2002 Chevrolet Malibu
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Malibu › 2002
These records cover every 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. Newest first.
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on July 3, 2014, that they are recalling 5,877,718 model…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install two key rings and an insert in the key slot or a cover over the key head on all ignition keys, free of charge. The recall began on September 9, 2014. GM's number for this recall is 14350.
Sabersport IS recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
Certain delphi fuel pressure regulators, p/nos. Fp10020-11b1, fp10026-11b1, and fp10027-11b1, sold after january 9, 2007, as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles listed above. the universal pressure regulators (upr) were produced without an o'ring and retainer.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Fuel may leak, possibly resulting in a fire.
Remedy
Delphi will notify owners and replace the upr free of charge. the recall began on april 23, 2007. owners can contact delphi at 877-411-8770.
Certain passenger vehicles fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." some of these vehicles were produced with a left low-beam headlamp that does not meet the photometric performance requirements of the standard.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Light intensities below the minimum intensity requirements cause reduction in visibility down the road for the driver of the vehicle and intensities above the maximum intensity requirements cause increase in glare for drivers ahead of, or approaching, the vehicle.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the left low-beam headlamp and replace it if it does not meet requirements. owner notification began may 23, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020.
Owner complaints
567 complaints18 involved a crash1 involved a fire19 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system › Instrument panel › Speedometer/odometer
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic, who reported the mileage at 105,000. The key was stuck in the ignition, but was replaced. It was discovered that…
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic, who reported the mileage at 105,000. The key was stuck in the ignition, but was replaced. It was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. The seller provided the VIN from the title and a Carfax report that the vehicle had only two previous owners. At the time of the purchase, the mileage was 49,500. Upon research, the Good Car report indicated that there were several owners of the vehicle. The contact stated the seller was possibly deceiving buyers. A Carfax report was not provided. There were no other agencies contacted.
- Electrical system · Engine
The anti-theft/ passlock system fault in this generation of GM vehicles is very widespread and effects a large percentage of vehicles in this generation. I am sure there have been hundreds if not thousands of complaints about same issue and GM refuses to fix the problem. The problem causes the car…
The anti-theft/ passlock system fault in this generation of GM vehicles is very widespread and effects a large percentage of vehicles in this generation. I am sure there have been hundreds if not thousands of complaints about same issue and GM refuses to fix the problem. The problem causes the car to randomly shut off due to anti theft fault and can happen on interstate, highway or in town driving. This is a very dangerous fault and very expensive for owners especially when dealerships themselves don't even know what they are dealing with. They will throw parts at the problem with no real knowledge. GM needs to be held accountable. Currently the ignition the BCM have been replaced and now the car will not start at all and I have no lights or gauges on my cluster.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
The turn signals work sometimes and sometimes they don't work. I researched this on the internet and it seams to be a serious problem with this car make. if there are no recalls on this there should be. This IS a major safety hazard. I just bought this car for my teenage son.
- Service brakes
The hydraulic brake lines between the front and rear of the car corroded and quickly leaked fluid out so the brakes no longer functioned. the fluid leaked out when the car was parked after driving on the highway the night before. If this happened when I was driving the results could have been catestophic my mechanic stated that this IS a common problem with chevys. I saved some of the brake lines he had to remove.
- Electrical system
The characteristics of the problem are as follows: the engine just dies randomly. When the engine dies, I noted the gauges all indicated the key was in the off position, even though the key had not been touched. They by turning the key to the off position and wiggling it only after bringing the…
The characteristics of the problem are as follows: the engine just dies randomly. When the engine dies, I noted the gauges all indicated the key was in the off position, even though the key had not been touched. They by turning the key to the off position and wiggling it only after bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and putting the gear shift in the park position, could I get the car to start and be on my way. This same condition happens at 65 mph on the freeway; at 0 mph; 5 mph; approaching a stop sign; slowing the vehicle, and other condition while driving that you can think of type driving conditions . I have had the ignition switch replace twice and that has not cured the problem.
- Electrical system › Ignition › Anti-theft › Control module · Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated that the engine hesitated when started. Also, the instrument panel lighting became very dim and the data on the screen was not visible. Also, the passenger door would not lock and the windows failed to roll down. All the warning…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated that the engine hesitated when started. Also, the instrument panel lighting became very dim and the data on the screen was not visible. Also, the passenger door would not lock and the windows failed to roll down. All the warning indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact jumped the battery and the engine restarted. Later, the vehicle decelerated while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the anti-theft system failed. The mechanic was currently performing a second diagnostic test. The manufacturer and dealer were not made aware of the failures. The failure mileage was 46,786.
