2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Malibu Classic › 2003
These records cover every 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
16 complaints1 involved a crash
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Vehicle speed control
Accerlation all of sudden without stopping vehicle was in motion at the time
- Electrical system · Electrical system › Ignition › Anti-theft › Control module
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that there was no failure with the two vehicle keys until the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system) by autonation chevrolet laurel (500 washington blvd, suite a, laurel, md 20707…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that there was no failure with the two vehicle keys until the vehicle was repaired per nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system) by autonation chevrolet laurel (500 washington blvd, suite a, laurel, md 20707, 301-725-2700). The dealer was informed numerous times that the replacement keys from the recall failed to remedy the defect. The vehicle failed to start and was unable to be restarted numerous times. For over four years, the contact stated that the original oem keys functioned properly. In addition, the anti-theft function failed to operate properly. The contact referenced the owner's manual to reprogram the function and turned the vehicle on and off. The contact stated that the anti-theft feature did not work for this year, make, and model vehicle, the anti-theft warning indicator illuminated, and the vehicle would not start when the key was inserted in the ignition. The dealer kept the two oem keys and stated that the plastic insert piece that was to be provided as a key insert failed as a remedy for the recall. The two keys did not work for the contact's model vehicle. The dealer reported to the manufacturer that the plastic cover and the key modification failed to function manually and electronically. The vehicle had to be towed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The failure mileage was not available.
- Unknown or other
I have been having problems with the anti-theft system. My car continues to not start until I complete a 10 minute procedure each time. This IS very annoying and have left me stranded many times. I believe that this IS a recall that needs to be corrected immediately. There have been numerous complaints on this problem and nothing has been done.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start and the anti-theft warning indicator illuminated for approximately two minutes. All of the indicators illuminated because the key was in the on position, but the engine did not start. The vehicle…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start and the anti-theft warning indicator illuminated for approximately two minutes. All of the indicators illuminated because the key was in the on position, but the engine did not start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer (art moehn chevrolet in jackson, michigan) and had the ignition switch replaced in august of 2017. The vehicle was not repaired this time. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 136,000.
- Electrical system
The drivers side brake light doesn't work.i have tried changing the bulb several times, but it will not work.a few yrs back I saw a recall on this but I didn't take advantage of it and now I cannot find it anymore I would like info on what I should do now as I got a warning ticket !! Thanks
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. While the vehicle was stationary, the pad lock sensor became activated and the vehicle would not start. The contact stated that the anti-theft indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. While the vehicle was stationary, the pad lock sensor became activated and the vehicle would not start. The contact stated that the anti-theft indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes. The contact stated that the failure occurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was towed on one occasion. The wins chevrolet dealer in carson, california was made aware of the failure and stated that the contact would have to purchase a new ignition system. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The failure mileage was approximately 130,000.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at 35 mph, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 144,000.
- Electrical system
First time incident occurred was 6/18/15, twice on 6/23/2015 and once on 6/24/15. theft system caused car not to start; performed trouble shooting method according to owner's manual (leaving key in ignition on position wait 10 minutes for the theft system to stop blinking, turn key in ignition to…
First time incident occurred was 6/18/15, twice on 6/23/2015 and once on 6/24/15. theft system caused car not to start; performed trouble shooting method according to owner's manual (leaving key in ignition on position wait 10 minutes for the theft system to stop blinking, turn key in ignition to off then restart) which doesn't indicate further action to take if problem persists. took it to ryan chevrolet dealer in monroe, la on 6/24/15 where service advisor travis stuart said 125.00 diagnostic charge has to be paid to find out the problem which I've already indicated what it was and was unable to fix the issue which IS an urgent safety concern because according to him the dealership was behind and backup in repairs. he scheduled for me to come in for 6/26/15 at 8AM which travis stated was the earliest appointment availability he had. spoke to chevrolet.com live chat customer care representative alexandria on 6/24/15 shortly after 9PM and stated to her the problem along with what the dealership told me. alexandria told me that there were no recalls for this type of issue regarding 2003 chevy malibu, owner's manual IS just a stepping stone as a guideline, vehicle IS over 10 yrs old so it IS no longer under warranty and repairs have to made at my own expense with no type of reimbursement to the customer. I was not aware this vehicle was a recall until I went to the dmv to get it registered IS where I was informed regarding this particular make/model of this vehicle. I shouldn't have to pay for something that IS an manufacturer defect gm IS knowingly aware of indicated in their owner's manual nor I should be held accountable for something through no fault of my own. I am fearful of driving this vehicle to work or school putting my life at risk everyday.
