2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT (1LT)
VIN: 1G1ZD5ST8JF242655 | 2018 | General Motors LLC | KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT (1LT) — 1.5L 4 Cyl, FWD, Automatic. Sedan/Saloon.
D
53/100
Safety & Recall Score: Caution
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 6 recall campaigns (high)
⚠ 700 owner complaints (high)
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: PASSENGER CAR
- Body: Sedan/Saloon
- Plant: KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
NHTSA Recalls
6 Recall Campaigns- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet...
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet...
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC...
Owner Complaints
700 filed with NHTSA- On 10/8/26 My vehicle failed in the middle of...
- My chevy stopped while driving. The engine light came...
Fuel Economy
30 MPG Combined- City: 27 MPG
- Hwy: 36 MPG
- Combined: 30 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1G1ZD5ST8JF242655
Model Year
2018
Make
Chevrolet
Model
Malibu
Trim
LT (1LT)
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
5
Seat Rows
2
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
1.5L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Plant Location
KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
Country of Origin
UNITED STATES (USA)
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
1 → United States
Position 2 — Manufacturer
G → General Motors LLC
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
1 → PASSENGER CAR
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
ZD5ST → Malibu LT (1LT)
Position 9 — Check Digit
8 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
J → 2018
Position 11 — Plant Code
F → KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
242655 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
LFV - Direct Injection, Variable Valve Timing, GEN 1
Engine Manufacturer
GMNA
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
1.5 L
Displacement CC
1500.0
Displacement CI
91.53561614209
Engine Config
In-Line
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Turbocharger
Yes
Transmission Style
Automatic
Transmission Speeds
6
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
30 MPG
City MPG
27 MPG
Hwy MPG
36 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$10,750
GHG Score
7/10
CO₂ Emissions
292 g/mi
Barrels/Year
9.92
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Available
Lane Departure Warning
Available
Lane Keep System
Available
Blind Spot Monitoring
Available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Included
Pedestrian AEB
Available
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Included
Daytime Running Lights
Included
Adaptive Driving Beam
Available
Keyless Ignition
Included
Auto High Beams
Included
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Curtain Airbags
All Rows
Knee Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Curb Weight
3,366 lbs
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Axles
2
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Manufacturer ID
984
Make ID
467
Model ID
1834
Plant Company
Fairfax Assembly
Plant City
KANSAS CITY
Plant State
KANSAS
Plant Country
UNITED STATES (USA)
Vehicle Descriptor
1G1ZD5ST*JF
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
6
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
6 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Chevrolet dealer.
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Get a Vehicle History ReportUnlock accident history, title status & odometer records with VIN Pro Plus for $4.99 — scroll down to get it.
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Verify All Recalls Are FixedVisit the Chevrolet dealer with this VIN to confirm all 6 recalls are resolved.
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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 6 recall campaigns as leverage for a lower price.
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Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$7,700–$12,000
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. During servicing, a Passenger Presence System (PPS) may have been installed that was not correctly calibrated to the vehicle's seat type. As a result, the PPS may not properly...
Risk: In the event of a crash, improper air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger PPS seat service kit, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2018....
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Equinox, Impala, Cruze, Volt and Bolt EV vehicles, GMC Terrain vehicles, Buick Lacrosse and Regal vehicles, Cadillac XTS and XTS Professional vehicles and 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rear brake caliper...
Risk: A reduction of braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will bleed the vehicle's brake system, free of charge. The recall began October 11, 2018. Owners may contact...
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from...
Risk: A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles equipped with 1.5L turbo engines. An error in the Engine Control Module (ECM) software may result in the fuel injectors being disabled.
Risk: Disabled fuel injectors would prevent the engine from starting and may cause a stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the ECM software, free of charge. The recall began October 16, 2019. Owners may contact GM...
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6...
Risk: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the...
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The...
SEAT BELTS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
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....
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2018 Chevrolet Malibu
$1,540/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$7,700
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$10,750
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$5,400
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Chevrolet Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Chevrolet dealer.
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Run Free NICB Check for 1G1ZD5ST8JF242655 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
On 10/8/26 My vehicle failed in the middle of...
On 10/8/26 My vehicle failed in the middle of traffic as I was driving the car forcefully slowed down. When I proceeded to press the gas the car...
My chevy stopped while driving. The engine light came...
My chevy stopped while driving. The engine light came on and engine power reduced. The brakes locked up and I could not go anywhere. Code P1101, Vacuum Pump...
I was driving in town through a stoplight when...
I was driving in town through a stoplight when I noticed my brakes stopped working. Also when I had stopped the car still in drive and the car...
Examatory mark appears on the dashboard say that engine...
Examatory mark appears on the dashboard say that engine speed as reduced
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle while in park(P), the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. The...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the message "Shift to Park" was displayed on the instrument panel. The...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that there was an abnormally strong gasoline odor coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that while driving...
I own a 2018 Chevy Malibu. At approximately 57,000...
I own a 2018 Chevy Malibu. At approximately 57,000 miles, the original engine experienced a vacuum pump failure that resulted in catastrophic engine damage. The engine was replaced...
Showing 8 of 700 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Chevrolet recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Due Soon
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$9,900
+1 yr
$8,700
-12%
+2 yr
$7,700
-22%
+3 yr
$6,700
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,540/yr
24%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
23%
Fuel/Energy
$2,150/yr
33%
Depreciation
$1,080/yr
17%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,520/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
6.9
/ 10
Rank #12 overall
41 issues / 100 vehicles
Chevrolet Reliability
Chevrolet trucks rank well; some car-based models and early EV platforms have had more issues. Strong dealer network.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
Jun 14, 2018
Aug 30, 2018
May 31, 2018
Jun 9, 2019
Oct 29, 2020
Aug 20, 2021
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$6,800–$11,000
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$8,100–$13,200
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$8,300–$13,800
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 6 recall campaigns on file. Use this as leverage — ask the seller to confirm this specific VIN's recalls are resolved, or reduce the price accordingly. Unresolved recalls cost dealers time and money to fix.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
32 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Chevrolet Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
3yr/36k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
6yr/100k
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Chevrolet dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
Listings with 20+ high-quality daylight photos get 3x more inquiries than listings with poor photos.
🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 6 recall campaigns on file. Confirming this specific VIN's recalls are resolved before listing typically increases sale price by more than the time spent.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 700 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
🔔 NHTSA SaferCar Alerts
Official government recall notifications. Free, direct from NHTSA. Covers safety recalls, investigations, and bulletins.
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VIN 1G1ZD5ST8JF242655:
6 recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to track when they are resolved.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,540/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1G1ZD5ST8JF242655 decode to?
VIN 1G1ZD5ST8JF242655 decodes to a 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu LT (1LT), assembled in KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu have?
NHTSA shows 6 recall campaigns associated with the 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu. This reflects campaigns issued for this model/year — it does not confirm whether this specific VIN's repairs have already been completed. Contact a CHEVROLET dealer with this VIN to check.
Is it safe to buy a 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu with recall campaigns on file?
A recall campaign doesn't necessarily mean the vehicle is unsafe to drive, but any unresolved recall should be addressed promptly. Contact a CHEVROLET dealer with this VIN to confirm which specific recalls apply and whether they've already been completed — repairs are always free of charge.
What is the estimated value of this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu LT (1LT) is estimated at $7,700–$12,000. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu get?
According to EPA data, the 2018 CHEVROLET Malibu gets approximately 30 MPG combined (27 city / 36 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,150.
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