Three problems related to gas recirculation valve (egr valve) have been reported for the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2011 Chevrolet Malibu based on all problems reported for the 2011 Malibu.
Every time this has happened the car has been in motion. 3 times within a year this car has just died on me. Have all power to dashboard lights and radio but the engine shuts off and wont restart. First time I was told it was low on oil. Second time it sat for 2 days and cranked right up. 3rd time the plenum on the egr valve was cleaned. It seems odd to me that these 3 things would all cause the same exact issue. Thankfully it has not happened in heavy traffic and was able to coast out of the road.
30 minute drive to work, in rain at approximately 32 degrees, vehicle was running good until I pulled into a parking spot and an error message appeared (reduced engine power). I later left and the service engine light remained on. I then received an error message (service esc) and later again received the (reduced engine power) while on the highway. It was snowing during this time. I was unable to fully accelerate but it felt as though the acceleration was not running well. I researched this issue and discovered many people/ chevy Malibu owners having the same issue with no resolution; even after taking to dealer on many occasions. Gm needs to recognize this issue and discover a resolution.
Sitting at intersection, foot on brake, waiting for light to turn green, felt sudden power surge, thought someone hit me from behind, lights on dashboard read: reduced engine power, service esc, service engine icom appeared. Light turned green, had to cross 5 lanes of state highway. Car would barely move, light turned red, pulled to side of road as best I could account 5 ft snow piles alongside road. Minus 6 degrees out. Shut car off for approx. 5 min. Started car and could drive it to first parking lot about 3/4 mile. Had car towed to Chevrolet dealer, was told it was a defective throttle position sensor. Throttle body assembly replaced under warranty. Service technician told me he's had alot of these failures and it's due to extensive cold weather. I feel Chevrolet should order a recall and take care of these vehicle problems before someone gets injured or killed. Car just ended warranty period this week, other owners should not have to pay for this repair cost if their car is no longer under warranty.