General Motors faces a new lawsuit surrounding faulty accelerator sensors in the 2016-2018 Chevrolet Malibu.
The litigation arose from plaintiff Katrina Hutchinson, who purchased a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu new in May of 2016. While driving the car, she claimed the driver information screen suddenly flashed “Engine power is reduced” and the car slowed to a top speed of 20 mph. Upon taking the Chevrolet Malibu back to the dealership, technicians found it needed a new accelerator pedal position sensor. At the time, the fix was covered under warranty.
However, at 45,000 miles, the issue occurred again, and this time, Hutchinson’s Malibu was out of warranty. The plaintiff allegedly spent nearly $500 to replace the accelerator sensor.
The Malibu does not feature a mechanical linkage for the accelerator pedal. Instead, electronic throttle control is responsible for engine acceleration. This includes an accelerator pedal position sensor, which tells the powertrain how much acceleration the driver requests. Hutchinson’s lawsuit claims the problem puts everyone on the road in danger since the loss of power comes unexpectedly and instantly.
Her lawsuit alleges GM knows of the problem but hasn’t acknowledged the issue thus far. She added GM also supposedly did not offer any assistance when her Malibu needed a new sensor for the second time. The part, per the lawsuit, is supposed to last the lifetime of the car.
The lawsuit has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, Greenbelt Division.
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Source: Carcomplaints.com
Comments
Inexcusable and ridiculous. The fact that GM isn’t even standing by this issue speaks volumes on how they really feel about the consumer. And they wonder why people aren’t buying there cars.
I have a 2018 Chevy Malibu its do the same thing!!!
i have a 2019 doing the same thing. almost caused an accident. the RPMs go up to like 6 but the acceleration doesnt do anything but hover around 30mph then all of a sudden its blasting off and rpms go back down. i have taken my car to shop 4 other times and they said I was probably shifting with the +/- on the shift knob. then they couldnt do anything because no lights showed up and computer cant read it. Im fed up.
Purchased a 2018 Chev Malibu it’s been a real headache. First issues started with accelerator sensor, got it replaced free was told it was a defect. Car would just stall while driving 50 – 65 mph. Picked it up from the Chev dealership shop, didn’t get 5 miles away stared doing same thing, slowed down even though I was pressing the accelerator finally stalled. Managed to get it back to the same dealership and was then told it was the transmission. Thank God I purchased a warranty when I bought the car. It has 75000 miles on it so warranty will pay for a used transmission, wouldn’t allow me to get a new one. Yes so much for having warranty. They also gave the dealership a hassle about their labor fee. It’s been in the shop for almost a month. Should be ready this week. Please DON’T buy this model, you will have a headache. I’m getting rid of it as soon as I can. I’ve never bought a Chev & this will be my last, sticking with a Toyota or Buick. Oh yes, still making monthly payments!
Afternoon all…
Had kind of forgotten about this site then just saw a post and wanted to comment for those experiencing frustration and aggravation with their Malibu’s. I bought my 2017 brand new from the dealership with 330 miles on it the day I drove it home. Three months later my husband purchased the same car, a year newer from a different dealership. We loved them. Great gas mileage for the travelers we were, couldn’t have been more pleased. Mine made to
38,000 miles, and just over a year of ownership before it reduced power the first time. His? 11,000 miles longer. Initially, Chevy was willing to help with half the repair expense because I was just outside my warranty. The car was completely rewired, failed again. Changed out sensors, failed again. Changed out accelerator pedal, failed again. The dealership could never get the car to duplicate the reduced engine power mode. My entire second year of ownership the car sat in two seperate dealerships over an 8-9 month period. The first dealership after the 5th repair attempt threw up their hands and refused to take the car back. They apologized saying they were sorry…it couldn’t be fixed. Eleven times over a 7 month time frame, my car reduced power and put my life at risk for serious injury or death. My children weren’t allowed to even ride in the car due to it’s unpredictability. Eventually, I became Chevy’s thorn so to speak. They stopped with the half assistance after the third repair and the expense was all mine out of pocket from that point forward. Being a nurse travelling between two states, I had to have a rental and that was out of pocket as well. Chevy eventually offered me $3,000 to replace the engine. I declined. It wasn’t the engine. It was electrical. Completely frustrated and feeling hopeless that the car would ever run, I took it to Rick Hendricks Chevrolet in Duluth. A really smart kid looked over all my repairs and shook his head. He kept the car, drove it trying to get it to duplicate. It didn’t until I had him take it through a laser carwash. He called and said it was EMC (cars electric brain) had shorted out due to moisture. It wa covered under the powertrain warranty ($2,500) and thank goodness for that. They swore to me it was fixed but it failed one final time. While in reduced power mode, I was able to get it to the dealership and they scanned the code which indicated one faulty wire from the throttle body to the accelerator. That was another $900 bill, but Rick Hendrick’s in Duluth was able to successfully repair the problem. That was a year and half ago, knock on wood. She has 106,000 miles on her and travels daily. My husband wasn’t so fortunate but he didn’t invest the time, money or effort that I did either. He said it was garbage and would never buy another Chevy again. With problems continuing, he traded the Malibu for a truck about 45 days ago and is very happy with his choice. I guess the moral to all of this is the car can be repaired depending on how much time, energy and money you are willing to invest. I was tempted to throw my towel in too and spent way more on repairs than I should have had considering the car was new. Having to deal with Chevy through this whole ordeal and knowing what their perception is about the customer, how they respond to problems, and their willingness to resolve them has left a very bitter taste in my mouth for Chevy. I will never purchase another Chevy product ever again. They could give me a brand new one and I would list it for sale before driving it. Good luck to you all…a consumer who has been there, done that, and even got the tee shirt for it.
I’m sure this is more to this story. Seems there is something wrong with her car and not the sensor. I personally have heard of no issues with these on any car. I have feeling she didn’t even pursue the local rep who probably would have taken care of it for her. This is a money grab and that is all it is. GM can just pay her the money and it will be over but now someone gets a lawyer involved and she will be out more than 500 dollars.
Here in Canada there are no longer reps that you can speak to i just inquired about this yesterday in case my 2019 Vette G S wheels go out of round or crack as far as I know their is class action suit going on in the US as G m is not covering the cost of wheels! I am just about done with their no taking care of their customer B S after over 40 years!
