2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car manufactured and marketed by Chevrolet from model years 1964–1983 and since 1997. The Malibu began as a trim-level of the Chevrolet Chevelle, becoming its own model line in 1978. Originally a rear-wheel drive intermediate, GM revived the Malibu nameplate as a front-wheel-drive car in 1997.
Named after the coastal community of Malibu, California, the Malibu was marketed primarily in North America, with the eighth generation introduced globally. It is currently the only sedan offered by Chevrolet in the U.S.
First generation (Chevelle Malibu, 1964)
The first Malibu was a top-line subseries of the mid-sized Chevrolet Chevelle from 1964 to 1972. Malibus were generally available in a full range of bodystyles including a four-door sedan, two-door Sport Coupe hardtop, convertible and two-seat station wagon. Interiors were more lavish than lesser Chevelle 300 and 300 Deluxe models thanks to patterned cloth and vinyl upholstery (all-vinyl in convertibles and station wagons), deep-twist carpeting, deluxe steering wheel and other items. The Malibu SS performance package was available only as a two-door Sport Coupe hardtop or convertible and added bucket seats, center console (with optional four-speed manual or Powerglide transmissions), engine gauges and special wheelcovers, and offered with any six-cylinder or V8 engine offered in other Chevelles - with the top option being a 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) in 1964.
For 1965, Malibus and other Chevelles received new grilles and revised tail sections and had the exhaust pipes replaced but carried over the same basic styling and bodystyles from 1964. The Malibu and Malibu SS models continued as before with the SS featuring a blacked-out grille and special wheelcovers. Top engine option was now a 350 hp (261 kW; 355 PS) 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8. 201 of the 1965 Malibu SS cars got Regular Production Option (RPO) Z16, which include a heavily modified chassis and Chevy's new 375 horsepower 396 cubic inch V8. All were hardtops, although rumors persist that one convertible was built.
The Malibu SS was replaced in 1966 by a new Chevelle SS-396 series that included a big-block 396 cu in (6.5 L) V8 engine (Canadian market did not receive the SS396 but marketed the former Malibu SS nameplate until January 1967 when it was phased out), heavy duty suspension and other performance equipment. Other SS-396 equipment was similar to Malibu Sport Coupes and convertibles including an all-vinyl bench seat. Bucket seats and console with floor shift were now optional on the SS and for 1966 with the SS now denoting a car with a big-block engine, the bucket seats became a new option on the regular Malibu Sport Coupe and convertible, upon which any six-cylinder or small-block V8 could be ordered. Also new for 1966 was the Chevelle Malibu four-door Sport Sedan hardtop. Styling revisions on all 1966 Chevelles including more rounded styling similar to the full-sized Chevrolets with sail panels and tunneled rear windows featured on two-door hardtop coupes.
For 1967, the same assortment of bodystyles were continued with styling changes similar to all other Chevelles including a new grille and revised tail section with taillights that wrapped around to the side. New this year was a Chevelle Malibu Concours station wagon with simulated woodgrain exterior side panel trim. Front disc brakes were a new option along with a stereo 8-track tape player. The same assortment of drivetrains carried over from 1966 with the top 327 cu in (5.4 L) V8 dropped from 350 to 325 hp (261 to 242 kW; 355 to 330 PS).
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Common 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is a popular mid-size vehicle, but it has had its fair share of problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most common issues based on complaints from owners, as reported by RepairPal:
- Engine Problems: The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have a variety of engine problems, with 129 complaints from Malibu owners. The most common issues are cylinder 1 misfire once the engine warms, engine died, excessive oil consumption, sluggish acceleration, and engine light on. These problems can lead to expensive repairs and may require a complete engine replacement.
- Steering Problems: Steering issues are a common complaint among 2008 Chevrolet Malibu owners. These issues can range from a loose steering wheel to difficulty turning the vehicle. In some cases, the steering may feel heavy or unresponsive, which can be dangerous while driving.
