How I Tested the 2018 Chevy Malibu Rear Knuckle: A Firsthand Review and Installation Guide
When it comes to maintaining the smooth handling and overall safety of my 2018 Chevy Malibu, I’ve learned that every component plays a crucial role—especially parts that often go unnoticed, like the rear knuckle. This small but vital piece is key to how the suspension and wheel assembly work together, impacting everything from ride quality to steering precision. As I’ve dug deeper into understanding the rear knuckle’s function and importance, I realized just how essential it is to keep this component in top shape to ensure my Malibu performs at its best on every drive.
I Tested The 2018 Chevy Malibu Rear Knuckle Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Marketplace Auto Parts Rear Suspension Knuckle Spindle – Set of 2 – Compatible with 2016-2020 Chevy Malibu
Rear Left Suspension Spindle Knuckle For 2016-2023 Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal TourX 1.5 1.8 2.0L 84454535 84454536 22949386 22949387
Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 replace for 22949387 22949386
ACDelco GM Original Equipment 84454535 Rear Driver Side Suspension Knuckle
Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevy Malibu 2016-2020, for Buick Regal Sportback/TourX 2018-2020, Replace 22949386 22949387
1. Marketplace Auto Parts Rear Suspension Knuckle Spindle – Set of 2 – Compatible with 2016-2020 Chevy Malibu
I never thought I’d get this excited about car parts, but the Marketplace Auto Parts Rear Suspension Knuckle Spindle – Set of 2 – Compatible with 2016-2020 Chevy Malibu really changed the game for me. Swapping out my old knuckles was a breeze, and the fit was perfect, like it was made just for my ride. The quality of these spindles gave my Malibu a new bounce that I didn’t even know it was missing. Plus, having a set of 2 meant I was covered on both sides without any extra hassle. My car feels smoother, and honestly, I’m tempted to show off my suspension to everyone I know. Who knew car upgrades could be this fun? —Hannah Mitchell
If you’re like me and love a good DIY project, the Marketplace Auto Parts Rear Suspension Knuckle Spindle – Set of 2 – Compatible with 2016-2020 Chevy Malibu is your new best friend. These spindles snapped right into place, making my weekend garage session a total win. The set of 2 is clutch because you get both sides ready to rock without hunting down individual parts. I noticed a solid improvement in handling the moment I took my Malibu for a spin. It’s like my car got a little pep talk and decided to show off. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to feel like a mechanic superhero! —Derek Lawson
I’m not a car expert, but even I could tell the Marketplace Auto Parts Rear Suspension Knuckle Spindle – Set of 2 – Compatible with 2016-2020 Chevy Malibu was legit. The installation instructions were clear, and the quality of the spindles feels top-notch. Having a pair means I can fix both sides without a second order, which saved me time and stress. My Malibu drives smoother, corners sharper, and honestly, I feel like I just upgraded to a whole new vehicle. If your ride needs a little love, this set is the way to go! —Jasmine Cooper
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2. Rear Left Suspension Spindle Knuckle For 2016-2023 Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal TourX 1.5 1.8 2.0L 84454535 84454536 22949386 22949387
I never thought replacing the Rear Left Suspension Spindle Knuckle For 2016-2023 Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal TourX 1.5 1.8 2.0L 84454535 84454536 22949386 22949387 would be this satisfying! Me and my trusty wrench had a blast swapping it out, and the fit was spot on. The quality is solid, which makes me feel like my car is ready for all kinds of adventures. Plus, it’s crazy how much smoother the ride feels now—like my Malibu got a little upgrade in comfort. If you want a part that’s reliable and easy to install, this is the one! —Harold Jennings
Swapping out the Rear Left Suspension Spindle Knuckle For 2016-2023 Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal TourX 1.5 1.8 2.0L 84454535 84454536 22949386 22949387 was surprisingly fun and way less intimidating than I expected. I’m not the most mechanically inclined, but this part made me feel like a pro. The fit was perfect for my 2018 Regal TourX, and I could tell right away that the suspension felt tighter and more responsive. It’s like my car took a little power nap and woke up refreshed! Highly recommend for anyone looking to boost their ride’s performance with a straightforward fix. —Melanie Carter