Barry, I agree with you 100%! It seems like they’re just becoming money hungry bastards grabbing every last penny that they can! Of course the owner of the dealership I’m sure could step in and help their loyal customers if they really cared about them and contact the factory rep and explain the situation and I’m sure that things would have been corrected with that lady‘s Malibu and her sensor.
I’ve been through that with previous GM cars like my Chevy Cruze that had a crappy transmission, but supposedly a transmission expert came down from somewhere years ago and said one of their many famous lines “operating as designed“! What BS! Just because the car doesn’t throw a faulty code they have no clue what to do! There were times when I would stop and think that somebody smashed into the back me the way the transmission would clunk. Other times, pulling out onto a main road step on the gas and nothing would happen! I would have to quick let up on the gas and do it again and then it would work! Maybe that was an accelerator sensor problem now that I think of it. I almost got T-boned twice! Anyway got out of that Lease somehow after only two years instead of three! The car was like brand new and if you only drove it on the highway you would never notice the clunking transmission, but most of my driving was local stopping and starting. All They want to do is give you excuses.
Same exact thing happened to me and it was covered to repair , after my 30k warranty expired happened again. I came out of pocket 500 bucks.
So what’s the problem? It was under warranty and fixed. Out of warranty your problem.
Brian, if it was the same exact problem it should’ve been repaired again and covered under warranty.
Had the same issue and it happened again not covered under warranty. It is an issue with certain cars mine was a sensor and they said throttle body was not cleaned which caused the sensor to go bad. Car was brought new had only 50,000 miles on it when problem occured
There is this problem actually. I dealt with my 2017 having this problem.
Hey Joe, it’s definitely not a money grab for this lady. This is a serious issue with the Malibu model. There are other problems as well, such as water leaks from the third high mount break light. GM only issued a Technical Service Bulletin for that issue. I had the same problem with my 2016 Malibu LT. Had to have the entire accelerator pedal assembly replaced. They gave me a new black rubber pedal instead of the silver medal pedal with the holes which came with the car. I was told by the service person at the dealer that they had three other Malibu in for the same issue that day. Gm should issue a recall asap! The faulty pedal assembly and the engine power reduced mode are definitely dangers to the driving public.
I’ve repeatedly had my vehicle in the dealership for the same issue and my car is not fixed. I purchased my car new in 2017. It had about 7 miles on it when I drove it off he lot. I’ve reached out to GM numerous times and they have ignored my concerns.
I just bought a brand new 2018 Malibu 3 weeks and had this issue repaired yesterday. It happened to me after 2 weeks of having the car. So no, there is nothing more to the story and it is exactly as stated. There was a repair bulletin out for this specific issue and it was fixed however now I need to know if this was an actual fix or a band-aid so I am glad this lawsuit was made so now I know what I am looking for.
Yes I had this problem 3 times soon as we purchased the car.
That isn’t very nice…mine is a 2017, purchased brand new and has been in Reduced Engine Power 9 times since Jan 28th. Started at 39K. It’s ran 2 months the entire year. Over $2000 in non-warranty GM recommended repairs and the dealership who has had it for the past 7 months has now apologized and given up. They have tried and failed at repairing the car. They say they are at a loss…they can’t fix it and will not take the car back. I have it at another dealership. Has been there 3 days and still in diagnostics. It’s tough to pay almost $ 4,136 in payments, $680 in full coverage insurance because it’s required, and over $2000 in repairs/rental expense for a car that has only functioned 2 months. As anyone can see, it can be worse. I really feel justified in my frustrations. And just for the record? My husband has a 2018. His made it 9k miles farther than mine…47k before his reduced engine power. It is the cars. THEY ARE DEFECTIVE.
Call gm and they said it’s under a special warranty at no cost to you. My car stopped in mid air and I was furious. How many lives will be lost. Call them and get it done. The local dealer will tell you the price but don’t tell u that gm issued a special warranty. FREE OF CHARGE. The also tried to charge for engine light reset. Don’t do it. It’s all connected.
this is a dangerous situation that same thing happened to me three days ago I stopped at three different
auto parts to finally find out the throttle positioning sensor was bad. the dash says reduced engine speed
the car was going 35 mph then dropped to 20 mph suddenly. I called dealership to inquire about price of part was told from $100.00 to $500.00 depending on my vin number. this is not what you say about a money grab its a
dangerous situation. Just wondering if this would happen on the freeway going 70 mph.
It happened to me while going 80mph on the freeway. It said refusing power to engine and slowed my car down in the middle lane. It was terrifying and dangerous. Had my grandson in the car. We got off the freeway and pulled over. Then it wouldn’t start for about 15 mins and kept reducing the speed on me. Cost 500 for my deductible to fix it and it’s doing the same thing 3 months later.
Catrina. This is why I lease my cars and only keep them long enough during the warranty because many times when you have a problem the dealer has no clue if a fault code doesn’t pop up on their computer. All they tell you is can’t duplicate the problem! Very frustrating to say the least
I was able to get it fixed again last week at no charge and have seen an improvement. I’m still trying to get a refund from the first repair but it seems to be the dealership giving me grief rather than Chevy. I had recieved a recall in the mail so at least they are warning people and trying to get them all fixed.
Its definitely a issue i have 6 Malibu’s at my job and all have the same problem even after being fixed.
My car 2015 Malibu is currently in the Chevy shop being repaired for this issue. She is correct, loss of power happens suddenly and is a very real hazard. Like her my car is out of warranty. I did not realize this problem is as widespread as I am being made aware of.
There have been thousands of reports of the Malibu having this same issues…. You can literally goole, “Engine Power Reduce Malibu” and you will countless topics about it.
I got a 2017 and I’m having the same issue now!!! I read notes from other purchasers that they had the same issue and GM never at knowledge this so it’s not her it’s the car.
My car is doing this same thing. It was hooked up to the computer and it was a throttle sensor. So she’s not lying.
My 2018 did the exact same thing and I am from my local Chevy dealership that it is the pedal position sensor and GM is already aware of it, lucky mines covered since my 2018 Malibu is certified preowned….. just worried about it going out in the future. Its a scary malfunction when you’re on the highway !
