What is the lawsuit on the 2018 Chevy Malibu?
In brief, the core lawsuits around the 2018 Malibu center on alleged defects in the car’s transmission that can lead to shuddering, slipping, or loss of power, with plaintiffs seeking compensation or recalls. Courts have seen multiple cases across states, with outcomes varying by docket.
More detail: The 2018 Malibu has been the subject of consumer lawsuits alleging defects in the vehicle’s 9‑speed automatic transmission and related powertrain components. This article outlines the nature of the litigation, its current status, and what owners can do if they believe they’re affected.
What the lawsuits allege
Below is a summary of the core allegations raised by plaintiffs in these cases.
- Alleged defective 9‑speed automatic transmission that powers many 2016–2019 Malibu models, causing shuddering, jerky shifts, delayed acceleration, slipping, and in some cases transmission failure.
- Premature wear and tear leading to costly repairs and maintenance, sometimes occurring well before the typical warranty period ends.
- Claims that GM failed to disclose or adequately warn about transmission issues, or that available warranties and service programs were insufficient to address the problems.
- Requests for remedies such as expanded recalls, buybacks or repurchases, monetary damages, and other relief under consumer-protection and warranty theories.
Across jurisdictions, these cases have been filed in federal and state courts, with some seeking class-action treatment while others proceed on individual claims. GM has contested liability, pointing to warranty coverage, service bulletins, and ongoing investigations as context for its position. Depending on the case, some lawsuits have been consolidated or moved to arbitration, and outcomes have varied by venue and facts.
What owners can do
If you own or leased a 2018 Chevy Malibu, these steps can help you protect your interests and determine potential remedies.
Below are practical actions owners typically take when facing suspected transmission issues or when evaluating legal options.
- Check for open recalls and service bulletins related to the transmission with the NHTSA database and GM’s recall site, and verify your vehicle’s VIN.
- Document symptoms in detail: dates, mileage, what you experienced (shuddering, hesitation, warning lights), and any repairs or maintenance performed.
- Contact a Chevrolet dealer or GM customer care to obtain a diagnostic report and inquire about goodwill coverage, extended warranties, or any active recall or service programs.
- Consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in auto-defect or consumer class actions to understand eligibility and the potential benefits of joining a case or pursuing a separate claim.
- If pursuing legal action, consider joining an eligible class action or pursuing individual claims, noting that results vary by case and jurisdiction.
Legal proceedings move at different speeds, and not all cases result in settlements. Owners should monitor case status through court records or their attorney’s updates and follow any guidance on documentation and deadlines.
What this means for buyers and owners
The lawsuits highlight ongoing consumer concerns about the long-term reliability and repair costs of certain GM powertrain technologies in mid-size sedans like the Malibu. The outcomes could influence recalls, warranty practices, and consumer-protection enforcement, and may shape how auto manufacturers address transmission-related issues in similar models.
For now, the focus remains on whether there is a systemic defect in the Malibu’s 9‑speed automatic transmission, the adequacy of GM’s responses, and the level of relief that affected owners may obtain through recalls, repairs, or damages.
Summary
Summary: The prevailing legal question surrounding the 2018 Chevy Malibu involves alleged defects in the vehicle’s 9‑speed automatic transmission that may cause shuddering, shifting problems, or failure, leading to consumer class-action and individual lawsuits in multiple jurisdictions. GM’s responses include warranty guidance, service bulletins, and ongoing dispute over liability. Owners should stay informed, document issues, and consult legal counsel to understand potential remedies.
