2016 Chevrolet Malibu Engine Problems

Vacuum pump failure causing hard brake pedal which made near to impossible to brake safely and properly that lead to timing chain issues

NHTSA ID

11745818

Incident

Jun 19, 2026

The brake vacuum pump broke, causing my brakes to go rock hard and pieces fell down into the camshaft, causing engine damage

NHTSA ID

11743632

Incident

Jun 11, 2026

My car started overheating on my way home. I pulled over to find that there is a hole in my lower radiator hose, which was caused by the lower radiator hose being rubbed against the belt that is turned by the water pump. I had my wife and child bring me coolant on the side of the road where I was broken down. I eventually was able to get my car to my brothers but it required multiple stops and refilling of coolant. Once we got the car jacked up and the lower radiator hose replaced, we found the bottom of the radiator is loose and is pushing the lower radiator hose against the belt that rubbed the hole into the lower radiator hose. I then had my car towed to Dan Cummins in Georgetown Kentucky, located at 1470 Cherry Blossom Way, Georgetown, KY 40324. The mechanic drove my car that I had towed to the shop which damaged the new radiator hose that I had just put on the car. Dan Cummins of Georgetown Kentucky, who is an authorized Chevrolet Dealership, was informed (by me) that some 2016 Chevy Malibu's have been recalled because of a faulty lower radiator mount causing the lower radiator hose to push against the belt which causes the lower radiator hose to get a hole and leak. Dan Cummins suggested that I report my issue because my VIN is not covered by the recall. Authorized Chevy dealer Dan Cummins also suggested that I take my car elsewhere to be repaired while refusing to cover the damage they caused to the brand new lower radiator hose that I had purchased and put on the car. I would like for my Chevy Malibu with VIN [XXX] added to the recall so that I can have my Chevy Malibu repaired by an authorized Chevy dealership at no cost to me for something I did not do or cause. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11743010

Incident

Feb 8, 2026

On 04/28/2026, when diagnosing a reoccurring check engine light on the vehicle at a Chevy Certified Service, the mechanic "Borescoped cylinder 4 and found significant scuffs on the cylinder wall which along with the misfires indicate a cracked piston. The big picture appears to be the piston cracked which caused excessive oil consumption and misfires. The excess oil and unburned fuel overloaded the converter causing it to fail. The engine and converter will need to be replaced." In 2017, a recall was issued by GM to mitigate Stochastic Pre-Ignition (SPI) Causing Cracked Piston (17019). Between the initial purchase of the vehicle (11/2016) and performed service required by this recall (03/10/2017), there were approximately 5000 miles driven. No engine diagnosis was performed or recommended. After the 17019 was addressed, the engine misfires continued along with reoccurring CEL. C.S.P. N182195660 Predictive Monitoring for Stochastic Pre-ignition (SPI) released in 2019 states the 1.5 L LFV engines in certain 2016 and 2017 model year Chevrolet Malibu vehicles may have a preignition condition that requires immediate repair. This condition may cause the engine to perform poorly, misfire, run rough, and/or excessively consume oil. It may also illuminate the vehicle’s service engine light. Over time, if not repaired, the condition can damage the vehicle’s pistons and engine. The VIN for this Malibu was not attached to this notice despite it having SPI recall history. On 06/2023 (after the N182195660 program ended), at 80k miles a diagnosis revealed a potential cracked cylinder with no mention of the pre-ignition condition that could cause the crack, and the only way to fix is to replace the entire engine (as per dealer recomendation). Since vehicle was out of warranty, the repair est. was nearly $10k. I firmly believe my 2016 Malibu has suffered the consequences of poor mismanagement on this recall, and am demanding mitigation from GM to fix this issue.

NHTSA ID

11734369

Incident

Apr 28, 2026

Main seal leaking and engine needs replaced at 95,000 miles.

NHTSA ID

11733998

Incident

Apr 25, 2026

My car will rev up to 4000 rpm’s and my car will not go about 20 mph. My cruise stopped working after my car went into reduce engine power. The dealership said they fixed all issues but was back to doing the high rev within a week. It started this week telling me to shift to park even though my car was in park. The shift to park cable has been replaced twice now. I have been dealing with this since July of 2025. My car has been in the shop more times than I can count.