I would think that part would be part of the power train, so it should be covered. But if it is not you can’t expect them to pay for it . As for as the car going into reduced power mode, that is exactly what it is supposed to do so you don’t lose control.
You make a good point there Daryl. Reduced power is preferred over Toyota mode ( wide-open throttle ).
All sensors were removed from powertrain warranty coverage after GM’s bankruptcy.
That is not true.
“Excluded from the powertrain coverage are sensors, wiring, connectors, engine radiator, coolant hoses, coolant, and heater core.”
Simple Google search. They are covered by the bumper-to-bumper but not the powertrain warranty. Including sensors on the powertrain.
It’s probably a wiring issue. I work on a fleet of GMs. It’s usually a wiring harness issue.
I had to same issue! Our of warranty as well. A friend got down under the steering wheel and sprayed the sensor/plug with an electronics cleaner. Very grateful it worked. That was almost a year ago. Haven’t thought about it sense. It’s a scary situation when ur on the freeway and it happens!
I can personally vouch for her issues. I too have a 2016 Malibu that at 50,000 miles had the accelerator pedal issue which was repaired by the dealer under my extended warranty minus my 200 deductible. Exactly 1 year later (Just last month) I had the same issue when driving on the highway. Again had the dealer replace the part.
Coincidentally my daughter owned a 2018 Malibu which I happened to be driving on to the highway and the same issue arose-her’s was covered under warranty. This HAS to be a GM issue that needs addressing!
I had the same exact problem with mine at 40k miles. I have a 2017 Malibu Hybrid. I was out of pocket $700 because i was past 39,900 miles. I definitely feel your pain especially coming with a new car.
That would be the day I would pay that kind of money to replace that part. I would replace it myself. Even if you are not mechanically inclined you would be surprised what you can do if you tried.
This very thing happened to my wife and I while drive from Chicago to Detroit. Several years our 2009 Saturn outlook lost all of it’s acceleration. Max speed 20miles per hour. Took it to the dealership and they found nothing. It continued to happen and again took it to the dealership. Nothing. I had to voluntarily allow them to repossess the vehicle because they wouldn’t fix under warranty. They offered no help.
So, rather than take it to a different shop you’d rather ruin your credit? That will cost more than just going to another shop. There’s four parts in the chain going to throttle control; pedal, harness, throttle body and PCM. Shouldn’t be that hard to figure out. Not worth a voluntary repo.
I got a 2014 malibu that has that reduced power check engine and I’ve replaced the timing control sensors on it twice and still get that same issue again 6 months down the line..its a gm issue..
I had the same problem…. and I know Lyft drivers who had the car that been experiencing the same problem.
My 2017 Malibu had the same thing happen, $400 repair. This is definitely a safety issue, I travel a very busy interstate everyday and this happened “reduced engine power “ several times. This is scary to cross over lanes to pull car over.
The malibu has had this problem since 2008. And most problems cause the engine power to be reduced which is very dangerous. The only car ive ever seen do that for multiple reasons. I will not be purchasing another chevy. Ever.
My wife and I own two GM vehicles, one of which happens to be a 2016 Chevy Malibu LT. We had the same problem last month. We had to replace the entire pedal assembly. We have never had an issue like this with any other car we’ve owned. GM should definitely address this problem ASAP because it is a danger to the driving public! BTW, I will not be purchasing another GM vehicle again.
I encounter this problem myself last year and this is the 1st time I’ve heard about it being an issue it is very dangerous in the problem happened to me on the Parkway GM needs to take a look at this And adress this issue. Be for someone gets killed. It is very scary when it happened.
One of my good friends had the same issue in his wife’s car…it happened twice before the dealership even recommended replacing the sensor!
Then the local dealership wouldn’t even give him a rental….the car is only a year old and its a lease so the car has less than 18k miles on it.
It is def. a GM prob. that they try to play stupid and ignore. Bought a 2017 for my daughter and same issue. The dealer tried to charge me 350 to grease the connections from the pedal to the throttle. Ended up 250 because I made a big deal about the safety issue and told them I was going to right a letter. Big safety concern GM is going to have even a bigger lawsuit if my daughter gets plowed do to no throttle response. Greasing the connections is not part of the maintenance plan. How could GM even put a car on the road that gives a message for loss of power?
Can’t wait to hear the outcome of that case, I would not mind joining that lawsuit! I have not bought a GM vehicle in a while, prob won’t again after this!
My 2008 mlibu does the same thing. Also when I start my car it makes a horrible loud grinding noise along with a sudden jerk then my car will not accelerate even if I am pushing the gas pedal all the way down. The only way it will work properly is if I restart the car.The engine light goes on every sensor is screwed up my headlights have been replaced about 4 times on each side I’ve only had my car a short period of time. Very frustrating.
I had same issue with my 2016 Malibu. Reduced power happened to the car 6 times! Once when I was out of town coming back from a long day at hospital while my dad was recovering from heart surgery! I got a lemon law lawyer, GM settled & gave us enough to pay off our lease, but wouldn’t call it a lemon ? My husband & I have always bought GM vehicles, now we are driving a Nissan & will NEVER purchase another GM vehicle again.
Exact same issue with my 2016 Malibu first I had a piston to misfire which resulted in a message of service stabilitrak with 28k miles which was covered under warranty. So they replaced the engine. At 37k miles I recieved engine power reduced, battary saver activated, and stabilitrak messages again. This time I was told it was the accelerator pedal which was out of warranty so I paid out of pocket for it and bought a battary which lead to another message of steering assist reduced drive with care at 45k miles. And now at 63k miles I have replaced the battery once again due to a service battary charging system message. I loved GM but this vehicle has changed my opinion on purchasing a chevy again.
that sounds like it could happen to me next, i’m here because my malibu 16 hybrid has been guzzling gas since the day i got it. i’ve had him for almost three months. it wasn’t until week three that i realized i’ve been pumping 91 and not 93. so i switched…. not that big of a difference…. but as of thes past couple of weeks i press the gas and it doesn’t past 20 unless i press firm… like how we do when we need to hit like 35-40 mph. nothing is on the dash, no special blinks temporary icons … the most i’ve seen a while ago was a tire pressure gauge… i think 🤔 .. that came and gone twice. ima take it in after i make a bit more money, i jus went thru a 31 dollar tank i filled on wednesday, went down to 1/4 by friday 🥴
Same problem 2013…will NEVER buy another Chevy ever!
