2017 Chevrolet Malibu engine problems

Updated from NHTSA data · How we count

190 owners have reported engine problems with the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, 38% of all complaints about this model year. The typical problem appeared around 69,440 mi.

Engine complaints
190
Crashes
2
Fires
0
Injuries
3
Related recalls
0
Median mileage
69,440 mi

Specific components reported

Engine covers: stalling, loss of power, oil consumption, overheating.

ComponentComplaints
Engine186
Engine and engine cooling4

Engine complaints across Chevrolet Malibu years

1200547200710132009162120112794201390512015195190201724063201961142021341620233
Engine complaints by model year. The 2017 is highlighted.

Mileage when the problem appeared

4Under 10k510k–30k2230k–60k4560k–100k12100k–150k2150k+
Complaints that list mileage, grouped by odometer reading.

Related recalls

No recalls on file.

What owners say

  1. Filed Aug 29, 2026FLElectrical SystemEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV Propulsion
    The vehicle is experiencing an apparent fuel-system malfunction. The vehicle has a very strong raw gasoline odor, significant difficulty starting, and appears to be consuming fuel at an abnormally high rate. After filling the fuel tank completely, I drove approximately 20 miles at most and the fuel gauge decreased by approximately one-quarter of a tank. The engine oil also has a strong gasoline odor, indicating that fuel may be entering the engine oil. The exact failed…
    NHTSA complaint #11760675 · source
  2. Filed Jul 3, 2026LABrakesEngine
    I was driving back home and stopped at a red light. When the light turned green I started driving, but my car was jerking a little too much. I pulled over and turned my car off. When I cut my car back on my brake became very hard to the point I had to push down extra hard to stop my car. I started back driving home once I realized my car needs to be turned completely off and sit. While I'm driving I see a message on my dashboard saying "Engine power reduced." Luckily I made…
    NHTSA complaint #11748133 · source
  3. Filed Jun 25, 2026SCEngineSuspensionWheels & Tires
    the trottle body position sensor just started acting up. took it to mechanic. they stated they can try to fix it but it may only work for a month then go back out. may end up paying over 6k and the car isn't worth it
    NHTSA complaint #11746422 · source
  4. Filed Apr 14, 2026OREngine
    The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. Due to the issue, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode, and the contact was forced to pull over and turn off the vehicle. The contact waited approximately 30-40 minutes before restarting the vehicle and resuming normal driving. The vehicle was previously taken to a dealer; however,…
    NHTSA complaint #11731087 · source
  5. Filed Feb 5, 2026MIEngineOther / UnknownAcceleration & Cruise Control
    The Reduce Power to Engine keeps happening. It shuts my car down and lights up the traction control light, check engine light and its a serious hazard because I travel highway to and from work and its very dangerous when you loose power to your vehicle at high rates of speed. Also my emissions is bad due to a supposed fixed recall for the catalytic converter.
    NHTSA complaint #11716053 · source
  6. Filed Feb 3, 2026ILEngine
    I was driving my car on the highway and the car begin to feel like it was about to shut off. Shortly after, the car check engine light turned on with a warning sign on dashboard stating “engine reduce.” the check engine is still on and my mechanic states my turbo needs to be replaced. I have an appointment for second consult with chevy dealer to verify.
    NHTSA complaint #11715400 · source
  7. Filed Jan 28, 2026NYBrakesElectrical SystemEngine
    The GM Shift to Park recall has been an issue that has affected various General Motors (GM) vehicles. The primarily impacting Chevrolet models like the Malibu, Traverse, Volt, and the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer. It’s essential to be aware of the problem, its implications on vehicle’s safety, and the steps required to address it. In simple terms, the Shift to Park defect prevents drivers from shutting off and locking their vehicles, even after putting the car in park. This…
    NHTSA complaint #11713855 · source
  8. Filed Dec 23, 2025NYEngineAcceleration & Cruise Control
    While driving at highway speeds, my vehicle suddenly experienced a loss of engine power and reduced acceleration. The traction control light and engine light illuminated, and a “Reduced Engine Power” message appeared. The vehicle would not respond to the accelerator, creating a serious safety hazard. This occurred shortly after authorized dealer service involving the PCV system and related components. The vehicle did not have this issue prior to dealer service. I returned…
    NHTSA complaint #11706844 · source
  9. Filed Dec 13, 2025MIEngineTransmission & Drivetrain
    Reduced engine power. Car will not accelerate over 35 mph. Almost rear ended. Will be the second time in dealer for same problem. Also, Shift to Park. Also second time at dealer for same problems. You cannot get out of car until you keep moving the shifting handle.
    NHTSA complaint #11704878 · source
  10. Filed Nov 6, 2025PAElectrical SystemEngine
    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
    NHTSA complaint #11697859 · source
  11. Filed Oct 24, 2025ILCrash1 injuredTowedEngine
    The contact owned a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while backing out of the driveway, the engine revved up and accelerated independently. The contact's vehicle accelerated independently in reverse(R) and clipped the tow hitch of a vehicle parked on the street, and that was where the vehicle came to a stop. No air bags deployed. There were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected. However, no cause for the failure…
    NHTSA complaint #11695429 · source
  12. Filed Sep 13, 2025CAEngineFuel, Hybrid & EV PropulsionAcceleration & Cruise Control
    The transmission stalls to get up and go after it has been driven for a short while causing it to slow down traffic and causing a slight risk trying to pull over to the side to allow drivers behind pass by. Once the driver stops at more than 5 stops is when the vehicle begins to hesitate to work properly.
    NHTSA complaint #11687127 · source

Other 2017 Chevrolet Malibu problem areas

Back to all 2017 Chevrolet Malibu problems →

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