general problems of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu - part 1

Intermittent shift to park message displayed while vehicle in park. Two states have sued and won to have this safety problem taken care of by gm. (ohio and tenn. ) should be a recall item. Why not. Gm service bulletin 19-na-206, march2024.

2016 chevy Malibu is experiencing a “shift to park” issue, where the car does not recognize it is in park even after shifting correctly. This prevents the vehicle from turning off, leaving lights and electronics running, which can drain the battery. A service advisor at autonation Chevrolet orlando confirmed this is a common problem in gm vehicles like the traverse and silverado. She explained the repair—replacing the faulty sensor/shifter assembly—typically costs around $800. Beyond battery drain, there are safety concerns, since the system’s failure to recognize park could risk the car rolling if the brakes disengage. The issue first appeared about four months ago, went away, and has now reoccurred.

Vehicle isn’t recognizing that it’s in park, shift to park keeps coming on dashboard which is also causing my vehicle not to change gears correctly.

To whom it may concern, I am writing to formally report a recurring safety-related issue with my 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The vehicle consistently displays a “shift to park” warning message, even when the gear selector is properly in the park position. This malfunction prevents the car from turning off completely and poses a serious safety and reliability concern. This issue first occurred while the vehicle was under warranty, and the dealership performed a repair. However, the problem has returned, and my warranty has since expired. Despite the previous fix, the issue continues to persist. This malfunction is widely documented among other 2016–2019 chevy Malibu owners and appears to stem from a design or manufacturing flaw in the shifter assembly or park switch. I am concerned that this defect could: prevent the vehicle from being securely parked. Lead to battery drain due to the vehicle not shutting off. Pose a risk if the driver believes the car is in park when it is not. I am requesting that Chevrolet consider this a safety defect and either recall the affected vehicles or offer extended coverage for repairs. I also ask that NHTSA investigate this issue further as it compromises the safety, reliability, and proper functioning of the vehicle. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I would appreciate any assistance or updates regarding how this issue will be addressed. Vehicle info: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu e2 year: 2016 make: Chevrolet model: Malibu mileage: 60,000 VIN: already insert previous repair date(s): 02/21/2020 sincerely, [xxx] [xxx] [xxx] toledo, ohio information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Vehicle will display on dashboard “shift to park” while the vehicle is placed in “p”. The engine will turn off, but the power remains on until the battery is disconnected from the vehicle. Codes have been verified by the Chevrolet dealership.

Shift to park message on odometer after vehicle is already in park.

Happened around 46000 miles after receiving a recall notice in the mail about the pedal positioning sensor causing a reduced engine power signal, and immediately reducing speeds on the interstate. Local chevy dealership replaced. Fast-forward 80k miles and the same incident is happening, however likely not going to be covered by gm. Same message, same code being detected.

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding an ongoing issue I have encountered with my 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. Recently, I experienced a significant problem with the vehicle’s trunk and rear seat release mechanism, which has made it impossible for me to access the trunk or fold down the rear seats. The specific issues I am facing are as follows: trunk latch stuck: the trunk latch has become stuck, and I am unable to open the trunk manually or with the remote key fob. The latch mechanism appears to be malfunctioning, and it will not unlatch when attempting to open it. Remote key fob failure: the remote key fob, which is typically used to release the trunk, no longer works, making it impossible to access the trunk from outside the vehicle. Seat release mechanism: additionally, the release button for folding down the rear seats is also not functioning, and I cannot lower the seats from inside the cabin. Typically, this release mechanism can be accessed from the trunk; however, due to the trunk being inaccessible, I am unable to release the seats, which is an urgent issue. This situation is highly inconvenient and concerning, as I rely on the trunk and rear seats for storage and daily functionality. The inability to access the trunk or fold down the seats creates a major safety and usability issue, especially in situations where I need access to the trunk in emergencies. I kindly request that this issue be investigated and resolved as soon as possible. Ideally, I would like to have the trunk latch mechanism repaired and the seat release system fixed so that I can safely and reliably use my vehicle. Please let me know how we can proceed to address this matter, whether through an inspection, repair, or replacement of the defective components. Thank you for your prompt attention to this complaint. I look forward to your swift response and resolution to ensure that my vehicle remains functional and accessible.

The check engine light came on and we brought it to the shop where they said the code is for the electronic brake system modulator. It is also causing the abs to malfunction and be hypersensitive. There is a recall for the same make/model/year of vehicle, except the month before her car was manufactured. I believe this is a safety issue that needs to be looked into and that her car should also be a part of this recall. We purchased the car in mid November and the engine light showed up a couple weeks later. I contacted gm who said to contact this site to request further investigation for safety risks.

When putting it in park and shutting the car down it says on dash to “shift to park. ” there are other 2016 Malibu that have this recall but for some reason not mine.

I started smelling a strong smell of gas while operating the vehicle. Took to a dealership who diagnosed a turbocharger clamp and exhaust failure. From what I understand I am not the only one with a clamp/exhaust/seal problem. A friend of mine who owned a gm product had similar problems to the point her engine failed altogether. Please investigate!.

