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 ↗2016 Chevrolet Malibu powertrain problems
moderate Owners of the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu have filed 168 NHTSA complaints about the powertrain, typically surfacing around 42,000 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
168
Recalls
0
Avg fix
$2,500
| Model year | powertrain complaints |
|---|---|
| 2012 Malibu | 44 |
| 2013 Malibu | 53 |
| 2014 Malibu | 52 |
| 2015 Malibu | 29 |
| 2016 Malibu (this page) | 168 |
| 2017 Malibu | 138 |
| 2018 Malibu | 159 |
| 2019 Malibu | 63 |
| 2020 Malibu | 50 |
2crashes
2injuries
When does it fail?
Of the 168 powertrain complaints filed for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 0-25,000 mi.
0-25k
25-50k
50-75k
75-100k
100-125k
125-150k
150k+
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
What stands out
Of the 20 model years of Chevrolet Malibu we track for powertrain problems, this one carries the most owner complaints on file — 168.
Owners have filed 168 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 2016 Chevrolet Malibu's powertrain complaints cluster around several interconnected failures. The most dangerous and frequent is sudden loss of engine power at highway speeds—the car drops from 65+ mph to 20-40 mph without warning, triggering "Engine Power Reduced" warnings and immobilizing acceleration. Owners report this happens during interstate driving and uphill grades, leaving them stranded or creating collision hazards. Dealers attribute the issue to throttle position sensors or accelerator pedal sensors (~$520 repair), yet GM's own service bulletins acknowledge the problem.
Equally pervasive is the "Shift to Park" defect: the transmission's electronic shifter fails to recognize park position even when the lever is fully engaged. The vehicle won't shut off, stays in accessory mode draining the battery, and can't be locked. Jiggling the shifter or restarting helps temporarily, but the problem recurs. GM has issued service bulletins and one recall campaign (16V502000), but many affected vehicles fall outside recall scope. Repair costs run $450–$700 for shifter assembly replacement, and failures often recur within weeks.
Owners also report jerking transmissions from new, excessive engine movement under push-pull testing, stalling without warning, and brake pedal failures where pedals go rock-hard or travel to the floor with no pressure. Some owners describe replaced engines, transmissions, and shifters multiple times on the same vehicle. Dealers consistently tell owners problems are "working as designed" or deny replicating issues that happen intermittently, blocking warranty repairs after the basic coverage expires.
Same Chevrolet Malibu powertrain reports on nearby years: 2014 · 2015 · 2017 · 2018 · 2019
Failure modes owners describe
Engine Power Reduced / Reduced Engine Power Warning
Engine loses power dramatically while driving, often without warning. Vehicle speed drops suddenly to 20-40 mph regardless of driver input. Check engine light illuminates. Issue recurs intermittently or progressively worsens over days/weeks.
When: Occurs while cruising on freeways at 65-70 mph, during uphill driving, or during acceleration. Some owners report onset within weeks to months of ownership.
Symptoms owners cite: Speed drops suddenly from 65+ mph to 20-40 mph; Check engine light comes on; Engine Power Reduced message appears on dashboard; Vehicle cannot exceed 3000 RPM or 35 mph; Hazardous power loss in traffic requiring emergency pullover; Issue recurs after restarting car
Codes mentioned: P0302 (Cylinder 2 Misfire), P2138, P06DE, U1502, U0422, C0760
Repairs/costs cited: Throttle position sensor/accelerator pedal position sensor replacement cited as repair (~$520). Throttle sensor and ECM replacement reported. Some dealers note throttle/pedal sensor not covered under powertrain warranty despite being powertrain components.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM Campaign N182188250 addresses loss of continuity within accelerator pedal position sensor circuit. Special coverage campaign N182195660 exists for predictive monitoring of Stochastic Pre-Ignition on certain platforms. Service bulletins and TSBs mention this issue.
Shift to Park Warning / Park Position Not Recognized
Transmission shifter control fails to recognize when vehicle is in park position. Dash displays 'Shift to Park' or 'Action Required' warning even when shifter is fully in park. Vehicle will not shut off properly, remaining in accessory mode with lights and electronics active. Problem is intermittent initially, becoming frequent.
When: Problem occurs upon parking and attempting to shut off engine. Some owners report onset 2-3 years after purchase; others experience it early in ownership. Intermittent at first, then recurring regularly.
Symptoms owners cite: Shift to Park warning displays when vehicle is already in park; Vehicle will not fully shut off; remains in accessory/auxiliary mode; Interior and exterior lights remain on; Radio stays on; Vehicle cannot be locked; Repeated jiggling/manipulation of shifter needed to register park; Battery drain over time if vehicle left in this state; Horn may honk when exiting vehicle; Remote key detection fails
Codes mentioned: No error code stored in memory (noted in multiple complaints)
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter module/assembly replacement costs $450-$700. Harness replacement within shifter module attempted. Repairs fail after 6 weeks to 2 years. Multiple owners replaced shifter assembly multiple times with recurring failure.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM acknowledges this as a 'known issue' per multiple dealers. Service bulletins and TSBs exist for this problem. NHTSA Campaign 16V502000 (Electrical System, Power Train) was issued but many vehicles with this issue are not included in recall VIN list. No official recall issued despite widespread complaints.
