Chevrolet Malibu Chevrolet Malibu

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Chevrolet Malibu repairs by problem area

Engine (24%)

Transmission and Drivetrain (6%)

Brakes and Traction Control (6%)

Suspension and Steering (24%)

Electrical and Air Conditioning (26%)

Paint, Rust, Leaks, Rattles, and Trim (9%)

Other (5%)

Chart based on 1073 repairs.
See TSBs and recalls for the Chevrolet Malibu.

Chevrolet Malibu engine repair cost distribution

$2500+ (1%)

$1000 - $2499 (8%)

$500 - $999 (9%)

$100 - $499 (34%)

< $100 (49%)

Worried about potential repair costs? An extended warranty can provide peace of mind.

Chart based on 225 repair trips. The repair cost chart excludes repairs made under warranty, do-it-yourself repairs, and repair trips that include maintenance.

2017 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 250hp 2.0L I4 9-speed shiftable automatic FWD

2800 mi Noticed oil drops on driveway. Dealer replaced oil filter developed a crack somehow. Oil & filter replaced under warranty. 

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2017 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 163hp 1.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

58900 mi

C $500
Car would go into reduced power mode (20km/hr)... Replaced Pedal accelerator sensor. 
25000 mi Turbo replaced under warranty. 

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2017 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

122-horsepower 1.8L I4 Hybrid CVT FWD

56000 mi O2 sensor. The error code P0AC4, Hybrid Powertrain Control Module Requested MIL Illumination also popped up twice. 

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2016 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

turbocharged 163hp 1.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

49600 mi gas pedal throttle sensor failed. Car went into limp mode. fixed under warranty 

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2013 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

197-horsepower 2.5L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

35000 mi Exhaust cam position sensor was faulty; replaced under warranty. 
90946 mi

C $305
Rough idling, Code P0010 and P0011. Intake camshaft not being actuated. Replaced intake camshaft position actuator solenoid. 

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2013 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

182-horsepower 2.4L I4 Hybrid 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

40000 mi

US $100
The SES came on and the code indicated a leak in the fuel evap recovery system a valve was replaced but the SES returned 3 more times. Turned out to be a slow leak in a related valve only discovered after an overnight test 
46000 mi SES light on... fuel evap system reported another fault 

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2012 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

252-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

63850 mi engine was making lots of noise dealer removed front cover, evacuated ac system and removed engine front cover to inspect found intermediate chain tensioner fully extended and chain was loose and stretched removed and replaced all 3 chains repair done under warranty 

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2012 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

96000 mi

US $30
Replaced intake and exhaust camshaft solenoids 
120000 mi

US $230
Replaced Catalytic Converter 
164000 mi

US $850
Timing chain replacement 
90000 mi

US $700
Timing chain and camshaft position sensors replaced 
113000 mi

US $2900
Replaced catalytic converter,  all O2 sensors, and mass air flow sensor. 
18000 mi Ignition coil failure 
42240 mi

C $1200
manifold replaced oil pan replaced 
60700 mi Unknown engine rattle. Mechanic could not diagnose. From own reaearch, could be loose heat shield. 
67000 mi

US $867
Engine light came on. Unpleasant noise from engine. New timing chain at 67000 Miles. Timing chain guides broke. $867 fixed at dealer. Gary chandler of Chandler Chevrolet got me $193 back on the repair from GM and even bought the car back from me after he learned I was trying to sell it. He gave me a very good price of $8900. Car sucked but dealer was great.  
888000 mi

US $55
Engine Code P0113 Camshaft Actuator sensor 

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2011 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

252-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

50000 mi

US $1000
Fuel pump in trunk Water Pump 

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2011 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

124000 mi

US $160
Water pump replaced Ignition switch replaced 
4000 mi This car was a lemon all kinds of parts were changed gm finally replaced the car after we got a lawyer on their but. junk will never buy a malibu. 
6000 mi Engine won't turn over about half the time because of theft deterrent system. Guages initialize, but car doesn't start. Usually works second or third attempt. Dealership couldn't duplicate. Problem started around 4000 miles on odometer. 
39000 mi

