2013 Chevrolet Malibu — should you buy one?

Why people love the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

The 2013 Malibu's 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with the six-speed automatic gets real-world highway mileage around 29–32 mpg, which matters when you're paying your own gas bill. Owners praise the spacious back seat and trunk—you can actually fit a bike without folding the seats—and the cabin stays quiet at highway speeds because of solid sound deadening in the doors and floor. The steering feels tighter than the 2010 model that came before it, so it doesn't feel like you're wrestling a boat through parking lots.

Common complaints and known issues

The automatic transmission (six-speed GM 6T50) develops a shudder or hesitation during light acceleration around 60k–90k miles, and Chevy never issued a recall despite multiple NHTSA complaints. The serpentine belt tensioner fails around 70k–95k miles and leaves you stranded because there's no warning before it snaps. Plastic intake manifold develops coolant leaks starting at 80k miles, which costs $400–$600 to fix because labor is tedious. Paint peeling on the hood and roof is common on cars left outside in sun-belt climates.

Typical asking price

Under 80k miles: $7,200–$9,500. 80k–130k: $5,400–$7,200. Over 130k: $3,800–$5,500. Prices climb for LS or LT trims with leather and the sunroof option; Eco trim (different suspension) sits at the low end. Regional variation is noticeable—Rust Belt cars with salt damage run $1,000–$2,000 less than equivalent mileage in California or Texas.

Ranges are typical 2026 asking prices, not appraisals. The actual fair offer depends on this specific car's title history, accident record, and open recalls — which is what EstimateProof tells you.