This preliminary informational (PI) bulletin provides information to dealership personnel that may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2013 Chevrolet Malibu powertrain problems
severe Owners of the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu have filed 53 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 70,000 miles at roughly $2,500 to repair (U.S. federal records, as of July 2026). Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. See powertrain across all vehicles →
Failure mileage
Complaints
53
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2009 Malibu | 98 |
| 2010 Malibu | 117 |
| 2011 Malibu | 102 |
| 2012 Malibu | 44 |
| 2013 Malibu (this page) | 53 |
| 2014 Malibu | 52 |
| 2015 Malibu | 29 |
| 2016 Malibu | 168 |
| 2017 Malibu | 138 |
2crashes
1injury
What stands out
Owners have filed 53 powertrain complaints with NHTSA against this vehicle, but no formal recall covers the issue — the federal record reflects what manufacturers have admitted, not everything owners are reporting.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering powertrain on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin informs the technician of an alternate lift procedure that has been developed when the lift plate does not fit the top of the transmission case for 6T30, 6T35, 6T40, 6T45, and 6T50 Transmissions.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
The failure pattern owners describe
The 2013 Malibu's powertrain emerges as chronically unreliable across multiple failure modes. Complete electrical power loss while driving dominates complaints—engines shut off at highway speeds, in traffic, or during turns, killing power steering, brakes, and all lights. Owners report this happens with no warning light and multiple times per day sometimes. Dealers often can't diagnose it, finding zero codes even when vehicles are monitored while failing.
Transmission problems are equally prevalent. Vehicles slip, jerk violently, fail to shift into reverse, or require complete replacement as early as 33,000 miles. The torque converter clutch hangs up, shifts happen abruptly or take too long, and the transmission control module fails electrically, causing the gear indicator lights to blank out and the car to surge forward uncontrollably.
The charging system and generator control module (GCM) are suspect in many cases. Alternators fail repeatedly, batteries die despite recent replacement, and warning messages for generator and charging issues appear before complete power loss on highways. Some owners are excluded from recalls covering these issues even though their symptoms match exactly.
Engine stalling at stops occurs repeatedly without stored codes. Fuel pump failures reduce power severely, and timing chain failures send metal shavings into the engine, requiring replacement under 80,000 miles. One owner also reports the vehicle rolling away while in Park on level ground, and another describes sudden transmission failure coinciding with engine failure at under 100,000 miles.
Same Chevrolet Malibu powertrain reports on nearby years: 2010 · 2011 · 2012 · 2014 · 2015
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Stalling / Complete Power Loss While Driving
Vehicle loses all electrical power or engine shuts off without warning while operating at various speeds (10-75 mph), including on highways, in traffic, and while turning. Power loss often occurs at stops or low speeds. Owners report loss of power steering, brakes, and all electrical systems during events. Some vehicles restart immediately after; others require multiple restart attempts.
When: 10-75 mph, at traffic stops, low-speed turns, highways; owners report failures occurring from 5,000 miles to 125,000+ miles
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off unexpectedly at various speeds; Complete loss of electrical power (lights, radio, power steering, brake assist all dead); Vehicle loses control or nearly crashes during power loss events; No warning lights or check engine light before failure; Dashboard and electronics shut down then restore; Repeated occurrences sometimes multiple times per day
Codes mentioned: Service Generator Control Module warning, Service Power Steering message, Service Battery Charging System warning, Service Stabilitrak and Reduced Engine Power, Check Engine Light (sometimes absent), P0089, P228D, P0016
Repairs/costs cited: Owners cite alternator replacement, battery replacement (multiple times), generator control module (GCM) replacement, ECM reprogramming, timing chain/guides/tensioner replacement, fuel pump replacement (high pressure), transmission module replacement. Costs not specified in narratives.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers often report no codes found and no ability to diagnose. GM refused to cover repairs citing expired powertrain warranty despite mileage under 100k. Some owners report GCM was replaced under recall at prior ownership but vehicle not on current recall list. One owner received case number from GM but was told nothing could be done.
Transmission Failure / Shifting Problems
Transmission exhibits delayed or abrupt shifts, slipping, jerking violently, failing to engage gears (especially reverse), or complete transmission failure requiring replacement. Some owners report torque converter clutch hanging up. Transmission may need replacement as early as 33,000 miles or fail at 70,000+ miles.