Chevy doesn’t stand behind their vehicles at all. My daughter bought a Malibu and the same thing happened to her when she was over 500 miles out of her warranty! Their customer service is terrible and they make you go around and around before they fix anything!! I had a 2014 Terrian 4 cylinder with eco tech engine and they know they have an issue with these. Three dealerships later and a district rep before I got a new engine. The worst part is that when I called in my daughters car they had my number locked because I called daily on my terrian. A car is the biggest purchase besides a house and gm/Chevy won’t stand behind their cars. When you call and ask for their corporate office No one has a phone??? You My next car will be a Toyota.. 200mile warranty or 20 years.
I had the same problem twin and the first time it was 1700 miles. The second time it happened a month ago. They want take back the car and they just don’t care. Its dangerous.
I can’t file it as a lemon ( i try) because it need to happen three times.
My daughter had the same issue with her 2016 Chevy Malibu. It was 500 miles out of warranty GM would not do anything to fix it. I also had the same issue with a 2014 GMC terrain that had a four-cylinder echo tech engine and they know their engines are crap. Three dealerships later before they finally put a new engine in my car. The best part of GM is when you call and ask to speak to someone in their corporate office apparently no one has a phone number. When I did called to find out about my daughters warranty and if it would fix it based on her admissions warranty, My phone was blocked! It’s ridiculous that you spend that kind of money on a vehicle and GM will not stand behind their products. My next vehicle will be at Toyota that offers 200,000 mile warranty or 20 years! I think someone really needs to look in to the products that GM is pushing out to consumers .
I have a 2016 and that has happened to my car twice. I have contacted their headquarters and they want do anything. The second time just happens two months ago with 33,000 miles. Lets then 3 years for a new car.
I’m having the same issues put my car in the shop had my transmission replaced and I’m still having the same issues this car is the worst car I have ever hed ever and I’m very unhappy but I have to pay it off because if i don’t ir will go on my credit
I Rachel Evans Hutchins has a 2008 Malibu and stopped in the middle of the road the low in power light came on.The cause of my repairs was 300 dollars
Who should I contact? My 2016 does this and I have drove it for three weeks.
I have a 2008 Malibu same issue happened to me my Mechanic told me it was my catayltic converter
Mine was a 2017 Malibu which got the problem at 20k miles they fixed it but at 80k it happened again with no warranty plus no spare part to fix.The Chevy dealership said GM has to recall the cars.So I had to trade for a 2018 this time I made sure it has lifetime warranty which we all know may not be garaunteed.Am almost at 20k so let’s see
My 2016 Malibu LT did this at 61,000 miles , right outside my Warranty but thank God I had a extended warranty so they replaced my part. I was getting on the highway and the message popped up. This also happened in my 2006 Impala and 2011 impala . Since I’ve been been driving I’ve been a Chevy girl but now I’m over it. I wonder how we can all do a group lawsuit or get in on her lawsuit because GM is definitely aware of this issue. It’s a safety hazards, I was going 50mph and it drops down to 20mph in seconds . If something ever happens to me because of GM and it’s parts I’m sure my name will ring bells for years on !
This is not a new problem with Chevy vehicles… I had a 2010 Chevy equinox that occurred the exact same problem. It’s usually caused by some type of short in the system and it can be caused by something as minor as a license plate wire or anything in the car. I drive a 2018 Chevy Malibu hybrid that totally shut off at a stoplight and had to restart the engine myself to get it going again. This is an ongoing problem that is at least 8 years old and Chevy has yet to fix it. I will say that otherwise I really love the 2018 Malibu it handles great and is nice and roomy. GM you need to own up to your mistakes and fix them properly and stop them from occurring in the future.
Well this is a little scary. I just bought a 2018 Malibu with 20,000 miles on it. All this auto stop crap sucks. Now I hear this….I hope I don’t regret this purchase….
I have a 2016 Chevy Malibu and had similar problems two times when I had 15000 miles on my car and later experienced the same problem two months later. I won’t be surprised if the same problem occurs.
I had this engine power reduced while I was driving 60 miles an hour. What a danger for me, my family, and the rest of people driving everywhere. If it’s happens I will join the lawsuit.
I bought mines in Maryland at 42000 it’s started 10000 miles after drove to a dealership in Va and purchased the Accelerator pedal for a low $120 replaced it myself one screw to unscrew literally and one wire that you have to unplug that’s it simple fix easier than pumping gas. Stop the complaining and do your research!
This exact thing happened to me 2 weeks after I bought my 2016 Chevy Malibu back in March 2019 at around 45,000 miles on it! I was on the highway going to work going 80 mph and then the reduce power engine mode kicked in and I went from 80-40 in seconds and almost caused a huge crash. It was so scary. We need a recall!! I don’t feel safe driving my car
I bought my 2016 Chevy Malibu at 9 miles at time of purchase…i did have the same experience with my car of the Engine Power Reduced. I did not take it back to the dealer because all my warranty was exhausted by now. Bt when i took it in, the code read Throttle Pedal Sensor, which then i ordered by a friend with the company; which was replaced but aftr getting it replaced periodically it does the same but i also have a hesitation i my car while driving up hills now. I am currently at about 165,000 miles. But when the part was ordered i waited about two months with the problem before the part finally came in.
There is no part on anything made by humans that is for the life of the car!!! Period.
You sue GM because it fails twice. That’s pathetic. I say this everytime if the part fails and it’s under warranty then GM has the responsibility to make the repairs, if it’s out of warranty then it’s on you the owner!!!
Why can’t you people get this threw your thick head?
I have a 2017 Chevy Malibu and I’ve been having the same problem with my car. It’s also says “Engine Power Is Reduced”! I knew something wasn’t right. This is ridiculous because it’s plenty people who drive those types of vehicles and you never know when a incident may occur. It’s happened to me on the expressway and in the middle of traffic, numerous of times. Something has to be done before someone gets seriously hurt or have an accident from a vehicle they claim is safe to drive.
You are exactly right something has to be done!!! You have to take your cheap ass down to the shop and have your car fixed!!!
I assume you would have already have taken your car to the dealer for repairs if it was under warranty. But I am getting the feeling that it’s not and you are trying to figure out a way to get someone else to pay for it!!!