US $650
Car wouldn't start after stopping for gas. Next morning car was diagnosed initially and hauled to dealership for further diagnosis. Problem identified as fuel pump system requiring replacement. Part had to come from out of town. 
106600 mi

US $250
replace thermostat 
28000 mi It threw a catalytic converter code. Dealer had to install new Cat. Said they had a batch that was bad and were replacing them if they went. Not a recall. 
52000 mi

US $281
Cutting out and bucking while driving. Traction/ESC turned off. Diagnosed as a broken wire at injector plug. Sliced in a new wire re-soldered connector to the injector plug . 
18463 mi Replace transmission control module under warranty as a result of error code/check engine light 
56000 mi

US $300
Flex pipe, the first pipe between engine and catalytic converter 
66000 mi

US $1050
Timing chain had stretched, needed to be replaced. Also replaced both cam solenoids. Dealer was very fair in working out an agreed price even though warranty expired (# years). Premature failure at only 66,000 miles. Replaced flex pipe, AGAIN! Went the economical route on first repair to save $200. The aftermarket pipe was noisier than the OEM and cracked in under a year. Have now paid twice for same repair. At least it's back to OEM quiet and no vibrations. :o) 
13682 mi Car developed a shake during the 1-2 shift when hot. Dealer did not believe the issue was a concern - did not repair. Returned car to a different dealer to check the shake at the 1-2 shift. Car also was now surging (bouncing RPM) and lacking power when hot. Dealer reprogrammed ECM with update per a TSB to address both issues.  
15870 mi Returned vehicle to dealer. Shake returned again in first gear or the 1-2 shift. Dealer tested transmission; all ok. Reset PCM. Shake went away after reset. Shake came back again 2 days later. Will be returning to dealer.  
81000 mi

US $1100
Timing chain and guides. guides had worn off and were sitting in the oil pan. solenoids for oil system replaced 
94000 mi

US $385
Check engine light on, air cleaner assembly not installed correctly needs map sensor and induction service. Duct at throttle body not installed correctly clamp loose and allowing undeterred UN filtered air into system. Both rubber grommets . 

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2010 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

252-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

66000 mi One of the emissions sensors went bad. Can't recall which one. 
62000 mi a valve in the exhaust system was faulty, dealer replaced. No charge covered under extended warranty. 
77500 mi engine light came on, diagnosed by dealer as needing a new catalytic converter 

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2010 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

105700 mi

US $15
MAP sensor replacement 
57000 mi Cracked exhaust manifold 
11000 mi Manufacturer upgrade to automatic transmission software installed. 

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2010 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

12400 mi Car would not run properly in driveway.Towed to dealer and mass airflow sensor (MAF)replaced 
63800 mi

US $400
Fuel pump died, left me stranded at Home Depot. (not a bad place to kill time waiting on a tow truck) 
64400 mi

US $1200
Check engine, fuel system 
44000 mi

US $67
Replaced oxygen sensor 2 

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2010 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

164-horsepower 2.4L I4 Hybrid 4-speed automatic FWD

92580 mi problem with Hybrid 
93000 mi problem with Hybrid never repaired 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu

Engine not specified

34000 mi 3.5V6 engine has a rough idle, took back to dealer 3 times and dealer stated this is normal for this engine. Dealer stated that Mfg's now set the fuel very lean and this causes the rough idle. I am taking vehicle to another GM dealer. 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

252-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

6820 mi Shift from 1 to 2 then down to 1 felt "jerky" (like someone dropping clutch in a standard) 
68000 mi

US $65
code PO 443 EVAP Solenoid circuit fault 
250 mi Transmission had forgotten how to shift; had to be reprogrammed using "quick learn" 
58000 mi Throttle Position Sensor 
66000 mi While stopped with it in drive, it would not respond to throttle even with gear shifts unless it was turned off then on 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

31000 mi Camshaft solenoid failed and was replaced. Tripped the CEL. 
34500 mi "Service ESC" warning flashed, but error code not displayed after messaged flashed. Dealer replaced #1 fuel injector. Motor will intermittently idle rough once the motor is warmed up. Also high speed stalling. Tends to occur when the outside temp is 65+ degrees. Has been occuring for 4 months. Dealer has not experianced in three visits for problem. 
49000 mi

