Three problems related to tail light switch have 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 purchased the car March 14, 2019 from a family member. The front passenger low beam headlight was not working. The prior owner stated they had taken the car in to have the light repaired at least 6 times in since 2009. April 2, 2019 I took the car to clint newell Chevrolet to have the low beam headlight fixed. The problem was the wire that plugs into the light was melted. The repair cost was $172. 33. On April 4, 2019 the rear passenger turn signal quit working. I replaced the bulb. April 9, 2019 the passenger tail light quit working. April 11, 2019 I replaced the bulb. As soon as that was done the front passenger low beam headlight quit working again. I checked the low beam fuse and it was fine. I cannot afford 172. 00 again 9 days later for this repair. I have also found online in chevy forums, this seems to be a problem for many people that own Chevrolet Malibus.
Esc light stays on has been replaced 3 times. Causes traction control not to work properly also brake lights fail to work or will stay on and or stay off. Have reported to chevy dealer in traver city michigan they say nothing is wrong. . But something is wrong . . . Or not right I never know if my tail lights or brake lights are going to work and traction control. . .
Although there has not been an accident yet, due to the design of the cars headlights, and tail lights, (and the removal of the side repeater lamp for turn signal indication on the 2009 model year Malibu), there is no visible turn indicator for other drivers to see indication of a signal from the car unless other drivers are directly in front of, or behind the car. For example, if a driver is sitting at a 4 way stop, or likewise, because the turn signal does not wrap around the front or back of the car, drivers to the left, and right of the car, cannot see the turn signal, which poses a safety hazard. On the 2008 Malibu, there was a side marker repeater lamp on the front quarter panel, and it was removed from the 2009 my. I feel that this is a large safety concern, and they should be put back onto the cars, or a redesign of the headlamp assy.