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Model-year record

2017 Chevrolet Malibu
Image: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See source file

2017 Chevrolet Malibu

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Federal source records

Complaints filed

720

Reports to NHTSA, 2017

Safety recalls

4

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

28

EPA estimate

Known issues

Power Train issues lead owner complaints (19% of 720 reports), followed by electrical system (19%).

Power Train19% · 138 reports
Electrical System19% · 137 reports
Vehicle Speed Control13% · 96 reports
Unknown Or Other13% · 95 reports
Engine11% · 76 reports
Steering6% · 46 reports
Service Brakes6% · 40 reports
Fuel/Propulsion System2% · 16 reports

+ 12 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 720 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 11749242, ODI 11742521, ODI 11737410, ODI 11718196, ODI 11704878.

Individual complaint reports(720)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
SeatsJul 2026 · ODI 11749453Details +

Transmission has been slipping since the day I bought the car in 2023 approximately at 90,000 miles, I have been keeping up with the manufactured recommendations on the transmission and march of 2026 I went to move the passenger seat and it no longer moves

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Oct 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749453 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2026 · ODI 11749242Details +

When the vehicle is shifted into Park and the ignition button is pressed, the vehicle fails to shut down. The dashboard displays a "Shift to Park" warning message, indicating the vehicle does not recognize that the gear selector is physically in the Park position.To shut the engine off, the driver must repeatedly wiggle, slam, or cycle the gear shifter back and forth into Park until the electrical sensor finally registers the connection. This creates a severe safety hazard, as the vehicle can roll away if left unsecured, drains the car battery, and prevents the doors from locking properly.Crucially, this defect traps drivers inside an operational vehicle for extended periods while they repeatedly struggle to force it to shut down. This poses an immediate risk of heat-related illness or death (hyperthermia), especially in high-temperature environments, during heatwaves, or for vulnerable occupants like children and the elderly who cannot exit the vehicle safely until it is off.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11749242 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJul 2026 · ODI 11748825Details +

I have a 2017 Chevy Malibu 2.0 T. The incident involved the braking system. I was driving and as traffic came to a stop, I pressed the brake to stop and my brakes gave out. I immediately lifted my foot and press extremely hard on my brake pedal and was able to stop though the stopping distance was much further and nearly caused an accident. I have now taken the vehicle to a Chevy certified dealer and it has been identified as a brake vacuum pump failure. GM has had many issues with the brake vacuum pump across many of its models.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11748825 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJul 2026 · ODI 11748133Details +

I was driving back home and stopped at a red light. When the light turned green I started driving, but my car was jerking a little too much. I pulled over and turned my car off. When I cut my car back on my brake became very hard to the point I had to push down extra hard to stop my car. I started back driving home once I realized my car needs to be turned completely off and sit. While I'm driving I see a message on my dashboard saying "Engine power reduced." Luckily I made it home safely with no wrecks, but when I had to brake my car was still moving jerking while in place. Also when I made it home and turned my car off I heard a fan like noise that eventually stopped.

Reported
Jul 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11748133 at NHTSA →
SuspensionJun 2026 · ODI 11746422Details +

the trottle body position sensor just started acting up. took it to mechanic. they stated they can try to fix it but it may only work for a month then go back out. may end up paying over 6k and the car isn't worth it

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Jun 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11746422 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJun 2026 · ODI 11742521Details +

Shift to park error on dash. GM is aware of this issue and won't do anything about it. This causes stress and can cause battery drain. The issue lies within the microswitch that reads that the shifter is in park. The metal arm that activates the switch wears down or the wiring is faulty. Several Malibus, as well as other models have this issue and Chevy dealerships want hundreds to thousands of dollars to fix this. If it's a known, repetitive issue on several models, it should be a recall. This causes owners to try to fix this issue themselves, which can cause more damage and more money.

Reported
Jun 2026
Incident date
Mar 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11742521 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2026 · ODI 11737804Details +

MY BACK-UP CAMERA HAS NOT WORKED IN ABOUT 3-4 YEARS. THE SCREEN IS COMPLETLY BLANK. MY MECHANIC WILL NOT TOUCH IT AND I'M AFRAID TO GO TO THE DEALER BECAUSE OF THE COST. I DID NOTICE THERE IS A RECALL ON NEWER MODELS OF THIS VEHICLE.