US $165
Camshaft actuator failed, replaced by dealer.  
52000 mi Cylinder head replaced for rough idle and high speed stalling. Valve guides for Cylinder # 1 worn out. Leak down test was at 80%. Problem reoccurred within 40 miles of getting car back, with rough idle even worse than before. That is it, I gave up and traded the car in. 
30123 mi Exhaust Cam Solenoid stuck caused check engine light to come on. Repaired under original 3/36 warranty. 
70000 mi

US $400
Check engine light came on. Had to have cam phasers, both intake and exhaust, replaced again. 
54800 mi check engine light on 
56600 mi fuel injector problems 
24000 mi 2.4L engine is mysteriously losing coolant. Did pressure and cylinder tests, could not find any reason for the problem (though the engine continues to lose coolant). Check engine light; dealer claims error code indicating poor fuel. Added octane booster, reset light, suggested I use better quality fuel. 
28000 mi Different dealer discovered leak in Cylinder #3 due to cracked head gasket and head warped. Head and head gasket replaced. Coolant loss still evident after head gasket replacement. Additional tests indicated porosity in the engine block casting; GM decided on a complete engine replacement. 
46000 mi Check engine light came on intermitantly. Took to dealership and they diagnosed a shorted intake solenoid. Replaced cam solenoid. No cost to me. Covered by powertrain warrenty. Less than 3 hours to repair. 
42300 mi Engine missing during idle. #1 fuel injector harness was replaced. 
51000 mi

US $240
OBDS reported bad thermostat. Thermostat replaced and changed coolant as preventive maintenance. 
41000 mi check engine light came on 
24000 mi Output speed sensor was replaced. Car would shift hard when accelerating. The car was losing track of the speed and the transmission didn't know how to act. 
9300 mi Could not remove key from ignition . Ignition sensor had to be replaced . 
105000 mi Radiator fluid dropped 1/2 inch every two weeks. Heard gurgling sound in engine when making slow speed turns. 
121000 mi

US $139
Original accelerator pedal has embdded sensors that failed. I went to auto parts store, found part, watched video, and replaced unit myself. Took about an hour. 
64000 mi

US $156
SES/Check engine light illuminated on dash. Scanned Code P0013. Diagnostic found exhaust cam position solenoid had debris trapped in it. Replaced cam position solenoid. SES/Check engine light illuminated intermittently. Scanned Code p0010. Diagnostics found intake camshaft position sensor sticking. Replaced camshaft position sensor. 
94000 mi Unable to get read-out check engine due to a short that was blowing fuses. Seems to be related to our use of ethanol-added to the gasoline. Seemed to get better with a tank of ethanol-free gas. In Aug. traded it in for a 2016 Malibu 2LT. 
117000 mi The ignition cylinder was getting frozen and not letting me remove my key. I hit the cylinder with some WD-40 and worked the key back and forth until it was no longer and issue. It still get a bit catchy here and there for a few days but it seems to be good now. 
126000 mi Check engine light was on. Cam sensor failure. Car still drove fine, but I wanted to get rid of the check engine light. 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

41000 mi Car failed to run. Towed to dealer and diagnosed with a bad map sensor. Replaced for free under emissions warranty. 
97960 mi

C $1100
Replaced lower exhaust system including catlytic converter 
100000 mi

US $120
Replaced the solenoids. 
51066 mi CEL/SES reported P0010 code. Took to dealer to replace intake camshaft actuator solenoid valve and was replaced under power train warranty. CEL/SES reported P0010 code. Took to dealer to replace intake camshaft actuator solenoid valve and was replaced under power train warranty. 
61000 mi

US $1136
Car failed to start. Was able to start by holding accelerator to the floor. Dealer said it had jumped time because of a broken timing chain tensioner. Replaced tensioner and chain. Had engine light, returned to dealer, they had to replace the exhaust cam actuator solenoid... Again with the cam timing system. 
61000 mi Replace catalytic converter 
105000 mi Replaced belt tensioner 
8000 mi

