2023 Chevrolet Malibu: Air Bags complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 8 owner complaints for the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu that list the air bags component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11772773 (filed 10/21/2026): “October 7, 2026 this vehicle hydroplaned and i lost control of the vehicle. to the best of my knowledge, the steering wheel locked and when attempted to step on the brakes, no braking occurred. the vehicle slid into grass which then hit the guard railing on the interstate. after being inspected by c…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11767019 (filed 09/25/2026): “I own a 2023 chevrolet malibu with an open safety recall. general motors/dealership has refused to repair the recall. the vehicle has also had multiple safety-related problems, including service esc warnings, jerking/poor acceleration, service safety restraint system and airbag warnings, and a “stee…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11707590 (filed 12/29/2025): “When i was in a car accident i was hit on the rear passenger side of my vehicle, right near where my side air bags are supposed to be located. i was hit at 50 mph and the airbags did not deploy.…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Airbag and seat-belt restraint systems are safety-critical and need a scan tool and manufacturer procedures; do not DIY. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .