2021 Chevrolet Malibu recalls and complaints

NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu; the most frequently affected component is seats. Owners filed 89 complaints, most often about electrical system. Among the 26 model years of this model in the database, 2021 ranks #20 for number of recalls.

Recalls2

Complaints89

Fires reported1in stored complaints

Check your own vehicle by VIN at NHTSA →

Recalls (2)

SeatsCampaign 22V359000 · 19 May 2022

Problem: 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.

Risk: An improperly welded seat frame may not adequately restrain the driver in a crash, increasing their risk of injury.

Remedy: 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.

Seat belts — Critical fastenersCampaign 21V649000 · 20 Aug 2021

Problem: 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.

Risk: An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: 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.

What owners complain about

Share of the 40 most recent complaints stored for this model year, by component. Owners can list more than one component.

Electrical system13 · 32%

Unknown or other12 · 30%

Power train9 · 22%

Fuel/propulsion system6 · 15%

Air bags6 · 15%

Engine5 · 12%

Fuel system2 · 5%

Gasoline2 · 5%

When complaints were filed

202511

202629

From owner complaints

Vehicle has a repeated issue recognizing that it is in park when trying to turn vehicle off. This causes concern that the vehicle may not actually be in park, will not fully power down therefore draining the battery and leaving driver stranded, or lead to other body control module/shifting problems. This is a known…
Electrical system · Nov 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

The component is D automatic transmission shift to park switch. The vehicle is and will be available for immediate inspection upon request. Safety was put at risk when the car lost power while they’re celebrating install in the floor of traffic, causing other cars to swerve around and blow horns. The underlying issue…
Power train · Feb 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

Transmission failed to engage gear properly after backing up. Grinding sounds heard when vehicle was in drive. Problem has been confirmed and inspected by Chevrolet dealership. Vehicle is available for inspection. Occupants safety was at risk because gears could have locked up during commute causing vehicle to be…
Power train · Feb 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

While driving when coming to a stop, my brakes became stiff causing me to almost hit the vehicle in front of me. Also, the car has been stopping while I am driving and on busy roads when I am at a stop light and press the accelerator to proceed, the vehicle just stop and cuts off completely leaving me stranded while…
Service brakes · Oct 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

How this year compares

Recalls per model year for this model.

201310

Full specifications All model years 2021 Chevrolet lineup

Source

Recall and complaint records from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A recall listed here may not apply to every vehicle of this model year — always check your VIN with NHTSA or a dealer.

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