- Coolant Leaks: Coolant leaks are a common problem with the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, with many owners reporting leaks from the radiator, water pump, or heater core. These leaks can lead to overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Blower Motor Resistor: The blower motor resistor is a common failure point in the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, with many owners reporting issues with the heater and air conditioning. The blower motor resistor controls the fan speed, and when it fails, the fan may not work at all or may only work on certain speeds.
- Ignition System / PASSLock: The ignition system and PASSLock are also common problems with the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The PASSLock system is designed to prevent theft, but it can cause issues with the ignition system, making it difficult or impossible to start the vehicle.
- Fuel Level Sensor: The fuel level sensor is another common problem with the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The sensor may fail, causing the fuel gauge to display incorrect information or even show the vehicle as out of fuel when it's not.
- Hood Supports: The hood supports are a common failure point in the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The supports are designed to hold up the hood when it's open, but they can become weak or fail, causing the hood to slam down unexpectedly.
These are just a few of the common problems reported by 2008 Chevrolet Malibu owners. It's important to note that not all vehicles of this model will experience these issues, but it's essential to be aware of them and have them addressed promptly if they do occur. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the vehicle.
Is a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?
Striking an excellent balance between handling and ride, the 2008 Chevy Malibu's chassis provides confident cornering along with a smooth ride on broken pavement. Steering is precise, if a bit numb on-center, and body roll is well-controlled, even in quick maneuvers.
What is the biggest problem with Chevy Malibu?
Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu
- Transmission problems: Some Malibu models have experienced transmission issues, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration.
- Electrical issues: Some Malibu models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power steering system and battery.
How many miles does a 2008 Chevy Malibu last?
The 2008 Malibu lasts around 250,000 miles with only some steering and door lock problems. At $4,352 – 5,429, it's an affordable choice for a dependable sedan.
What year was the Malibus bad?
The worst year for Chevy Malibu out of all the model years to avoid would be the 2002 and 2010 model years. 2002 had passlock and coolant leaking issues, and 2010 had multiple engine problems, leading to pricey fixes.
Is a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?
Striking an excellent balance between handling and ride, the 2008 Chevy Malibu's chassis provides confident cornering along with a smooth ride on broken pavement. Steering is precise, if a bit numb on-center, and body roll is well-controlled, even in quick maneuvers.
What is the biggest problem with Chevy Malibu?
Common Issues with the Chevrolet Malibu
- Transmission problems: Some Malibu models have experienced transmission issues, including rough shifting and delayed acceleration.
- Electrical issues: Some Malibu models have experienced electrical issues, including problems with the power steering system and battery.
Is a 2008 Chevy Malibu a good first car?
Very reliable vehicle
This is a perfect first vehicle for someone. Rating breakdown (out of 5): Comfort 4.0. Interior 3.0.
How many miles can a 2008 Chevy Malibu last?