When: 33,150 miles to 125,000+ miles; issues vary from early 30s to over 100k miles
Symptoms owners cite: Transmission shifts slowly or abruptly/violently; Vehicle surges at high rate of speed when shifting; Transmission slips or fails to engage reverse; Torque converter clutch hangs up; Long shifts and occasional slippage; Jerking and hesitation during acceleration; Transmission locks up; Hard jerks as if brakes applied when decelerating uphill
Codes mentioned: Transmission Control Module (TCM) fault, P0796 (pressure solenoid control performance), P0722 (speed sensor, no signal), Service Parking Brake message, Transmission warning lights
Repairs/costs cited: Owners report transmission module replacement, transmission replacement (some with junkyard units), torque converter repairs. One owner had transmission replaced but then extension warranty expired 8 days after repair, leaving them liable for subsequent issues.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers recommended transmission replacement; some authorized under warranty, others denied coverage when warranty expired. One owner's warranty company authorized junkyard transmission replacement. Chevrolet refused to assist on out-of-warranty transmission failures.
Fuel System Failures (High Pressure Fuel Pump)
High pressure fuel pump fails, causing vehicle to run on lift pump only, severe power loss, and inability to maintain speed above 40 mph. Engine runs lean and may fail to accelerate or stall.
When: July 2023 (one reported case at highway speeds); failure occurred on one vehicle after initial high-pressure fuel pump replacement
Symptoms owners cite: Sudden deceleration while driving; Unable to maintain speed above 40 mph; Engine running on lift pump only; Service Stabilitrak and Reduced Engine Power messages; Complete loss of power; Difficulty starting or not starting
Codes mentioned: Service Stabilitrak, Reduced Engine Power
Repairs/costs cited: High pressure fuel pump replaced with new gasket and pressure line. One owner had this repaired in July 2023, then experienced subsequent transmission issues in September and October 2023.
Timing Chain / Internal Engine Failures
Timing chain breaks or wears through plastic and metal tensioners, sending metal and plastic shavings into engine, causing stalling, idling problems, and complete shutdown. Engine replacement required under 80,000 miles. Some owners report loss of power, stalling at various speeds, and no warning lights before catastrophic failure.
When: 78,153 miles (one case); under 38,000 miles (another case); timing chain tensioners can fail without reaching high mileage
Symptoms owners cite: Timing chain eats through plastic and metal tensioners; Metal and plastic shavings in engine; Stalling and complete engine shutdown; RPM fluctuations up and down; No engine light warning before failure; Vehicle stalls on freeway and city streets; Engine overheated idle indicator comes on while driving (though temp gauge shows normal); Loss of power
Codes mentioned: No check engine light in many cases, Service overheated idle indicator (when engine temp gauge shows normal)
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement required. One owner had timing chain, guides, tensioner, cam actuators, intake manifold work, exhaust cam solenoid, and exhaust manifold bolts replaced. Cost not specified.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: No recalls mentioned for timing chain defect despite multiple complaints of similar failures.
Vehicle Rolling Away While in Park
Vehicle rolls away while in Park with key removed or engine off, crashing into objects or nearly causing accidents. Parking brake ineffective on level ground. Dealers unable to diagnose or reproduce failure. One owner was dragged while trying to stop vehicle.
When: At 125,000 miles or less; one incident reported at or near purchase with 5,600 miles
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle rolls forward while in Park on level ground; Vehicle visible in Park position at time of rolling; Uncontrolled rolling despite Park engagement; Parking brake ineffective
Repairs/costs cited: Not repaired; dealers unable to diagnose or find fault
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM advised owner to use parking brake on level ground despite owner already having vehicle in Park. No assistance provided. Police report filed but no manufacturer follow-up.
Transmission Gear Position Selector / Shift Indicator Failure
Transmission gear position selector fails, preventing proper gear engagement or causing system to not recognize Park engagement. Shift indicator lights (PRND) go blank, requiring multiple manipulations of shifter to engage Park. Warning message 'PLEASE SHIFT TO PARK' appears on dash.