US $25
TSB for tranny reflash -- shifting irregular 
52000 mi Cracked engine block. Replaced and rebuilt engine. 
55000 mi Problem returns two days later, root cause is the same, cracked block between first and second cylinder. Entire new engine placed in car 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

164-horsepower 2.4L I4 Hybrid 4-speed automatic FWD

34300 mi The catalytic converter failed. Symptoms were poor gas mileage and sluggish engine response. There was no other issue with the engine to cause the failure and no trouble codes were showing up. The converter was replaced under warranty. 
51320 mi

C $600
The engine was making a knocking noise when it shut off (intersections and turning the ignition off). The throttle body was failing and it was replaced at the dealership. Engine now has more power and fuel economy is better. 
70680 mi

C $170
The main camshaft position sensor was intermittently faulting, causing several warnings to flash. The sensor was replaced with a new one. 
73780 mi Engine burned oil between 5,000 km oil changes and burned out without notice. Engine not functional. No repairs possible other than engine change. Car likely to be scrapped. No repair attempted. 

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2009 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

108000 mi

US $1500
Major tune up - Included spark plugs, air filter, serpentine belt, brakes,  Recommended timing chain replacement. Budget disallowed. Seeking second opinion. 

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

252-horsepower 3.6L V6 6-speed shiftable automatic FWD

126000 mi

US $300
Cleaned valves 
71000 mi

US $150
radiator recovery tank replaced, in shop six days waiting for part  
131000 mi

US $400
hesitation occurs on acceleration, engine light on, advised at minimum needs fuel injectors, possibly also fuel pump 
33000 mi ordered new fuel sensor fuel sensor replaced 
48000 mi

US $535
Check gas cap message kept coming on. Then check engine light came on. A tank pressure sensor and a purge valve connector were installed. 
199000 mi

US $450
Misfire due to faulty coils 
87000 mi

US $1050
Fuel pump was shot. I'm pretty careful about using reliable looking gas stations, but pump died at 77k. Car started one morning, idled roughly, then was fine for 20mi trip. Then it stranded me. 
100000 mi

US $150
Emission control solenoid, oil change 

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

169-horsepower 2.4L I4 4-speed automatic FWD

49200 mi

US $300
Also check engine light comes on. Code reader says catalytic efficiency not right. Mechanic, oil change people, friend in business say not a problem, but it's annoying. 
50300 mi Last year I was advised by private mechanic not to worry about engine light. Poor mpg, sluggish pickup,excessive downshifting and engine whine. Dealership replaced cat.conv under warranty, now car is peppy, quiet, and I am totally satisfied. 
30000 mi Key would stick in ignition. Replaced ignition. 
51000 mi Gas cap was replaced due to a fault code. 
55800 mi

C $50
Camshaft sensor or something like that. It was minor took two minutes. 
98500 mi

US $385
Replace throttle body and mounting gasket 
91000 mi

US $259
Check engine light came on and code indicated a major problem. The dealer replaced the front cam shaft position sensor. 
98000 mi

US $259
Check engine light came on and the code indicated an major problem. Dealer replaced the rear cam shaft position sensor. 
27000 mi Emissions filter stuck open. 

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2008 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

164-horsepower 2.4L I4 Hybrid 4-speed automatic FWD

28000 mi Replaced failed Lith. Battery 

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2007 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

217-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

104000 mi

US $170
Replaced oil filter housing gasket, which had a slow drip. 
135000 mi

US $800
Replaced throttle body assembly and throttle pedal assembly. 
138000 mi

US $718
Replaced radiator cooling fans assembly. 
50000 mi

US $1500
Radiator blew for the second time. Dealer refused to honor warranty. Chevrolet stinks. 
65000 mi

US $55
The plug on the bottom of the radiator keeps coming off leaving me with no coolant/antifreeze. Overheats suddenly. Repaired 3 times in the last 6 months. Mechanic said it was due to poor design and he crafted a workaround. 
66000 mi

US $325
Had to replace the serpentine belt 

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2007 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

145-horsepower 2.2L I4 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

86300 mi Evaporative emission canister vent solenoid valve had to be replaced (check engine light went off on dash). 
80000 mi Oil filler housing (cap) was cracked. Dealer was the only one who serviced the car, so they must have cracked it by over-torquing. They wanted $107 to replace it; got one from Pep Boys for $11.99 and put it on in the parking lot. 

