The 7th gen Chevy Malibu is a popular daily driver, but like many vehicles, it also has common faults and issues. Here’s the most common Chevy Malibu problems for the 7th generation, years 2008 to 2012.
Top Chevy Malibu Problems: 7th Generation (2008 to 2012)
1. Power Steering Problems
Symptoms of Power Steering Problems
- Turning the steering wheel requires more manual force
Causes of Power Steering Problems
Sometimes the vehicle goes into manual steering mode, which means the power steering deactivates and leaves it to the driver to turn the steering wheel manually. This can be problematic and strenuous.
Two parts inside the steering wheel column could cause this problem:
- The torque sensor
- Steering control module
If the module is unable to send a signal to the car’s computer, also known as the power control module (PCM), it will be unable to apply the power assist needed to steer the vehicle safely.
How to Fix Power Steering Problems on the 7th Gen Chevy Malibu
Since there is a power steering recall, we recommend bringing the Malibu back to a Chevrolet dealership where they can replace the entire steering column.
Alternatively, you could replace the torque sensor and steering control module yourself, which is a detailed job.
2. Coolant Leaks
Symptoms of Coolant Leaks on the 7th Gen Chevy Malibu
- Coolant is regularly low
- Sweet smell in the air
- Low heat from the vents
- Coolant leak underneath the vehicle
- White smoke from the exhaust
- Leaks on the passenger side carpet
Causes of Coolant Leaks
- When steam is venting from the cooling system, it’s possible to smell a sweet smell in the air
- Low heat from the vents is from low coolant. If there isn’t much coolant in the system or there are air bubbles, there won’t be as much heat in the heater core, which is meant to cool the coolant down.
- White smoke from the exhaust means coolant is burning inside the combustion chamber and that there is an internal coolant leak.
- The intake gasket tends to cause internal and external coolant leaks.
- Coolant may also be dropping out of the water pump since the weep hole on the water pump tends to fail. To inspect the water pump, you’ll have to remove the passenger side wheel well or get underneath the vehicle.
How to Fix Coolant Leaks
Replacing the heater core requires removing a lot of interior parts and may be a detailed job
How to Check for Coolant Leaks
- Add Coolant to the Coolant Reservoir
Add coolant to the coolant tank to raise the fluid level
- Pressure Test the Coolant System
Pressure test the coolant system to 16-18 psi with a pressure tester. Read here for a more detailed explanation
- Monitor the Coolant Pressure Tester’s Gauge
Check the pressure tester’s gauge and make sure it sits near the set psi. If it drops significantly over time, there is a coolant leak.
- Check the Coolant System for Leaks
Inspect the coolant system for leaks. If there is no visible leaks, the intake gasket may be leaking internally
3. Blower Motor Resistor Failure
Symptoms of a Bad Blower Motor Resister
- Loud fan noise from the vents
- Inconsistent or weak ventilation
- Fan settings not working
Causes of a Bad Blower Motor Resistor
The blower motor resistor works like a circuit board. If contaminants and moisture get inside the blower motor resistor, the resistor can corrode and that can affect the operation of the blower motor.
How to Fix the Blower Motor Resistor
The blower motor resistor is located near the blower motor under the dash on the passenger side.
Steps to remove the blower motor resistor:
- Disconnect the electrical connector and look for discoloration in the terminals
- Remove the screws from the blower motor resistor
- Remove the blower motor resistor
- Inspect the blower motor resistor for damage or corrosion
- Reverse these steps to reinstall
We also recommend inspecting the switch and the blower motor, but on the 7th gen Malibu, it’s likely the blower motor resistor that’s faulty.
4. Ignition System—Pass Lock System Issues
Symptoms of Ignition System Problems on the 7th Gen Chevy Malibu
- No crank no start when turning the ignition key
- Theft light may be flashing during no start
Causes of Ignition System Problems
The pass lock system is part of the theft deterrent system. The pass lock system is located behind the ignition cylinder, which is responsible for identifying that the correct key is in the cylinder and what position it’s at. If the pass lock switch malfunctions and isn’t signaling the PCM, the pass lock system will engage.
How to Fix Ignition System Problems
To temporarily fix a 7th gen 2008 to 2012 Chevy Malibu that has this problem and won’t start, put the key in the ON position for 10 minutes. The theft lock light will turn off and you can start the vehicle.
5. Fuel Level Sensor
Symptoms of a Bad Fuel Level Sensor
- Check engine light for code P0455 or P0461
- Incorrect readings on the gas level meter
Causes of a Bad Fuel Level Sensor
The fuel pump has a fuel level sensor that senses the amount of gas in the tank. The sensor tends to fail and can also jam. Rodents can also chew through the sensors electrical wiring
How to Fix a Fuel Level Sensor Problems on the 2008 to 2012 Chevy Malibu
- Lower the fuel tank
- Inspect the fuel pump wiring for tears and damage
- Test the wirings
- See if there are any objects or debris affecting the sensor on the fuel pump
- If all the other parts are working as intended, it’s likely just the fuel level sensor
6. Hood Prop Rod Failure
Symptoms of Hood Prop Rod Failure
- Sagging hood
- Hood won’t stay up
Causes of Hood Prop Rod Failure
- The hood rod prop is intended to prop the hood up for working safely. They tend to lose strength and fail on the 7th gen Chevy Malibu.
How to Fix the Hood Prop Rod
Replace the hood prop rod
Related Content
- Whining Noise When Turning Steering Wheel? [Diagnose & Fix]
- Power Steering Leak [Expert Advice to Diagnose & Fix]
- How to Test a Fuel Pump
- Why Your Car Struggles to Start [Low Fuel Pressure]
- How to Perform a Radiator Pressure Test
- How Can I Tell If I Have a Coolant Leak?
7th Generation Chevrolet Malibu Model Years
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