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jul 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737804 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMay 2026 · ODI 11737410Details +

The SHIFT TO PARK warning light comes on when shifting to park and WILL NOT allow you to shut the vehicle off. This is a WIDELY KNOWN DEFECT in multiple GM vehicles and yet there’s still no recall! WHY?! It causes the vehicle to not completely shut down, killing the battery and could potentially cause the car to roll. It’s been WIDELY REPORTED and it’s absolutely a defect with a part inside the shifter! It’s an expensive repair that consumers SHOULD NOT have to pay when it’s a DEFECT on GM!!! PLEASE RECALL!!!!!! After researching this issue, there’s MULTITUDES OF COMPLAINTS and even a class action lawsuit (of which I wasn’t aware of) but it shouldn’t have to turn into a lawsuit when the NHSTA has the ability to force GM to MAKE THIS RIGHT by REPAIRING IT!

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11737410 at NHTSA →
EngineApr 2026 · ODI 11731087Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. Due to the issue, the vehicle went into LIMP Mode, and the contact was forced to pull over and turn off the vehicle. The contact waited approximately 30-40 minutes before restarting the vehicle and resuming normal driving. The vehicle was previously taken to a dealer; however, no codes were found. The mechanic informed the contact that the failure could be caused by the floormat being under the accelerator pedal. The contact had the floormat removed; however, the failure persisted. The dealer was notified of the failure, and another appointment was scheduled to service the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Apr 2026
Incident date
Aug 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11731087 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2026 · ODI 11721652Details +

When car is in park. Shift to park is on dashboard. Car won't fully turn off. It's been doing it for years. Was worked on at dealership. It's still doing it.

Reported
Mar 2026
Incident date
May 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11721652 at NHTSA →
Power TrainFeb 2026 · ODI 11718196Details +

In the last 6 months I’ve had to put 3 Brake Boosters on my 2017 Chevy Malibu and it’s NOT cheap…. I don’t know what else to do.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11718196 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlFeb 2026 · ODI 11716053Details +

The Reduce Power to Engine keeps happening. It shuts my car down and lights up the traction control light, check engine light and its a serious hazard because I travel highway to and from work and its very dangerous when you loose power to your vehicle at high rates of speed. Also my emissions is bad due to a supposed fixed recall for the catalytic converter.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11716053 at NHTSA →
EngineFeb 2026 · ODI 11715400Details +

I was driving my car on the highway and the car begin to feel like it was about to shut off. Shortly after, the car check engine light turned on with a warning sign on dashboard stating “engine reduce.” the check engine is still on and my mechanic states my turbo needs to be replaced. I have an appointment for second consult with chevy dealer to verify.

Reported
Feb 2026
Incident date
Jan 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11715400 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2026 · ODI 11713855Details +

The GM Shift to Park recall has been an issue that has affected various General Motors (GM) vehicles. The primarily impacting Chevrolet models like the Malibu, Traverse, Volt, and the 2019 Chevrolet Blazer. It’s essential to be aware of the problem, its implications on vehicle’s safety, and the steps required to address it. In simple terms, the Shift to Park defect prevents drivers from shutting off and locking their vehicles, even after putting the car in park. This situation poses a potential safety concern, as drivers might mistakenly assume their cars are securely parked and powered off while walking away. The issue has been prevalent enough for the company to issue a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) on June 7, 2021. The TSB specifically targets the 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, while also mentioning the Malibu, Traverse, Volt, and other 2016-2019 Chevrolet models. The bulletin provides guidance on diagnosing and addressing the “Shift to Park” problems, although it does not present a definitive solution to the underlying issue. GM CUSTOMER SERVICE REFUSES TO FIX IT

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jan 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11713855 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11707988Details +

I have had experience with the "SHIFT TO PARK" error and I have had the "reduced engine power" error message resulting in an UNEEDED $2200 dollar repair only for it to break down 2 months later, same message this time with fuel spraying under the hood. I NEARLY BLEW MYSELF UP TRYING TO START MY CAR! How is it that I cant find this DANGEROUS defect on the recall list when I easily found the RECURRENT problem online? HELP

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11707988 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlDec 2025 · ODI 11706844Details +

