Electrical System Problems of Chevrolet Malibu - part 2

Chevrolet Malibu owners have reported 3,087 problems related to electrical system (under the electrical system category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Chevrolet Malibu based on all problems reported for the Malibu.

36 Electrical System problem of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/10/2025

Hybrid power train issues. Haven't drove the car for more than a week and a half. Apparently was fixed but obviously was not. Could be the gcm or generator.

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37 Electrical System problem of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/09/2025

The engine light came on, later while driving the car shuts down engine reduced speed, engine power reduced. I have to restart the car and sometimes that dont help. Also the (abs) light came on service stabilitrak, my anti brakes went out.

38 Electrical System problem of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/08/2025

My 2016 Malibu has a severe ebcm-related safety defect causing all four brakes to drag and overheat (reaching 240°f), leading to unstable handling. This condition mirrors the 2016 Malibu ebcm recall (gm recall 39440). I sought help from gm. A gm-certified dealer-monken in centralia, IL performed a “diagnostic scan” which documented the core hydraulic failure: a constant, uncommanded 6. 839 psi residual brake line pressure when the pedal was released. (a healthy system should be near 0 psi) this 6. 839 psi is actively forcing the brakes to drag. The dealer ignored their own scientific data and submitted a fraudulent diagnosis of ("rust buildup") to gm, which gm used to deny the claim based on mileage. “rust buildup” doesn’t create hydraulic pressure. Gm is aware of this specific, documented, quantifiable safety defect (the 6. 839 psi pressure) and is refusing to investigate it further. I stressed to gm that the vehicle wasn’t safe to drive and that I have a small child who has to ride in the car with me. Gm dismissed my concerns by stating the dealership won’t release my car unless its safe to drive. I then had to drive the car 22 miles back home with all 4 brakes dragging. I requested the full diagnostic scan report (that the mechanic confirmed he could provide me with when I dropped my car off there) numerous times and never did I get one. I informed them that I would be filing a complaint hadn’t I received it by a certain time. The new kid in service then did send me screenshots of a generic obdii scanner where I saw the 6. 839 psi. I knew what the issue was prior to taking my car to monken. I had an independent scan done prior. I only took the car there to comply with gm’s protocol to be eligible for assistance. I am requesting NHTSA investigate gm for failure to address a documented hydraulic control safety defect that causes brake dragging and overheating, which is non-compliant with safety standards. I can give further info please call me for further details.

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39 Electrical System problem of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/06/2025

Urgent complaint: no response to demand for rescission - odometer fraud, deceptive practices - banner Ford of monroe, la.

40 Electrical System problem of the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/05/2025

Shift to park light remains on and car will not shut down when it is in park already. This is an existing issue with chevy Malibu but no recall yet.

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41 Electrical System problem of the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 12/02/2025

My 2022 Chevrolet Malibu is experiencing the known “shift to park” defect and an “air induction system” fault. The vehicle repeatedly refuses to recognize the park position even after moving the shifter into park. This causes the vehicle to stay powered on, prevents it from shutting off, and forces me to shift back and forth multiple times to get the car to register park. This is unsafe because the vehicle could roll, fail to secure, and I cannot legally leave or lock the car when this happens. This issue is widely documented on Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. Gm has an established technical bulletin and extended coverage programs for this problem (example: TSB 19-na-206 and related bulletins), but my VIN does not show access to these programs even though I am under 60,000 miles and still within the 5-year powertrain warranty window. When I contacted gm and the dealership, they admitted the defect exists but refused warranty repair unless I pay $370 out-of-pocket diagnostic fees first. This defeats the purpose of warranty and prevents consumers from getting confirmed major safety defects repaired. The warning randomly appears at different times while the car is stationary, parked, or driving. The issue has been happening consistently and appears to be worsening. I am reporting this because it is a safety concern involving the transmission and electrical controls of the vehicle, and Chevrolet is refusing to cover or recognize it under their known defect programs.