When: 50,000-65,000 miles in reported cases
Symptoms owners cite: Cannot shift into Park or shift sticks; PRND gear indicator lights go blank or stop illuminating; 'Please Shift to Park' error message; Must manipulate shifter 5-20 times to engage Park; Intermittent failures making diagnosis difficult
Codes mentioned: Transmission Gear Position Selector malfunction
Repairs/costs cited: Transmission gear position selector replacement needed. One case associated with NHTSA Campaign 15V245000 (Powertrain).
Alternator / Battery Charging System Failures
Charging system fails to maintain charge, alternator fails repeatedly, or battery drains despite repeated replacements. One owner bought four new batteries in two years. Alternator replaced twice with recurring failures. Battery warning light may remain on even after alternator replacement.
When: As early as 5,600 miles (used purchase); repeated failures over 2-year period
Symptoms owners cite: Battery completely dead despite recent replacement; Alternator fails multiple times; Battery service charging light on continuously; Battery will not hold charge; Repeated battery and alternator replacements needed; Burning smell during operation; No power to lights, horn, wipers, interior lights, brakes, or steering when dead
Codes mentioned: Service Battery Charging System warning, Battery indicator light
Repairs/costs cited: Battery replacement (multiple times), alternator replacement (multiple times), generator control module replacement (on one Eco model). One owner needed four new batteries in two years; another replaced alternator twice.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers found no codes and blamed owner for leaving door open. eAssist recall mentioned for Eco model but owner's VIN not on recall list despite matching symptoms. GM expert specialist refused to authorize module replacement.
Generator Control Module (GCM) Malfunction
GCM fails to regulate charging properly, resulting in complete loss of electrical power while driving. Warning message 'SERVICE GENERATOR CONTROL MODULE' displays before power loss. Vehicle loses all electrical systems including lights, steering, and brake assist on busy highways.
When: Various mileages; one failure on busy Interstate highway
Symptoms owners cite: Service Generator Control Module warning message; Voltage begins to drop; Electrical components fail (lights, steering, brake assist); Engine stops; Complete loss of battery power; No emergency flashers or ignition key removal possible; Dashboard and radio light up on their own when no one is in vehicle
Codes mentioned: Service Generator Control Module
Repairs/costs cited: GCM replacement may be needed but some dealers report vehicle operates normally after tow. Chevrolet suggested computer may have initiated false error then shut down GCM.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Some owners excluded from recall list. Chevrolet suggested false error report. One owner's dog jumped from stranded vehicle into traffic, resulting in $6,600 medical bills.
Idle Control / Engine Stalling at Stops
Engine stalls repeatedly when vehicle comes to stop at red lights or stop signs. Vehicle vibrates and RPM moves up and down before stalling. No warning codes stored. Stalling occurs after initial fuel pump replacement in some cases. Engine light does not illuminate despite failure.
When: Multiple times per stop or after recent repairs; failures reported at 72,534 miles and continuing
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle stalls at stops without warning; Vibration and RPM fluctuation before stall; Engine dies while idling at lights; Must restart vehicle each time it stalls; No check engine light or warning codes; Repeated stalling at every stop
Codes mentioned: No codes in ECM/TCM despite failures, Service throttle body recommended by some shops
Repairs/costs cited: Fuel system cleaning attempted, throttle body replacement attempted, ECM module update and throttle body reprogramming attempted. Issues persist after repairs.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers unable to find codes; dealership reprogrammed ECM and throttle body but car continues to stall. Firestone and dealership unable to resolve.
Engine Power Reduced / Limp Mode
Engine power reduced message displays, vehicle enters limp mode, unable to accelerate properly or maintain highway speeds. Vehicle slows from 55-60 mph down to 20 mph and shakes violently. Check engine light illuminates with power steering and traction control warnings.
When: While driving 55 mph on cruise control; reported at various speeds between 35-60 mph
Codes mentioned: Engine Power is Reduced code, P0089 (fuel injector flow/pressure issue), Throttle Body Sensor fault (per owner manual)
Repairs/costs cited: Cam shaft sensor replacement performed in one case. Fuel system cleaning and throttle body replacement attempted in another. Timing chain, cam shaft, and fuel pump replacement needed in one case under 38,000 miles.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: One dealership (under warranty) replaced timing chain, guides, tensioner, cam actuators, and fuel pump. Another leasing dealer closed on weekend and owner refused to drive car until diagnosis complete.
