2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Malibu Classic › 2004
These records cover every 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. 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.
Owner complaints
116 complaints8 involved a crash2 involved a fire13 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine · Latches/locks/linkages
The contact owns a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, the vehicle lost motive power and abnormal noises were heard coming from the dashboard. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle when the door locks began to lock and unlock inadvertently.…
The contact owns a 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. The contact stated that while stopped at a red light, the vehicle lost motive power and abnormal noises were heard coming from the dashboard. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle when the door locks began to lock and unlock inadvertently. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and drove the vehicle to a locksmith. The locksmith informed the contact that there was no failure with the ignition switch. The dealer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that they could not repair the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 91,000.
- Unknown or other
I was driving my 2004 malibu classic , when all the vehicle , turned off ,causing me to hit the vehicle in front of me and that vehicle hitting another car , there where 3 vehicle involved with injury's, my vehicle was tolled and was sent to a tow yard , at the time of the incident I was working…
I was driving my 2004 malibu classic , when all the vehicle , turned off ,causing me to hit the vehicle in front of me and that vehicle hitting another car , there where 3 vehicle involved with injury's, my vehicle was tolled and was sent to a tow yard , at the time of the incident I was working as a maintenance worker and would carry my work keys with my vehicle keys , never would have thought it would have turned the ignition
- Electrical system · Engine · Exterior lighting
Well my ignition switch went out I replace that.now it's shortages in wiring and lights heat on an off sometimes shocks
- Unknown or other
On 01/14/2012 I was driving a 2004 malibu classic in which I ended up in a crash involving 3 vehicles, I was driving on a street about 30 miles per hour when my malibu had suddenly turned off without power steering and breaks I hit the car in front of me, then that car hit the car in front of him…
On 01/14/2012 I was driving a 2004 malibu classic in which I ended up in a crash involving 3 vehicles, I was driving on a street about 30 miles per hour when my malibu had suddenly turned off without power steering and breaks I hit the car in front of me, then that car hit the car in front of him, my 2004 malibu was totaled, the insurance company, was a total loss, at the time I was ticketed for following too closely, however I knew that this malibu had loss power causing the accident
- Electrical system
The anti theft gas cut off feature has rendered my vehicle unable to start. I have tried many methods but the problem persists. It starts when it wants too, but not when I do. *tr
- Power train · Steering
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel independently turned to the left without warning. The vehicle was turned off and back on but failed to fix the issue. The vehicle was towed to an independent…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel independently turned to the left without warning. The vehicle was turned off and back on but failed to fix the issue. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the rack and pinion detached from the subframe and needed to be replaced. The contact stated that only the bushing was replaced and not the rack and pinion. In addition, the contact stated on another occasion the vehicle failed to shift to reverse or go into forward gear while in the middle of the road. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic and was diagnosed that the shift cable was fractured and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 157,000.
- Unknown or other
My theft light came on a month after the ignition was repaired due to recall. It IS always on now. I have replaced the fuel pump, spark plugs, and timing chain. My car still wont start after all of that and the theft light IS still on. I have been without a car for 2 months now due to it not…
My theft light came on a month after the ignition was repaired due to recall. It IS always on now. I have replaced the fuel pump, spark plugs, and timing chain. My car still wont start after all of that and the theft light IS still on. I have been without a car for 2 months now due to it not starting. It will roll over but nothing more happens.when all of this happened it was stationary and it was parked in a parking lot where I work.
