1982 Chevrolet Malibu — Specs, Recalls & Safety

The 1982 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan from United States. Below are the specifications, open safety recalls and NHTSA data available for this specific model year. Decode a 1982 Malibu VIN to see the exact trim, engine and equipment for one particular vehicle.

Overview

The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan with efficient turbo engines, a roomy interior and a comfortable highway ride.

Specifications at a glance

Basic build info
Model year1982
MakeChevrolet
ModelMalibu
BodyMidsize Sedan
Country of originUnited States
Available engines (model line)
Engine1.5L turbo 4-cylinder
Engine2.0L turbo 4-cylinder

Model-year-exact trim, engine and equipment vary by VIN. Decode the specific VIN above to confirm.

NHTSA safety recalls — 1982 Chevrolet Malibu

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Recall data for this specific model year has not been ingested into our snapshot store yet. Check the official NHTSA recall lookup or decode the VIN above — VIN decodes always query the current NHTSA database.

Common problems to check on this generation

  • CVT/transmission issues on some years
  • Stop-start system faults
  • Electrical gremlins

Applies to the model line as a whole; the 1982 model year may have specific TSBs, always verify by VIN.

Check-engine light on your 1982 Malibu?

Every 1996-and-newer vehicle uses the OBD-II standard. Look up any stored code, then search 2,000+ codes — to see what it means and how urgent it is.

OBD-II code lookup →

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Related guides for 1982 Chevrolet Malibu owners & buyers

Frequently asked questions

What are the 1982 Chevrolet Malibu specs?

The 1982 Malibu is a Midsize Sedan. Decode a specific VIN above for the exact trim, engine, transmission and factory options for one particular vehicle.

Are there recalls on the 1982 Malibu?

No open NHTSA recalls were found in our latest check. Recall status is tracked per-VIN, decode the specific VIN to confirm.

Is the 1982 Chevrolet Malibu reliable?

Average reliability; check transmission history by model year.

How do I check this specific 1982 Malibu?

Enter the VIN above to see the factory-decoded specifications and open recalls. Combine with a free vehicle history check and a pre-purchase inspection.

How much is a 1982 Chevrolet Malibu worth?

Values vary by trim, mileage, condition and region. Check Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds and NADA/J.D. Power for a range, see our guide comparing them — and pair with 5–10 local listings for your exact year and mileage.

What common problems should I watch for on a 1982 Malibu?

Segment-wide issues like brake and suspension wear are the norm at this age; model-specific issues vary by generation. Review the "common problems" section above, check NHTSA complaints and TSBs for the specific year, and get an independent inspection focused on those areas.

Sources on this page: NHTSA vPIC (specifications), NHTSA Recalls, NHTSA NCAP (safety), EPA FuelEconomy.gov (MPG), SAE J2012 (OBD-II standard). VinSpecs is an independent service, not affiliated with Chevrolet or any government agency.