NHTSA ID

11726029

Incident

Jul 16, 2025

My car caught on fire under the hood. As I was driving on road I heard a sound and my car started slowing down and smoke started coming from under the hood got out the car not a minute later flames of smoke engulfed the car

NHTSA ID

11721722

Incident

Feb 8, 2026

Fuel Injector Backing ring Failing causing O-ring to dislodge and Rupture due to high pressure fuel leaking past the seal. This is causing a Major fire Hazard. Gm seal kits will not fix the problem do to Backer ring not being in the kit. part number for the o-ring kit is 12673056. this part should not be sold without the backer ring. if installed without the rings they will fail and will be Leaking fuel on the hot Cylinder next to the ignition coils. Misfire and bad fuel smell and possible no start or Fire!!

NHTSA ID

11720169

Incident

Feb 12, 2026

Have been getting reduced engine power since the summer on and off. Check engine light says its throttle bottle sensor and accelerator pedal position sensor. Which I was told there was a recall but my vin isn’t listed

NHTSA ID

11715447

Incident

Jun 11, 2025

While driving, the vehicle experienced a mechanical failure involving the engine and lubrication system. Oil leakage was observed, and the engine began operating abnormally. This created a risk of sudden engine failure while the vehicle was in motion, which could result in loss of power, stalling, or loss of control, especially at highway speeds or in traffic. Prior to the failure, warning signs included abnormal engine behavior and fluid loss. The issue was not caused by driver error and occurred during normal operation. Continued operation in this condition presents a fire risk if oil contacts hot engine components. The problem has been inspected by a repair facility, and the failure appears to be related to a mechanical or manufacturing defect rather than wear or misuse. The component is available for inspection upon request. This defect poses a safety risk to the driver, passengers, and other motorists due to the possibility of sudden engine failure, loss of propulsion, or fire.

NHTSA ID

11707631

Incident

Nov 11, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate. In addition, the vehicle occasionally accelerated independently. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were illuminated, and the engine seized. The contact stated that the vehicle was jump-started daily, and the unknown warning lights turned off when the vehicle started. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics; however, the failure was not duplicated. In addition, the vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the vehicle was purchased; however, the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

NHTSA ID

11705965

Incident

Apr 16, 2025

Mileage

90,000 mi

URGENT Complaint: NO RESPONSE to Demand for Rescission - Odometer Fraud, Deceptive Practices - Banner Ford of Monroe, LA

NHTSA ID

11704161

Incident

Dec 6, 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.

NHTSA ID

11695249

Incident

Oct 6, 2025

Mileage

146,000 mi

The engine power reduced came light came on along with service stability trac. The car would stall after going into auto stop and just shut off. In certain instances it would shutoff when slowed down enough. It was brought in for service where the turbo charge solenoid starter and catalytic converter annd alternator all were replaced due to the turbo braking into pieces and being lodged into the converter and engine. Less than a week later the car returned to stalling at the auto stop feature. When brought in for service it was linked to the alternator and engine control module and mass air flow sensor. The car was then serviced again six months later for the alternator again. Now the car is once again stuck in engine power reduced with no direct codes linked to the problem and the starter was replaced and now the engine is remaining in limp mode. The car has stalled multiple times on not only at stop lights but on the highway and while turning at busy intersections causing traffic jams and even a side collision. The engine light as remained on since the day I got the car.

NHTSA ID

11694970

Incident

Feb 17, 2021

My 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Limited (VIN: [XXX] ) experienced sudden loss of power while driving on 9/11/2025 and set code P228C. The dealership diagnosed the problem as the bolts coming loose from the high-pressure fuel pump, which caused the pump to detach from the cylinder head and become damaged, requiring replacement. This failure directly matches the defect described in NHTSA Recall 18V-358 (GM Campaign 18188/18268). That recall explains that the high-pressure fuel pump can detach from its mounting due to a weld failure, leading to oscillation, damage to the fuel system, and an increased risk of fire. Although the dealer phrased it as “bolts came loose,” the result is identical: the pump detached from the cylinder head and damaged the fuel system. Despite this, my VIN does not show an open recall. GM Customer Assistance told me the repair would not be covered because of the vehicle’s age and mileage (current mileage 129264), even though recalls are federal safety obligations that are not limited by warranty coverage. I am requesting that NHTSA review this exclusion and ensure Recall 18V-358 coverage applies to my vehicle. This defect creates a serious safety risk of fuel leaks and fire. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11691054

Incident

Sep 11, 2025

Vehicle experiences a loss a power will driving. A lawsuit for defective throttle control and pedal position sensor was filed but eventually dismissed. GM is aware of the issue but has done nothing to fix it

NHTSA ID

11685951

Incident

Sep 4, 2025

The fuel pressure system is faulty and shutting the engine down and reducing speed