While driving at highway speeds, my vehicle suddenly experienced a loss of engine power and reduced acceleration. The traction control light and engine light illuminated, and a “Reduced Engine Power” message appeared. The vehicle would not respond to the accelerator, creating a serious safety hazard. This occurred shortly after authorized dealer service involving the PCV system and related components. The vehicle did not have this issue prior to dealer service. I returned the vehicle to the dealer, and they stated they could not replicate the issue. The sudden loss of power could have resulted in a serious accident. I believe this may be related to improper dealer service, disturbed electrical connectors, or throttle body/engine management components. I am reporting this as a safety concern. I also would like to mention this safety issue has occurred now multiple times with my car on multiple separate occasions with the last prior occurrence being 12/20/2025.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11706844 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherDec 2025 · ODI 11705000Details +

Lose power while driving

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11705000 at NHTSA →
SteeringDec 2025 · ODI 11704980 · crashDetails +

Was driving on highway and starting to exit and my engine light came on and it alerted reduced engine power. I had to slam on my brakes but they were very hard to press and almost non existent and steering was also difficult. Managed to get car to side of road but due to very hard to non existent brakes I did graze a truck and damaged my rear drivers side fender. I am very lucky I didn’t get injured and was able to mostly miss the cars stopped in front of me. I also have the shift to park issue happen at least 4 times a week.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Dec 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11704980 at NHTSA →
Power TrainDec 2025 · ODI 11704878Details +

Reduced engine power. Car will not accelerate over 35 mph. Almost rear ended. Will be the second time in dealer for same problem. Also, Shift to Park. Also second time at dealer for same problems. You cannot get out of car until you keep moving the shifting handle.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11704878 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11704424Details +

Fuel is leaking and it is messing up my emissions. I had the emissions fixed for my safety inspection. But soon after 2 days later fuel keeps leaking and the smell of gas is so strong in my car. This is a safety hazard of not only becoming inflammable but also the smell is toxic to my health and my grandchildren. I have asthma and all of the following i have experienced headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems, and long-term like asthma exacerbation that is flaring up my asthma and i am afraid it will cause potential cancer.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11704424 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemDec 2025 · ODI 11702313Details +

Engine light is on, message pops up stating "engine power is reduced" and pedal acceleration is limited. I received a message from Onstar stating there is a recall on some GMC vehicles regarding this issue, however my vin is not part of the recall, but it should be, as all the elements stated in the recall are the exact issues in my vehicle.

Reported
Dec 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11702313 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11702122Details +

Last year I started getting the dreaded shift to park issue. Takes usually about 30 seconds to realize its in park, even though the dashboard days its in park. WHY is there no recall? I see hundreds of thousands of complaints for this. Plus im constantly getting the P1101 code. I know this is a common issue with this car for the dirty throttle body or MAF sensor. Why isnt this under recall? I dont have the money to pay for repairs that the dealership should be recalling. The shift to park issue is so common. This is getting ridiculous. Plus the code. Please fix this ASAP.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11702122 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11699188Details +

When I accelerate and try to stop brakes goes down to the floor. I’ve had my rotors. Brakes changed and it’s impossible to stop at times. Purchase vehicle. 2018 and the check engine light came on shortly after I purchased it. It’s been on. I’ve got diagnostics. It’s unknown why! Tire sensors has been changed, including with new tires and none of them work and the airbag light is illuminated. I am concerned about my safety in this vehicle. I reported many times and I’m unaware of any recalls. Please help.

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Nov 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11699188 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemNov 2025 · ODI 11697859Details +

Engine Power Reduced, My car then loses the ability to pickup speed I’ve even had my break tighten up on my in the middle of trying to stop my vehicle

Reported
Nov 2025
Incident date
Oct 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11697859 at NHTSA →
EngineOct 2025 · ODI 11695429 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