42 Electrical System problem of the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/30/2025

The car continues to die when I come to a stop. The error code for the engine light is p305f. I have changed both batteries along with several different sensors and spent thousands of dollars in repairs at a couple different shops and still can’t find the problem with this error code. I have fixed everything that this error code points to. The car will not pass inspection with the check engine code on. This should have been recalled as this is a very common problem.

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43 Electrical System problem of the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/30/2025

Last year I started getting the dreaded shift to park issue. Takes usually about 30 seconds to realize its in park, even though the dashboard days its in park. Why is there no recall? I see hundreds of thousands of complaints for this. Plus im constantly getting the p1101 code. I know this is a common issue with this car for the dirty throttle body or maf sensor. Why isnt this under recall? I dont have the money to pay for repairs that the dealership should be recalling. The shift to park issue is so common. This is getting ridiculous. Plus the code. Please fix this ASAP.

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44 Electrical System problem of the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/19/2025

Power steering randomly goes off taking the traction control with it. Terrible for the snow roads to have. Have to life the steering wheel slightly when starting to the car get it to work. Steering angle sensor or torque position sensor maybe??.

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45 Electrical System problem of the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/12/2025

My power steering goes in and out as I'm driving depending on the speed. I have trouble swerving if needed because the power steering is not working correctly all the time.

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46 Electrical System problem of the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/06/2025

Transmission failed to engage gear properly after backing up. Grinding sounds heard when vehicle was in drive. Problem has been confirmed and inspected by Chevrolet dealership. Vehicle is available for inspection. Occupants safety was at risk because gears could have locked up during commute causing vehicle to be undriveable, leaving driver and passengers stranded. Blind spot feature is unavailable randomly, which can cause a possible side swipe crash. When radio is playing suddenly switches to bluetooth randomly.

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47 Electrical System problem of the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 11/03/2025

I lost power steering while driving, making the wheel hard to turn. While the car is idle, the steering wheel shakes. Also “esc” pops on on the dashboard.

48 Electrical System problem of the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/17/2025

Vehicle was parked, all windows and doors closed. Key remained out of the vehicle. Car parked for several hours without being touched, when suddenly it began to roll forward on its own. The car continued forward and quickly went down a short hill into a rocky area of a field before coming to a stop.

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49 Electrical System problem of the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/16/2025

Got this car oct 16 2025 and check engine lights on the place in greenbriar dreka passed emmission and the shop explicit auto sold me car for 7500 been having problems with car since owner told me to do what I need to do no refund nothing in writing saying as is this car needs axles ball joint lower arm control and more car not safe for me and my kids this car go get emission passed so when u take title to dmv you can get a tag for a car that not passing emissions also purchase a second car same day oct 16 2025 and this car need oil pump oil sensor brake sensor brake caliber and more and explicit auto wont fix cars the man that sell these cars are on instagram and dolufree and explicit auto is the name of both names if you look you'll see light on in every car he post and sell to people for high price and no results when you bring car back every car sold from them need to be investigated. We need help I have two cases that I cannot drive and I was charged 13,500 for both cars and this is illegal for someone to use someone else access and get these cars and sell them under someone else license the address for business have a old national address but cars being sold at 2263 metropolitan pkwy and I don't know what to do at this point.

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50 Electrical System problem of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/15/2025

Was driving on the freeway maneuvered over to exit vehicle lost power and engine completely shut off while in motion. Same incident occurred while on surface street as I was approaching a red light vehicle completely shut off while in drive and in motion.

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51 Electrical System problem of the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/09/2025

Dear NHTSA: I am submitting this complaint because my vehicle, a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu (VIN [xxx] ), is included in emission recall n252516900 issued by general motors concerning the fuel pump power control module. Despite that inclusion, I have experienced the following: - a prior near-fatal incident in 2023 when the vehicle unexpectedly shut off while stopped at a red light (engine stall) due to the root defect. - the dealer has informed me I now need a new 12-v battery (just over one year old), a new ac compressor, and a new drive/serpentine belt. - the defect referenced in the recall (interruption of fuel flow) is reasonably the root cause of these consequential failures (battery stress, accessory drive stress). - I have been without the vehicle for 11 days, have not been provided adequate interim mobility support, and have not received timely resolution from gm under my case #xxx (agent jasmine who has followed her company's protocol while remaining helpful and empathetic; supervisor stephanie called October 17, 2025). Requested relief: 1. That gm be required to pay for the recall work (module replacement) *** reimburse/cover the consequential damage (battery, compressor, belt). 2. Interim remedy: loaner vehicle or rental reimbursement for days without vehicle. 3. Acknowledgment of the safety risk posed by the defect and record of the stall incident. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [xxx] [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

