The 2012 Chevy Malibu uses MacPherson struts in the front and separate shock absorbers in the rear.
In more detail, the Malibu’s suspension design pairs a front MacPherson strut arrangement with a rear independent suspension that uses coil springs and individual shocks. This setup is common in mid-size sedans and is designed to balance ride comfort with stable handling. While the front uses struts as a single integrated unit, the rear relies on shocks that work with the coil springs to control motion and maintain tire contact with the road.
Front suspension: Do you get struts up front?
Understanding what the front suspension uses helps clarify maintenance and part replacement. The Malibu’s front end is built around a MacPherson strut system, which combines a coil spring and a shock absorber into one integrated assembly attached to the steering knuckle.
- MacPherson strut assembly with coil spring
- Steering knuckle connected to the strut top mount
- Stabilizer/sway bar links and related hardware
In short, the Malibu’s front suspension uses struts rather than a separate upper control arm and separate shock absorber.
Rear suspension: Are there shocks in the back?
Rear suspension design typically uses coil springs paired with separate shock absorbers to manage vertical movement and keep the tires in contact with the road. The Malibu employs an independent rear setup with coil springs and independent shocks arranged to work with the multi-link or five-link geometry common in this class.
- Independent rear suspension with coil springs
- Separate shock absorbers mounted to control arms
- Rear stabilization and link components for alignment
Thus, the rear uses shocks rather than a rear strut assembly.
Bottom line for maintenance and parts
For owners or prospective buyers, expect front strut assemblies to be among the wear items, with rear shocks being a separate maintenance concern. If you’re replacing components, you’ll typically replace struts as a unit in the front and shocks as separate units in the rear. Always verify with your vehicle’s VIN and service manual or consult a qualified technician for exact specifications on your particular Malibu model.
Summary: The 2012 Chevy Malibu uses front MacPherson struts and rear shocks in its suspension. This combination provides a balance of ride comfort and handling typical of mid-size sedans of its era.
How much are struts for a 2012 Chevy Malibu?
The average price for a 2012 Chevrolet Malibu Shocks and Strut at Advance Auto Parts is around $85.68, with a range that starts at $21.99 and goes up to $208.99. With 18 options in stock from 8 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy.
How do I know if my vehicle has shocks or struts?
The easiest way is to look. Every wheel on a car will have either a shock or strut. Most front-wheel-drive vehicles today have struts on the front wheels, but depending on your vehicle, you may find shocks in the front, struts in the back, all struts, or some other combination of the two.
Does a Chevy Malibu have shocks or struts?
Give your Chevy Malibu the ride quality and turning you want thanks to a pair of struts and shocks. Chevy performance shocks offer excellent dampening, from the suburban roads to the race track. Chevy performance shocks improve ride feel to guarantee reliable smoothness and cornering.
What are the most common problems with a 2012 Chevy Malibu?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Engine Major. Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.
- Exhaust.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Suspension/Steering.
- Transmission Minor.
- Paint/Trim.
- Drive System.
- Engine Minor.