Friday, August 7, 2026
RecallGazette

Vehicle problems, recalls & safety intelligence

2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs 2006 Mercedes-Benz E500

Complaints, recalls, TSBs, investigations and safety ratings side by side, from official federal data. Last verified Aug 7, 2026. Raw complaint counts are not adjusted for sales volume.

Metric2006 Chevrolet Malibu2006 Mercedes-Benz E500
NHTSA complaints1,11550
Recall campaigns64
Service bulletins (TSBs)76294
Investigations02
Crash reports411
Fire reports60
NCAP overall rating
EPA MPG (combined)19–2418
Median reported mileage85,000 mi80,000 mi

Reported problems side by side

ComponentChevrolet MalibuMercedes-Benz E500
Steering8102
Electrical System1423
Fuel/propulsion System5216
Exterior Lighting630
Fuel System, Gasoline4115
Service Brakes502
Power Train432
Air Bags334

Symptoms owners describe

Steering problems1830
Loss of power730
Vibration / shaking550
Check engine light390
Stalling380
Clunking / rattling310
Won’t start120
Hesitation / surging70
2006 Chevrolet Malibu
2006 Mercedes-Benz E500

Compare all Chevrolet Malibu vs Mercedes-Benz E500 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.