What is the common problem with a 2018 Chevy Malibu?
The most common problems reported for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu center on the transmission, electrical systems, and engine performance, including rough shifting, infotainment glitches, and occasional loss of power. These issues have appeared in owner forums, consumer reviews, and service reports since the model’s release.
Designed as a midsize sedan with available turbocharged engines and a 9-speed automatic transmission, the 2018 Malibu has generally been praised for comfort and cargo space. However, a subset of owners has reported reliability concerns that feature prominently in consumer feedback and recall notices. The following sections summarize the areas where problems have been most frequently reported, what those problems typically look like, and how owners and technicians address them.
Transmission problems
Below are the transmission-related symptoms and failure modes that have been most commonly cited by 2018 Malibu owners and auto-service analyses.
- Rough or delayed gear shifting, especially during startup or when accelerating from a stop.
- Transmission shudder or slipping, leading to uneven power delivery at highway speeds.
- Illumination of the transmission warning light or the check engine light tied to transmission codes.
- Harsh downshifts or gear hunting in models equipped with the 6- or 9-speed automatic transmissions.
- In rare cases, transmission failure requiring replacement or major repair work.
Note that transmission issues can be complex and may involve software updates, valve body wear, fluid concerns, or torque converter problems. Addressing them promptly with a qualified technician can prevent further damage and prolonged downtime.
What to do if you notice symptoms
If you experience shifting irregularities or warning lights, schedule a dealer inspection with your vehicle’s service history and recent maintenance in hand. Ask about software updates, transmission fluid service, and any required component replacements. Maintaining a documented service record can help with warranty or recall considerations.
Engine performance and power
Engine-related complaints typically focus on misfires, rough idle, hesitation, and power loss, which can affect acceleration and overall drivability.
- Engine misfires or rough idle, sometimes accompanied by a rough running sensation at idle or under load.
- Hesitation or loss of power during acceleration, particularly at highway speeds or when the turbocharged engine is under load.
- Reduced power mode or warning lights indicating engine performance concerns.
- Occasional stalling or surges in engine RPM during cold starts or after warm-up.
- Check engine lights related to misfire or fuel system codes in some cases.
Engine problems can stem from various causes, including ignition systems, turbocharger components, air intake sensors, fuel delivery, or downstream catalytic issues. A competent mechanic can diagnose using fault codes and live data to determine whether a sensor, coil, injector, or software calibration is at fault.
Potential causes and next steps
Owners facing engine performance concerns should request a diagnostic scan, inspect ignition coils, spark plugs, fuel injectors, and air intake sensors, and verify there are no vacuum leaks or turbo-related faults. Software updates from the dealership can also address throttle response and misfire codes in some cases.
Electrical and infotainment issues
Electrical problems and infotainment glitches are among the more frequent non-powertrain concerns reported by Malibu owners, spanning everything from screen behavior to connectivity and cabin comfort.
- Infotainment system freezing, rebooting, or becoming unresponsive to touch or voice commands.
- Bluetooth pairing difficulties, dropped connections, or delayed phone compatibility with the system.
- Flickering dash lights, battery drain, or intermittent electrical faults affecting accessories.
- Power window or door lock failures, or inconsistent operation of interior electronics.
Electrical issues can be intermittent and may relate to wiring harness connections, module software, battery/alternator performance, or ground points. Software updates and component reseating or replacement are common remedies.
What to check with a technician
Ask for a comprehensive power and data bus health check, confirmation of infotainment system software version, and battery/alternator testing. If repeated glitches occur, request a module reflash or replacement as indicated by diagnostic codes.
Recalls and safety notices
Model-year 2018 Malibu owners should verify whether their vehicle has any open recalls. Recalls can address safety-critical components, and eligibility for free dealership repair depends on the VIN (vehicle identification number).
Check the VIN against official recall databases (such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall site or Chevrolet/GM recall portals) to see if any campaigns apply to your car. If a recall is found, contact a dealer to schedule the repair and ensure the work is performed at no cost to you.
While not every 2018 Malibu will be affected, staying informed about recalls and promptly addressing them is important for safety and long-term reliability.
Summary
For the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, the most frequently reported problems revolve around the transmission, engine performance, and electrical/infotainment systems. While many Malibu owners enjoy reliable service, a subset experiences shifting irregularities, power or misfire concerns, and dashboard or infotainment glitches. Prospective buyers and owners should maintain thorough service records, stay alert to warning lights, and check for open recalls using the VIN. A pre-purchase inspection or regular dealer software updates can help mitigate some of these issues and extend the vehicle’s usable life.
Endnotes and further reading
For ongoing updates, consult consumer automotive research outlets, the NHTSA recall database, and Chevrolet’s official service resources. If you own a 2018 Malibu and notice symptoms described above, scheduling a diagnostic appointment with a certified technician is recommended.
