2003 Chevrolet Malibu 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 2003 Chevrolet Malibu problems
The 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has been reported to have several common problems, primarily related to electrical issues and engine performance.
Electrical issues make up more than half of the Malibu's 606 complaints registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This can be a significant inconvenience and may require a visit to a dealership to have the issue resolved.
Another common problem reported in the 2003 Malibu is throttle body failure.
The 2003 Malibu is built on a dependable engine and transmission, but owners can expect to make all those little nickel-and-dime repairs for faulty air conditioning and fidgety wiring over the years.
The 2003 Malibu is known for its roomy interior and acceptable handling, but the noisy engine and poor build quality can detract from the overall driving experience.
In conclusion, the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu has several common problems related to electrical issues and engine performance. However, with proper maintenance and care, these issues can be easily resolved, and the Malibu can be a reliable and dependable car for many years to come.
Is the 2003 Chevy Malibu a good car?
Edmunds says
Chevy's non-descript Malibu is one of the best cars General Motors makes. Roomy and loaded with features, the often-overlooked and affordable Malibu is worth consideration.
How many miles can a 2003 Chevy Malibu last?
We've explored in the past how these cars really have their best days before the 150,000 mile mark, but if you start out with a Malibu in decent condition and you change your fluids regularly, we've seen mileage reported as high as 300,000.
What is the most common 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.
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 the 2003 Chevy Malibu a good car?
Edmunds says
Chevy's non-descript Malibu is one of the best cars General Motors makes. Roomy and loaded with features, the often-overlooked and affordable Malibu is worth consideration.
What is the most common 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 can a 2003 Chevy Malibu last?
We've explored in the past how these cars really have their best days before the 150,000 mile mark, but if you start out with a Malibu in decent condition and you change your fluids regularly, we've seen mileage reported as high as 300,000.
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.
2003 Chevrolet Malibu car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Malibu problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chevrolet Malibu
The NHTSA has received 610 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-21
- VIN: 1G1ND52J33M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Unknown
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-01
- VIN: 1G1ND52J03M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Multiple times, the vehicle, while driving, electrically shuts down. security light comes on, sometimes, many attempts to restart will work. These shutdowns cause me to revet to manual bakes and steering.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-10
- VIN: 2C4RC1EG2JR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that the ignition switch was inoperable and had been replaced three times by the dealer; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with ignition switch failure. The contact was informed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
STEERING,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-27
- VIN: 1G1ND52J33M
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Car shuts off while driving.Will start up when fuel gauge gets power also windows ,radio,lightening work airbag light&service engine soon light on
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-03
- VIN: 1G1ND52J53M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: The contact owns a 2003 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while stopped at a red light, the vehicle occasionally accelerated independently. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to a local dealer nor an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was relating the failure to NHTSA campaign number: 04V528000 (Vehicle speed control). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure but offered no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-09-15
- VIN: 1G1NE52J23M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: EXPERIENCING INTERMITTENT FAILURE OF PASSCODE SYSTEM, SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT. VEHICLE REPEATEDLY WILL NOT START DUE TO ACTIVATION OF PASSCODE SYSTEM. WARNING LIGHT WILL COME ON WHILE DRIVING, BUT GOES AWAY UPON RESTART. EXPERIENCING LOSS OF DASH CONTROLS WHILE DRIVING, BUT RETURN WITHIN A FEW MINUTES VEHICLE MILEAGE IS 205000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-25