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2007 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Hatch

217-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

121520 mi

C $500
Catalytic converter malfunction. Had to replace one of the catalytic converters on the car. Replaced both at the same time since I got them usedý for one price. 
132680 mi Coolant leak. Diagnosed as gasket leak in water passageway running from one head to the other. Removed and replaced gasket. Repair successful. 
137640 mi

C $50
Code for bad catalytic converter. Replaced spark plugs. Code reset. 
137640 mi

C $800
Bank 1 catalytic converter required replacement (again). 
140740 mi Catalytic converter installed in December had manufacturers defect and began to leak due to bad weld. Replaced under manufacturer warranty. They covered parts and labor. 
48875 mi

C $141
coolant reservoir leaking & replaced, 1 liter Delco coolant added. $100 plus tax deductible under extended warranty charged. 
52021 mi coolant still leaking, replaced reservoir cap and topped up coolant 
52021 mi

C $113
1. coolant STILL leaking, replaced water pump under extended warranty--no charge. 2. famous Malibu steering clunk on low speed turning--replaced intermediate steering shaft. Extended warranty- $100 deductible + tax 

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2007 Chevrolet Malibu 4-door

6-cylinder automatic 2WD

138000 mi

US $350
Oil leak AROUND THE FILTER, THE THERMOSTAT NEEDED TO BE CHANGE 
151800 mi

US $325
Replace the o-2 sensors 

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2006 Chevrolet Malibu

Engine not specified

75640 mi

C $900
Engine light came on and engine was making a loud rumbling noise as if it was not burning fuel efficiently. 

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2006 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

201-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

101000 mi

US $250
Some grounds wore out, causing the car to enter limp mode. 
122000 mi

US $352
replaced gas tank vent valve 
65500 mi

US $60
MAF was replaced 
41000 mi

US $900
Evap hose and Solenoid was bad. Evap Hose had a hole due to a mice threw up my hose. However, it took 3 visit to the repair shop and 1 auto dealer. 

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2006 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

144-horsepower 2.2L I4 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

111000 mi

US $20
Experiencing minor engine oil leak from unidentified source. Shop tried ATP AT-205 reseal to revive the seals. Short-term improvement but leak came back. Waiting to try UV dye to pinpoint leak's source. Just an oil puddle in driveway so far. 
72000 mi

US $100
Check engine light was on due to pressure in gas line. Turned out to be no problem to fix. They reset the check engine light and it hasn't come back on. 

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2006 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Hatch

240-horsepower 3.9L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

49600 mi Gas cap had worn out. Dealer replaced the cap with new, no more fault codes - problem solved. 
57040 mi

C $170
Check engine light for lean condition. System needed an ECM re-flash and injector flush. Problem then solved. 
102000 mi

US $120
Car was stumbling- two plug wires were loose at spark plugs. 
91000 mi

US $220
Water pump leaking 

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2006 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Hatch

201-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

40300 mi

C $91
Rough Idle, Dealer updated ECM and problem was resolved. 
48360 mi

C $1200
Leaky crossover pipe gasket 
140000 mi

US $65
Water pump failed, easy fix. 
150000 mi

US $664
Fuel return line broke off from top of fuel pump. Molded plastic, had to replace entire pump. 
151000 mi

US $60
Thermostat sticking open, coolant worn out Replaced thermostat Replaced coolant 
153000 mi After draining and refilling coolant, engine temps were inconsistent and higher than average. Drained coolant, flushed radiator, replaced coolant. 
160000 mi

US $115
Electrical power steering would go out when at full throttle around 3k RPMs. Replaced ignition coil and installed grounding strap. 