I am having to replace the vacuum pump for the second time. Each time the pump breaks it spreads contaminants inside the camshaft compartment causing further issues. This is a common problem according to the many complaints I've seen on auto sites. This should be a recall.

There’s a warning on the display that says ‘shift to park’ while the vehicle is already in park. This is causing the battery to drain/die and needs jumpstart everyday. Battery was tested and does not need to be replaced. I’m surprised this hasn’t been recalled yet. Online search ‘chevy Malibu shift to park’ shows this is a common problem. Here’s a youtube link that includes comments to prove this further. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The car has a seat belt electrical problem it makes sound once in a while indicating for the driver to put their seat belt on. Also there is issues with the brake sensor. The #1 issue is the transmission accumulator pressure pipe, when it breaks all your transmission oil pours out from the bottom of the vehicle. The part is about $20 but if not installed right you will think that your transmission is dead but it's not.

While traveling at normal speed (55-60mph) engine power reduced message pops up and car will not accelerate until I pull over, turn it off, then back on after a period of time. Message is beginning to come up frequently. Occurred 3 times this morning on the way to work.

This has happened on an almost daily basis since 4/30/2024 stabilitrack warning on ipc, security light, power steering goes out on freeway-while turning in an intersection-going 75 on the freeway while changing lanes, ipc displays ice warning when 90• outside, erratic shifting(being stuck in 2nd gear until it shifts to 4th), no start no crank condition ( I replaced the battery,had alternator tested, tested fuses, fuel pressure test, checked spark plugs and coil packs) key fob not unlocking doors or remote starting (battery was changed) passenger seat will only recline on one side, power mirrors erratically moving without user adjustment, climate control sporadically disconnects (no lights in dash no power at all) I have not taken it to a dealership I can’t afford the outrageous prices. I have had my father (certified Ford technician) inspect the car. This car has become unsafe for me to drive with my children and I am terrified that it’s going to cause us to wreck and cause serious injury or death.

Reduce engine power warning ?? losing power on highway and shift to park warning ??.

When I go down a hill the rpms jump up to 4, sometimes 5. I took the vehicle to the dealership and went on a drive, but no problem was determined. There was no warning lamps. To my knowledge, it started last year.

Car moves even in park due to faulty gear shifter. It’s made of plastic. Computer reads error message “shift to park” and still moves while in park. A danger to other cars and car battery.

Charged air cooler makes it so your car slows down to 20 on interstate.

Warning display on dash reads "engine power is reduced " and forces and abrupt reduction on vehicle speed, especially on highway driving on commute. Noticed online multiple similar concerns and complaints. No recall or extended warranty?.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? the engine oil pressure control circuit is stuck. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I was driving when all of a sudden my car would not let me speed up to the speed limit and almost caused someone to rear end me. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? dick allen's in meadville as well as autozone who read the code has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? no were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? no warning until the light came on and the car slowed down. This is the 3rd time this has happened. Previously I was told to put cataclean into my fuel to help which it did but it seems to only be a temporary solution.

The engine only has 78k miles on it. I took it in because I received a notification that said stabilitrack. First I had a mechanic change the spark plugs, then I was told I had to take it in for a bigger issue with the engine. I was told it would cost $2500 just to break down the engine and diagnose it. Then I was quoted 11k on top of that to completely replace the engine. 78k miles and the engine needs replacing for more then the car is worth. The diagnosis was that I had a piston crack and the whole engine was ruined.

I bought the car brand new. Periodically the doors will not lock or unlock, only one at a time. I have had it in the shop on numerous occasions to get it repaired. It's fine for a while then it does it again, it changes from door to door. Now I can not get the driver's side back door to lock. My dash lights up to let me know the door is unlocked. I am afraid when I go to a public place, that someone will get into my car. I am so aggervated with this. I have an appointment again with the dealership for 8/16/23 for them to look at it and try to solve the problem. I have no idea when this started as it's been ongoing. The dealership is wantz Chevrolet in taneytown MD.

I own a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu (VIN: [xxx] , black, approx. 56,310 miles). The paint and clearcoat are failing prematurely, with peeling, cracking, and delamination appearing on the hood and roof panels. A repair estimate confirmed the need for full refinishing and corrosion protection to restore the exterior condition 2016 Chevrolet Malibu . This is not normal wear. The defect stems from faulty paint materials, defective clearcoat, or improper factory application. Although it manifests over time, gm knew or should have known of these issues but sold the Malibu without disclosure and refuses to provide assistance. The defect lowers the resale value, leaves the vehicle exposed to premature corrosion, and requires costly resanding and repainting. I respectfully request NHTSA investigate paint and clearcoat defects in the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu and determine whether a recall, service campaign, or consumer restitution is warranted. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

I was driving down the interstate when all of a sudden my information center on my was driving down the interstate when all of a sudden my information center on my 2016 chevy Malibu popped up a warning, reduced engine power and drop me down to 20 mph without warning. I barely made it to the side of the road before being run over by 18 wheelers all around me. Once I got it home I read the code, and it shows there’s not enough power going to the turbo in the engine that’s caused by the accelerator sensor. When I start at low speed or from a stop in attempt to accelerate the car hesitates to the point I can’t pull out with any cars around because I will be hit. I’ve been told this is a known problem for the vehicle and it’s a $500 part to fix. It’s extremely dangerous and I am so shocked there has not been a recall for this, it is putting everybody that is in one of these vehicles in danger.