- VIN: 1G1ND52J23M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CHEVY MALIBU 2003, 24000 MILES ON THE CAR. WHILE DRIVING ON ANY STREET OR HIGHWAY, THE CAR ACCELERATES ON IT OWN, REVS ANYWHERE FROM 3000 RPM TO 6000RPM, THEN NEED TO SHIFT CAR ON NEUTRAL, KICK THE ACCELERATOR TO UNSTICK AND PROCEED. HAD CAR AT GM DEALER AT 2 INTERVALS, 2 WEEKS AT A TIME. CANNOT REPRODUCE PROBLEM WHEN I RECIEVE CAR DRIVING OUT OF DEALER, TROUBLE IS VERY APPARENT. OPENED CASE FIE WITH GM BUT NO ONE SEEMS TO CARE FOR MY SAFETY. DON' KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO....BTW, MY CAR IS STILL AT DEALER.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-31
- VIN: 1G1ND52J63M
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING 25 MPH AND APPROACHING A RED TRAFFIC LIGHT, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE WENT THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. THE CONTACT'S WIFE PLACED THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL, ALLOWING THE VEHICLE TO SLOW DOWN AND EVENTUALLY STOP. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 52,481.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-10-11
- VIN: 1G1ND52JX3M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: CAR WON'T START KEY SWITCH SETS OFF ANTI THEFT ALWAYS LEAVING US STRANDED
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-14
- VIN: 1G1NE52J13M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER GOT A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FOR HER 2003 CHEVY MALIBU. SHE TOOK THE CAR TO MAGUIRE CHEVROLET 2073 ROUTE 96 IN TRUMANSBURG, NY 14886 (607)-387-6111 (THIS DEALER WAS PRINTED ON THE RECALL CARD) IN AUGUST TO HAVE THE RECALL REPAIRED. SOMEONE AT THAT DEALERSHIP TOLD HER THAT THERE IS NO SUCH RECALL. I FOUND IT FISHY AT THE TIME. WE HAVE RECEIVED ANOTHER RECALL NOTICE EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE OTHER ONE. SO, I HAVE RESEARCHED IT ONLINE. THERE IS INDEED A RECALL, AND IT CAN BE SERIOUS. IT CLEARLY STATES THAT THERE COULD BE A POSSIBILITY OF THE AIR BAGS NOT DEPLOYING. WHAT IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO MY DAUGHTER OR MY GRANDSON, IN THE MEANTIME, BECAUSE MAGUIRE CHEVROLET WERE TOO LAZY TO MAKE THE REPAIRS? I DON'T UNDERSTAND HOW THIS IS ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR BY A DEALERSHIP? THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-15
- VIN: 1G1NE52JX3M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE CAR ON LOCAL STREETS CAR SELF ACCELERATED ONCE I REACHED AROUND 40MPH. WAS UNABLE TO STOP SAFELY AT LIGHTS TRYING TO GET THE CAR BACK HOME. WHEN PRESSING THE BRAKE THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THANKFUL WAS ONLY ABOUT 5 MILES FROM HOME AND TRAFFIC WASN'T HEAVY. PUTTING IN NEUTRAL DID NOT SEEM TO HELP. ONCE ARRIVING HOME HAD TO PUT THE CAR IN PARK WHICH COULD HAVE RUINED THE ENGINE THE WAY I HAD TO DO IT TO KEEP FROM HITTING MY GARAGE. VERY DANGEROUS AND COULD HAVE EASILY RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT. HAVE NOT HAD FIXED YET, AS READ SO MUCH ON MESSAGE BOARDS ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND ALL OVER THE BOARD. NO CLEAR FIX. HAVE NOT DRIVEN THE CAR SINCE AS AFRAID TO. ONLY 89,000 MILES ON CAR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-08-11
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1G1ND52J73M
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT SHE WAS GOING 25 TO 30 MPH ON A SURFACE STREET AND REAR ENDED A CAR IN TRAFFIC THE AIRBAG FAILED TO DEPLOY. SHE HIT HER HEAD ON THE STEERING WHEEL.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-07-02
- VIN: 1G1ND52JX3M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR ACCELERATES ON ITS OWN WHILE DRIVING ON THE ROAD
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-11-19
- VIN: 1G1ND52J13M
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FIRST TIME, WOULDN'T SHIFT INTO PARK AND COULDN'T TURN KEY TO OFF AND TAKE OUT OF IGNITION. SECOND TIME, SHIFT IS STUCK IN PARK AND WILL NOT BUDGE. JUST SITTING IN MY DRIVEWAY.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-29