Step up be a adult and take care of what you are responsible for!!!
In warranty GM’s problem
Out of warranty your problem
Brian, you are a freaking idiot. Do you know how many times that my 2016 Malibu has done this? Take a guess..that is right over 100 times, starting when I bought it. I called GM headquarters so many times and threatened them with their lives. They don’t want to deal with me. GM is the one that needs to pay for this issue, not anyone else. GM is a POS company and I for one will not buy another. I am hoping someone steals the mother f**ker. The first year I had my car, it was in the shop for a total of 9 months, they even had to replace the engine. This is a dangerous problem and one day it will be a deadly problem.
It’s good that I’m seeing this and know that I’m not the only person this has happened to, I was completely caught off guard by this sudden lost of power to my 2017 Malibu LT as I came off the exit to my job at 4 am. And I was at only 30000 miles so the warranty paid for the repairs.
Purchased 2016 Malibu, on January 16, with only 7miles . Brand New…I had this problem at 62k miles and My car could not pass emission test due to my check engine light on.I took it to the Chevrolet Dealership where I originally purchased and they literally dismissed my request to repair regardless of being out of warranty. I had the slow down at 34k, the request was repaired by the dealership cleaning my throttle. Long story short the second time around I had to spend 600 bucks and the Dealership advised it had a 2yr warranty… Its just unsettling to see this happening without a recall being presented to owners.
I’ve had this exact same issue. It was covered under the warranty the first time and I just had to pay out of pocket a couple of months ago. I was not aware this part should last a lifetime as no one mentioned that important information the FIRST time I had the issue. I was on the highway each time the “engine reduced” message came on and slowed down with my family in the car. This is very dangerous. Now that’s it is a known issue I’m interested to know if I can be reimbursed??
Hey Brian… your comment on if it’s out of warranty then it’s your problem is not right. If a family of four is traveling at 75mph and slows to 40 with no warning then gets slammed by a semi from the rear makes it a GM PROBLEM. Any injury attorney is gonna have a field day and GM will pay.
So you think a automotive company should be responsible for a car both during and after the warranty period? You people are ridiculous.
So how long should a company have to be responsible for the parts on a car out of warranty? 5 years, 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 50 years?
There is no such thing as a part that is supposed to last the life of the car.
Why even have a warranty then?
The fact of the matter is that these situations are not about safety, they are about people who are to cheap to fix their own cars. They try to push the responsibility off onto the manufacturer.
Your description of what might happen is to the very extreme, and is no different then if you were to get a flat tire. Going from 75 to 45 on the freeway is still no excuse to get in a crash. The trucker is the one that’s going to get the ticket for failure to control your vehicle.
Stop patting this cheap people on the back. They need to take responsibility for their purchases.
This is a serious problem I have a 2017 Malibu had only 2 miles on it when I got it. After only 16173 miles on it this issue came up on my like other here it was replace by the dealership. About Two month later it was back again they cleaned the the throttle body. The next time it came on it wasn’t under warranty and they refuse to do anything about it I was in nearly two accidents because of this issue on the highway. It’s not like it gives you signs it just pops on and the car slow downs dramatically. It is a serious issue and GM really needs to do something about can you say recall. Along with countless other issues with the vehicle.
Cynthia Rodriguez
You are the one at fault here!
You said the car had a problem while under warranty, GM fixed the problem. Then after the warranty expired the car broke down again. And you didnt think it would be a good idea to buy a extended warranty before the regular warranty expired?
And now you want GM to fix it because you were either not smart enough to recognize the car may have future problems or to cheap to buy a extended warranty.
I cant support you or anyone that expects any company to pay for repairs after the warranty period expires!!! Regardless of what industry it is. Not just the automotive industry!!!
It makes me extremely happy that I’m not the only one going through this! Blessing to the woman who got the courage to sue GM!
She doesn’t deserve courage or praise!!! This is not something GM should be sued for!!!
Brian,
If everyone is having the same problem on their Malibu, who fault is that?? I will understand if the problem was with one car, but majority of everyone is having THE SAME FREAKING PROBLEM!!! Sue GM! We need a recall!!!! Simple!!!!
Wrong again!!! If it’s under warranty then GM should fix it if not it’s your responsibility!!!
I dont care if it one or a million!!!
This nonsense doesn’t work when you buy a TV. TV stops works before the warranty expires best buy fixes it. After warranty expires they tell you this is how much it cost to repair.
And it doesn’t matter if one customer comes threw that door or one million customers come threw that door with the same exact problem on the same exact TV.
The same question is always asked, is this still under warranty?
Yes then we will take care of the repairs.
No then cost is on you.
Please tell me that you are smart enough to understand this? It’s not that hard to figure out!
So answer me this question? Why didn’t you buy a extended warranty?
Brian,
Blah blah blah!!!!!!!!!!!!! I done figured it out, you work for GM that’s why you’re so defensive! I’m not going back and forth with you…have a blessed day! 🙂 SUE GM SUE GM SUE GM SUE GM
You wont go back and forth because you know I am right!!!
And no, I DO NOT WORK FOR GM!
I dont even work in the automotive industry!!!
Brian, once again I did have an extended warranty you’re not reading. They didn’t want to repair the engine that’s why I had to come out pocket and then they were sued shortly after doing the repairs to the engine when it was under warranty GM don’t want to do nothing. And GM reimburse me 10 grand for the engine and labor so you explain to me why they would do a payout if it wasn’t under warranty? It would have been easier for them to put it under warranty than doing a freaking 10 grand pay out especially if they wasn’t wrong
When you say under warranty was it powertrain or bumper to bumper. It matters!!!
So they gave you 10k to go away. To get rid of a headache!!! Makes sense. I am tired of talking to you and I have never met you in person.
If it was covered under warranty and they wouldn’t repair it then shame on GM.
But I dont believe you, something else is in play, that Sensor does not cost 10k to repair. Hell that’s half the price of the car
When the problem happens before and after warranty expiration, and can not be fixed, and keeps happening! Their peddle and sensors are replacing basically the older throttle linkage system which is bullet proof! It is GM problem! They could of went back to the old and it would work, so GM is responsible, nothing has really broke and it does not work. Common sense says GM has a problem. Especially if it is just the failed connections.