NHTSA ID

11680377

Incident

Aug 13, 2025

Engine power reduced defect, causing affected models to lose power while driving at highway speeds. My son’s was driving 55 mph and then all of sudden the car decelerated to 20 mph in minutes before his 2016 Malibu stalled on [XXX]. Unfortunately the car did not make it to the emergency lane and as a result a SUV hit his car killing my daughter who was 33 weeks pregnant. The baby survived with lifelong injuries. Despite this recall, GM failed to notify vehicle owners, including the owner of the vehicle involved in the fatal accident on [XXX], in Dallas, Texas, resulting in my daughter’s death. This defect has been found in several 2016 Malibus, prompting a class action lawsuit against GM. Plaintiffs in the class action lawsuit reported having to restart their vehicles or replace faulty accelerator pedal position sensors to address the issue. GM's failure to notify vehicle owners of the safety recall constitutes negligence and gross negligence. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11672099

Incident

Jan 6, 2024

Brake booster pump failed ( gm part # 12704586 ) Causing limited braking and severe damage to internal engine components, camshafts ,timing chain have been damaged This is a ongoing problem in which i have had this pump replaced at my expense several times. The problem stems brake booster pump is lubricated using the engine's oil . Booster pump has a small screen to filter oil, this filter can easily become clogged resulting in booster to run dry and grenade into top of engine. These pieces then interfer with camshafts and timing gears other components

NHTSA ID

11671410

Incident

Jun 3, 2022

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving on several occasions at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost power. Additionally, the message “Engine Power Reduced" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed and determined that the throttle body sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 107,000.

NHTSA ID

11665802

Incident

Jun 4, 2025

Mileage

107,000 mi

I am filing a complaint regarding ongoing and worsening issues with my Chevrolet vehicle, which appear to point to broader defects involving the engine and electrical systems. Months ago, while driving, the car suddenly lost power and displayed "Engine Power Reduced." I had to keep using it due to work needs. Over time, it hesitated more during acceleration and felt increasingly unsafe. When I finally brought it to a Chevrolet service center, I was told the issue involved the pistons. The vehicle also regularly shows a "Shift to Park" warning even when the gear is in Park, raising concerns about the transmission's reliability. The power loss continues, especially when going uphill — again triggering the "Engine Power Reduced" alert and dropping the speed to no more than 35 MPH. A diagnostic showed a P0302 code for a cylinder 2 misfire. The radio head unit, already replaced once under warranty, failed again after just 9 months. Prior to the worsening idle and gear issues, I also received network-related codes involving the ECM and transmission computers. Although I’ve replaced the alternator, the car still shows "Service Electric System" warnings, suggesting ongoing electrical problems. I also noticed GM’s N182195660 campaign involving predictive monitoring for Stochastic Pre-Ignition (SPI) on SCP platforms. My car has the 2.0L turbo engine, and I’m concerned it may be experiencing SPI or coolant intrusion issues affecting overall performance and system integrity. I’m requesting that Chevrolet investigate these problems thoroughly and determine whether my vehicle qualifies for recall, extended warranty, or defect coverage. These issues are persistent, serious, and deserve immediate attention. Thank you for your time. I hope to see resolution soon.

NHTSA ID

11663745

Incident

May 28, 2025

Took my car to Chevy dealership to diagnose my car, as it was rough idling, causing hesitation, and knocking... all while the check engine light was on. They showed me two codes my car was giving from the check engine light. They said he would look further into it. They told me I needed a tune up, though I had gotten a tune up 4 months prior. They fixed some things and charged me over $4,000. The day I drove off the lot, the problems were still present. On my way home going about 50 mph, my car slowed down and the engine reduced power illuminated. I kept driving because I needed a car for work. The car continued to decline and acted like it didn't want to accelerate when pressing the gas. I finally took it back into chevy, and they told me it was my pistons. I'm 90% sure there is a defect that they won't tell me about, or the won't fix. I've had the car 2 years. Now the car won't run.

NHTSA ID

11659468

Incident

Dec 2, 2024

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)

NHTSA ID

11656608

Incident

Apr 24, 2025

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that occasionally while attempting to accelerate the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the failure also occurred while stopped at a traffic light. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving; however, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was advised that the throttle position sensor, and the intake airflow system were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 163,000.

NHTSA ID

11648171

Incident

Feb 19, 2025

Mileage

163,000 mi

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.

NHTSA ID

11644103

Incident

Feb 10, 2025