2016 Chevrolet Malibu LT (1LT)
VIN: 1G1ZE5ST5GF315602 | 2016 | General Motors LLC | KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
2016 Chevrolet Malibu LT (1LT) — 1.5L 4 Cyl, 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.
⚠ 9 recall campaigns (high)
⚠ 865 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
9 Recall Campaigns- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet...
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC...
- General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year...
Owner Complaints
865 filed with NHTSA- It said service to stabilitrak press the gas and...
- The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
Fuel Economy
26 MPG Combined- City: 22 MPG
- Hwy: 32 MPG
- Combined: 26 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
1G1ZE5ST5GF315602
Model Year
2016
Make
Chevrolet
Model
Malibu
Trim
LT (1LT)
Body Style
Sedan/Saloon
Vehicle Type
PASSENGER CAR
Doors
4
Seats
Not reported by manufacturer
Seat Rows
Not reported by manufacturer
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
ZE5ST → Malibu LT (1LT)
Position 9 — Check Digit
5 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
G → 2016
Position 11 — Plant Code
F → KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA)
Positions 12–17 — Serial
315602 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
LFV - DI: Direct Injection, VVT, GEN1 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
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
26 MPG
City MPG
22 MPG
Hwy MPG
32 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,450
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$12,250
GHG Score
6/10
CO₂ Emissions
342 g/mi
Barrels/Year
11.44
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Not reported in manufacturer data
ESC
Not reported in manufacturer data
Traction Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Not reported in manufacturer data
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
Not reported in manufacturer data
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Daytime Running Lights
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto High Beams
Not reported in manufacturer data
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
Not reported in manufacturer data
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
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)
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
1G1ZE5ST*GF
GVWR
Class 1: 6,000 lb or less (2,722 kg or less)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
9
Recall Status
Recall campaigns found
Recall Campaigns
9 recall campaigns identified
VIN repair status unknown — verify open recalls with NHTSA or a Chevrolet dealer.
✅ 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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Negotiate Using This ReportUse the 9 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
$5,900–$9,200
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....
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...
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured March 7, 2016, through March 12, 2016. The memory chip in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may fail and cause the loss of electronically controlled...
Risk: If the EBCM fails the primary braking system will still function, however, the loss of ABS and ESC increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a replacement EBCM, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2016. Owners may contact...
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured November 18, 2015, to June 7, 2016. The fabric of the side-impact air bag cushion may tear during deployment.
Risk: If the air bag tears during deployment, the air bag may not perform as designed, increasing the risk of injury in the event of...
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, as necessary, replace the air bag module, free of charge. The recall began October 27,...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick...
Risk: If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge. The recall began on...
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Genera Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Camaro, Malibu, Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles. The radio may intermittently fail to provide an audio warning when the key has been left in the ignition and the door...
Risk: An unbelted driver is at a greater risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will update the radio software, free of charge. The recall began on March 14, 2016. Owners may contact...
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016 Malibu vehicles manufactured February 16, 2016, to March 5, 2016. The two weld studs that mount the front and rear side impact air bags may fracture and separate from the air bag...
Risk: Fractured weld studs may allow the side air bag to move out of position during deployment, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on April 14, 2016. Owners...
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Colorado vehicles manufactured January 19, 2016, to February 2, 2016, Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured January 9, 2016, to January 26, 2016, and 2016 GMC Canyon vehicles manufactured January 21,...
Risk: An improperly inflated air bag increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driver side frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on April 14,...
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 2016 Chevrolet Malibu
$1,760/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$8,800
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$12,250
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$4,140
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
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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
It said service to stabilitrak press the gas and...
It said service to stabilitrak press the gas and it won't go its delayed..
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at 61 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly began idling roughly. The contact stated that a loud...
My vacuum pump has failed. Causing extremely dangerous driving...
My vacuum pump has failed. Causing extremely dangerous driving conditions and potentially damaging my engine.
I believe my fuel pump was cracked
I believe my fuel pump was cracked
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact...
The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH and taking her children to school, there was an abnormally loud banging...
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid LT 1.8L - current mileage...
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid LT 1.8L - current mileage 147,059 miles The factory exhaust heat exchanger failed internally, leaking engine coolant into the exhaust system. This caused check...
“Steering assist is reduced, drive with care” is showing...
“Steering assist is reduced, drive with care” is showing up for a couple second and disappearing. When that happens my car seems to shut off and the steering...
Rear steering knuckle and control arm knuckle.my car moves...
Rear steering knuckle and control arm knuckle.my car moves side to side. I have replaced everything in the rear end. I just recently bought this car.
Showing 8 of 865 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
Current
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 2016 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
$7,600
+1 yr
$6,700
-12%
+2 yr
$5,900
-22%
+3 yr
$5,200
-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
$1,760/yr
26%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
22%
Fuel/Energy
$2,450/yr
36%
Depreciation
$828/yr
12%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$6,788/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
May 31, 2018
May 5, 2016
Oct 26, 2016
May 7, 2016
Nov 2, 2016
Nov 3, 2016
Feb 3, 2016
Aug 20, 2021
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2016 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
$5,200–$8,500
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$6,200–$10,100
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$6,400–$10,600
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
This vehicle model has 9 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 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2016 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.
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🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
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⚠ Check recall status first
This vehicle model has 9 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 865 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.
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VIN 1G1ZE5ST5GF315602:
9 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: $1,760/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN 1G1ZE5ST5GF315602 decode to?
VIN 1G1ZE5ST5GF315602 decodes to a 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu LT (1LT), assembled in KANSAS CITY, KANSAS, UNITED STATES (USA).
How many recalls does this 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu have?
NHTSA shows 9 recall campaigns associated with the 2016 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 2016 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 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu LT (1LT) is estimated at $5,900–$9,200. 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 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu get?
According to EPA data, the 2016 CHEVROLET Malibu gets approximately 26 MPG combined (22 city / 32 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,450.
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