Does Chevy Malibu have auto stop?

Yes. In most recent Malibu models, the engine uses Auto Start-Stop to save fuel, and there is typically a button to deactivate it if you prefer to drive without it.

This article explains how Start-Stop works in the Malibu, which years and trims typically include it, how to disable it, and what drivers can expect in everyday use. Start-Stop is part of General Motors’ broader fuel-management strategy and can vary by engine, trim, and model year. For used-car buyers, verifying the feature on the exact vehicle is important, since configurations can differ by market and production year.

What Auto Start-Stop does in the Malibu

Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine automatically when the car is held idle at a stop (for example, at a red light) and restarts it when you release the brake or press the accelerator, depending on the transmission and conditions. The goal is to improve city fuel economy and reduce idle emissions. In Malibu models that support it, the system is designed to be seamless, though some drivers notice a brief restart and a change in cabin temperature during restarts. The feature can usually be disabled if you prefer not to use it.

Trims and model years that commonly include the feature

The feature has been standard on most Malibu trims with the 1.5-liter turbo engine since the mid-2010s. The 2.0-liter turbo option in higher trims also commonly includes Start-Stop, though exact availability can vary by year and market. If you’re shopping a used Malibu, verify the presence of Start-Stop and confirm how to disable it on that specific vehicle, since configurations can differ between model years and regions.

In broad terms, Start-Stop has appeared across the Malibu lineup from the 2016 generation onward, with some variation for non-U.S. markets and older generations that did not offer the feature.

Note that engine-load, climate-control use, and overall battery health can affect when and how aggressively Start-Stop engages during a trip.

For a quick reference on typical configurations:

• 2016–2023 Malibu with 1.5L turbo: Start-Stop is commonly standard.


• Higher trims with 2.0L turbo: Start-Stop is often included, depending on configuration.


• Pre-2016 Malibu models: Start-Stop was generally not available.

As with any fuel-saving feature, the real-world impact depends on your driving style and conditions. If fuel economy is a priority, Start-Stop can contribute to lower average consumption in city driving, but some drivers prefer to keep it off for comfort.

How to disable Auto Start-Stop in the Malibu

Where to find the control

On most Malibu models, the Start-Stop deactivation control is a button on the center console near the gear lever or climate controls, often labeled with an A and a circular arrow. The exact button location can vary by year and trim, so a quick peek in the cockpit is advised.

How to disable for a drive

To disable Start-Stop for a current drive, follow these steps:

• Start the engine and bring the car to a stop in Drive or Park with the engine running.


• Press the Start-Stop button to deactivate the feature for the current drive. The instrument cluster indicator should reflect that Start-Stop is off.


• Drive normally. The engine will not automatically shut off at stops while Start-Stop remains disabled.

Note that depending on conditions (battery health, cabin cooling/heating needs, or a fresh engine start), the system may re-enable Start-Stop on a future trip, requiring you to press the button again if you want it off again.

Impact on driving experience and fuel economy

When Start-Stop is active, you may notice a brief engine shutdown and a quick restart when you stop at a light. Most drivers report a seamless transition, with minimal interruption to acceleration after a restart. The feature can improve city mpg, but it may slightly affect cabin comfort in extreme heat or cold if climate control is heavy. Disabling Start-Stop eliminates the idle-off behavior but comes with a trade-off in fuel savings.

Buying used or checking in new models

Because the Malibu’s availability has varied by year and market, prospective buyers should verify Start-Stop presence on any specific vehicle and test the deactivation control during a test drive. If you’re shopping used, ask the seller to demonstrate whether the feature can be disabled and whether it remains off for the duration of a drive.

Summary

In summary, the Chevy Malibu generally includes Auto Start-Stop on recent models with the 1.5L turbo engine, and higher trims with the 2.0L turbo often follow suit. A dedicated button on the center console usually allows you to disable Start-Stop for a given trip, though the system can re-engage under certain conditions. With the Malibu now primarily found in used-car lots or older-newer combinations depending on the market, buyers should confirm Start-Stop availability and practice using the disable control on the exact vehicle they’re considering.

Can you turn auto stop off on a Chevy Malibu?

You can also confirm the option you chose on the instrument. Panel. Auto stop on or auto stop off please note that the auto stop is enabled each time you start the vehicle.

Why does my Chevy Malibu turn itself off?

Your Chevy Malibu is turning itself off due to one of three common reasons: the automatic Stop/Start Technology, a dirty throttle body or idle air control (IAC) valve, or a failing sensor, like the crankshaft position sensor or alternator. Check if the car restarts immediately after the engine shuts off when stopped, which indicates the automatic system. If the car stalls while driving or requires being put in park to restart, it could be a mechanical or sensor issue, and a professional diagnosis is recommended. 
Automatic Stop/Start Technology 

• What it is: Many modern Malibus have a feature that turns the engine off when you come to a complete stop to save fuel. The engine restarts automatically when you release the brake pedal.
• How to tell: You'll see "Auto Stop" on your tachometer, or your engine will turn off and then restart itself without you doing anything.
• What to do: There may be a button to disable this feature, or you can simply get used to it. 