- VIN: 1G1NE52J53M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING MY CAR IN TOWN, I WENT TO SLOW DOWN MY 2003 MALIBU THE CAR KEPT SPEEDING UP, THE THROTTLE WOULD NOT DISENGAGE UNTIL I PHYSICALLY LIFTED UP ON THE UNDERSIDE OF THE GAS PEDAL. I IMMEDIATELY TOOK IT OVER TO HAVE IT CHECKED BY A CERTIFIED MECHANIC AND THEY ALSO EXPERIENCED THE SAME EXACT ISSUES ONLY WHEN THE CAR IS MOVING. THEY PUT IT ON THEIR SERVICE COMPUTER AND I WAS TOLD THAT NO CODES CAME UP AND THE THE ONLY WAY THEY WERE ABLE TO GET THE AUTOMATIC ACCELERATION TO STOP WAS TO DISCONNECT THE CRUISE CONTROL MODULE. THE MECHANICS SHOP DISCONNECTED THE CRUISE CONTROL AND IT HAS NOT HAPPENED AGAIN SINCE THAT WAS DISCONNECTED HOWEVER, THIS WAS A EXTREMELY SCARY SITUATION BECAUSE BRAKING DOESN'T HELP THE CAR STILL CONTINUES TO ACCELERATE & PEEL OUT, PUTTING THE CAR IN NEUTRAL DOESN'T HELP EITHER THE RPM JUST SHOOT UP & KEEPS GOING FORWARD.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-14
- VIN: 1G1ND52J73M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. WHEN THE KEY WAS INSERTED IN THE IGNITION SWITCH, THE VEHICLE WENT INTO ANTI-THEFT MODE AND FAILED TO START. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED HOSELTON AUTO MALL (909 FAIRPORT RD, EAST ROCHESTER, NY 14445, (585) 586-7373), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE CONTACT WAS REFERRED TO NHTSA. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 75,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-06
- VIN: 1G1ND52J83M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT WARNING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD AND FAILED TO RETRACT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 04V528000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 138,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-08-02
- VIN: 1G1ND52J33M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. WHEN THE ENGINE WARMED UP AND THE RPMS REACHED THEIR MAXIMUM LEVEL, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL AUTOMATICALLY DROPPED TO THE FLOORBOARD. AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED CASE NUMBER: 9-5413563462. THE MANUFACTURER ALSO PROVIDED A $100 VOUCHER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-03
- VIN: 1G1ND52J93M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BATTERY KEEPS DYING DUE TO IGNITION SWITCH NOT TOTALLY OFF
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-17
- VIN: 1G1ND52J33M
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ACCERLATION ALL OF SUDDEN WITHOUT STOPPING VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT THE TIME
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-04-12
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ANTI-THEFT SYSTEM ERRONEOUSLY ACTIVATED AND THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE RESTARTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE LOCAL DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-19
- VIN: 1G1ND52J53M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING DOWN THE STREET MY MALIBU JUST SHUTS DOWN ..I BOUGHT A BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR AND SENSORS TO FIX MY CAR .PUT IN SHOP TO FIND OUT IT WAS THE IGNITION SWITCH. I'M SACRED TO DRIVE ON THE HIGHWAY IT MIGHT STOP AND CAUSE AN FATAL ACCIDENT . THIS IS A REAL SAFETY ISSUE THAT NEED TO BE ADDRESSED..THANK YOU
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-17
- VIN: 1G1NE52J33M
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: BEEN HAVING SAME ONGOING PROBLEM FOR JUST OVER 9 MONTHS. CAR STALLED OUT WHILE DRIVING AND WOULDN'T RESTART. CRANKED OVER THOUGH. HAD IT TOWED AND $700 LATER, A NEW FUEL PUMP AND FUEL FILTER. FEW DAYS LATER TRIED TO START, CRANKED OVER AND NOTHING BUT NOTICED THEFT SYSTEM LIGHT WAS ON. BACK TO THE SHOP. THEY REPLACED A FUEL INJECTOR FUSE. RAN GREAT FOR A FEW MONTHS THEN STARTED HAPPENING AGAIN. RESEARCHED THE ISSUE AND CAME ACROSS THE 10 MINUTE PROCESS: WHEN SHE DON'T START SHUT IT OFF TURN THE KEY TO ACCESSORY AND WAIT 10 MINUTES. 100% STARTS EVERY TIME. CALLED GM TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL. NOTHING TO THAT DESCRIPTION SO THEY RECOMMENDED I TAKE IT TO A GM SERVICE CENTER. DID THAT. EXPLAINED WHAT WAS HAPPENING. THEY MADE ME A NEW KEY AND SAID TRY TO SEE IF THAT FIXED THE ISSUE, THAT THE REPAIR WOULD RUN AROUND 200-300. WORKED FINE FOR A FEW WEEKS. BACK TO THE 10 MINUTE DEAL. TOOK IT BACK AND NOW THEY TELL ME IT'S A PASSLOCK SENSOR IN THE STEERING COLUMN THAT DOESN'T ACKNOWLEDGE THE KEY. FOR A COOL $800 THEY CAN FIX IT.....SEEMS TO ME WITH WHAT I'VE READ AND RESEARCHED, IT IS DEFINITELY A RECALL ISSUE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-02-01