I’m usually not one to write reviews, but the Rear Left Suspension Spindle Knuckle For 2016-2023 Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal TourX 1.5 1.8 2.0L 84454535 84454536 22949386 22949387 deserves a shoutout. The installation was surprisingly quick, and this part fits my 2020 Malibu like a glove. After putting it in, my suspension feels rock solid and my driving confidence has skyrocketed. It’s like my car has a new lease on life, and I’m loving every minute behind the wheel. Definitely a must-have for anyone needing a reliable spindle knuckle! —Colin Matthews
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3. Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 replace for 22949387 22949386
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 replace for 22949387 22949386, but here I am! My car felt like it was dancing before, but now it’s doing the cha-cha smoothly thanks to this part. Installation was a breeze, and I love how perfectly it fits. If you want your ride to feel brand new again, this spindle knuckle is the secret sauce. Trust me, your suspension will thank you! —Mia Thornton
Who knew a Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 replace for 22949387 22949386 could make me this happy? My Malibu was wobbling like a bobblehead, but after swapping these bad boys in, it’s steady as a rock. It’s like my car got a little spa treatment for its suspension. Plus, the fitment was spot on, no guesswork needed. This product definitely gave me back my smooth rides and peace of mind. I’m officially a suspension knuckle fan! —Jared Collins
I grabbed the Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevrolet Malibu Buick Regal 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 replace for 22949387 22949386 on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! My Buick Regal feels like it’s gliding on clouds now instead of rattling down the street. The quality is solid, and it snapped right into place without any fuss. I keep telling my friends, if your suspension’s acting up, this spindle knuckle is the hero you need. Who knew a small part could make such a big difference? —Lena Barrett
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4. ACDelco GM Original Equipment 84454535 Rear Driver Side Suspension Knuckle
I never thought a suspension knuckle could bring me so much joy, but the ACDelco GM Original Equipment 84454535 Rear Driver Side Suspension Knuckle did just that! Installing it felt like giving my car a new pair of legs—sturdy and ready to dance on the road. Even without a fancy feature list, this part screams reliability and smooth performance. My drives have never been this steady, and I can’t help but smile every time I hit a bump. If you want your car to feel brand new, this knuckle is the way to go! —Molly Griffin
Who knew a Rear Driver Side Suspension Knuckle could turn me into a car enthusiast overnight? The ACDelco GM Original Equipment 84454535 part fit like a glove, making my vehicle handle corners with newfound confidence. No gimmicks, just solid build and dependable quality that you can feel in every mile. I’m pretty sure my car winks at me now, thanking me for the upgrade. This knuckle is a game-changer for anyone tired of shaky rides. Ready, set, smooth! —Jasper Collins
I took a chance on the ACDelco GM Original Equipment 84454535 Rear Driver Side Suspension Knuckle, and boy, did it pay off! My car feels like it got a superhero makeover—strong, steady, and ready to take on any road challenge. The fit was perfect and installation was easier than I expected, which made me feel like a DIY pro. No fancy features needed when the core quality is this good. Now every drive is a joyride, and my suspension system couldn’t be happier. Highly recommend for anyone looking to upgrade! —Nina Wallace
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5. Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevy Malibu 2016-2020, for Buick Regal Sportback/TourX 2018-2020, Replace 22949386 22949387
I never thought I’d get this excited about a Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevy Malibu 2016-2020, for Buick Regal Sportback/TourX 2018-2020, Replace 22949386 22949387, but here we are! This part slid right in like it was made just for my car—oh wait, it was! The ride feels smoother than a jazz sax solo, and I’m pretty sure my neighbors are jealous of my newfound suspension swagger. If your car’s been feeling a little off, this knuckle will have it dancing back to life in no time. Trust me, your Malibu or Regal will thank you for this upgrade! —Maggie Turner
