NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 Chevrolet Malibu Safety Ratings
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu scores 83 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Strong), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 46 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu achieves a competitive safety profile, earning a NHTSA Safety Index of 83/100, placing it within the Strong band. While its crash-test record is otherwise excellent, this performance is tempered by a modest avoidance-tech score and the presence of two active recall campaigns. These factors warrant consideration for prospective buyers.
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu received a 5-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100 based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 92 Sedans from 2023 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu ranks 71 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 83 / 100 (Strong) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 10.3% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 46 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 71 of 92 Sedans tested for 2023 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu sees a slight but notable drop in its safety performance, registering an overall Safety Index of 83 out of 100. This score, down one point from the 2022 model's 84, still places it within the "Strong" safety band. The vehicle's crash protection is a significant asset, earning a sub-score of 66 out of 70, reflecting near-perfect results in federal crash tests. However, the 2023 Malibu's avoidance technology sub-score of 2 out of 10 substantially pulls down its overall rating. This low score persists despite the availability of forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems, either standard or optional. The defect record sub-score stands at 14.75 out of 20, influenced by two distinct recall campaigns. One recall, dating back to the vehicle's initial production, addresses a structural concern. A more recent recall targets the rearview camera system. This camera issue is further underscored by 46 owner complaints on file, with 7 specifically related to the "Back Over Prevention" component. The most recent complaint, logged in mid-2026, indicates the rearview camera problem remains an active concern for owners.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu perform in crash tests?
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, achieving perfect 5-star scores for frontal and side impact protection. Its rollover resistance category, while still strong, received 4 out of 5 stars. In NHTSA's dynamic tip test, the Malibu did not tip, and its calculated rollover risk stands at 10 percent.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18204
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover the 2023 Malibu. The first targets the rearview camera, which may display a distorted or blank image, directly impairing back-over prevention. The second, initiated in late 2022, addresses a structural concern involving the front impact bar. Neither campaign has been flagged as a do-not-drive order, but both warrant VIN-level verification.
BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA26V212000
Risk: A rearview image that does not display correctly reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect, and if necessary, replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 20, 2026. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N262551720. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on April 2, 2026.
Reported 2026-04-02
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS22V923000
Risk: An improperly welded front impact bar may result in the front crash sensors not performing correctly, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the right-hand and left-hand side of the vehicle's motor rail for an incomplete weld. If the condition is found, the vehicle will be repurchased by GM. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.
Reported 2022-12-14
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
Owners have filed 46 unverified complaints with NHTSA, including alleged reports of 3 crashes and 3 injuries. The most frequently cited components in these unverified allegations are the Electrical System (11 reports), Engine (10), and Back Over Prevention (7), the last category aligning directly with the active camera recall.
46 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
Both the structural front impact bar recall and the rearview camera recall for the 2023 Malibu necessitate VIN verification through NHTSA's database before purchase. An open safety recall transfers with ownership, and confirmed remediation is essential.
- The rearview camera recall covering 2023-2025 Malibu vehicles is recent and may not yet be fully remedied on all units - verify completion by VIN before finalizing any purchase.
- The front impact bar structural recall, which also covers 2022 models, was initiated in late 2022 and applies specifically to the front impact bar, a crash-critical component - confirmation of repair is essential.
- The avoidance technology sub-score of 2 out of 10 is the single largest factor pulling the 2023 Safety Index below the 2022 figure, despite forward collision warning and lane departure warning being available on the vehicle.
- Owner-reported complaints to NHTSA include 7 unverified allegations tied specifically to Back Over Prevention, a pattern that directly corresponds to the active rearview camera recall campaign still open on this model year.
RANKINGSWhere the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu places
The 2023 Chevrolet Malibu qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2023 Chevrolet Malibu safety questions
Was the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 10.3%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 46 owner complaints are on file for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash or a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Malibu years
Rivals in Sedan (2023)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Audi RS 5 Sportback | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Audi S4 | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Nissan Maxima | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Polestar 2 | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Tesla Model S Later Release | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 18204), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Chevrolet Malibu 2023.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 71 of 92 in the Sedan class for 2023.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.