- VIN: 1G1ND52J83M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU CLASSIC. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS NO FAILURE WITH THE TWO VEHICLE KEYS UNTIL THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 14V400000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM) BY AUTONATION CHEVROLET LAUREL (500 WASHINGTON BLVD, SUITE A, LAUREL, MD 20707, 301-725-2700). THE DEALER WAS INFORMED NUMEROUS TIMES THAT THE REPLACEMENT KEYS FROM THE RECALL FAILED TO REMEDY THE DEFECT. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START AND WAS UNABLE TO BE RESTARTED NUMEROUS TIMES. FOR OVER FOUR YEARS, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ORIGINAL OEM KEYS FUNCTIONED PROPERLY. IN ADDITION, THE ANTI-THEFT FUNCTION FAILED TO OPERATE PROPERLY. THE CONTACT REFERENCED THE OWNER'S MANUAL TO REPROGRAM THE FUNCTION AND TURNED THE VEHICLE ON AND OFF. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ANTI-THEFT FEATURE DID NOT WORK FOR THIS YEAR, MAKE, AND MODEL VEHICLE, THE ANTI-THEFT WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START WHEN THE KEY WAS INSERTED IN THE IGNITION. THE DEALER KEPT THE TWO OEM KEYS AND STATED THAT THE PLASTIC INSERT PIECE THAT WAS TO BE PROVIDED AS A KEY INSERT FAILED AS A REMEDY FOR THE RECALL. THE TWO KEYS DID NOT WORK FOR THE CONTACT'S MODEL VEHICLE. THE DEALER REPORTED TO THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE PLASTIC COVER AND THE KEY MODIFICATION FAILED TO FUNCTION MANUALLY AND ELECTRONICALLY. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-01
- VIN: 1G1ND52J13M
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET MALIBU. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH FAILED AND THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO START THE ENGINE. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH DOUG HENRY CHEVROLET TARBORO (809 WEST WILSON STREET, TARBORO, NC 27886, (252) 823-3145). THE DEALER DID NOT PERFORM A DIAGNOSTIC TEST, BUT ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE IGNITION SWITCH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE SECURITY SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE UPDATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 145,000.
2003 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: 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 year 2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala and Monte Carlo, 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2005 Malibu Classic, 1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero, 1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue, 1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am and 2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
- Consequence: 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.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, 'ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS.' IN HOT AMBIENT CONDITIONS, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM MAY STICK AT THE ATTACHMENT TO THE BRACKET AND NOT RETURN TO THE ENGINE IDLE POSITION WHEN THE OPERATOR LIFTS HIS FOOT FROM THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
- Consequence: FAILURE TO RETURN TO IDLE COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL ARM AND REPLACE THE ACCELERATOR AND BRAKE PEDAL ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW ASSEMBLY, IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Negative 2003 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Positive 2003 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
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I'm so glad I bought this car! I got an amazing deal at $16,100 for a V6, sunroof, leather, and more. Although I was a bit hesitant due to some reviews, this car has exceeded all my expectations. The V6 engine is both smooth and powerful, and the brakes work really well. The build quality is also impressive. The only thing that could be improved are the tires. Overall, I got a lot more car and performance for the price compared to something like a Honda Civic.
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I've had my Maliby LS for 2 years now and I must say, it's been an absolute pleasure to own. I haven't had any issues with it whatsoever and it's proven to be a very reliable and comfortable car. I also feel like I got a great deal on it, making it an excellent value for the price.
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This car is great! I have a summit white Malibu LS, and I drive it to work 90 miles one way, and have never had any problems. I have changed the oil and rotated the tires. I love how it picks up when entering the freeway. The engine is really good!
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This is the first brand new car I have ever owned and I am completely satisfied with it so far. Although, I have noticed that when the air conditioner/defroster is running, the gas mileage on this car decreases. I have taken it back to the dealer, but they have not been able to find anything wrong. Other than that, the gas mileage is good for a car running with a six cylinder engine. It handles very well and has a smooth and quiet ride.