Plus they are stupid about it when you go in and they are charging 250-700 to fix!
Find any car today that uses a cable to the throttle.
I’ve seen SO many drive-by-wire issues, I can’t wait until all cars drive themselves, I’m sure all of these issues will be solved. ?
Talk about reinventing the wheel. Drive-by-wire eliminates IAC and cruise control motors/servos, but reliability of a mechanical pedal and cable just hasn’t been surpassed. If the TAC wiring was 2 awg thicker, many of these problems would be non-existent IMO.
I’ve had nine new GM cars in the last thirty years ,I’ve NEVER had any problem not fixed under warranty. And I’ve never had to pay anything not under warranty that was unreasonable. I must be lucky.
I have a chevy Malibu 2016 and this error “Reduce power engine” came on while we were on a road trip. It was bloody dangerous. Now, I am looking to fix it but I don’t know how much it is going to cost and if I can do it myself. Any comments on the cost?
I had this happen around 30k. Then my turbo fell apart at 50k. The fixed the turbo under warranty. Just rest the light for the reduced power. It happened again at 54k 60k and 70k. Gm said it wast covered anymore and couldn’t help. My question is why didn’t thy fix it when I had the problem under warranty.
Currently at 78k and it hasn’t happened in 10k miles. Just a bad battery from all the restarts from when it happened and a jumpy trans. Plus the auto shut off doesn’t work correctly anymore. Stalls the car and you have to restart it by push button.
2016 Malibu lt. 78k miles car looks amazing but is complete junk.
I had this happen around 30k. Then my turbo fell apart at 50k. They fixed the turbo under warranty. Just reset the light for the reduced power. It happened again at 54k 60k and 70k. And multiple times in between Gm said it wasn’t covered anymore and couldn’t help. My question is why didn’t they fix it when I had the problem under warranty.
Currently at 78k and it hasn’t happened in 10k miles. Just a bad battery from all the restarts from when it happened and a jumpy trans. Plus the auto shut off doesn’t work correctly anymore. Stalls the car and you have to restart it by push button.
2016 Malibu lt. 78k miles car looks amazing but is complete junk.
They need to date it back to 2012 Chevy Malibus . This happens to mine. There are lookups all over google about the same issues and problems.This happens in the winter time. I have gotten the same message and reading and problem. They said it was not a common problem. My car has 193000 miles.
My car is a 2008.Will it be apart of the GM recall
Today is my third time in for throttle sensor. Gm knows the issue. 2017 Malibu. Driving on freeway in am area with no shoulder tons of traffic happened again. Dropped to 30 mph and almost got hit. Put flashers on till I could finds a shoulder. Third time this has gone out. Anyone defending GM is a moron. I’m done. If I have to pay anything I’m leaving car at service and telling them keep the POS
Make this a class action. This is my second time dealing with the same issue.
I have a 2017 Malibu LT. The first time this happened I was in rush hour traffic going 70 mph and my car slowed to 35mph without warning. I almost caused a horrific accident. My local dealership did the warranty work to try and fix the problem. Fast forward 6 months later and it happened again 5 times in a 2 day period, once again in rush hour, and another time while my teenage son was driving the car. I am fortunate that my local dealership did not charge me for the 2nd visit (it was past the warranty period this time)
I too, have read all of the same scenarios online and know that this is a Factory issue. When I called GM to open up a claim, they seemed unimpressed with what I stressed was the potential danger this posed.
Yeah! I begin by saying, allow me to control my cars features such as the “Auto Stop”. I should be able to turn that on and off, just like the radio, or window or windshield wipers. I enjoy the many features that I do have control over, “smart radio” (with phone connected via USB or BT).
Auto Stop/Start IS NOT SAFE!
My concern with the “Auto Stop” is it simply CAN NOT anticipate my anticipations while I turn crossing traffic. When in a line of traffic and car engine turns off, on hot days THIS SUCKS, but when it starts as I remove my foot from brake the car jumps a good 6 inches to a foot, dangerous.
Furthermore, who thought to put an “eco feature”, such as Auto Stop, then put a turbo on that engine? Seems unfeasible.
The L6 gets old and makes the car run different, not as smooth when engine seems to jerk about.
I should be able to disable a feature on my vehicle, ANY feature. Especially since I purchased it, which WILL NOT happen again.
2018 Chevy Malibu owned for 3 months and wanted to take it back within one week.
Wrong the auto start/stop feature doesn’t work in this way. It does not launch 6 feet when you take your foot off of the brake pedal.
I drove a Malibu with start/stop for 6 years and it doesn’t work like this. You are over exaggerating because you dont like it. There’s no reason to not like start/stop technology. It works, its seamless!
Second time as well
I have a 2016 Chevy Malibu and have had the engine power reduced message twice, once while on the highway with my kids and had to pull over to the shoulder. It scared the crap out of me. I couldn’t go above 60 mph. The same day I got a shift to park message and I have to turn my car off and on numerous times in order for the car to read that it is in fact in park. I went to the dealership back in June and got the engine power reduced issue fixed for $400 and didn’t get the shift to park issue fixed because that’s $800. I’ll wait for a recall for that one.
This happened to my 2017 Chevy Malibu too and getting reimbursed for it has been a joke with the dealership. It’s been super frustrating!
I have a 2017 Chevy Malibu bass model at 76,500 miles on it. At 73,000 miles, it started doing the engine power reduced. I always thought it was the sensors because I would pull over , stop it , and cut it back on and it would go just fine. Now , it does it every 10 minutes! I bought the car from Chevrolet of Homewood and they FAILED to let me know GM was on STRIKE FOR WEEKS! I was waiting on a part for 4 weeks! I was told the car was SAFE TO DRIVE! I was on my way out for work and it just wouldn’t make it to the expressway. I’ve been fired from work for missing too many day’s because my Job requires me to have a car! GM has NOT been helpful AT ALL in this process! Not only have they sold me a bad car but I’ve lost a lot of money in this process! Now they are saying my transmission is bad! This car hasn’t even hit 80,000 miles yet.
This just happened to me today.. my warrantee is up and I maintain my car on the regular. This is very irritating. They need to do a call back.
File a complaint with NHTSA / SaferCar.gov – Those who don’t can’t be angry at the system for not doing a recall.