Car indicator states to shift into park upon stopping. Have to restart car move shift lever several times before car system will shut down. Same issue was repaired by team Chevrolet of goldsboro nc on9/7/2022. Repair cost 279. 88. Dealership replaced harness and updated wiring. Situation has returned with worse condition. Spent 20 mins trying to "shift into park ". On off shift on off shift off.

Automatic transmission shifter assembly is out of specifications and needed to be replaced by removing the center console to gain access with all other related new seals gaskets and non-reusable hardware and reinstall all components for repairs in the reverse order of removal. Cleared all diagnostic trouble codes. The system is now operating as designed. Before the repair was made the car kept telling me that the shift was not in park, when it was. I am uncertain as to my safety or risk but was afraid to drive the vehicle as is. The repair was made on 8/17/23 by richard lucas chevy, 1077 rt. 1 s, avenel, NJ 07001 732-634-0100 at the cost to me of $435. 42. My claim with gm is #9-10454143101. I was notified that this was a common problem with my specific vehicle and yet there has been no recall.

Ever time I put car in park it say shit to park I have to restart the car 3 or 4 time and move shift stricken more then 3 time to finally make it go off.

In November 2022 my vehicle (2016 Chevrolet Malibu) experienced a vacuum pump failure resulting in the brake system being inactive. Once the brake pedal was pressed, it remained locked and further stopping was not possible. Luckily I wads able to stop onto the shoulder, however it was on a busy highway where I was nearly unable to stop as we were merging from an exit ramp with no emergency area. Both myself and my girlfriend safety were at risk of injury had we not been able to safely pull over. After being towed to an auto repair shop the vacuum pump was replaced with no issues experience until 4/2/2023. As of April 2023 this same error occurred once again after entering a busy area. A second time I was lucky enough to have been away from traffic, however it could have resulted in personal injury or the injury of another individual had I not been able to pull off into an emergency lane. The car has since been towed to a certified Chevrolet dealership where I am awaiting an estimate on repairs. Initial review from the mechanics state damage has been done to the brake boosters as well as to the cars cam. Estimates on repairs could be as high as $5,000 or more including labor, diagnostics, and parts. Prior repairs done in November were nearly $700. 00.

Occasionally when the car is put in park, it does not alert the rest of the car that it's in park. Although I turn the car off, it beeps like it's still on an I have to turn the car on again and move it back into park in order for it to stop. There has been a recall for this issue but so far, my car has not shown up and for that reason, the dealer/mechanic will not repair it which is understandable on their part. Please advise. Thank you.

I purchased my car a lil over a year ago with carmax and as of this winter time & all the rain storms my car has recently starting leaking water from the top of my car to back from the backseats to my trunk to the point I had to take everything out of my backseats and trunk because it’s soaked with water…. I have to vacuum water out of my trunk in the spare tire cabin because it’s full of water & now my car is starting to smell mildew due to all the water. I’ve noticed this issue a couple weeks ago but now since it’s been constantly raining I’m having water inside my car every single day.

Numerous times my vehicle has not allowed me to shut it off, start it, or move the vehicle because it says that the vehicle is not in park when it very clearly is. I googled the issue and found that numerous other owners have had this issue, and the tech advisor at the dealer confirmed numerous people have had this issue as well. The issue was a faulty switch in the transmission control. 2 different major safety concerns resulted because of this. First, I was unable to start my car in a very bad neighborhood for over a half hour because it kept saying shift to park to start vehicle. Second, I could not shut the car off while parked in the garage because it said shift to park to shut off the vehicle. Both times I was fully in park. This problem is widespread as a simple google search will confirm, however, gm continues to deny it is a problem.

I have had several issues with my 2016 Malibu. 1st: putting my vehicle in park sometimes it does not register that it is in park. I have to turn the car on again and try moving the shifter until it registers. 2nd: when accelerating at times I get a stabilitrak error and a check engine light that causes a loss of power. This can happen in the middle of the highway which will cause an inevitable accident. 3rd: saving the best for last. Thw vehicle has recently lost power while driving and won't allow acceleration. Once I stop the vehicle stalls out completely and won't register the gears so I can't out it into park or anything. I was stuck at an intersection and couldn't move. It wouldn't turn fully off because it didn't register it was in park. And it won't turn on or start because it isn't on or off. I maintain my vehicles and correct all fixes recommended. Brought it in to have the issue looked at and was told that there were a lot of error codes. They cleared them. But this has gotten ridiculous. Gm needs to figure their stuff out. .

Water leaks into the trunk and back seat of the vehicle because the seal around the upper brake light in the rear glass is faulty, causing a mildew/mold odor in the trunk. It is not available for inspection as I had it repaired and sold the vehicle. The problem was confirmed by the glass company to did the repair for much less than the quote the dealership provided. The vehicle was inspected by the dealership. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms prior to the failure.