2021 Chevrolet Malibu Recalls, Problems & MPG
NHTSA lists 2 safety recalls and 90 owner complaints for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu. The EPA rates it 26 to 32 MPG combined, depending on engine and drivetrain.
- Recalls
- 2
- Owner complaints
- 90
- Crashes / fires reported
- 0 / 1
- EPA combined
- 26–32 MPG
2021 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
SeatsMay 19, 2022 · NHTSA 22V359000+
Risk: An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat and replace the cushion frame, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 23, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212356050.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
Seat BeltsAug 20, 2021 · NHTSA 21V649000+
Risk: An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.
Recall repairs are free. Enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if yours still needs one.
Most reported 2021 Chevrolet Malibu problems
Owner complaints to NHTSA by system. One complaint can name more than one system.
- Unknown or Other31
- Electrical System30
- Power Train28
- Engine15
- Fuel/Propulsion System8
- Air Bags6
- Suspension3
- Back Over Prevention3
2021 Chevrolet Malibu gas mileage
EPA ratings for each version (city / highway / combined).
| Version | Engine | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu | 1.5 L 4 cyl, Automatic (variable gear ratios) | 29 | 36 | 32 | $2,000 |
| Malibu | 2.0 L 4 cyl, Automatic 9-spd | 22 | 33 | 26 | $2,450 |
Real-world mileage depends on how and where you drive. Logbay compares your actual MPG with these EPA numbers.
Questions
Does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, most recently for the seats (May 19, 2022). Recall repairs are free at a dealer; check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2021 Chevrolet Malibu problems?
Owners filed 90 complaints with NHTSA. The most reported areas are unknown or other (31), electrical system (30), power train (28).
What gas mileage does the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu get?
The EPA rates the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu at 26 to 32 MPG combined (best version: 29 city / 36 highway).
Sources: NHTSA recalls and owner complaints (api.nhtsa.gov), EPA fuel economy (fueleconomy.gov). Updated Oct 26, 2026. Complaint counts are unverified owner reports.