52 Electrical System problem of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/06/2025

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that after driving and parking the vehicle, the contact entered the residence; however, upon returning to the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, and the contact was informed that the battery needed to be replaced. The battery was replaced. The vehicle was diagnosed, and determined that the camshaft, fuel vacuum pump, and camshaft sensor needed to be replaced. The oxygen sensors were replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 146,000.

53 Electrical System problem of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/04/2025

I get a engine power reduced warning and check engine light is on for 3 start cycles and goes away. Auto start/stop after stopping, lights flicker and power is slow to come back on upon auto start and I get a power steering reduced warning. ,.

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54 Electrical System problem of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/02/2025

Every so often I get an indication of engine power reduced, but every time I go in to get it checked it's off. I have recently just learned through research online that the issue is caused by a certain condition that gives false reading to the electronics. I have contacted gm and gm financial about the recalls on my cars of the same year. I have not been in a wreck but I have had the issue of engine reduced power in the middle of traffic. Cox Chevrolet in bradenton has turn me away about the issue gm financial is giving me the runaround neither one mention anything about a recall instead I get a estimate $400 /$808. 50/1900. 41 all to fix ecm as I told the mechanic I was driving with no problem through the day me and the kids at the park when it was time to leave the car sounded like it just didn't have no gas. We was stuck tell 10:45 we waited two hours for the tow truck. I have onstar and get monthly reports on my car. When the check engine light comes on onstar has no indication that's why I believe it is the same ecm. I was told by Chevrolet maher service manager of st pete to get my car off their lot as I said before I got a estimate of 400 that went up to 800 and all I did was ask why.

55 Electrical System problem of the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/02/2025

I went to do an errand pulled in to parking spot put car into park shut it off. Car dash repeatedly said put car into park. All dash lights, would go on from left to right and shut off, this included the center console. I tried over and over to start car and shift but it wouldn’t go. It just kept repeating shift into park. It took 95 mins before the car would start. Then the rpms would rev way past what they should. I lived 30 miles away. I made it home slowly. The next morning I took to my son tha is a gm certified mechanic. I’m not sure what he did but it’s running smoothly again.

56 Electrical System problem of the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 10/01/2025

Engine power reduced, my car then loses the ability to pickup speed I’ve even had my break tighten up on my in the middle of trying to stop my vehicle.

57 Electrical System problem of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/25/2025

Brake system failure lost brakes twice, went and got a diagnosis reading and it said brake system module failure. That it lost communication with the module.

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58 Electrical System problem of the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/18/2025

Unknown.

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59 Electrical System problem of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/18/2025

While my daughter has been driving our 2013 Chevrolet Malibu 2013, the vehicle continues to experience add loss of electric power. The dashboard display and infortainment system went down black. The problem first began -2019-2020 and continues to recur about once or twice a month. The most recent incident occurred on September 18, 2025, with my daughter behind the wheel. An independentc mechanic confirmed that cause is a manufacturer's defect in the fuse box located near the battery. He stated this is a widespread issue and refused to repair it, advising Chevrolet should address it. Chevrolet waldorf kept my car for over a month but only replaced the battery, could find the issue, which did not resolve the defect. This recurring failure creates a serious safety risk to the driver, passenger, and others on the road because the car can lose power and steering at anytime. This issue was he subject of prior NHTSA complaint I submitted in 2020 (id 11315997), and it has continued despite the report. Everytime this defect occurs with Chevrolet Malibu 2013. . . My family's safety, and the safety of others on the road is placed in jeopardy. Gm must be held accountable to correct this ongoing safety defect beforer more lives are placed at risk, and NHTSA's response wil demonstrate where consumer safety is being prioritized or neglected. The upload pdf shows the name butterflies (is me asking questions) in a Malibu forum date 2021.