- Unknown or other
There IS a problem with the rear brake lights. I had the circuit boards changed and all fuses checked and changed and I still don't had brake lights. There IS a recall listed concerning this issue it IS recall number 13036. I have researched IS situation and found out that the chevy malibu models…
There IS a problem with the rear brake lights. I had the circuit boards changed and all fuses checked and changed and I still don't had brake lights. There IS a recall listed concerning this issue it IS recall number 13036. I have researched IS situation and found out that the chevy malibu models from 1997 to 2012 all seem to have problems with the brake lights failing to operate. So when a recall be issued or do people have to continue taking chances that while they are driving that the brake lights may or may not be working. I was driving when someone informed me that my rear brake lights were not working thankfully I arrived home, parked my car and have not driven it since. I discussed the situation with my mechanic and he advised me about the failed rear brake assembly of the chevy malibu and to contact the dealership. I spoke with a representative who basically told me there was nothing I could do that I could had it serviced pay out of pocket and if and when a recall for the brake system IS issued I could be reimbursed. Because of this huge issue I can't and don't feel safe driving. Therefore, it IS an extra cost on me to take public transportation to travel and I'm on a fixed income so who IS going to reimburse me for my inconvenience.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact had to leave the key in the "on" position for approximately ten minutes before attempting to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred twice and the theft…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to start. The contact had to leave the key in the "on" position for approximately ten minutes before attempting to start the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure occurred twice and the theft warning indicator illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 190,000.
- Electrical system
My theft system warning light keeps coming on. When I turn the key off and try to restart the car it will not start back. I have to turn it to the on position and wait until the theft light quits flashing which IS usually 10 minutes and then restart the car. I was told by a chevrolet dealership mechanic that the problem was the ignition cylinder which cost around $180. why IS there not a recall for this.
- Electrical system
I turn my key yo turn off my car in it want go pass the acc.
- Unknown or other
The theft system light has been an issue with this car for some time. The theft system light comes on and stays on by itself as well the systems makes the horn honk when opening or closing the car door. The theft system has made it so that I cannot start my car & this has been an on going problem with my car.
- Electrical system
Due to the passlock sensor inside the ignition lock cylinder case failure, the vehicle will stall at any moment and anywhere, which makes more likely to be involved in a wreck because of this. Gm stated that the problem with the vehicle stalling was due to the key coming out from the ignition…
Due to the passlock sensor inside the ignition lock cylinder case failure, the vehicle will stall at any moment and anywhere, which makes more likely to be involved in a wreck because of this. Gm stated that the problem with the vehicle stalling was due to the key coming out from the ignition cylinder. Gm added weight to the plastic portion of the key as a solution to the problem but the real problem for the vehicle to stall IS not that, it IS due to the failure of the passlock sensor.
- Suspension
Ends of hollow sway bar broke off affecting control. Mechanic said it was a common problem and should have had a recall.
- Power train
I turn my car on drive go to get out the key won't come out sometimes it does and most time IS doesn't. I try turn the car back on putting the car in drive then park and turning the key to off position and the car still doesn't go into the park position so the key doesn't go into off position to…
I turn my car on drive go to get out the key won't come out sometimes it does and most time IS doesn't. I try turn the car back on putting the car in drive then park and turning the key to off position and the car still doesn't go into the park position so the key doesn't go into off position to take key out. the car stays on without the ignition being on. The car IS stationary but the car won't go into park to turn the car completely off. Spoke to gm problem with transmission shift cable but they won't help me. the keep saying there IS no recall for my car. there was a recall for this gm's recall 14152. please help. thank you!
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning and was unable to be restarted. The security pass lock and anti-lock warning indicators randomly flashed intermittently. The vehicle began to stall at random. The vehicle was diagnosed…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle stalled without warning and was unable to be restarted. The security pass lock and anti-lock warning indicators randomly flashed intermittently. The vehicle began to stall at random. The vehicle was diagnosed by a mechanic who stated that the fuel pump regulator failed. The vehicle was repaired, but continued to stall. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 14v400000 (electrical system). The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
- Electrical system
Rec'd recall on ignition switch. Took vehicle to dealer and service rep took 1OF my vehicle keys, brought key back and said repair completes. Never did he touch my car. Immediately after this, vehicle wouldn't start. Whatever was done to my key threw off my alarm system and locked up vehicle…
Rec'd recall on ignition switch. Took vehicle to dealer and service rep took 1OF my vehicle keys, brought key back and said repair completes. Never did he touch my car. Immediately after this, vehicle wouldn't start. Whatever was done to my key threw off my alarm system and locked up vehicle .dealer refused to take responsibility. Contacted gm and was contacted back. They made note of complaint. Now watching c cnbc and the ignition recall. I am concerned as only 1KEY was touched by dealer and that was it.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the driver lost control of the vehicle, drove down an embankment, and crashed into a creek. During the crash, the front end of the vehicle sustained significant damage. The air bags did not deploy and no injuries were…
TL* the contact owned a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the driver lost control of the vehicle, drove down an embankment, and crashed into a creek. During the crash, the front end of the vehicle sustained significant damage. The air bags did not deploy and no injuries were reported. The vehicle was destroyed. A police report was filed. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 195,000.
