One problem related to air bag on-off switch has been reported for the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu based on all problems reported for the 2009 Malibu.
I have had multiple ignition switch failures resulting in loss of airbag systems, the engine not shutting off when the key is removed, the battery dying, a brand new battery started smoking and leaking acid due to a 3rd faulty ignition switch. The issue can be spotty but indefinitely becomes more prevalent as whatever short in the switch gets worse. This is also across multiple switch manufacturers including bwd, ac delco and bmg. I have also noticed that the airbag system may remain on even with the vehicle off and, the battery drainage is much more prevalent when the airbag stays either in the on or off position with the vehicle off. The other issue this causes is the airbag system to completely go off line in which case the airbag warning light will go off but this usually resolves itself after 2 to 10 starts.