The contact owned a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while backing out of the driveway, the engine revved up and accelerated independently. The contact's vehicle accelerated independently in reverse(R) and clipped the tow hitch of a vehicle parked on the street, and that was where the vehicle came to a stop. No air bags deployed. There were no injuries sustained. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was inspected. However, no cause for the failure was found. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while parking in reverse into the contact's assigned parking space, the engine revved up and accelerated independently. The vehicle accelerated in reverse(R) and hit a tree, where it came to a stop. The air bags did not deploy. The contact stated that the back windshield was shattered, the rear bumper fell off, and smoke was emitting from under the hood.  A police report was not filed. The contact was taken to the hospital by a family member later that day. The contact sustained minor injuries; a contact had a CT scan due to hitting the steering wheel. The contact sustained minor cuts from the flying glass from the back windshield. The contact stated that the day after the accident, her daughter turned on the vehicle, and the air bag warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was left at the residence pending an inspection from a mobile independent mechanic. The contact stated that prior to the accident, the gear shift failed to function as intended. When the contact moved the shift lever to park(P) and the contact turned off the engine, the light on park(P) would stay on. The contact then turned on the engine and turned it off the engine, and the light on the gearshift turned off. The insurance company was not contacted. However, the contact did not have coverage for the accident. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Oct 2025
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11695429 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2025 · ODI 11689745Details +

I tried to shift the car from drive to park but a message appeared saying I needed to put the car in park. The lights and radio were still on and I could not get the message to disappear even after several attempts to start/restart the car and moving through the gear shift. I will be taking the car to a dealership asap. There wasn’t any prior error or problem before this message started appearing. After numerous attempts “park” is recognized and the car shuts off completely.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11689745 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlSep 2025 · ODI 11687504Details +

The car smells strongly of gas. And has a problem accelerating. Check engine light came on and I got a code p1101 which is a code for the MAF SENSOR. This is not the first time that this has happened. It happened less than a year ago maybe 9-10 months ago. I don’t drive the car in fear of it catching a fire. The car has stalled before in the middle of a turn. I had to turn the car off and turn it back on. I called onstar who have no idea what was wrong with it.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Sep 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11687504 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlSep 2025 · ODI 11687127Details +

The transmission stalls to get up and go after it has been driven for a short while causing it to slow down traffic and causing a slight risk trying to pull over to the side to allow drivers behind pass by. Once the driver stops at more than 5 stops is when the vehicle begins to hesitate to work properly.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Dec 1969
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11687127 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlSep 2025 · ODI 11685667Details +

I was driving my car on the highway doing 65 mph when all of a sudden my car started rapidly jerking losing the power to accelerate and entering “limp mode“ there was multiple cars behind me when my car lost the power to accelerate. I was in the far left lane and couldn’t even go higher than 7 miles an hour and had to cross across three lanes at 7 mph on a 65mph highway to pull over. I had my children in the car and almost caused a huge accident dude to this issue. The issue in hand is the vacuum pump. It completely shattered in my engine, causing severe engine damage. And it caused my brake pedal to become hard as a rock. I couldn’t break without using my emergency break. I had no brake power at all. My car had to be towed.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11685667 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherSep 2025 · ODI 11685198Details +

Shift to park issue. While is in park after driving. I turn vehicle off and action required message pops up on dash stating shift to park but it’s in park.

Reported
Sep 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11685198 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11684084Details +

Okay so my car had 2 recalls but the they were not repaired the same problem reoccurred . Which was the car engine not turning on and electrical problems etc. I don’t really know how to explain it but yes it’s having the same problems .

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11684084 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2025 · ODI 11683384Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the vehicle was shifted to park, but failed to turn off. The shift to park message was displayed. The contact wiggled the gear shifter, and the vehicle eventually turned off. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the gear shifter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed there was no warranty coverage and referred to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 50,000.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11683384 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11681107Details +