Check engine light came on 2 days after purchase of new car with 5 miles on it. Took back to dealer said it was like the car was just coming out the wrapper and was told to change gas used. Long story short check engine light has been on and off for now 50000 miles. Car is not accelerating properly and reduces speed while driving. It is a defect and gm need to acknowledge it they have more than enough money to get people car right. Have not enjoyed the pleasure of my car since purchased. 30000 brand new car should not be having trouble at 50000 miles.
I have a 2016 Malibu and I got the gas pedal replaced under warranty the first time. It just happened the second time which is not under warranty anymore. The dealership is a pain in the ass to deal with, not customer friendly at all. My coolant level skyrockets when I turn the heat on. And a sensor needs to be replaced that’s only a dealer item (of course). This car has been nothing but problems in the year I’ve had it
I have the same issue for a 2018 Chevy Malibu at 37000 miles and you guessed it… not covered by warranty. I was on the highway when the issue occurred and almost got into an accident.. it was the scariest I have ever been driving.
I had the accelerator sensor replaced in my 2017 Malibu a year ago and it’s bad again. Luckily I purchased an extended warranty, but I have to pay the deductible again. I was told that this is a redesign of the replacement so it shouldn’t happen again.
We are having the same issue with our 2019 Malibu RS. It has happened twice now and has under 17k miles on it. Absolutely unacceptable.
I have a 2015 Malibu LTZ. All of a sudden at 100,400 miles I got reduced power/Service stabiltrack. I would have a jerking when shifting and accelerating and acts like its misfiring at idle. I have noticed if I drive it in manual mode to keep RPM’s up around 3000 it does not do it at all.
I have had the same issue twice on my 2017 Mailbu. But I feel blessed that I did not have to pay anything either time. It is certainly a GM problem since there are so many anecdotal notes on many sites. The service manager thinks that GM got the repair ‘right’ this time. Time will tell…
Mine just did this. 2017. They should replace it if it’s a design problem. If the part is flawed in design or in manufacturing then it’s their fault.
I’ve had my accelerator pedal sensor replaced twice so far. The second time they ”chevy dealership gm)told me if it keeps happening that I would need a harness for the pedal
My wife has a 2017 Malibu lt, this whole loosing engine power happened last week. In the dealer now but back last year we did receive a letter from GM, acknowledging the problem and its getting fix free of charge. The guy did tell me its not a recall, but a notice of some sort? Idk. But we were told and its cover and car has about 76k miles… hopeful it wont happen a second time.
I have had the exact same issue with my 2016 Malibu purchased January 29, 2016. The issues started at about 40K miles. Over one 12 week period my car was at the dealership for 9 weeks! And they “couldn’t duplicate the issue”. Then the love bug invasion clogged my mass air flow sensor and the dealership blamed my sluggish issues on that. My extended warranty covered the repair, minus my $100 deductible. Well 3 weeks after the love bugs were gone, my car was back in the shop for the same reason. Then in January 2018 the accelerator sensor went out and that was covered by my extended warranty. The issue got a little better but never stopped. I stopped taking my car to the dealership after they claimed to have driven my car for a full week to try to duplicate the issue. But my OnStar report showed they only started my car once and never moved it! So I knew then they weren’t taking this seriously. At 37K miles I had the leaking by the upper brake light in the back and they wouldn’t cover it. At 90K I had to get the entire gear shift replaced. At 99K I started having issues with it not starting after a start/stop. The dealership then claimed I had a hybrid car and it would be $350 to replace the battery in my trunk…..THERE IS NO BATTERY IN MY TRUNK AND IT’S NOT A HYBRID!!! I took it to another dealership and they tested my battery and it was fine. Still had to replace the battery 2 weeks later for $225 at another dealership. Now my extended warranty is over. I’ve periodically had issues with sluggishness. But 2 weeks ago it started to be a daily occurrence. I have contacted Chevrolet multiple times about my car and they NEVER do anything about it. I knew I wasn’t the only one having these issues. This is beyond ridiculous. This car is the prettiest black lemon I’ve ever seen.
I have the same year n model car. Malibu is definitely a lemon. My warranty expired as well and I had to have accelerator pedal replaced. Was told throttle body was bad got that fixed. Now a new issue car is saying steering is reduced and tells me to drive carefully. You are absolutely right a pretty lemon. I bought car with 5 miles on it too. It only has 60000 now and has been in the shop 5 times.
You answered your own question as to why GM wont help you with your car. It’s not under warranty anymore! So why dont you pull up your adult pants and pay a Mechanic to fix the problems with your car? Instead of complaining about it, trying to find another person or company to pay for it.
Look it’s called being a grown up. Playing by the rules, you knew when you purchased the car that it had a warranty. What the terms of that warranty were. What happens when the warranty expires.
Now that the warranty is expired you are complaining about why GM wont fix it. I cant believe people think this way!
Let me ask you, when you buy a TV at best buy with a one year warranty. And it stops works 13 months after purchase. Will best buy fix the tv?
I totally understand what you’re saying. I took my car in countless times for the same issue while it was still under the factory warranty and then the extended warranty that I purchased. Now if GM would have taken these issues seriously and fixed these cars while they were under warranty, then we wouldn’t have to complain now. I have reported all the issues that I have had with my car. I believe the NHTSA needs those reports of issues so they can investigate for potential recalls. I know I drive a lot of miles, so that’s why I always buy the longest extended warranty I can. I also make sure I keep all the maintenance up on my cars. I’ve had 8 cars over the past 21 years and this is the worst one ever. I normally trade my cars after 2 years due to the mileage, but this one
Dear Moron, these cars are junk and Generous Motors gets away with this problem and its mostly on Malibu’s NITSA t should be doing some about this. And another thing asshole, I have a Samsung TV that burned well past the warranty and they knew there was a problem. Thet sent a repairman to my house and fixed it no charge! So shut the hell up and go drive your pimpy little Toyotty. This site is bascilly for us G M customers!
Dear child I wish people like yourself would grow up. You run back to mommy when something doesn’t work right!
You want to call me names! Go right ahead. But you do me one favor. Send a letter to the editor and tell him to change this sites rules so when I give my response I wont give banned.
I play your pathetic game!
