2013 Chevrolet Malibu engine problems

“While driving my 2013 Chevrolet Malibu (2.5L), I experienced a sudden and severe failure of the braking system. [Insert exactly what happened here—for example: 'The brake pedal suddenly went completely to the floor,' 'The brakes unexpectedly locked up,' 'The vehicle experienced a sudden loss of braking power,' or 'The brake warning lights illuminated right as the brakes failed']. This occurred while traveling at approximately 25 mph on a one-lane road. This total/partial loss of braking power created an immediate safety hazard and a high risk of a crash. The vehicle had to be shifted into manual, then safely coasted to a stop. No prior warning signs or brake issues occurred immediately leading up to this event.”

“My battery warning light on the dash is illuminated with the notification saying "service battery charging system." I've researched online and found out that more vehicles of the same year make and model of my vehicle have been recalled for the same issue, but when putting in my vin number my vehicle does not show up. This issue poses a high risk of danger if not fixed and I would like it to be fixed at dealership for free because I'm a single mother of 2 and can not afford it at the time.”

“The vehicle was purchased on 04/07 and represented with a mileage of 167,334 at the time of sale. No issues with the odometer or mileage accuracy were disclosed prior to purchase. On 04/08, the vehicle was taken to Walmart Auto Care Center for routine service, where it was identified and documented that the odometer/instrument cluster is not functioning and does not display or track mileage. Because the odometer is inoperative, the stated mileage cannot be verified, and the condition existed at the time of sale but was not disclosed. The vehicle was sold in a condition where accurate mileage could not be determined, despite a specific mileage being provided. The failure of the odometer creates a safety concern, as it prevents proper tracking of maintenance intervals, including oil changes, brake servicing, and other critical upkeep. This increases the risk of operating the vehicle with worn or unsafe components, which could lead to mechanical failure while driving. The issue has been confirmed by an independent service center, and documentation is available. The vehicle remains available for inspection upon request. No prior warnings, indicator lights, or…”

“What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Yes How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The car stalls and/or shuts down while in use Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or others? Yes Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem before the failure, and when did they first appear? Use Purchase date 3/31/2026. First sign of issues 4/3/2026”

“The electrical system has caused the car to stop mid traffic multiple times while driving. Had everything checked and it does it multiple times with my kids in the car. The transmission stalls and when you hit the gas it ramps up but doesn’t move until last minute and jumps causing the car to be unsafe nd jump into traffic . I see it has many recalls for this year and vehicle but yet my con isn’t showing up but it definitely has those issues . It not safe to drive at all. The electrical issue cause the battery to die over night constantly jumping it over and over to start it.”

“THIS IS MY 3RD COMPLAINT (Ref: Previous Reports). THE VEHICLE IS NOW A TOTAL LOSS. 1. UNRESOLVED ENGINE/STEERING (Prior Complaints): This 2013 Malibu has a documented history of sudden engine stalling and total loss of power steering at highway speeds. Despite reporting this twice to the NHTSA and to GM, the manufacturer failed to provide a remedy. 2. RECENT SYSTEMIC COLLAPSE: Prior to the car becoming completely undrivable in my driveway, the instrument cluster suffered a total blackout (no speedometer/indicators). This matches GM TSB MC-10181662-9999, proving a known design defect in the electrical system/BCM. 3. RECALL DISCREPANCY: In addition to these engine/steering failures, a mandatory federal recall for the Rear Suspension Toe Link (20V764), which I was notified of in 2020, has 'vanished' from the system without being performed. 4. DENIAL OF SERVICE: The dealer is demanding a $1,900 diagnostic fee to even look at these documented, life-threatening safety defects, including the free federal recall. This is a violation of the Maryland Implied Warranty of Merchantability. On January 6, 2026, the check engine light illuminated, followed by a total…”