The 2013 Chevy Malibu is a well-rounded midsize sedan. Boasting a sleek design, comfortable ride, and decent fuel efficiency, this reliable Malibu model year strikes a balance between quality and affordability. However, prospective buyers should also be aware of the car’s potential safety issues. Let’s dive into the details of this Chevy Malibu model year.

The 2013 Chevy Malibu is affordable and reliable

When it comes to dependable, budget-friendly used cars, the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu fits the bill. This Malibu model year appears in U.S. News’ “Most Reliable Used Cars Under $10,000 in 2023.” That’s partly because this midsize sedan boasts an excellent 84/100 reliability score from J.D. Power.

Other factors contributing to the 2023 Malibu’s inclusion in the U.S. News roundup are the spacious and comfortable front seats, ensuring a pleasant ride for all occupants. In addition, the car’s agile handling inspires driver confidence and improves ride quality.

Another aspect that enhances the 2013 Malibu’s appeal is its attractive interior. It exudes sophistication, with a well-appointed cabin, high-quality materials, and thoughtful attention to detail. Whether it’s the sleek dashboard layout or the intuitively placed controls, the interior is a welcoming and refined environment.

Based on those attributes and an average used price range of $9,700 to 11,889, the 2013 Chevy Malibu is an affordable, reliable car.

However, this Chevy Malibu model year also has some safety issues that used car buyers should consider.

What are the 2013 Malibu safety issues?

Despite solidifying its reputation as an affordable, reliable sedan, the 2013 Chevy Malibu has some safety concerns. They include 11 recalls, two NHTSA investigations, and over 800 owner complaints.

One notable problem involves a fire risk in the 2013 Malibu Eco’s hybrid charging system, prompting a recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also opened an investigation related to this issue. The agency determined that a dealership in Arizona had failed to fix the problem before selling affected models to consumers. So potential buyers should ensure this issue has been addressed before purchasing a used 2013 Chevy Malibu Eco.

Among the hundreds of owner complaints reported to the NHTSA, the most involve the car’s electrical system and steering. For instance, one owner reported a sudden loss of power steering, followed by a complete shutdown of the vehicle’s functions, including the interior lighting. Problems such as those could lead to crashes.

However, it should be noted that the 2013 Chevy Malibu earned a perfect five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. That indicates this car provides a high level of protection for occupants.

But regardless of the model, shoppers should obtain a vehicle history report and perform a mechanical inspection before purchasing a used car.

Why is this Malibu model year considered reliable despite its problems?

J.D. Power’s ratings provide insight into a vehicle’s overall quality and dependability. These scores are based on extensive research and analysis, considering various aspects of a car’s performance, quality, and durability. By surveying thousands of vehicle owners, J.D. Power collects data on reported issues, including mechanical problems, recalls, and complaints. This data is used to evaluate the reliability of various vehicle models.

In the case of the 2013 Chevy Malibu, despite the recalls and complaints associated with this model, it maintains a favorable reliability score of 84/100. U.S. News considers this score, along with other factors such as the car’s handling and interior comfort, when including the Malibu in its “Most Reliable Used Cars Under $10,000 in 2023.”

Overall, the 2013 Chevy Malibu remains an attractive option for used car buyers. Its notable benefits include advanced safety systems, connectivity options, and a comfortable ride. Average used prices for this Malibu model year vary based on factors such as mileage, condition, and location, but most can be found for around $10,000.