What is the recall on the 2018 Chevy Malibu engine power reduced?
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu has not had a nationwide recall specifically titled “Engine Power Reduced.” If you’ve seen that warning or a related message, it may reflect a fault in the powertrain electronics or a software issue rather than a blanket recall. This piece breaks down what the warning might mean, how recalls related to power or engine control could apply, and how you can verify recall status for your vehicle.
Understanding the warning and its relation to recalls
When a vehicle displays an “Engine Power Reduced” message, it usually signals a protective mode triggered by an ECU fault, sensor disagreement, or an irregular reading in the powertrain system. While there has not been a single, publicized recall titled exactly “Engine Power Reduced” for the 2018 Malibu, GM has issued recalls and service bulletins in the Malibu’s generation that touch on engine control, throttle, and related powertrain electronics. Determining whether your specific car is affected requires checking your vehicle’s VIN against official recall records.
Context for the 2018 Malibu
The 2018 Malibu offered engines in the 1.5L turbo and, in higher trims, a 2.0L turbo. Across GM’s lineup, a variety of transmissions and engine-control software updates have been involved in recall campaigns over the years. Because the “Engine Power Reduced” warning can be triggered by several different faults, the exact remedy—whether a simple software update, a sensor replacement, or a more involved powertrain repair—depends on the root cause identified by the dealership through diagnostic testing.
What to do if you see an “Engine Power Reduced” message
If your Malibu displays an engine power reduced warning, follow these steps to maintain safety and begin the recall verification process.
- Find a safe place to pull over and restart the engine. If the warning persists, drive slowly and avoid high speeds.
- Check for other warning lights, unusual noises, or burning smells. Note when the message first appeared and under what driving conditions.
- Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended action and contact information for roadside assistance if you feel unsafe continuing to drive.
- Do not attempt to disable or bypass any warning lights or safety systems; a dealership can diagnose the fault code in the ECU.
- Schedule a service appointment with an authorized Chevrolet dealer to inspect for software updates, sensor faults, or other powertrain issues tied to recalls or service bulletins.
Following these steps helps ensure you’re not risking drivetrain damage or a loss of propulsion in traffic while you determine whether a recall or service bulletin applies to your vehicle.
How to verify recall status for your 2018 Malibu
To determine if your specific vehicle is affected by an active recall or related service bulletin, use VIN-based lookup and official GM/NHTSA resources.
- Check the official NHTSA recall database using your vehicle’s VIN to see any active or open campaigns. NHTSA recall database can be searched by VIN, make, model, and year.
- Visit GM’s owner services portal and enter your VIN to pull up any recall notices or service bulletins applicable to your Malibu. Chevrolet Owner Center (login may be required).
- Contact your local Chevrolet dealer with your VIN to get a definitive recall status and to schedule any needed free repairs if a recall or service bulletin is found.
Relying on VIN-specific checks ensures you’re acting on current, vehicle-specific information rather than general advisories. If a recall or service bulletin exists for your Malibu, the dealer can perform the indicated remedy at no cost to you.
Summary
In short, there is no widely publicized recall for the 2018 Malibu titled “Engine Power Reduced.” The warning can arise from various faults within the powertrain electronics or software, and some related recalls or service bulletins may affect Malibu models in this generation. To know your exact status, perform a VIN-based check with NHTSA and GM, and consult a Chevrolet dealer for a definitive diagnostic and any required, free repairs.