- Electrical system
Passlock censor in the ignition lock cylinder failing. Security relearn needed. Vehicle was stationary.
- Electrical system
Car would not start, had to replace alternator. One week later same problem, had a mechanic check it now saying its the battery so replaced that. Was starting ok then it wouldn't start so we wiggled key around and it started. Was able to drive several days doing this but then it would not start at…
Car would not start, had to replace alternator. One week later same problem, had a mechanic check it now saying its the battery so replaced that. Was starting ok then it wouldn't start so we wiggled key around and it started. Was able to drive several days doing this but then it would not start at all. The mechanic says it IS the ignition switch. When I looked this up I see that lots of people having problem with ignition switch. Gm cars are crap!!! I cant afford to fix this I am on very limited budget so my car been siting for over month now. Gm needs to fix for free.
- Electrical system › Ignition
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start and the key felt hot while in the ignition. The dealer and manufacturer had not been contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The failure mileage was 92,000.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
My vehicle IS messing up on me and it was shut off my vehicle IS messing up on me it will shut off well driving ill pull over and wait a couple mins and I will pull out the fuel fuse and wait a couple mins and will put it back and it will start again after a week it shut off on me and would not…
My vehicle IS messing up on me and it was shut off my vehicle IS messing up on me it will shut off well driving ill pull over and wait a couple mins and I will pull out the fuel fuse and wait a couple mins and will put it back and it will start again after a week it shut off on me and would not start had to have it towed took it to a mechanic he changed the fuel pump and marjoram worked for 5days then the same problem again changed the sensors worked ok for 2days and the problem came back again so I changed the spark plugs fuel filter all fuses still nothing its been sitting for 3 to 4 months now I can't seem to find the problem I changed everything u can thing of now the check engine and test system light IS on
- Engine · Unknown or other
My car cuts off and goes into the anti-theft system while I'm going down the road when this happens my car has to be pushed off the roadway and then I have to sit with my driver side door open and my key turned on for 10 minutes until it resets itself this IS very dangerous and it scared me…
My car cuts off and goes into the anti-theft system while I'm going down the road when this happens my car has to be pushed off the roadway and then I have to sit with my driver side door open and my key turned on for 10 minutes until it resets itself this IS very dangerous and it scared me because I was in the middle of highway 150 in danville kentucky. Plusmy heating system IS messed up I can't get it to bleed out the air in the system.
- Steering
Key does not shut off car can not shift gears
- Unknown or other
Anti-theft locking device make car stop and can't start even in emergency situation. had gone to bank and when tried to start vehicle and wouldn't start. client IS 88 years old and had to go out on street seeking help to get car fixed. (forgot cell phone at home) walked some distance and was…
Anti-theft locking device make car stop and can't start even in emergency situation. had gone to bank and when tried to start vehicle and wouldn't start. client IS 88 years old and had to go out on street seeking help to get car fixed. (forgot cell phone at home) walked some distance and was having respiratory problems when she reached an auto shop. mechanic went to car to help and fixed problem. said it was anti-theft mechanism. this same thing has happened before when car had to be towed and was diagnosed as anti-theft locking device. researching matter on internet and find there are thousands of chevrolets exhibiting the same defect. why isn't chevrolet required to fix this problem before some dies as a result. we can't always control circumstances of being stranded, where when how etc., and this IS absolutely a safety problem for the driver. please help with this problem. when individuals are on fixed income they can't keep going to dealer and have $108 diagnosis to determine problem (when they already know what it IS) and then charging big bucks to fix a minor fix. thank you for your attention.
- Unknown or other
Anti theft device caused car to be unable to start even with correct key. Stationary. Computer had to.be reprogrammed.
