2011 Chevrolet Malibu engine problems

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

1. Filed May 1, 2025ALEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion

   Car started to loose power and wanted to cut off had to drive with both feet put in the shop a few times but couldn't find any wrong finally stopped driving it and then I started back to driving it and still doing the same thing, finally the motor went out.Have notice more Malibu's in this area and surroundings area having problems with the motor.

   NHTSA complaint #11658132 · source
2. Filed Mar 27, 2025NDEngine

   - Reduced engine power, appears on the dashboard. The motor begins to shake, slow down excessively if I'm driving on the highway, and needs to be shut off to reset the computer. Yes, this is available for inspection. However, We are going to try to fix this ASAP, as I drive an hour to and from work each day, this isn't safe, I'm stressed out as soon as I think about driving, and I am worried I'll get stranded on the side of the road. . This puts me and others at risk,…

   NHTSA complaint #11651049 · source
3. Filed Jan 20, 2025ILEngine

   My car stopped running at 78,500 miles. I had it diagnosed twice and I was told the engine needs to be replaced. Even though I bought the vehicle (brand new) in 2010, how can the engine be bad because on the website it states that if the vehicle has more than 100,000 miles then it's possible for that to happen. I am the only owner of the vehicle. I would like to know if other vehicles like mine are having the same issue and if possible, can I get a warranty, or recall to fix…

   NHTSA complaint #11637098 · source
4. Filed Oct 21, 2024ILEngine

   My vehicle battery light came on around 3 weeks ago. I thought my battery was going bad, since I had it for 2 yrs( I bought it from AutoZone 2 yrs ago w/ 2 yrs warranty). But instead it completely stopped and won't start. I had it towed and was told the timing chain broke in the engine and that I need a whole new engine (something I can't afford being on disability). So I am not only seeking if there is a recall with the engine, but if other drivers are having this same…

   NHTSA complaint #11621022 · source
5. Filed Aug 30, 2022100,000 miIDEngineAcceleration & Cruise Control

   The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds in inclement weather, the vehicle displayed DCT: P2138, causing the vehicle to lunge forward, then remain idle for several seconds, before accelerating forward. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and was informed that water was intruding into the throttle wiring. The contact was informed that there was no recall for the failure; however, the failure was related to…

   NHTSA complaint #11481955 · source
6. Filed Jul 10, 2022NYEngineAcceleration & Cruise ControlTransmission & Drivetrain

   While driving at highway speed, vehicle stated to shake and the "Engine Power Reduced" and Service ESC. I was able to move to a safe zone and drive the vehicle home. The following day started normal and drove it, same problem occurred.

   NHTSA complaint #11473205 · source
7. Filed Sep 25, 2021INElectrical SystemEngine

   Engine starts but stalls shortly after. 89,000 miles. Never had any problems like this before. Dash display states "Service ECM," "service traction control," "reduced engine power," etc..A shop diagnosed it with a bad ECM, but that isn't the problem, as it didn't fix it. Based on the codes we're getting ready to swap out the APP (Accelerator pedal position sensor) This is a well known issue, that many other owners of various years have encountered, and reported. In fact, I…

   NHTSA complaint #11434336 · source
8. Filed Aug 31, 2021153,400 miCAEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion

   The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic and was diagnosed with needing the fuel pump replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 153,400.

   NHTSA complaint #11431275 · source
9. Filed Feb 8, 2021FLEngineOther / Unknown

   Stabilitrak control turned on change all spark plugs and wires plus coils. Ran fine 1 week again stabilitrak flashing engine in limp mode. Took ro mechanic replaces lifters cam shaft. One week later again. Rebuild complete motor and still displaying same issue!!!! Truck is a lemon

   NHTSA complaint #11395187 · source
10. Filed Dec 24, 202098,000 miMIEngine

    Tl* the contact owns a 2011 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated while driving 35 mph, the reduce engine warning light was illuminated and the vehicle began to decelerate independently. The vehicle was turned off and restarted and driven to her destination. The contact stated she had experienced the failure multiple times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the throttle positioning sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was…

    NHTSA complaint #11384848 · source
11. Filed Dec 7, 2020110,000 miTXDriver Assistance & Safety TechEngineOther / Unknown

    I was driving on the free way going 65 mph. When i got a message saying traction control and that the engine was losing power. The car then stopped accelerating until it can to a complete stop in a matter of seconds. It almost got me rear ended since the cars are going fast and it lost al speed and power.

    NHTSA complaint #11378315 · source
12. Filed Oct 21, 2020100,000 miOHBody & StructureElectrical SystemEngine

    My teenage son was driving in the rain when his malibu gave engine power reduced, service traction, service esc, and esc off warnings. Car was barely drivable. This is a safety issue since it happens suddenly and increase the chances of a collision with other vehicles. Code reader showed the p2138 dtc. The headliner above the driver side door was also wet. This appears to be coming from the sun roof. I believe that this leakage is causing electrical connection issues…

    NHTSA complaint #11365506 · source

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation public data. Complaints are submitted by owners and are not verified by NHTSA or by us; a complaint does not prove a defect exists. View this vehicle on NHTSA.gov Methodology