60 Electrical System problem of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/16/2025

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.

61 Electrical System problem of the 2014 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/10/2025

Unknown, the ignition switch turns on when off position or restart engine when in off selection on ignition switch and the radio is powered back on if key left in the ignition switch powered off when u leave vehicle.

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62 Electrical System problem of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/05/2025

After shifting the vehicle into park and then attempting to turn the vehicle off a message displays to shift into park, even though the vehicle is already in park.

63 Electrical System problem of the 2012 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/03/2025

Was driving home on the parkway and the headlights shut off on their own had to call for roadside assistance to get my vehicle home they will work on dim but brights will not work and if I drive for more than an hour and a half they will not work at all the speed sensor keeps going bad after having it replaced multiple times.

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64 Electrical System problem of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

The backup camera for this vehicle is starting to fail and the view is blurry. Additionally, it seems that this also is affecting the rear traffic alert as I almost crashed into someone at a parking lot when trying to back out of a space. I will soon have no rear camera or cross traffic alerts.

65 Electrical System problem of the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 09/01/2025

Hello, I own a 2018 chevy Malibu. I previously had the recall repair completed for ecm malfunction. Unfortunately, I am still experiencing the same problem that the recall was for. Since then, the issue has returned, and I am concerned that the original remedy did not resolve the safety concern. Can you please advise me on the next steps to have this issue re-inspected and corrected? thank you for your time and assistance. Sincerely, rayshonette woods.

66 Electrical System problem of the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 08/29/2025

My car has about 82000 miles and while driving it stated that I was shifted to neutral and needed to be restarted. After a few seconds the steering wheel locks up and I can’t press the gas anymore, even though the car is still in drive. This happened about 6 times on the half mile drive home. I haven’t been able to diagnose it yet since the dealership is backed up for a month. I think it’s the neutral safety switch.

67 Electrical System problem of the 2023 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 08/28/2025

Vehicle is registering multiple keys from surrounding like vehicles which causes the anti theft system to activate, disabling the vehicle and/or involuntarily draining battery.

68 Electrical System problem of the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 08/26/2025

I was coming home from school pickup, and the light said the engine power was reducing. Then the screen said that I couldn't go past 25 miles per hour. The skid sign came on also. The car started slowing down on its own. The car then stopped. I had to put on emergency lights quickly. I had my daughter and grandaughter in the car. Thank god we didn't get rear ended. I turned off the car and waited. I turned it back on and went home a half a mile away thankfully. I looked up for a recall and google said that there was a potential for the same thing. The check engine light came on too. This has never happened the whole time that I've had it.

69 Electrical System problem of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 08/25/2025

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.

70 Electrical System problem of the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu

Failure Date: 08/19/2025

The component that failed is the internal microswitch/sensor within the gear shifter assembly. The specific part that requires replacement is often documented in general motors technical service bulletin (TSB) 19-na-206 or 23-na-119. The faulty component is available for inspection if the dealership removes the old part and retains it. My safety and the safety of others are put at risk because the vehicle often fails to register that it is fully in "park," which prevents the vehicle from shutting off properly, potentially leaving it in accessory mode. This could lead to a dead battery, leaving me stranded. More importantly, the failure to confirm the 'park' state introduces a risk of the vehicle not being securely immobilized, creating a roll-away hazard if parked on an incline. The problem has been confirmed by local Chevrolet dealership service centers (receipts available). The issue is identical to the defect that prompted official safety recalls for numerous other gm models, including the 2017-2018 GMC acadia. Furthermore, the symptoms described match those outlined in the active class-action settlement for 2016-2019 Malibu owners (stplawsuit. Com).



Malibu Service Bulletins
Malibu Safety Recalls
Malibu Defect Investigations