- Electrical system
Car will not start
- Electrical system
My car dies running and it sometimes doesn't wants to start due to a switch problem the same I had in other malibu that I had and the dealer fixed for me
- Electrical system › Ignition › Anti-theft › Control module
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. While turning the ignition switch, the vehicle stalled and the anti-theft warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The vin and failure mileage were unknown. Updated 09/06/17*lj
- Engine
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated that the engine warning indicator illuminated and anti-freeze was leaking out of the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to an unknown dealer where it was diagnosed that the head gasket blew out and needed to be replaced. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. The contact stated that the engine warning indicator illuminated and anti-freeze was leaking out of the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to an unknown dealer where it was diagnosed that the head gasket blew out and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The ourisman chevrolet dealer stated that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer informed the contact that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The approximate failure mileage was 10,333.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chervolet malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle experienced a loss of power. The dealer repaired the vehicle per nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000(electrical system); however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
- Electrical system
:Takata recall" purchased and next day went by dealership as the taillights were inoperatable. He said bring it when it wasn't raining or wife was there. I went to crank it to go to dr. And it wouldn't crank. I thought it was fuel pump. After a week of not cranking I called a mechanic and he said…
:Takata recall" purchased and next day went by dealership as the taillights were inoperatable. He said bring it when it wasn't raining or wife was there. I went to crank it to go to dr. And it wouldn't crank. I thought it was fuel pump. After a week of not cranking I called a mechanic and he said he would check it out. I had to have it towed. It was the ignition switch. Drove the day was fixed and drove and check engine light came on. We didn't turn off but drove back to where we got it running. He put the light to it again and still showed iginition switch. He told us to be careful until you get it fixed. I called chev dealer and said they didn't have in stock would have to order for recall. I found out then the recall was for 2 keys. I stopped by gro store on way home from church and went got in car and all the lights came on. Brake light, fuel light even though it was full, check engine light, battery, and they all stayed on until I got home about 2 miles.this IS not just a complaint, it IS for my safety and for everyone else's. What if we ended up wrecking because of this igination switch. All these problems and only had it less than 3 months and only 100,000. I am not able to walk any distance bcause of breathing. Something needs to be done before one of these cars ends up killing someone. The first time this occurred, I was in motion but 2ND it was parked in driveway. When I turned the ignition switch off, it also made a metal scrubbing sound and would not stop until I got it completely off. .
- Unknown or other
Have a 2002 malibu, and the theft system light keeps coming on and I have to turn off the radio, turn the ignition key to acc, wait 10 - 15 minutes for the theft system light to stop blinking and "disappear", then turn the key to the off position, wait another 5 - 10 minutes. then turn the key to…
Have a 2002 malibu, and the theft system light keeps coming on and I have to turn off the radio, turn the ignition key to acc, wait 10 - 15 minutes for the theft system light to stop blinking and "disappear", then turn the key to the off position, wait another 5 - 10 minutes. then turn the key to the start position for the car to crank. the whole process can take approximately 25 minutes to start the car. I never know when I get in my car if the problem will occur, when it will happen or where I will be when it happens. the most recent time was yesterday 3/22/17.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Headlights dim when brakes are applied such as coming to a stop or slowing down to negotiate turns. This creates a dangerous situation where visibility IS compromised during night driving. It IS very easy to miss turns, exit ramps, and road signs. Vehicle has been to gm service center, and was told…
Headlights dim when brakes are applied such as coming to a stop or slowing down to negotiate turns. This creates a dangerous situation where visibility IS compromised during night driving. It IS very easy to miss turns, exit ramps, and road signs. Vehicle has been to gm service center, and was told this operation IS normal. Battery, and charging system no problems found. New headlight bulbs installed no difference. Vehicle IS like new condition; always garaged. No damage, rust, or modifications. It should be noted that there IS a tsb #02-06-03-008a concerning the issue.
- Electrical system
Intermitten on right and left hand turns the car will stall and stop. Replaced module asmelek/ignition control and my same problem persisted. Took it to the dealership and they fixed they replaced the module and swtich and my problem still continues. My car IS still at the dealership now as of jan. 26, 2017.
- Exterior lighting
Turn signals work on occasion this car only has 42,000 original miles on it and turn signal problem began at 36,000
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. While in park, the vehicle failed to start and the key failed to turn from the off position. All the lights on the instrument cluster illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the ignition lock cylinder needed to be…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 chevrolet malibu. While in park, the vehicle failed to start and the key failed to turn from the off position. All the lights on the instrument cluster illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the ignition lock cylinder needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was previously repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 168,000.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Turn signal failures
In december 2004, gm issued a special policy for my 1999-2000 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v327. The policy covered turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurred first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch. Gm sent…
In december 2004, gm issued a special policy for my 1999-2000 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v327. The policy covered turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurred first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch. Gm sent letters to owners starting december 30, 2004.in january 2006, gm will update the special policy to include my 2002 alero, grand am and malibu vehicles not covered under recall 03v-327.the policy covers turn signal/hazard flasher failure for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (whichever occurs first) to provide a no cost replacement of the hazard switch.gm will send letters to owners starting late april 2006.the actions taken by the manufacturer IS sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take future action if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248778Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245891Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10245890Unintended Ignition Key Rotation
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232811This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
Every Chevrolet Malibu model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.