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2005 Chevrolet Malibu

Engine not specified

82000 mi thermostat replaced 

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2005 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

200-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

82700 mi

US $35
water pump leaking replace water pump 
104000 mi Had to replace the throttle body 
61380 mi

C $45
replaced faulty evap canister purge valve 
97920 mi The mass air flow sensor needed cleaning with some contact cleaner 
101060 mi

C $60
Replaced upstream oxygen sensors with new Bosch stuff at 150K and replaced serpentine belt with Gates micro groove 
104160 mi

C $100
Replaced both upstream oxygen sensors and the mass air flow sensor - mileage improve a LOT 
111780 mi

C $10
Needed to clean the pcv line with seafoam to correct a cold idle hunting issue. 
138880 mi

C $80
Replaced spark plugs and wires 
62500 mi

C $250
Stalling after a minute. ECM replaced with used one. Paid for 2 hrs. to reprogram. ( used one cost me $50.00) 
234000 mi

US $150
Injection system cleaned because car had gotten hard to start. 
223000 mi

US $46
Old coolant hose developed a pin-sized hole which caused a loss of coolant. Because of weather, finding the leaking part took most of the time; replacing the hose only took a few minutes. The hose itself was $4.39, and some new hose clamps to replace ones that broke in the process of replacing it cost $2.99. The rest of the cost was new coolant to replace that which leaked. 
172000 mi

US $1200
Engine light. Needed EGR valve repair 

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2005 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

145-horsepower 2.2L I4 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

84000 mi

US $88
Car ran really bad. Shop reflashed computer. Car runs OK. 
49000 mi

US $260
Engine lite Code P0449, replaced Evap Canister Vent Valve Solenoid 
53000 mi

US $80
Car turns over but would not start. Fuel pump not engaged. Towed to shop where they were unable to duplicate problem. Same recurring problem, 6 times over last 2 years. Fuel pump and relay switch replaced 2 times. Runs fine then, refuses to start. HEL 
59000 mi

US $20
Same recurring problem.Bought another fuel pump relay switch and installed it myself.Running ok for the moment.Until the next time.. 
60000 mi Car periodically will not start. Occasionally will stall out. Repair shop reviewed dealer repairs and declined to attempt a fix. Thinking of making a flower pot out of it. Upset, dissappointed, and beside myself. 
62000 mi Repair shop tracked down problem, tightened all connections and fixed the problem.  
72000 mi

US $81
motor shift causing vibration 

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2005 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Hatch

200-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

35500 mi Visors fall down - Replaced under warranty Steering Gear knocks Check gas cap warning when gas cap is on - Warranty Fuel gauge only reaches 7/8 full Gas cap was replaced on first trip but the computer needed to be reset on a second trip. Fuel gauge i 
36500 mi The visors and steering knocks resolved without incident under warranty. Gas cap replaced The fuel tank was replace after the cluster and fuel level sender units were replaced. The tank was apparently warped but the mechanic did not see the problem or 
130000 mi

US $15
Replaced oil filter extension gasket. This was allowing an oil leak over the oil filter 
162600 mi Oil leaking slowly from oil pan. Source has yet to be identified and repaired. 
174000 mi

US $200
Slow Oil leak from engine seal. 
66000 mi Exhaust leak by resonator. Replaced free of charge per bulletin. 
192000 mi

US $125
Replace rusted exhaust flex pipe. 
219000 mi

US $125
Flex pipe on exhaust had rusted through. 
68000 mi

US $90
Replaced oil pressure sensor, idiot light was coming on, but oil level and pressure were fine. 
110000 mi

US $125
Full exhaust from downpipe back Leak in Vapor Recovery System caused Engine Light and error message. Replaced valve. 
120000 mi Error code: Temperature too low. Replace Thermostat. Fixed Problem 
120000 mi

US $470
Front flex joint in exhaust pipe failed. Was informed by shop that 18 month old the rear exhaust had also "rusted out" and entire system would be $1000. I negotiated and they got the rear covered under warranty so only $470 for front part. 
108100 mi

