What is the lawsuit on the Chevy Malibu?

There isn’t one nationwide Malibu lawsuit; there have been multiple lawsuits and recall actions affecting different model years and alleged defects.

Understanding the landscape of Malibu lawsuits and recalls

To understand the question and how it might apply to a particular Malibu, it helps to know the main categories of legal actions that have involved this model. The following list captures common areas where Malibu owners have pursued legal remedies or regulatory actions.

• Oil consumption and engine wear claims: Some lawsuits have alleged that certain Malibu engines used more oil than normal, leading to engine damage or premature wear in affected model years.


• Transmission and engine performance claims: Other suits have targeted automatic transmission behavior, hard shifting, stalling, or other drivetrain issues reported by owners.


• Recall-related and airbag defects: Malibu vehicles have been involved in recalls for safety-related defects (including airbag inflators in certain rolling campaigns) that sometimes spurred litigation or owner remedies.


• Electrical and infotainment issues: A number of complaints and suits have cited recurring electrical problems, sensor failures, or infotainment-system glitches in particular year ranges.

These categories reflect the kinds of claims that have surfaced in consumer lawsuits and regulatory actions. They do not guarantee liability against GM for any specific vehicle and outcomes vary by year, region, remedy, and whether a recall or settlement occurred.

How to determine if your Malibu is affected and what to do

If you own a Chevy Malibu and want to know whether a lawsuit, recall, or warranty remedy could apply to your vehicle, take the following steps:

• Check for recalls using your VIN on the NHTSA database or GM’s official VIN lookup tool to see if there is an open recall related to oil consumption, transmission, airbags, or electrical systems.


• Review GM’s official owner resources for any service bulletins or recall notices specific to your model year and engine type.


• Search for active or recent Malibu-related class actions or MDLs by year in legal databases or news coverage. A consumer-law attorney can help interpret whether your situation fits any ongoing action.


• Consider lemon-law or warranty relief if your vehicle has reproducible, nonconforming defects that impair use, value, or safety, and keep detailed maintenance records and repair invoices.

Before taking action, gather your vehicle’s VIN, model year, mileage history, and a log of the issues experienced. Consulting a qualified attorney can help determine eligibility for remedies and the best path forward.

Notable developments and how they affect Malibu owners

Recent recall activity and settlements

Regulators and manufacturers frequently update recall campaigns, and Malibu owners have benefited from some recalls that address safety-critical defects. While there is no single nationwide Malibu lawsuit currently active for all model years, individual cases and settlements have emerged in certain years and regions, often resolving through recall-based remedies, out-of-court settlements, or court judgments specific to the model year and defect.

Owners should remain vigilant by checking official recall lists and consulting with consumer attorneys for guidance about eligibility for compensation, repairs, or lemon-law relief.

Summary

The Chevy Malibu has been at the center of various legal actions over the years, but there is no one ongoing "Malibu lawsuit." The landscape includes oil-consumption claims, transmission and electrical issues, and recall-related actions that affect different model years. The best way to determine relevance is to verify recalls and search for Malibu-specific litigation by year, then consult a legal professional about remedies available in your jurisdiction.

For ongoing updates, monitor trusted sources such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), General Motors’ official owner resources, and reputable legal news outlets.

What is the biggest 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

Do you actually get money from class action settlements?

Yes, you can get money from class action settlements, but payouts are often small, unpredictable, and vary based on the settlement's terms and how many people file claims. To receive a payout, you must submit a claim before the deadline and often provide proof of your involvement, as you will not automatically receive money just for being part of the class. 
How payouts are determined

• Number of claimants: If many people file claims, the individual payout amount may be smaller than initially estimated. 
• Distribution method: Some settlements use a pro rata system where everyone gets an equal share, while others use tiered or weighted distribution, which pays more to those who were more severely harmed. 
• Factors deducted: Attorney fees and other case costs are deducted from the total settlement amount before the rest is distributed to class members. 
• Lead plaintiffs: Individuals who serve as lead plaintiffs typically receive a larger payout because they represent the class and may have experienced greater damages. 

What to expect

• Small payouts: Many individual payouts are less than $50$ 50$50. 
• Time: It can take months or even years for funds to be distributed after the settlement is finalized. 
• No automatic payment: You must actively submit a claim to receive any money. If you don't, you will not receive a payout, though you can still be bound by the settlement's terms. 
• Proof may be required: You might need to provide documentation, such as proof of purchase or account numbers, depending on the settlement. 

How to get your money

• Submit a claim: Fill out and submit the official claim form before the deadline. 
• Be patient: It can take a long time for the settlement to be approved and the funds to be distributed. 
• Check for opportunities: You can find out about class actions you might be eligible for by looking for settlement notifications and using online resources. 

Is there any recalls on the Chevy Malibu?

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2022 Chevrolet Equinox, Blazer and Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may have an improper weld in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.

How much will I get from a GM class action lawsuit?

Lawyers make $66 million on GM V-8 class-action settlements, customers receive $700 to $30,000.