Dirty throttle body or idle air control (IAC) valve 

• What it is: Carbon buildup can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to stall, especially when idling.
• How to tell: The engine may idle roughly before stalling, often when slowing down for a stop sign or traffic light.
• What to do: Cleaning the throttle body and IAC valve can often fix this. This is a common DIY fix, but a mechanic can perform it as well. 

Faulty sensors or other electrical issues 

• What it is: Several components can cause random stalling. These include a bad crankshaft position sensor, a faulty mass airflow (MAF) sensor, or issues with the charging system (like a failing alternator or battery current sensor). 
• How to tell: The stalling may happen unexpectedly while driving, not just when stopped. It could be accompanied by warning lights on the dashboard, dimming headlights, or difficulty starting. 
• What to do: A diagnostic scan tool is often needed to identify these issues. A mechanic can use a scan tool to check for error codes and live data, which helps isolate the problem. 

How to determine the cause

• If the engine stops only when you are completely stopped and restarts immediately when you take your foot off the brake: It is likely the automatic Stop/Start feature. 
• If the engine stalls while driving, or when you are coming to a stop, and won't restart easily: It could be a mechanical issue like a dirty throttle body or a faulty sensor. 
• If you see any warning lights on your dashboard: This could indicate an electrical or sensor issue, and you should have the vehicle scanned for codes. 

How do I turn off auto stop on my Chevy?

To turn off auto stop on a Chevy, press the "Auto Stop" button, which is typically marked with an 'A' inside a circle, located on the dashboard or center console. For some models without this button, manually shifting the transmission to a higher gear in "manual" or "L" mode can also disable the feature. 
Method 1: Use the dedicated button 

• Look for a button on the dashboard or center console with an 'A' inside a circular arrow.
• Press the button to turn the feature off.
• An indicator light on the button or dashboard will typically turn on to show that the system is disabled for that drive cycle.
• You will need to press this button each time you start the vehicle if you want to keep it off. 

This video shows how to turn off the auto stop feature on a 2025 Chevy Tahoe: 56sHillbilly How To'sYouTube · Jun 26, 2024
Method 2: Use manual shift mode (for models without a button) 

• Start your vehicle and shift the transmission into manual mode (often labeled 'L' for low). 
• Use the paddle shifters or the plus/minus buttons on the gear selector to manually shift up to the highest gear, such as 6th or 9th gear. 
• Shifting to the highest gear in this mode will bypass the auto stop feature, and the engine will not turn off when you stop. 

You can watch this video to see how to disable the auto stop by shifting to manual mode on a Chevy Equinox: 30sMechanic LifeYouTube · Sep 15, 2019

What is the most common problem with Chevy Malibu?

The most common problems with the Chevy Malibu include engine and transmission issues (such as power loss and rough shifting), electrical system failures (like a failed Passlock sensor and instrument panel issues), and leaks (particularly oil and water from the third brake light). Specific models have also been recalled for issues like unstable driver's seats and problematic throttle controls.
 
This video discusses common problems with Chevy Malibu models from 2016 to 2022: 1mFixITYouTube · Mar 29, 2024
Engine and transmission problems

• Engine power loss: Some models experience a sudden loss of power, which has been linked to issues with the electronic throttle control and accelerator pedal position sensors. 
• Transmission issues: Common complaints include rough shifting, slipping, leaks, and issues with the gear selector and transmission computer. 
• Engine performance: Problems like hesitation and sluggishness have been reported, sometimes caused by a faulty high-pressure fuel pump. 

Electrical and ignition problems 

• Passlock sensor failure: A failed Passlock sensor can prevent the car from starting. 
• Instrument panel/dashboard issues: Flickering or dead dashboard lights, as well as a faulty dimmer module, are reported problems. 
• General electrical issues: This can include everything from a radio that turns on and off randomly to total battery drain overnight. 
• Ignition switch failure: Some models have experienced a "no start" condition due to a failed ignition switch. 

Other common issues

• Leaks: Oil and water leaks are frequently reported. Water can seep in from a loose third brake light, while oil leaks can be caused by issues with the piston or oil pan. 
• Driver's seat instability: Certain models have been recalled because of an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism, which can cause instability. 
• Fuel gauge inaccuracy: The fuel gauge may not read correctly, sometimes accompanied by a check engine light. 

This video explains the top 5 problems for Chevy Malibu models from 2013 to 2015: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Apr 16, 2024