2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid: Recalls, Problems & MPG
Here are the deets on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid: 1 recall, 24 owner complaints and up to 46 mpg combined.

Recalls
1 vehicle recall from the manufacturer. Repairs are free. Check your VIN to see if one is still open on your car.
Hybrid system Vehicle recall #16V521000 · 2016 · 534 vehicles
What's wrong: The affected vehicles have a shut-off switch for the high voltage battery for use when servicing the vehicle. This manual service disconnect switch (msd) May not be properly installed and thus May not lock into position, unexpectedly disconnecting the high-voltage power while driving, effectively stalling the vehicle.
Why it matters: A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: Gm will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the msd and correct the installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 10, 2016.
Most-reported problems
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA, by component. One complaint can list several components. 0 mention a fire, 3 injuries and 0 deaths were reported.
What owners describe
- Electrical (11): the most common themes are warning light on (4), stalls / loses power (3).
- Transmission & drivetrain (8): the most common themes are warning light on (3), hard / delayed shifting (3).
- Engine (8): the most common themes are stalls / loses power (5), warning light on (2).
- Speed control / throttle (6): the most common themes are warning light on (3), stalls / loses power (2).
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid has 24 owner complaints, ranking #2 of 7 Malibu Hybrid model years for complaints (1.8× the average Malibu Hybrid year). Complaints peaked in 2019 (4 filed that year). The typical problem showed up when the car was about 5 years old, at a median of 28,609 miles. Neighboring years: 2017 (22 complaints, 0 recalls).
Engines & fuel economy (EPA)
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 L 4-cyl hybrid | Automatic (variable gear ratios) | Front-Wheel Drive | 47 | 46 | 46 | Regular |
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.
Closest thing to the factory manual for most years. Pay once, keep it.
Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
From $19.99/mo · $39.99/yrOEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.
From $19.99/mo · $59.99/yrStep-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.
Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/moHeads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through these links, at no extra cost to you. Prices checked 2026-10 and can change. We never host or link to pirated manuals. Disclosure
FAQ
Does the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 1 vehicle recall for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. Recall repairs are free at any dealer, no matter how old the car is. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid problems?
Owners have filed 24 complaints with NHTSA. The most-reported areas are electrical (11), transmission & drivetrain (8), engine (8).
What gas mileage does the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid get?
EPA ratings run up to 46 mpg combined (1.8 L, Automatic (variable gear ratios)), across 1 engine and transmission combos.
Where can I get a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid repair manual?
eManualOnline sells downloadable manuals, Mitchell 1 DIY and ALLDATAdiy sell online access to factory repair data, and Haynes sells printed guides and online access. Pick a download if you want to keep it, or a subscription for wiring diagrams and TSBs.