Excessive Powertrain Movement / Motor Mount Failure
Engine and powertrain move excessively when vehicle is pushed and pulled, and during gear shifts. Described as jolting, jerking, bucking sensation during downshifts. Appears to be related to degraded or faulty motor mounts allowing abnormal engine movement.
When: Present from early ownership. Some owners notice upon test drive before purchase; others develop after weeks/months of ownership.
Symptoms owners cite: Excessive engine movement when pushing/pulling parked vehicle; Firm/jolting sensation during shifts, especially downshifts; Engine RPM spikes during coasting or deceleration (1500 to 3000 rpm jump); Bucking sensation during braking and deceleration; Movement appears abnormal and outside industry standards per knowledgeable owners; Power train movement during shifts described as 'extreme'
Repairs/costs cited: No repairs documented in narratives. One owner planned to install dial indicator to measure movement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Chevrolet has not provided investigation pathway. Dealers dismiss concerns, stating condition is 'working as designed.' Owner suspects systemic issue across multiple 2016 GM vehicles including Camaro.
Transmission Jerking / Abnormal Shifting Noise
Transmission exhibits jerking, bucking, and abnormal noises during normal operation. Vehicle may jerk abruptly when braking or shifting gears. Abnormal noise from transmission described as grinding or clanking. Occurs from 30 miles off the lot on some vehicles.
When: Occurs during normal city and highway driving. Can be present brand new (one owner reported at 30 miles). Worst in stop-and-go traffic.
Symptoms owners cite: Car bucks when braking from 3rd to 1st gear; RPM rises almost 1000 with each downshift; Engine pulls vehicle back abruptly; Transmission jerks and loses smooth operation; Abnormal loud noise from transmission; 100% occurrence in stop-and-go city driving; Occurs when brake is applied; Accelerated brake wear suspected
Repairs/costs cited: One owner had transmission replaced within 6 months of purchase but abnormal noise continued. Transmission replaced a second time with recurrence. No permanent fix found.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers told one owner 'Chevy engines do that' and attributed to eco engine power conservation. Another dealer stated 'nothing wrong with your car' or 'working as designed.' No recalls issued despite multiple occurrences.
Engine Stall / Loss of All Power While Driving
Engine shuts off completely while driving at normal speeds with no warning. Vehicle loses all power, all dashboard warning lights illuminate. Does not restart immediately. Occurs intermittently, unpredictably.
When: Can occur at any time during normal driving. Some owners report weeks between incidents. Happens in traffic, on highways, at various speeds (30-70 mph).
Symptoms owners cite: Engine shuts off without warning while driving; All power lost; All dashboard warning lights come on; Stabilizer bar warning light illuminates; Check engine light illuminates; Takes extended time to restart or won't start initially; Incident recurs within same drive
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer diagnostic shows computer coming back 'clean' despite failures occurring. No resolution documented.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Dealers cannot determine cause. Computer diagnostics yield no codes despite failures. Owners suspect ECM or hybrid powertrain control module issue but no definitive fix identified.
Brake System Failure / Hard Brake Pedal
Brake pedal becomes extremely hard to depress with little to no pressure, or travels to floorboard without braking effect. Described as rock-hard, metal-on-metal grinding sound. Brake failure occurs without warning while driving.
When: Occurs intermittently without pattern. One owner reported first incident earlier in year, then reoccurrence.
Symptoms owners cite: Brake pedal rock hard, nearly impossible to depress; Brake pedal travel to floorboard without braking effect; Metal-on-metal grinding/clunking noise from brakes; No brake pressure; Brake lights fail to illuminate; Occurs at highway speeds without warning; Brakes return to normal after stopping
Repairs/costs cited: Dealer stated brake booster has been recalled. One owner was charged for repair without documented cause determination.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Brake booster subject to recall. Multiple recalls issued for 2016 Malibu including fuel pump system and airbags, but not all vehicle VINs included in recalls despite showing signs of recalled issues.
Shifter Control Module Failure (Gear Shift/Recognition)
Shifter control module fails to recognize gear position. Vehicle cannot shift properly or gets stuck in certain gears. When shifting into park, vehicle either won't recognize park or in one case shifted in reverse made car move forward instead.
When: Occurs during normal shifting operations. One case report of EV mode issue in hybrid model on warm days (85+ degrees).
Symptoms owners cite: Unable to shift from park into drive; Shifter stuck or difficult to move between gears; Vehicle shifted to reverse but moved forward; Vehicle in EV mode would not respond correctly to shift input; Shifting noise and engine start noise heard when attempting shift
Repairs/costs cited: Shifter control replaced. Wiring harness replacement per service bulletin attempted. One hybrid had ECM and transmission control module reflashed per factory service bulletin without success.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Service bulletins exist for shifter module replacement and wiring harness repair. Manufacturer aware of issue but repairs appear temporary.