The Chevrolet Malibu mid-sized car has an average life expectancy of between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. This is usually a time period of 10 to 15 years or more. Life span is greatly dependent on maintaining regular service on Your vehicle.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Malibu classic problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic
The NHTSA has received 993 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic vehicles.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-05
- VIN: 1G1ZK57B18F
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The electrical power steering every time it’s driven so often, car is used for school yes the vehicle was inspected by several mechanics the vehicle was like this when i brought it in september of 2022 i was told by chevrolet that my vin is not accepted in the recall which i don’t understand how if it’s the same car and same issue that the recall entails, i replaced the rack and pinion but it didn’t fix the eps sometimes when turning the car on the steering wheel is locked as in it cannot be moved/turned either way and other times it’s extremely hard to turn. the steering wheel will become extremely hard to turn at random times while driving at any speed and while stalled. when it locks while stalled a grinding noise can be heard
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1ZG57B28F
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I backed my car up, put the car in park, opened the door and got out. I walked a few feet away when I noticed the car rolling backwards. The open car door caught a fence which stopped the car from rolling any further. My door was bent backwards. I got into the car from the passenger side. The shifter indicated the car was still in park. Earlier in the day, I drove into my driveway, put the car in park and got out. The car continued to roll forward a few feet before I managed to get back in the car and apply the brake. Again the shifter indicated the car was in park.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-01
- VIN: 1G1ZJ57768F
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: UNKNOWN - Steering is too tight and unable make turns without using force - occurs always
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: 1G1ZH57B38F
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the gear shifter could be moved without depressing the brake pedal. The contact then stated that the vehicle had failed to start up after several attempts with the traction control and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the gear shift indicator lights failed to illuminate as needed. The vehicle was initially towed to the dealer and was given a diagnostic fee; the vehicle was later towed back to the residence without a diagnostic test being performed. The contact stated that the front headlights and the horn failed to operate after replacing the battery. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V224000 (Power Train). The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 245,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-25
- VIN: 1G1ZG57B18F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: My power steering locking up when I trying to back up out of my driveway and a service warning light coming on
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-09
- VIN: 1G1ZH57B08F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, there was a knock, clicking, and looseness in the steering column while turning the steering wheel in either direction. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V153000 (Steering). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The local dealer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 79,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-04
- VIN: 1G1ZG57B28F
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the brake lights illuminated without the brake pedal being depressed. The contact stated that while depressing the brake pedal, the brake lamps failed to illuminate intermittently. The contact stated that the brightness of the brake lamps was reduced. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who repaired the vehicle however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- VIN: 1G1ZH57B584
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Unknown. Power steering warning appears every now and then.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-09
- VIN: 1G1ZG57N28F
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
- Summary: When I walk up to my car all I smell is gas and my gas tank doesn’t last as long as it should the first half of my tank is gone within 2-4 hours the second half last a couple days . I just had a child and I wanna make sure I can get these things fixed . I just purchased this car like 3 months ago from a dealership .. he’s been giving me the run around so I’m trying to see what I can do
STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-04
- VIN: 1G1ZS58FX8F
- Components: STEERING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: While driving down the road my steering wheel turned, but I was driving straight. Aso if I want to turn it won't. When turning it makes a popping noise.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-06-01
- VIN: 1G1ZH57B284
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: Interior electrical system right left passenger door will not lock, front speakers stop working and signal handle does not work will not turn on when engaged handle to turn left or right. Temperature gages stop working dial stays on C.. causing air conditioner to blow out warm air never get cool.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-01
- VIN: 1G1ZK577X8F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The power steering stops working making it difficult to control. Those has been an ongoing issue for several years.
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1ZT58N48F
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The steering assist system abruptly stopped allowing the front wheels of the vehicle to be turned to the right while the vehicle was being driven causing me to crash into a ditch and on into a field and caused myself minor injuries..