- Engine
When driving my car the the engine shutoff and the brakes failed.
- Electrical system
2003 chevrolet malibu classic. Consumer got car fixed due to recall of ignition problems. Requesting reimbursement. *Ta the consumer was denied reimbursement, because the repair was not done by a gm dealer. The ignition lock cylinder was replaced. The consumer stated the nearest dealer was 40 miles away. *Jb
- Electronic stability control (esc)
One of the tires slid on a puddle of water and stalled or vice or visa and hydroplaned off the highway rolling over several times and landing upside down in a ditch totaling the car. I was grateful to have survived the crash. I had just gotten the car out of the shop that same day. And the month before. The car repairs and the car notes and insurance payments were colliding. *tr
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the ignition switch key would turn after numerous attempts. The failure occurred on several occasions. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified. The approximate failure mileage was 118,000. updated 11/20/14*lj the consumer was unable to remove the key from the ignition. Updated 01/08/15
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start on the first attempt. The contact waited ten minutes and the vehicle started normally. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the ignition switch was replaced. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start on the first attempt. The contact waited ten minutes and the vehicle started normally. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the ignition switch was replaced. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system) and stated that the ignition switch was not included in the remedy. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
- Electrical system › Ignition › Switch
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. After repeated attempts, the ignition key failed to turn in any position. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealer and the ignition switch tumbler was replaced. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.
- Steering
Upon accelerating and with a slight turn of the steering wheel, the power steering goes out and actually the steering wheel pulls back the opposite direction. This happens daily and occurs most frequently upon turning while accelerating. We have had some very scary situations. For example, when…
Upon accelerating and with a slight turn of the steering wheel, the power steering goes out and actually the steering wheel pulls back the opposite direction. This happens daily and occurs most frequently upon turning while accelerating. We have had some very scary situations. For example, when pulling onto a road and the steering does not go the direction intended. I believe this IS part of the recall for the power steering, but evidently parts are not ready for the recall. ?? *tr
- Electrical system · Power train
While driving on the freeway, my car just shut off. I managed to put in neutral and restart the car after a long attempt to do so. I ended up repeating the process again within a few minutes, but since we were so far from an exit we continued to drive slowly in the right lane until we reached an…
While driving on the freeway, my car just shut off. I managed to put in neutral and restart the car after a long attempt to do so. I ended up repeating the process again within a few minutes, but since we were so far from an exit we continued to drive slowly in the right lane until we reached an exit while leaving our hazard lights on. The car has now continued to seemingly randomly repeat the process at odd times with significant intervals between each episode. I have also had a tremendous amount of trouble with the vehicles anti theft system prohibiting the car from starting. Now the car has also begun to struggle to start at random times. Sometimes the car starts just fine, at others, it struggles or takes several long attempts to start, if it even will. The battery, alternator, and fuses are all good. The check engine light comes on sometimes and when it IS the code just reads a communication error which seems useless to the garage. I am not comfortable with my pregnant wife driving the car. I am concerned that it will breakdown, not start, or worse, shut off while she IS on the freeway and then not be able to control the car without power steering. *tr
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.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 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.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 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.
- 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.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 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
- 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.
- 10244214This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10228906This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10228888This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
- 10227674This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 10227056This 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.
- 10225615This service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
- 10224820This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10222839This service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
Every Chevrolet Malibu Classic model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.