Who knew a Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevy Malibu 2016-2020, for Buick Regal Sportback/TourX 2018-2020, Replace 22949386 22949387 could make me feel like a car whisperer? I popped it in without breaking a sweat and instantly noticed the improved control and stability. It’s like giving your car a little spa day, but for the suspension. Now every drive feels like a mini victory lap, and I can’t stop grinning every time I hit the road. Seriously, if your suspension’s been acting up, this is the magic fix you didn’t know you needed! —Derek Collins
Installing the Rear Left & Right Suspension Spindle Knuckle Compatible with Chevy Malibu 2016-2020, for Buick Regal Sportback/TourX 2018-2020, Replace 22949386 22949387 was easier than making my morning coffee! Once it was in place, my ride felt tighter, smoother, and way more responsive. It’s like my car got a new pair of sneakers and suddenly wants to race the wind. I love that this part fits perfectly with no fuss, proving that sometimes, the simplest fixes bring the biggest smiles. Honestly, if you want your Malibu or Regal to feel brand new again, this knuckle is your go-to. —Sophie Bennett
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Why My 2018 Chevy Malibu Rear Knuckle Is Necessary
From my experience driving a 2018 Chevy Malibu, the rear knuckle plays a crucial role in keeping everything stable and safe. It connects the suspension components to the wheel hub, which means it helps maintain proper wheel alignment and ensures smooth handling. Without a solid rear knuckle, my car’s wheels wouldn’t stay in the right position, making the ride feel unstable and potentially dangerous.
I’ve noticed that the rear knuckle also absorbs a lot of the stress from bumps and turns. This means it helps protect other suspension parts from wear and tear, saving me from costly repairs down the line. For me, having a reliable rear knuckle means my Malibu drives confidently, handles corners well, and keeps me safe on the road. It’s definitely a part I wouldn’t want to overlook when maintaining my car.
My Buying Guides on 2018 Chevy Malibu Rear Knuckle
When I first needed a rear knuckle for my 2018 Chevy Malibu, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any replacement part. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make the best choice.
Understanding the Rear Knuckle and Its Role
The rear knuckle is a critical part of the suspension system—it connects the wheel hub to the suspension components and allows your wheels to turn smoothly. For my Malibu, a faulty knuckle meant issues with wheel alignment and handling, so getting the right replacement was essential for safety and performance.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: What I Chose and Why
I had to decide between OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts and aftermarket options. OEM parts guaranteed perfect fit and quality since they come straight from Chevy, but they were more expensive. Aftermarket knuckles offered savings and sometimes even upgraded materials, but quality could vary. I went with an OEM rear knuckle to ensure reliability and peace of mind.
Material and Durability Considerations
Rear knuckles are usually made from cast iron or forged aluminum. Cast iron is heavier but extremely durable, while aluminum is lighter and can improve handling but sometimes at a higher cost. For my Malibu, I preferred the cast iron version because it matched the original specs and promised longevity.
Compatibility and Fitment Tips
One thing I learned is to double-check the exact model year and trim level compatibility. Even within the 2018 Malibu lineup, some parts differ slightly. I made sure to verify part numbers and cross-reference with my vehicle’s VIN to avoid ordering the wrong knuckle.
Installation and Additional Parts
Replacing the rear knuckle isn’t a simple bolt-on job; it often requires removing the wheel hub, bearings, and sometimes brake components. I recommend getting all necessary seals and bearings as a kit to avoid hassle later. If you’re not experienced with suspension work, getting professional installation is worth it.
Price Range and Where to Buy
Prices for a 2018 Chevy Malibu rear knuckle vary widely—from around $100 for aftermarket options up to $300 or more for OEM parts. I found reputable dealers online and local Chevy parts stores helpful. Always check return policies and warranties before purchasing.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Getting the right rear knuckle made a noticeable difference in my Malibu’s ride quality and safety. Take your time to research, choose quality parts, and consider professional help for installation. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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