Currently I am having issues putting my car in park. Even when it shows that it is parked there is an “Action Required” that pops up saying “Shift to Park”. This has been happening all week and as I am able to toggle the shift stick it is no longer allowing me to which leaves my car somewhat on when I leave. I’ve contacted the dealership for repairs since I’ve seen this is a common recall issue with my model vehicle. However, they informed me that it would be an out of pocket expense even though research shows that this should be an expense paid by the dealership since they’ve had many complaints on this issue and can cause certain safety issues for members. I’m getting ready to PCS soon and need to pay out of pocket expenses for my move so trying to pay for something that the dealership should pay for is truly inconvenient.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11681107 at NHTSA →
EngineJul 2025 · ODI 11673917Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving approximately 20 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The contact stated that the message to depress the brake pedal and shift to park(P) was displayed. The vehicle was restarted but stalled again. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the oxygen sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that the failure only occurred while driving at speeds below 40 MPH. The vehicle was returned to the same mechanic, and it was determined that the oxygen sensor needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the PCV valve and the valve cover were replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and advised that the oxygen sensor was not OEM and replaced the Oxygen sensor with an OEM part. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The contact returned the vehicle to the dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and reprogramed the hybrid engine control module. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred. The contact had not taken the vehicle back to the dealer or to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact informed the manufacturer of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11673917 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJul 2025 · ODI 11673976Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that on several occasions after shifting the gear shifter to park(P), and turning off the vehicle, the contact observed a dinging notification and the message "Shift to Park" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Feb 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11673976 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2025 · ODI 11674107Details +

I shift the car in park I then turn off the car and then an alert comes up on the dash saying shift to park I then shift it back and forth nothing happens and then it automatically goes off after I wait awhile with it in park. This has occurred several times in the past year. I’m not sure if it is in park it does roll slightly then catches

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Jul 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11674107 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2025 · ODI 11671329Details +

The shift to park is defective. Having a hard time to turn car off constantly. It takes more than five minutes or more for the car to turn off without the shift to park ringing. This needs immediate attention. This part is defective so why is there not a recall on this?

Reported
Jul 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11671329 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJun 2025 · ODI 11667657Details +

the brakes failed the vacuum pump went work while driving the car

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Nov 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11667657 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJun 2025 · ODI 11666659Details +

Car is indicating I need to “SHIFT TO PARK” when it’s in park.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11666659 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2025 · ODI 11665172Details +

The shift to park sensor will become stuck and not register that the car is in park causing the battery to drain.

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
Jun 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11665172 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesJun 2025 · ODI 11664183Details +

Vacuum pump came apart inside the engine causing metal pieces to enter the engine

Reported
Jun 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11664183 at NHTSA →
StructureMay 2025 · ODI 11663830Details +

The center high mount stop lamp cause water to leak through onto the headliner of my vehicle and I found a special coverage adjustment for my specific, year ,make and model of my vehicle and this will be my second time paying Berger Chevrolet here in Grand Rapids mi for this repair that should be covered under this policy #[XXX] but dealership will not honor this even though this is my second time repairing this exact same issue with my specific vehicle but since it’s not tied to my VIN # the dealership will NOT HONOR please advise INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11663830 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2025 · ODI 11662014Details +

The shift to park won't turn off but allowing vehicle to turn off it killed our family.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11662014 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemMay 2025 · ODI 11662208Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while at a red light, the Auto STOP feature engaged and failed to disengage while the brake pedal was no longer depressed. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed that the starter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 167,000.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11662208 at NHTSA →
Service BrakesMay 2025 · ODI 11661631Details +

Vacuum pump failure caused engine damage.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Jul 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661631 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMay 2025 · ODI 11661158Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the gear shifter failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the gear shifter was shifted to park(P); however, the shift to park message was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact was informed that it would be several days before the diagnostic results could be provided. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 13,000.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661158 at NHTSA →
WheelsMay 2025 · ODI 11660841Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated upon attempting to change a flat tire, the contact was unable to replace the wheel because the lug nuts were swollen. The contact called Roadside Assistance, who informed the contact that the lug nuts were swollen, and Roadside Assistance replaced the wheel with specialized equipment. The vehicle was taken to Goodyear Tires, where the front tires were replaced with new tires and the rear tires were rotated. Additionally, the contact was advised that the lug nuts needed to be replaced. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the contact was informed that the lug nuts were swollen due to cold weather. The dealer charged a fee and replaced the lug nuts with the same parts. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that he would be contacted later. The manufacturer later informed the contact that no assistance could be provided because the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 157,000.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11660841 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMay 2025 · ODI 11661031Details +