US $40
Check engine light, code was 'temperature error'. Changed anti-freeze, cleared code, and check engine is gone for now. Car ran fine as usual. This might indicate thermostat dying soon. 
127000 mi

US $1700
Rear Main Oil leak and Oil Pan leak. Replaced both and tune up performed. 
65100 mi

C $4910
Catalytic converter replaced under warranty, but this did not fix the original noise symptom EGR flex pipe and valve replaced 
75420 mi

C $292
Evap vent valve fault, engine light on 
86800 mi

C $205
check engine light for large evap leak = cracked purge canister solenoid 
94860 mi

C $286
Exhaust system, resonator replaced 

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2004 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

200-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

53000 mi

US $357
Body Control Module Replacement - Heater did not work. Vehicle was in the shop for 1 business day. 
106000 mi

US $140
Check Engine Light was illuminated due to error code indicating failing thermostat. Thermostat was stuck open. Replaced thermostat. Check Engine Light also stored EGR error code. EGR valve was replaced about a year ago and was tested and found to be working. Cleaned EGR system and valve and reinstalled. No further codes found. 
115000 mi Check Engine Light gave EGR Insufficient Flow code. Tested all components to be working. Removed throttle body and thoroughly clean all passages per TSB. 
133000 mi

US $136
Rough idle. Check engine light eventually came on and code was mis-fire on cyl 1. Decided to try replacing coil assembly. This fixed it. 
138000 mi

US $112
Engine warning light came on with no other symptoms. Code indicated "low engine temperature condition". Replaced Thermostat, problem solved. 
158000 mi

US $390
Muffler and exhaust pipe rusted and were leaking. Previously replaced just 3 years ago. The original lasted 7 years! I guess the aftermarket parts really are inferior. 
79560 mi Ignition switch replaced 
43500 mi

US $10
Check engine light went on. Auto parts store read code and indicated that the cooling system thermostat was likely stuck open. Replaced the thermostat myself and the problem was resolved. 
177000 mi Radiator issues and blown head gasket. Not worth fixing. Also needed a new exhaust. 
100300 mi

US $194
Replaced exhaust y-pipe. I purchased part and had it installed at a local garage where my friend is the shop manager. I received a discount on the labor. Other shops quoted over $600 
123000 mi

US $120
Motor mount and transmission mounts replaced. Work completed by myself in about 4 hours Car was exhibiting a noise that sounded like a whine. Dealer mechanic noticed a vacuum hose that had fallen off so he cut off the end and reattached. 
123000 mi

US $64
Replaced the camshaft position sensor and the oil pressure sensor/switch to resolve check engine light 

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2004 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

145-horsepower 2.2L I4 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

79670 mi The engine would shut down and engine light would come on 4 times while driving in the city and on the highway. They replaced the crankshaft sensor and said it was not a common problem. Free at 128,400km. because warranty coverage up to 130,000 km. camshaft or crankshaft sensor replaced because car was stalling out on engine disabled while driving.While driving the car would shut down and I would have to restart. 
79980 mi

C $215
Flexible piece in the exhaust line before the resonator broke and they had to weld a new piece inline and guarantee for 1 year at Canadian Tire.They could not locate exact part and welded a piece in line. 
91520 mi

C $200
Thermostat required replacement 
110360 mi

C $400
Catalytic converter plugged and had to be changed 
110360 mi

C $350
Exhaust rotten from front to back. Had to be replaced 
157000 mi Had rebuilt engine 3 times before. Will not do it again. This car was scrapped. 

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2004 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Hatch

200-horsepower 3.5L V6 4-speed shiftable automatic FWD

110700 mi Flushed cooling system, replaced hoses and new water pump installed. Water pump was leaking coolant. 
127000 mi

US $1500
Full new exhaust system including two new catalytic converters. 
41000 mi

US $20
Long starting problem. 
74900 mi

US $300
Purge solenoid value replace. 
188000 mi replaced fuel injectors. One was faulty (partially clogged), but I replaced them all as I got a deal on a set from eBay. 
228000 mi

