What is the class action lawsuit on the Chevy Malibu?

The Chevy Malibu class action is a group of lawsuits filed on behalf of Malibu owners against General Motors, alleging common defects or other issues that affected multiple vehicles in the model line. Outcomes can include settlements, recalls, or expanded warranties.

There is no single nationwide Malibu-specific case that currently controls all Malibu owners. Over the years, multiple lawsuits and settlements have involved Malibu as part of broader GM litigation or model-year specific claims. The details depend on the year and the particular allegations.

What defines a class action and why Malibu is involved

A class action is a legal mechanism that allows multiple plaintiffs with similar claims to pursue a case together, rather than filing individual lawsuits. When a defect or pattern of harm is alleged to be common across many Malibu vehicles, a class action can streamline litigation, potentially leading to recalls, settlements, or warranty extensions that affect all class members.

Notable cases and settlements involving Malibu

Below are examples of the types of issues that have led to Malibu-related class actions or GM-wide litigation in which Malibu owners could be affected. The specifics—such as model year, geographic scope, and settlement terms—vary by case.

• Oil consumption allegations related to certain Malibu engines, particularly in models that used the 2.4-liter Ecotec engine, which led to lawsuits and, in some jurisdictions, service programs or settlements.


• Ignition switch litigation that affected several GM vehicles, including some Malibu configurations within the broader GM nationwide recalls and multidistrict litigation (MDL). This case resulted in recalls and a global settlement framework for impacted owners.


• Transmission-related claims in certain Malibu generations, where plaintiffs alleged shifting or performance problems that prompted lawsuits and, in some cases, remedies such as reimbursements, repairs, or extended warranties.

These examples illustrate the kinds of claims that have appeared in Malibu-related class actions and GM-wide litigation. Outcomes depend on the specific model years, jurisdictions, and terms of any settlements or recalls.

How to check if a Malibu owner is affected

If you own or financed a Chevy Malibu, you should verify whether your vehicle is part of a current or past class action, recall, or settlement. The following steps can help you determine your status and options.

Steps you can take to assess eligibility and potential remedies include the following:

1. Identify your Malibu’s model year, trim, and vehicle identification number (VIN). This helps determine whether your car falls within the scope of any related settlements or recall programs.


2. Search official settlement notices and court dockets for Malibu-related class actions, MDLs, or GM-wide settlements that include your model year or engine type.


3. Review recall information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and GM’s own recall/owner notification portals for any announced remedies or extended warranties.


4. Consult a qualified consumer-protection or auto-defense attorney to interpret current filings and determine whether you qualify for any compensation, repair programs, or extended warranties.

These steps can help you determine whether you might be eligible for a class-action settlement, a recall remedy, or an extended warranty program related to the Malibu.

What to do if you think you are eligible

If you believe your Malibu is affected by a class action or recall program, gather documentation such as purchase records, service history, and any notices you received from GM or dealerships. Contact a lawyer who specializes in consumer auto cases or check established consumer-legal resources to confirm current status and next steps.

Where to find reliable information

To stay informed about Malibu-related class actions, recalls, and settlements, rely on official and reputable sources. Below are common places to check for updates and eligibility criteria.

• Official recall notices and remedies published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).


• General Motors’ owner notification pages and press releases about recalls, settlements, or extended warranties.


• ClassAction.org and other consumer-law databases that track active and resolved class actions and MDLs.


• Legal filings and court records accessible via public court portals or PACER (where available).


• State Attorneys General offices, which may provide guidance on consumer protections and settlement opportunities.

Always verify information against primary sources (court documents, official recall notices, and reputable law-firm statements) and seek legal counsel if you think you have a live claim.

Summary

In short, the Chevy Malibu has been the subject of multiple class-action and GM-wide litigation over the years, centered on claims of common defects and related remedies. There is no single ongoing Malibu-only case that controls all owners today; instead, owners may be affected by model-year-specific lawsuits, recalls, or settlements tied to broader GM actions. For current status, check recall databases, court filings, GM notices, and consult with a qualified attorney to understand potential remedies and eligibility.

What are the recalls on the Chevy Malibu?

Recent Chevy Malibu recalls include a 2022-2023 model year recall for a potentially faulty front impact bar weld, which could affect crash sensors and may result in a vehicle repurchase by GM if the defect is confirmed. Other recalls have affected different model years, including issues with the passenger presence system, a wrong owner's manual, and problems with the sunroof or roof panel switch. To check if a specific vehicle is affected, you can use the VIN on a recall checker website. 
Recalls by model year

• 2022-2023: A recall was issued for the front impact bar, which may have an improper weld. If the defect is found, GM will repurchase the vehicle. 
• 2024: Some vehicles may have been shipped with the incorrect owner's manual. 
• 2016-2018: Some models have a recall for a Passenger Presence System (PPS) that may not be correctly calibrated to the seat type. 
• 2016: A recall was issued for certain vehicles manufactured in February and March 2016 due to weld studs on the side impact airbags that could fracture during deployment. 
• 2013-2015: A recall was issued for a sunroof or roof panel switch that may not be adequately recessed to prevent inadvertent activation. 
• 2014: Some 2.5L engine models may have an issue that can prevent the windshield defroster from turning on, decreasing visibility. Dealers will update the climate control software for free. 

How to check your specific vehicle

• Use a vehicle-specific recall checker on a site like Kelley Blue Book or RepairPal by entering your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• The VIN can be found on the bottom edge of the driver's side of your windshield or on your vehicle's registration card. 

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

What is the average payout per person for a class action lawsuit?

There is no reliable average payout per person for a class action lawsuit because it varies dramatically based on factors like the type of harm, the total settlement amount, the number of people involved, and attorney fees. While some cases result in very small payouts (cents to dollars), others can be hundreds or thousands of dollars, and some severe cases have resulted in individual payouts of $5,100 to $10,000 or more. 
Factors that influence the payout amount

• Size of the class: With more claimants, the total settlement money is divided among more people, resulting in a smaller individual share. 
• Total settlement amount: Cases involving more severe harm or larger-scale corporate misconduct can result in a higher total settlement fund. 
• Type of harm: The severity of the harm plays a significant role. Health-related harms, physical injuries, or large-scale corporate misconduct often lead to higher payouts compared to cases involving less direct financial loss. 
• Attorney fees: A portion of the total settlement is paid to the attorneys, which reduces the amount available for individual class members. 

Examples of varying payouts

• Low payouts: In large-scale consumer cases, individual payouts can be very small, sometimes just cents or a few dollars, especially when a very large number of people are involved. 
• Higher payouts:
  • Volkswagen emissions settlement: Eligible car owners received between $5,100 and $10,000 each. 
  • Juul settlement: Qualifying claimants received up to $9,000 per person. 
  • Severe injury cases: For severe injuries like permanent disability, payouts can reach millions of dollars. 

How much will I get from GM class action settlement?

Impacted customers will receive between $700 and $30,000. GM has settled two class-action lawsuits involving older versions of its 5.3-liter V-8 engine. The two law firms that handled the cases will get over $66 million, while the affected customers will get between $700 and $30,000.