Was there a recall on Chevy Malibu power steering?

Yes — there have been recalls affecting the Malibu’s power steering, primarily tied to the electric power steering (EPS) system in specific model years. If your vehicle is affected, a dealer will perform the repair at no cost under the recall. You should verify recall status using your vehicle’s VIN with official safety databases.

Background: EPS recalls and the Malibu

Power steering in recent Malibu models is typically electric, and several safety campaigns have targeted EPS modules, wiring, or related sensors. Recall coverage varies by year and region, so exact applicability depends on your VIN. Official databases maintained by safety agencies and GM provide the most accurate information.

How to determine if your Malibu is affected

To determine whether your specific Malibu is subject to a power steering recall, use these steps:

• Locate your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), a 17-character code found on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb.


• Visit the NHTSA recall lookup at SaferCar.gov and enter your VIN to see any active or completed safety recalls.


• Check GM’s official Owner Center for recall status tied to your VIN, or contact a Chevrolet dealer for confirmation.


• If a recall is listed, schedule service promptly; recall repairs are performed at no cost to the owner.

Note: Recalls can be issued at any time and may cover only certain VINs within a model year. Always rely on official databases for current information.

What to expect during a recall repair

Repair scope and process

When a recall involves the EPS system, technicians typically inspect components such as the EPS control module, wiring harnesses, and related sensors. Depending on the diagnosis, the fix may include software updates, module reprogramming, or replacement of faulty hardware. All work related to safety recalls is provided free of charge by the dealer.

Owners should expect a service appointment, with the possibility of a temporary loaner or a longer service time if multiple components require replacement. Verify the exact steps and timing with the dealer when you book the repair.

Summary

There have been recalls affecting the Chevy Malibu power steering, mainly tied to electric power steering components in certain model years. If you own a Malibu, check your VIN against official recall databases (NHTSA and GM) and contact a Chevrolet dealer to arrange any necessary repairs. Stay informed, as new recalls can be issued that expand coverage or add affected VINs.

Why is my Chevy Malibu saying steering assist reduced?

The "steering assist reduced" warning on a Chevy Malibu indicates a problem with the electric power steering (EPS) system. Common causes include a weak or failing battery, a faulty steering angle sensor, or a problem with the EPS motor itself. Low battery voltage is a frequent culprit, as it can affect the performance of the EPS system. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the symptoms and causes of this warning: 23sTopicMotorYouTube · Jan 18, 2025
Common causes

• Battery issues: A weak or failing battery can cause a voltage drop that the EPS system detects, leading it to reduce assistance for protection. 
• Steering angle sensor: This sensor monitors the steering wheel's position. A failing sensor or loose wiring can trigger the warning. 
• Electric power steering (EPS) motor: The motor that provides the steering assistance can fail over time, leading to reduced assist. 
• Wiring and connections: Corroded or damaged wiring and connectors to the EPS system can cause communication errors. 
• Other sensor or module faults: Problems with other sensors, such as the steering angle sensor, or the EPS control module can cause the issue. 
• Tire issues: In some cases, after a tire change, the steering system may need recalibration, especially if tire pressure is uneven, which can affect sensor readings. 

This video explains how a faulty thermostat can also trigger this warning: 59sFalcon's GarageYouTube · Mar 14, 2022
What to do

1. Check the battery: Have the battery and charging system tested. If it's weak or old, replacing it can often resolve the issue. 
2. Scan for error codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the power steering system. 
3. Inspect wiring: Visually inspect the wiring harnesses and connectors for the EPS system for any signs of damage or corrosion. 
4. Try a reset: Some issues can be fixed by resetting the system. You can try turning the steering wheel fully to the left and right locks, then centering it, turning the car off, and restarting it. 
5. Consult a professional: If the basic checks don't fix the problem, it's best to have a qualified mechanic diagnose the EPS motor, control module, or sensor. 

How do I reset my electric power steering?

To reset electric power steering, turn off the engine, then turn it on and center the steering wheel before turning the wheel lock-to-lock (fully right, then fully left). After returning the wheel to the center, turn the car off and on again to complete the initialization. This procedure, often called a lock-to-lock reset, can correct issues that occur after a battery disconnection or power disruption. 
Lock-to-lock steering wheel reset 
This video demonstrates the lock-to-lock steering wheel reset procedure: 54sMoparYouTube · Jan 8, 2025

1. Turn off the engine. Make sure the ignition is off. 
2. Start the engine: and let it idle. 
3. Center the steering wheel. Ensure the wheels are pointing straight ahead. 
4. Turn the steering wheel fully to the right. Hold it there for about 5 seconds. 
5. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left. Hold it there for about 5 seconds. 
6. Return the steering wheel to the center. Make sure it is straight again. 
7. Turn the ignition off. Wait for all the dashboard lights to turn off. 
8. Restart the engine. The steering wheel should now be initialized. 

Other potential causes and solutions

• Check the battery: A weak or failing battery can trigger the power steering warning light. Check the battery's charge and ensure the terminals are clean and tight. 
• Use an OBD-II scanner: If the reset doesn't work, a scanner can help identify specific diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the steering angle sensor or other components. 
• Consult a professional: If the light persists or you suspect a more serious issue, such as a faulty sensor or wiring problem, a professional mechanic can provide a more thorough diagnosis and repair. 

How much does it cost to fix electric power steering in a Chevy Malibu?

The average cost for a Chevrolet Malibu Power Steering Pump Replacement is between $494 and $580. Labor costs are estimated between $183 and $269 while parts are typically priced around $311.

What is the power steering recall on the 2012 Chevy Malibu?

There is no active recall for a specific 2012 Chevy Malibu power steering issue, but there was a General Motors special coverage adjustment for a power steering problem on some 2007-2012 Malibus (among other GM models) that is now expired. This issue could cause a sudden loss of power assist, making steering difficult, and was covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles from the original purchase date. While the coverage has likely expired, a similar problem can be caused by a faulty torque sensor or EPS motor, which may display warning lights and chimes if it occurs. 
This video demonstrates how to perform a reset on the power steering system: 48sMike Biker CanadaYouTube · Sep 2, 2025

• Expired Special Coverage: GM had a special coverage for electric power steering (EPS) problems on 2007-2012 Malibus, which has since expired. This coverage was for a failure of the steering column torque sensor or the EPS motor/controller, which would cause the vehicle to revert to manual steering. 
• Current potential issue: Although the special coverage has expired, the same underlying problem can still occur. A warning message and chime would indicate that the electric power steering has failed and the vehicle has reverted to manual steering. 
• Common causes: A faulty torque sensor (which can set a C0545 trouble code) and a failing EPS motor are the most common causes of this issue in the 2012 Malibu, notes this YouTube video and 1A Auto. 
• How to check: You can check if your specific vehicle is subject to any current recalls or has any other outstanding service actions by entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the RepairPal Safety Recall Checker or the NHTSA website. 

You can watch this video to learn how to replace the electronic power steering motor in a Chevrolet Malibu: 1mRestodan's Big Money GarageYouTube · Feb 8, 2017