Saturday, August 8, 2026
RecallGazette

Vehicle problems, recalls & safety intelligence

2012 Chevrolet Malibu vs 2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Complaints, recalls, TSBs, investigations and safety ratings side by side, from official federal data. Last verified Aug 8, 2026. Raw complaint counts are not adjusted for sales volume.

Metric2012 Chevrolet Malibu2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
NHTSA complaints905154
Recall campaigns26
Service bulletins (TSBs)1,336106
Investigations07
Crash reports502
Fire reports135
NCAP overall rating4/5
EPA MPG (combined)20–2636
Median reported incident mileage89,000 mi79,000 mi

Reported problems side by side

ComponentChevrolet MalibuHyundai Sonata Hybrid
Electrical System29023
Exterior Lighting2022
Steering19110
Engine9967
Electronic Stability Control (esc)1292
Air Bags1013
Power Train4930
Service Brakes6512

Symptoms owners describe

Stalling7221
Check engine light4212
Loss of power375
Steering problems360
Vibration / shaking350
Electrical failures320
Airbag warning light300
Won’t start297
2012 Chevrolet Malibu
2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Compare all Chevrolet Malibu vs Hyundai Sonata Hybrid years →

Method. Complaints are unique NHTSA reports. A vehicle that sold more units will naturally accumulate more complaints — use shares and read the underlying reports before drawing conclusions.