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-03
- VIN: 1G1ZS58F08F
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Went to get a smog check. And it wouldn’t connect to the server. Kept saying OBD2 wasn’t connecting so mechanic wasn’t able to complete smog check.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-24
- VIN: 1G1ZJ57BX84
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Driving my 08' Chevy Malibu and suddenly in a turn my steering locked. It was so hard to turn. The dash stated power steering with the failure symbol. I turn car off then back on and it's fine. Then it happens again. My safety and others was at risk do to child with Autism in my car & suddenly having to really break around the sharp turn that could of taken me over the embankment and killed us. I am disabled and the scared me bad because on a country road and nobody to help me & my daughter. Very scary and life threatening.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-20
- VIN: 1G1ZT58N78F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Power steering
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-03
- VIN: 1G1ZK57718F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The car is hard to steer.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-13
- VIN: 1G1ZJ57B284
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at approximately 25 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering functionality while attempting to make a left turn. The contact pulled off to the side of the road where the power steering failure warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic and was informed of NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 14E044000 (Steering) and 14V153000 (Steering. The contact called the dealer who confirmed that the power steering had failed. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was not currently under recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and confirmed that the recall repairs were already completed and that a second free repair would not be offered. The failure mileage was 82,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-02-21
- VIN: 1G1ZJ57708F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated he was unable to start the vehicle, and the security lock warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 160,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-01-06
- VIN: 1G1ZG57B98F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while his partner was driving approximately 30 MPH, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the brake lights failed to activate or respond as designed. The contact confirmed that at night when the brake pedal was depressed, the brake lights failed to illuminate; however, when the brake pedal was released the brake lights illuminated. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic determined that the brake light switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the brake light failure recurred. The contact researched online and related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure and had informed the contact that NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V252000 (Electrical System, Exterior Lighting, Vehicle Speed Control, Electronic Stability Control) had been repaired in December of 2014. The failure mileage was approximately 87,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-10-29
- VIN: 1G1ZH57B684
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: Brake lights automatically come on when you don't touch the brakes and go off when you do. GM has had at least 2 recalls on this problem which this vehicle has gone through and now at 177,000 miles there was a 3 recall which GM won't honor due to high mileage. If it was unsafe at 150,000 miles why is it not unsafe now? We've had it fixed on our own which cost $200.00 and lasted all of 5-6 months.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-06-06
- VIN: 1G1ZG57B58F
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The vehicle pulls to the left while driving. I have taken the vehicle to get aligned 3x and the issue is still the same; the repair shop says it's not the alignment (since it's well aligned) but another problem with the steering. Also, the left and right turn signs do not click back, and I have to push it back into place to stop the signals, and every time I turn my steering wheel, it clicks all the time too.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- VIN: 1G1ZG57N984
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The car shakes and becomes hard to steer and the instrument panel reads service ESC, service traction.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-07-21
- VIN: 1G1ZK57768F
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
- Summary: The car starts to violently shake and the the engine service light starts to flash. The ABS light stays on and the car runes terribly. The system says a spark plug coil has burned out. Locate the ba coil and replace it, car runs great until another coil burns out and the process starts over again. During each occurance the steering is affected by pulling hard to one side or the other when the brake is applied.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-03-16
- VIN: 1G1ZJ57B584
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 45 MPH, there was steering faulty functionality. There were no failure warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired and the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,000.
Positive 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic car reviews
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic problems:
2008 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 29 Issues
Top 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Problems · Problems With Electric Power Steering System May Require Steering Column Replacement · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor.
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Other years of Chevrolet Malibu classic
Are you having problems with your 2008 Chevrolet Malibu classic?
London Heller 2024-07-03
I purchased my Malibu used with 18,000 miles on the clock. Since then, I have driven it for about 4,000 miles without any issues. While it may not be as lively as my previous 2003 Nissan Altima 3.5 SE, I am still very satisfied with the V6 engine's performance. It provides ample power and is comfortable for long journeys. As someone who is 6'2
Mackenzie Quigley 2024-07-03
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my new car. I've put 10000 miles on it in just a month and I'm happy to report that I haven't had any problems on the freeways here in Houston, Texas. With ethanol blend gas, I've been able to get up to 38 miles to the gallon, which is fantastic! The car is also very comfortable and has excellent visibility. I have spinal cord damage from a previous wreck, but thanks to the lumbar support and height adjustable driver seat, I can drive for several hours with no discomfort. I used to drive Toyota cars, but since getting the Malibu, I won't go back. Although I wish I had waited to get the new body type, I'm still very pleased with my purchase so far. Thanks for listening!
Cedrick Donnelly 2024-01-07
Nice car! It seems like you've had a few issues, such as the brakes, but overall it sounds like a great choice. I see you upgraded from a 2004 classic to a 2008 classic - nice! The V6 engine sounds powerful and provides a smooth ride. It's also great to hear that the fuel economy is almost as good as a 4 cylinder. Thanks for sharing your experience!