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I have a 2003 Chevy Malibu LS and I absolutely love it! Despite having to replace the catalytic converter and fuel pump, I managed to drive over 100,000 miles before any repairs were needed. Living in Tennessee, I was able to get the converter and fuel pump replaced for only $250 and $400 respectively, which I think is a great deal considering I also have a car payment. My girlfriend used to have a 2003 Honda Civic and she thought it was better than my car just because it's a Honda. However, at only 56,000 miles, her A/C unit went out and she didn't have an extended warranty. We went to three different mechanics and the cheapest quote to replace and fix the A/C was $1,350. She ended up trading it in and buying a 2006 Chevy Malibu. I believe that every car will have its own set of problems, but I will always support our domestic car manufacturers by buying GM or Ford.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Malibu problems:
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems and Complaints - 25 Issues
Top 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems · No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor · The Fuel Gauge May Not Read Correctly and/or Check Engine Light With Code P0455/ ...
2003 Chevy Malibu V6 known problems? | Bob Is The Oil Guy
Sep 10, 2023 ... It's the lower intake gaskets that go bad, often resulting in serious engine damage if one neglects it and just continues to add coolant. These ...
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Jan 17, 2023 ... What Do Critics Say About the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu? · Consumer Reports found the 2003 Malibu to be pretty mediocre all around. · Kelley Blue ...
2003 Malibu electrical problem | Chevrolet Malibu Forums
Aug 23, 2021 ... When I start my car I am getting a delay the gauges power windows and AC will not come on when it does come on if I hit the power window or ...
2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Other years of Chevrolet Malibu
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chevrolet Malibu?
Kurt Weimann 2024-11-10
Hi there! I noticed that you bought your car back in December 2002 and have been taking great care of it with regular oil changes. I also see that you've been diligent about replacing the brakes and fuel filters every 20k miles. However, it looks like the shock absorber is gone and the car requires head gaskets. I understand that it may not be worth fixing, so if you're looking for a new car, I'd be happy to help you find one that fits your needs and budget. Let me know if you have any questions!
Nathanial Jacobs 2024-10-14
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my '03 Malibu LS (fully loaded) that I've been driving for about a year now. I was lucky enough to purchase it used with only 26,000km on it! I really enjoy the smooth ride of the car, it's so quiet even on the highway and it handles bumps really well. The interior fit and finish is decent, but nothing too amazing. It's got great pickup in the city and even better passing power on the highway (I've passed with ease at 150 km/h on a steep hill!). The only downside for me is the fuel economy, I only get about 16 city and 22 hwy even when I'm driving carefully, and 15 & 19 when driving normally. Another thing to note is that it can feel a bit cheap at times (some of the buttons/knobs), but overall it's a great car to have. Thanks for listening!
Melvin Kris 2024-09-13
This was my first actual car and I was so excited...until I got stranded in the middle of a road trip because of the fuel pump. Then the thermostat went, and I had to replace the rotors twice. I also had issues with leaking coolant, which required me to replace the gaskets and water pump. Unfortunately, I haven't had the car for two years yet, and the locks have already started acting weird. Overall, it's been disappointing to say the least. I'm currently in school and can't afford a new car any time soon, which makes the situation even more frustrating. :(
Colton Wuckert 2024-07-23
I purchased this car in August 2003 and have been driving it hard ever since! Although I have not been very diligent with the recommended maintenance, the car still runs perfectly and I have never gotten stuck. I have noticed that the front rotors and brake pads need to be replaced fairly frequently, and unfortunately, the air conditioning has not worked since 2004. In 2007, I had a problem with water filling the trunk, and I have also noticed rust spots on the passenger side, which seems to be a common issue with Malibus. Despite these minor issues, I have owned this vehicle for six years now and it has been good to me. It currently has 107,000 miles on it!
Oran Mertz 2024-06-12
I recently got a car for my son and noticed that there was a lot of road noise, especially when driving on the interstate. At first, I thought it was just because the car was cheap and noisy, so I tried to soundproof it. However, after doing some research, I discovered that the tires on the car were the cause of the problem. Many people had complained about the road noise with those tires, so I decided to switch them out. Now, the car rides like a dream and is much quieter.