Hundreds of times since I purchased the car in July, 2017 I've had a "shift to park" problem. Here is what happens. I go to park my car. I put the car into park. I go to turn off the engine. The engine will not turn off. A sign on the screen says, "shift to park". Apparently as GM explains it, the car is not recognizing that the car is put into park and therefore will not turn off. This first started happening around 2019. The Chevy dealership said it wasn't a big deal and replaced the shifter control assembly. The problem went away for a few years and then popped up again around 2021. Since then it has been an ongoing problem. I end up stuck in the car until the engine turns off. I obviously can't leave the engine on because then the battery will go bad. Most recently I actually spent 30 minutes trying to park the car before I was able to get it to recognize it was in park and turn off. Every time over the years the dealerships have shrugged me off. They refuse to fix the problem and recently asked me for $1,250 to fix it. It was not fixed right the first time when it was under warranty. Here are a few links about many others experiencing these same problems: [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11661031 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2025 · ODI 11659953Details +

The contact owns a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic but was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer was contacted and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for further assistance. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
May 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11659953 at NHTSA →
Power TrainMay 2025 · ODI 11660023Details +

The car completely lost power while being driven on a freeway in Sacramento, California. The car was towed to a Chevrolet dealer in Davis, California and they determined that the car lost power due to a faulty Auxiliary Battery Negative Cable Assembly (Part # 84085823). The Chevrolet dealer cannot find the part because GM has discontinued production of the part. Also, despite extensive internet searches for the part including after-market sites, E-Bay, Amazon, AC Delco, all major auto part supply chains, etcetera, the part has not been found. The car has been at the dealer's facility for ~ 6 weeks with no resolution. The car is a hybrid, has been serviced regularly and properly, has never been in an accident and is very good shape. In other words, if the car is safely repaired, it is still going to be a very useful family vehicle. GM representatives have told the dealer to try to find the part in a local junk yard. The car will likely not be safe if a junkyard part is ultimately used in the repair - the reason the the car is at the dealership is because the car completely died at freeway speed. The cost of the needed part was only ~ $50 (fifty dollars) when it was being produced.

Reported
May 2025
Incident date
Mar 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11660023 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(4)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Air BagsFeb 2016 · 16V870000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2017 Malibu vehicles manufactured on November 10, 2016. The right-hand rear side air bag inflator manifold may have insufficient welds.

Risk: Insufficient welds could cause the inflator to separate and propel air bag debris into the cabin during a crash. Also, the inflator could fail to inflate during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear side air bag modules, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2017. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 16146.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Fuel System · 18V358000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2018 GMC Canyon, 2016-2017 Buick Envision, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Colorado and Malibu, 2017-2018 GMC Acadia, 2018 Buick LaCrosse, Cadillac ATS, Chevrolet Equinox, and GMC Terrain vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may detach from its mounting flange, possibly resulting in the pump damaging the high pressure fuel line.

Risk: A damaged fuel line can create a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure fuel pump, and high pressure fuel pipe, free of charge. The recall began July 2, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 18188.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air Bags · 18V400000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. During servicing, a Passenger Presence System (PPS) may have been installed that was not correctly calibrated to the vehicle's seat type. As a result, the PPS may not properly identify an adult passenger from a child passenger in the front passenger seat, potentially causing the air bag to not deploy when it should, or causing the air bag to deploy when it shouldn't.

Risk: In the event of a crash, improper air bag deployment can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger PPS seat service kit, free of charge. The recall began August 7, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18208.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Seat Belts · 21V649000Details +

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2016-2021 Chevrolet Malibu and 2019-2021 Cadillac XT4 vehicles. The rear seat belt retractors may be improperly secured with loose or missing fasteners.

Risk: An improperly secured seat belt retractor may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect and tighten the rear seat belt retractors, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212333380.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

0 NHTSA investigations on record

No investigations are on record as of Jul 2026. An empty record is not a clean bill of health.

Crash-test ratings

2017 Chevrolet Malibu 4 DR FWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

TrimEngineDrivetrainCityHwyCombined
Malibu1.5L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive273630
Malibu2.0L 4-cylFront-Wheel Drive223326

EPA laboratory estimates by trim and engine. Actual mileage varies with driving, weather, load, and maintenance. EPA source.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

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Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2017 Chevrolet Malibu: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?

Owners filed 720 NHTSA complaints about the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?

The most-reported problem areas are Power Train (19% of complaints) and electrical system (19%).

How many recalls does the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu have?

4 recalls have been issued that affect the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu get?

The EPA rates the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu between 26 and 30 mpg combined, depending on trim and drivetrain.