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Electrical Failure
TCM fails causing vehicle to lose transmission control and electrical power. PRND gear indicator lights go blank, warning lights illuminate (Service Power Steering, Check Engine, Service Parking Brake), and vehicle surges forward violently without shifting into gear.
When: Failures reported at various mileages; one at early ownership
Symptoms owners cite: Service Power Steering message; PRND gear indicator lights blank; Check Engine light; Service Parking Brake message; Vehicle surges forward violently; Cannot shift into gear; Instrument panel gauges and electronics turn off and on; Vehicle operates in limp mode with multiple warning lights
Codes mentioned: Transmission Control Module (TCM) failure
Repairs/costs cited: TCM replacement covered under warranty in one case. One owner concerned about highway failure safety and refused to drive vehicle.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Spencer Chevrolet replaced TCM under warranty. Owner noted this was third electrical issue on vehicle (trunk opening on its own, radio locking up).
Brake System / Power Brake Assist Failure
Power brake assist fails, brakes lock up in rear, or power brakes completely non-functional when vehicle loses electrical power. Steering also becomes locked or non-responsive.
When: During electrical power loss events; one case at 45 mph in traffic light zone
Symptoms owners cite: Power brakes non-functional; Rear brakes lock up; Steering wheel locks up or cannot turn; Loss of brake assist during power loss events; Unable to shift to neutral when brakes locked
Repairs/costs cited: No specific brake repairs mentioned; failures occur as secondary effect of electrical power loss
HVAC / Climate Control Intermittent Operation
Air conditioning and heating malfunction intermittently. AC randomly blasts heat while in use. Heat only works intermittently and does not reach proper temperature. Requires repeated on/off cycling to engage heat.
When: Summer 2015 (AC issue); December 2015 - January 2016 (heat issue)
Symptoms owners cite: AC randomly blasts heat while idle or driving; Heat only works intermittently; Heat never gets hot like it should; Must restart car and cycle AC/heat multiple times to get heat to work; Safety issue for windshield defrost in cold weather
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs completed; repair shop found nothing wrong
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Mechanic stated it's probably a computer issue. GM did not issue recall despite owner noting it's a recurring problem with many owners.
Rear Suspension Toe Link Failure
Rear suspension toe link experiences repeated failures requiring recall repairs multiple times on same vehicle.
When: Failures reported requiring three separate recall repairs on same vehicle
Symptoms owners cite: Rear suspension toe link failure
Repairs/costs cited: Rear suspension toe link recall performed three times on same vehicle
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Recall repairs completed but recurring failures suggest design or durability issue
Hydraulic Transmission Lines Rupture
Hydraulic transmission lines blow out while driving on highway, causing loss of transmission pressure and function. Towing and repair costs out-of-pocket when not covered by warranty.
When: On highway at unspecified speed; occurred 30 days prior to subsequent transmission failure
Symptoms owners cite: Hydraulic transmission lines blow out; Loss of transmission function
Repairs/costs cited: $900 out-of-pocket cost for repair and towing
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Not covered by warranty; extended warranty had expired by time of transmission failure complaint
Synthesized from 53 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 0 most recent
Had powertrain trouble with your 2013 Chevrolet Malibu?
File a complaint with NHTSA → It's free, official, and how every report above got here — owner filings are the federal safety record this page is built on.
Common questions
How serious is the powertrain problem on the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu?
It's a meaningful issue. 53 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $2,500.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 38 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 19,200 and 100,267 miles, with the median around 70,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 19,200; a quarter make it past 100,267. Maintenance history matters more than the odometer alone — this is the reported failure window, not a guarantee.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $2,500 for powertrain repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to powertrain?
No active recalls currently cover powertrain issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.
Related
Complaint and recall data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
public records database. Verify the raw federal record at
nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2013/Chevrolet/Malibu.
Severity ratings are derived from reported crashes, fires, injuries, and fatalities. Repair cost estimates are
independent-shop national averages and may differ in your area. Some links on this page are affiliate links.