US $500
Radiator had hole in the bottom. 
113000 mi

US $100
Exhaust, replaced muffler 
100000 mi

US $12
Fault Code P046 - Evap Emission system fault Replaced Fuel Cap Reset fault 
102300 mi

US $35
Fault Code P046 - Evap Emission system fault Replaced Evap vent valve. 
123000 mi

US $50
Fault Code P0128 - Replaced thermostat and coolant temperature sensor 
130000 mi

US $350
Vapor recovery valve assembly cracked under hood, throwing 'gas cap' light and check engine light. 
127720 mi CEL on but unknown cause; no discernable issues with driveability etc. 
10392 mi Noise still heard in rear suspension - unable to determine 
22014 mi Noise in rear suspension found! - turned out to be fuel filler neck rubbing on car frame. All gauges would not work after starting car, but resumed operation after stopping and restarting - dealer unable to duplicate the problem. 
42426 mi

C $1009
New brake pads and rotors, front and rear - Fuel injection service - Knocking in steering - replaced steering shaft 
15700 mi Replaced accessory drive belt (Was slipping) Replaced fuel tank. (tank has collapsed and could only be filled 3/4 with gas 
32500 mi Reprogram ECU to cure hot start issue 
51000 mi Replace fuel pump. Hot starting issue. 
94200 mi

US $146
Car would lose power, engine light came on with codes P2101, P0120, P0220, P1516, P2135. Decided problem was throttle body. Dealer wanted $300 for part. Bought ACDelco Part 217-2295 on Amazon.com for $146. Installed new part. Problem solved 
99000 mi

US $5
Replaced failed engine coolant temperature sensor. Preventive maintenance was replacement of water pump, thermostat, engine drive belt, coolant, radiator hoses. 
131000 mi

US $90
Rust hole in muffler 
136000 mi

US $100
Rusted out exhaust flex pipe 
137000 mi

US $53
CarMD code: O2 sensor Bank 1 [rear cylinders] Sensor 1 [upstream of converter]. Replaced both upstream O2 sensors with Denso 234-4668 purchased on Amazon. 
147000 mi

US $173
Replace exhaust system flex pipe. 

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2003 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 3.1L V6 4-speed automatic FWD

133000 mi

US $30
Changed squeaking serpentine belt and water pump 
148000 mi

US $1000
maintainance with fuel pump and all other staff 
94000 mi We bought a battery for it and it began to drain the battery more than usual so we got another battery for it. Also, The key ignition switch was going out so my husband ordered a ignition switch for it and put it in. 
74000 mi

US $700
Fuel Pump replaced. 
75000 mi

US $1400
Engine replaced due to Dexcool contamination. 
119000 mi

US $500
Vehicle stopped in the middle of the road with a broken fuel pump. The electric fuel pump is immersed in the fuel tank so the tank had to be dropped down for the pump to be replaced. 
158000 mi

US $200
Replaced water pump 

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2002 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 3.1L V6 4-speed automatic FWD

85000 mi

US $800
Lower Intake Gasket replacement 
91476 mi

US $301
Replaced ignition switch due to random inability to start. 
110000 mi

US $75
Water Pump leaking. Replaced water pump with new OEM level. Note that the fin design is different. 
34000 mi Piston Slap, Two pistons worn due to so-called "piston slap." Dealer in St. Clould, MN, said noise would not hinder performance.Ha! I complained twice and just before warranty expired, I asked agained about the engine noise. The mechanic rep said it cou 
36000 mi

US $178
Replaced water pump 
39000 mi

US $90
Check engine light on, replaced fuel cap, tested vapor recovery system  
45000 mi

US $75
Oil leak. Replaced oil pressure sensor. 

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2000 Chevrolet Malibu 4dr Sedan

170-horsepower 3.1L V6 4-speed automatic FWD

199000 mi

US $210
Fuel pump failed and replaced. 

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See TrueDelta's information for all Sedans
See TrueDelta's information for all Chevrolet models.

Chevrolet Malibu Engine Problems

See our lemon odds and nada odds page to see vehicles with no repairs or vehicles with more than three repairs. To see how frequently Chevrolet Malibu problems occur, check out our car reliability stats.