What is the most common problem with the 2018 Chevy Malibu?

The most commonly reported problem with the 2018 Malibu is transmission-related issues, particularly rough shifting and shudder in automatic models. This pattern has appeared in owner reports, consumer reviews, and safety data through recent years.

Context and what data show

Automotive reliability data for the 2018 Malibu largely identify the transmission as the top trouble spot. While owners also report issues with oil consumption and certain electrical/infotainment glitches, the transmission problem consistently stands out in surveys, complaints, and recall histories from the model year.

Most commonly reported problems

The following issues are the ones most frequently cited by owners and inspectors, with transmission problems at the forefront.

• Transmission problems: Rough shifting, hesitation, shudder, and occasional failures, often associated with the automatic transmission and sometimes requiring software updates or more extensive repair.


• Oil consumption and related engine concerns: Some owners report higher-than-normal oil use and related performance issues, which can lead to frequent top-ups and service visits.


• Electrical and infotainment glitches: Freezing touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity hiccups, intermittent warning lights, and other electronic gremlins that affect daily usability.


• Other intermittent reliability notes: Occasional steering or sensor warnings and cosmetic/fit-and-finish concerns, though these are less common than the big three above.

Across these reports, transmission problems emerge as the dominant reliability concern for the 2018 Malibu, with oil consumption and infotainment glitches following in frequency.

Addressing the issues and what owners can do

Dealerships and GM have issued software updates and service campaigns aimed at improving shifting behavior and addressing known transmission quirks. Owners can also take preventive steps through regular maintenance and being alert to recalls and service bulletins.

• Check for software updates: GM often releases Transmission Control Module and related software updates that can improve shifting without major repairs.


• Maintain proper oil health: Follow GM’s recommended oil type and change intervals; monitor for signs of unusual oil consumption and address promptly.


• Monitor electrical systems: Keep infotainment firmware current and address any warning lights promptly to avoid battery or electrical issues.

With proactive maintenance and timely recalls addressed, many of the common issues reported for the 2018 Malibu can be mitigated or resolved.

Summary

For the 2018 Chevy Malibu, transmission-related problems—especially rough shifting and shudder—stand out as the most commonly reported issue. Oil consumption and infotainment glitches are also frequently mentioned by owners. Given the variability in maintenance history and individual vehicles, a thorough pre-purchase inspection or service check is advisable for prospective buyers or current owners facing drivability concerns. Regular updates and recall remedies can help mitigate the most persistent problems.

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Do 2018 Chevy Malibus have problems?

Some Chevy Malibu models are known to have engine problems, like oil leaks, whistling, low idling, extreme vibration and even fires. Malibu engines in 2016 and 2018 models are known to experience a sudden loss of engine power from a defective accelerator position sensor.

What is the recall on the 2018 Chevy Malibu?

The main recall for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is due to an engine control module (ECM) software error in 1.5L turbocharged engines, which can disable fuel injectors and cause the engine to stall or not start. Another recall involves a transmission issue where the start-stop accumulator endcap may be missing bolts, leading to a potential fluid leak, loss of propulsion, and fire risk. To check for specific recalls on your vehicle, use its VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or the Chevrolet's recall information page.
 
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Engine Control Module (ECM) Recall 

• Affected vehicles: 2018 Chevrolet Malibus with 1.5L turbocharged engines. 
• Problem: An error in the ECM software may disable the fuel injectors. 
• Consequences: The engine could stall while driving or fail to start, increasing the risk of a crash. 
• Solution: Dealers will reprogram the ECM with new software for free. 

Transmission Recall

• Affected vehicles: Specific 2018 Chevrolet Malibus, as well as some models from other model years. 
• Problem: The start-stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts. 
• Consequences: This could cause a transmission fluid leak, leading to a loss of propulsion, and the potential for fire if the fluid ignites. 
• Solution: See a Chevrolet dealer for the required repair, which will be free of charge. 

How to check for recalls

• Use your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA's recall search page or the Chevrolet website.
• Chevrolet will also send a notification by mail if your vehicle is affected by a safety recall. 

What is the most common problem of a 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. 

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