Radio / Head Unit Failure
Radio head unit stops functioning or fails completely. One owner had unit replaced under warranty, but it failed again after only 9 months.
When: Can fail early in ownership. Recurrence reported 9 months after warranty replacement.
Symptoms owners cite: Radio will not shut off; Radio won't work at all; Radio shuts off or doesn't work intermittently
Repairs/costs cited: Head unit replaced under warranty. Replacement unit failed 9 months later.
Engine Misfires / Low Compression / Blown Pistons
Engine experiences misfire conditions, low compression, blown pistons, and debris in engine bore causing scoring. Pistons fail and debris causes deep damage inside engine block.
When: Reported at various mileages from 5000 to 78,000 miles. One case at 3 years/4.5 years ownership.
Symptoms owners cite: Check engine light illuminates; Rough idle; Engine oil level drops rapidly (3300-5000 miles between changes); Cooling fans continue running after engine off; Low compression detected during diagnostics; Debris visible in engine bore
Codes mentioned: P0302 (Cylinder 2 Misfire)
Repairs/costs cited: Engine replacement performed. One owner reported blown piston with debris scoring bore requiring full engine replacement. Cooling fan issue persisted after engine replacement, leading to accelerator pedal sensor and mass air flow sensor replacement.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: GM's N182195660 campaign involves predictive monitoring for Stochastic Pre-Ignition (SPI) on certain platforms with 2.0L turbo engines. Possible coolant intrusion issue mentioned by owner.
Electrical System / ECM Communication Failures
Electrical system shows multiple faults including service electric system warnings, ECM communication errors, transmission computer network errors, and failed electrical components.
When: Occurs during vehicle operation. Can develop after months of normal use.
Symptoms owners cite: Service Electric System warning displayed; Network-related codes involving ECM and transmission computers; Electrical components fail intermittently; Key fob fails to work; Remote key detection fails
Codes mentioned: Network-related codes (specific codes not detailed in narrative)
Repairs/costs cited: Alternator replaced but Service Electric System warnings continued. Multiple electrical repairs performed.
Trunk Latch / Rear Seat Release Mechanism Failure
Trunk latch becomes stuck and cannot be opened manually or with remote key fob. Rear seat release button non-functional, preventing seat folding for cargo access.
When: Issue encountered during normal vehicle operation and storage.
Symptoms owners cite: Trunk latch stuck; cannot be opened manually; Remote key fob does not open trunk; Rear seat release button not functioning; Cannot access cargo area; Cannot fold rear seats for emergency access
Hybrid System Failures / EV Mode Issues
Hybrid powertrain control module fails. Vehicle shuts down unexpectedly while in EV mode. After restart, vehicle sometimes shifts into forward instead of intended reverse while in EV mode.
When: Warm days (85-100 degrees) when car parked in sun noted as common factor. Occurs after weeks/months of ownership.
Symptoms owners cite: Vehicle shuts down at highway speeds (30-40 mph); Vehicle operates in default mode without EV components after shutdown; Shift input ignored while in EV mode; Vehicle moves in unintended direction despite shift input; Rough idle and shaking
Repairs/costs cited: Hybrid powertrain control module reprogrammed per factory service bulletin. Wiring harness replacement per service bulletin attempted.
Recalls/TSBs owners mention: Factory service bulletins exist for hybrid powertrain control module reprogramming and wiring harness replacement. Manufacturer aware of problem.
Synthesized from 168 NHTSA owner complaints — unverified consumer allegations, summarized for patterns. The verbatim filings appear below.
What owners are reporting 3 most recent
"reduced engine power" warning came and power was suddenly reduced and vehicle speed reduced. This happened while travelling 70mph on an interstate road. Very dangerous as the speed dropped to 40 MPH.
Tl* the contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet malibu. While attempting to reverse the vehicle, the transmission became stuck in neutral. The contact's vehicle rolled backwards and crashed into a parked vehicle. The incident occurred on three separate occasions. A police report was filed and there were no injuries. The cause of the failure was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer…
I was traveling on a highway, going around 70 MPH, as I was about to merge onto another freeway, my check engine light came on, and a notification came on that said reduced engine power. My car then dropped speed to about 40 MPH. I was unable to accelerate the rest of my route to work. I topped at 20 MPH. I checked my code reader and p2138 came up.
Had powertrain trouble with your 2016 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 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
It's a documented issue but not catastrophic. 168 complaints have been filed. Repairs average $2,500 and most owners catch it before it causes a breakdown.
At what mileage does the powertrain typically fail?
Across the 106 complaints that reported odometer mileage, most powertrain failures cluster between 25,000 and 55,000 miles, with the median around 42,000. A quarter of owners report trouble before 25,000; a quarter make it past 55,000. 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/2016/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.