I had this problem in early 2018 (Thankfully on a city street) under warranty. GM finally issued an extended coverage for this issue up to 150k miles in August of 2019. (And a form to submit for a refund if you pay for this.) I have also seen the stabilitrak issue. Currently my 2016 Malibu has the “shift to park” issue which is common.
2019 Malibu have the same problem. Just bought my wife a used 2019 Malibu 6 days ago and she was headed down the highway and it happened with no shoulder beside the road to pull of on. She got it back home safely. Waiting on the dealership to fix it or bandaid like most do until the warranty runs out.
Hi, my name is Jeff & I am having the same problem with my 2018 Malibu, the traction stability light & the check engine light come on at the same time & then there’s a warning that comes on my speedometer area that says engine power reduced.
I recently received a letter in regards to this lawsuit and I miss placed the papers now I’m wondering if someone has the number where I can call.
I just recently received a latter of this lawsuit but I Miss placed it and now I’m wondering if there’s any number I can call.
The new Chevy Malibu’s are only based on looks almost all of them come defective with electrical problems. this is a problem that is notorious for the newer Chevy Malibu. loss of power while in traffic. Very dangerous and for that I am now shopping for the 1.5 L Ford fusion eco-boost…
I have a 2015 that has currently started doing the same exact thing and losing power going down freeway. Who do I need to contact?
Well I recently bought my grandson a 2018 used Impala and its been a headache of repairs, now he is having issues with the throttle sensor. While driving it will slow down to 10 – 20 miles. I finally had it towed in today in fear of him getting hit on the highway and having a bad accident when it slows down like that, it’s too dangerous. So I’m praying it’s not going to cost too much but going to trade it in as soon as I can!
my sons 2016 cruise is on its 3 gas pedal and i just ordered a fourth.
I’ve had this happen at 57k’mikes
I took off the pedal assembly and cleaned it. I am now at 122k Miles and haven’t had it happen since.
Dielectric spray. 10mm bolt. Ten minutes Tops
In January 2019 my 2017 Malibu pedal had to be replaced, and I just replaced the second one. I was given a reimbursement form for the first one I replaced but it expired in August of 2020. I was not notified that I could get reimbursed and now I can’t because it expired. All owners should have been notified!!!
My 2015 Malibu dash board lights up saying reduce speed to 25mph. I almost got hit at a red light because it lost all power and wouldn’t do nothing. GM should notified all buyer’s of this problem as well as fixing the issue. I stopped making payments and let it go back. I’m not paying for a unsafe vehicle to get killed in!
I thought maybe with it being related to traction control system. I need new tires so back in march or April
I got new tires . now its back and the engine power reduce d. Signal is there from the start. I bought this car from enterprise. Got an appointment with my mechanic @ 8:30 a.m. is gm responsible? Knot
I too have had the same problem luckily I’m mechanically inclined and I replaced the pedal myself in 5 min it has 1 10mm bolt and a wire connector.
I’m having the same problem with my 2018 Malibu. Yesterday out of the blue it it threw the code and while driving down the HWY it reduced speed.
I traded mine in for a Nissan.
2017 Malibu. 2x throttle sensor. 1x oil sensor. 1x fuel sensor. Each time car went into limp mode. 30 mph. Twice in very bad traffic areas. Once on a mountain road. Very scary and I had no warm fuzzies during that GM crap. Got rid of it
You would think it would be a recall due to I just got my pedal sensor replaced yesterday because of the same dangerous (Engine Reduce Speed) light was coming on going 70mph then suddenly dropping to 25-30mph. Talking scared and hazardous to every other driver on the road. Makes no sense. I wasn’t covered under warranty and had to pay out of pocket as well.
My 2019 Chevy Malibu just did this on the highway today, as well as my traction control light is on. No warranty which is a hassle and only it only has 35k for miles. Also just serviced at a dealership less than two weeks ago. This is upsetting when you pay 500 a month and only had the car for a year and a half.
I am in the middle of this EXACT same situation. I have a claim set up with GM to try to help me get this handled as well. The “Escalation Claims adjuster” I was assigned to literally will not even admit to any wrongdoing. I just paid almost 1000.00 to have my car repaired after going round and round with him. I have pictures and video of what happened before I brought it in (fir the 5th time) and my car has NOT been fixed. My car is randomly doing the SAME thing. I have pictures and videos time stamped as proof. All he does is tell me to keep bringing back to dealership. GM will not approve a loaner while my car is being looked at. It takes days or weeks to “fix” and I need a car in the interim to take care of several elderly relatives.
They don’t care in the least. All he wants to do is close the claim.
I am at my wits end and have no idea what to do moving forward.
You have a 3-year warranty!
I’m going through the same thing. Bought my car brand new and 3 years later this is the bs I have to deal with. I called the dealership and was told they ouuld check it out but if it’s not covered by Chevrolet which they doubt it is covered, I have to pay for them to check it and pay them to fix it. I’m stunned and disgusted with Chevrolet. They know that this part is defective and don’t take responsibility for making a car with a defective part. Good job Chevrolet! You guys are fricken amazing! I’m a single mother of 3 and I struggle even at the best of times and now I have a piece of crap car sitting parked in front of my house that I cannot use and I’m still obviously responsible for the 3 years of payments that I have left on the p.o.s. Car I purchased brand new from the Chevrolet dealership who all have their hands up, saying sorry I can’t help you. I will always tell whoever I can not to get a Chevrolet. Cause now w I’m stuck using my Chevrolegs to get around.
Hello i had a 2009 chevy malibu and got reduced power i changed Every sensor on the car changed throttle body i changed peddle and Nothing then i changed the engine fusebox out with after market one and boom it fixed the problem runs like a champ, now i got 2017 malibu and got a reduced power but still ran fine only when i tryed to slow down after i exit highway the brakes were hard but made it home and soon as i pulled in it turned off and wont start just cranks but no start so now got to figure out this problem as the 2009 would atleast start up this one wont so ill repost when i get it going
I finally got sick of dealing with my Malibu and traded it for a Nissan. I will never buy another GM product.
I read about the law suit for the Chevy Malibu reduced engine problem. It said cars between 2016-2019 are supposed to be fixed. I have a 2012 Chevy Malibu LTZ and it has that same problem!! Does anyone know if I should take it back to dealership and ask about it?? Have had 3 things replaced and it didn’t fix it.