Apart from these two issues I have put about 70K miles on the vehicle and no issues. Car runs smooth and has pep as a result of the V6. Fuel economy is great and while the looks are now a little outdated I am happy enough.

  • Not the best I have owned - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    The interior is so easily stained along with a crappy radio. But the biggest issue is the steering. GM knew the steering was flawed but failed to recall it- I fixed the top part but today my mechanic told me to stop driving it. It will cost $900 to fix. The mileage and power have been nice and it is a pretty car. I replaced my wifes car last month and now have to buy another one. It will not be a GM.

  • EPS Should be recalled! - 2005 Chevrolet Malibu
    By -

    There are many things I love about the Malibu, but the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) is not high on my list. I have heard that the component was purchased from Toyota (which should automatically raise suspicion). After many embarrassing noise episodes, the EPS finally went on my Malibu while on the Highway doing 65 mph. The fact that I have strong arms and the traffic was light is the only thing that saved me from a major accident. When is this hazard going to get enough attention to warrant a recall? Who do we complain to, (other than Chevy, they are useless).

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