- Engine
Vehicle was parked. Key will turn, the engine will crank but will not start. Mechanic checked the vehicle on site and had to be pulled to the mechanic's shop. Mechanic discovered that anti theft system was on. The issue was fixed. Amount of repair was about 100 dollars.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving, the theft system warning light illuminated and the engine stalled. The contact was able to maneuver off the road and shut the vehicle off. The contact was able to restart the engine after resetting the…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving, the theft system warning light illuminated and the engine stalled. The contact was able to maneuver off the road and shut the vehicle off. The contact was able to restart the engine after resetting the theft system. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 175,000.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed and coming to a stop, another vehicle rear ended the contact's vehicle while driving at approximately 60 to 70 mph. The air bags did no deploy. A police report was filed. The contact…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at an unknown speed and coming to a stop, another vehicle rear ended the contact's vehicle while driving at approximately 60 to 70 mph. The air bags did no deploy. A police report was filed. The contact sustained minor injuries and the other driver sustained unknown injuries that required medical attention. The vehicle was destroyed. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. While driving various speeds, the vehicle stalled unexpectedly. The contact was able to coast over to side of the road and restart the vehicle. The dealer diagnosed that the ignition needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 210,000.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. When the ignition was turned to the on position, the vehicle did not start. The contact stated that the ignition had to be turned to the off position then back to the on position in order for the vehicle to start. The failure recurred numerous…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu classic. When the ignition was turned to the on position, the vehicle did not start. The contact stated that the ignition had to be turned to the off position then back to the on position in order for the vehicle to start. The failure recurred numerous times. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Car cranks but will not start.
- Unknown or other
The car won't start. Dealer said some problem with the passlock system. a new passlock sensor IS needed. I did a search online and found many chevy/gm cars owners reported the same problem. Some even reported that the car stopped during driving in the highway, which IS soooooo dangerous. Gm needs to start a recall on this.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Loss of electric power steering
In performing this engineering analysis, odi determined that the electric power steering system in the subject vehicles can malfunction or fail, causing the driver to lose power steering assistance; however, due to the following reasons, odi has decided that further expenditure of agency resources on this…
In performing this engineering analysis, odi determined that the electric power steering system in the subject vehicles can malfunction or fail, causing the driver to lose power steering assistance; however, due to the following reasons, odi has decided that further expenditure of agency resources on this investigation IS not warranted at this time: - gm issued customer satisfaction campaign (csc) 04050a indecember 2004 to address the alleged defect in approximately58,700 subject vehicles, encompassing at least 97 percent of thecomplaint and warranty claims population.vehicles outside thecsc 04050a population contain a newly designed torque andposition sensor and have experienced a relatively low complaintrate.this customer satisfaction campaign presently has acompletion rate of 52%. - the impact on the driver?s ability to control these relativelysmall and light vehicles was limited.vrtc test engineers wereunable to induce a failure mode that would cause the eps tosubstantially limit the driver?s ability to turn the vehicle in aparticular direction or to provide the driver with unintendedpower assistance.- there IS no risk of fire.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action in the future if warranted by the circumstances.(for further details see attached engineering analysis (ea04-018)closing report.)
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
- 10245395This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
- 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).
Every Chevrolet Malibu Classic model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.