2008 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 2008 Chevrolet Malibu problems
Based on the information from the sources provided, here are the common problems with the Chevrolet Malibu 2008 based on complaints from owners:
- Engine Issues:
- Valve Cover Gasket Leaks: Owners have reported leaks in the valve cover gaskets, leading to potential issues.
- Power Steering Pump Problems: The power steering pumps in Chevy Malibus are prone to failure, causing steering difficulties.
- Head Gasket Deterioration: Neglecting coolant maintenance can result in head gasket deterioration, leading to engine problems.
- Transmission Troubles:
- Transmission Jerking and Gear Shifting Difficulty: The transmission system in Chevy Malibus, especially as they age, can experience jerking and difficulty changing gears.
- Faulty Transmission Components: Specific issues like a broken transmission fluid pump or defective shift cable have been reported in certain models.
- Electrical System Glitches:
- Headlight and Turn Signal Issues: Some models have experienced premature headlight burnouts and persistent turn signal problems.
- Electric Power Steering (EPS) Malfunctions: EPS systems in Chevy Malibus can lock up, making steering challenging and requiring costly replacements.
- Electronic "Shift to Park" System Failures: Newer models have faced issues with the electronic system failing to recognize when the car is in park, preventing the vehicle from turning off.
- Other Common Problems:
- Hood Shock Failure: Weak hood supports are a common issue, requiring replacement for safety and functionality.
- Fuel Level Sensor Malfunction: Problems with the fuel level sensor can lead to inaccurate readings and issues with fuel management.
These problems highlight the need for regular maintenance and prompt attention to any signs of trouble to ensure the longevity and reliability of the Chevrolet Malibu 2008 model.
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 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:
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Exterior lighting problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2008 Chevrolet Malibu vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
The NHTSA has received 1000 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2008 Chevrolet Malibu 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.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu.
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.
- Consequence: A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.
- Consequence: Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on April 29, 2014, that they are recalling 56,214 model year 2007 and 2008 Saturn Aura vehicles. On May 22, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 1,074,899 model year 2004-2008 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured from May 16, 2003, through October 5, 2007, model year 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured from June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, and model year 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured from May 26, 2004, through September 28, 2007, and equipped with 4-speed transmissions. The total number vehicles being recalled is now 1,131,113.
- Consequence: If the transmission shift cable fractures while the vehicle is being driven, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, despite selecting the PARK position, the transmission may not be in PARK. If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and GM dealers will replace the shift cable assembly and mounting bracket, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 14152.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.
- Consequence: If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will perform one of four bulletins. Parts are not currently available. GM expects to send an interim notification around May 28, 2014. When parts are available, owners will be mailed a second letter to come in to have the applicable bulletin applied. Bulletin 14115 covers model year 2004-2007 Saturn Ion, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalts. Dealers will replace the EPS motor. Bulletin 14116 covers model year 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from March 1, 2008, through June 27, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly. Bulletin 14117 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from February 1, 2008, through February 28, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly and EPS motor controller unit. Bulletin 14118 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from October 1, 2007, through January 31, 2008. Dealers will replace the EPS motor controller unit. The recall began on July 17, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, Saturn at 1-800-553-6000, and Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668. GM's number for this recall is N140115. Note: GM bulletin number 14119 will be implemented for model year 2006-2008 and early production of 2009 Chevrolet HHR (non-turbo) and model year 2003 Saturn ION to provide EPS Motor replacement for the life of the vehicle.
- Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
- Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007-2010 Saturn Aura and model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Malibu and Pontiac G6 vehicles, equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission. On these vehicles, the tabs on the transmission shift cable end may fracture and separate.
- Consequence: If the tabs were to fracture and separate, the shift lever and the actual position of the transmission gear may not match. The driver would be able to move the shifter to 'PARK' and remove the ignition key, but the transmission gear may not be in 'PARK.' The vehicle may not be able to be restarted and the vehicle could roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, resulting in a possible crash without prior warning.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a retainer over the cable end or replace the shift cable as necessary. This service will be performed free of charge. Notification to owners began on on November 9, 2012. Owners were instructed to not bring their vehicles for repair until January 2013. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-521-7300.
Negative 2008 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
Positive 2008 Chevrolet Malibu car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you've had such a positive experience with your new car! It's great to know that you haven't had any issues since driving it out of the dealership. As someone who can be a bit picky about cars, it's wonderful to hear that you find it to be a true value and stylish as well. Plus, getting 20mpg in town and 29 on the highway is fantastic, especially with the 252 hp v-6. It sounds like you really love your car, and at 63 years old, you've certainly had your fair share of them. Keep up the great work, GM!
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I just got a Chevy Malibu LTZ and it runs great. I love the style, the ride quality, and everything about it. I highly recommend it for anybody wanting a nice car for a reasonable price.
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I've had my 08 Malibu for 6 weeks now and I'm completely satisfied with it. The car is exceptionally quiet and solid, with great engine response. On trips, I average around 30 mpg. Even my wife, who has always preferred imports, absolutely loves this Malibu!
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I have always been a Chevy lover, but recently I had the pleasure of owning a Ford. I tend to research every big purchase to death, but once I sat in the car, I fell in love with it. As someone who is used to driving pickups, I was pleasantly surprised by its great fuel mileage and how comfortable it is for long trips. Additionally, it is extremely quiet, which is a huge plus. I get comments all the time on how great it looks and performs.
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Purchased an '08 Malibu LTZ with V6, moonroof and leather seats. Love it! The Malibu is great looking inside and out and the V6 engine has great power. Gas mileage is around 20 mpg in city/highway combo driving. My only complaint is that I wish there was a little more rear seat room. Overall, it's an excellent car - my wife drives a Maxima and the Chevy wins hands down. My daughter is still driving my old Impala with 110,000 miles - hoping for equal durability.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Chevrolet Malibu problems:
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Other years of Chevrolet Malibu
Are you having problems with your 2008 Chevrolet Malibu?
Fletcher Rutherford 2025-01-05
I purchased my car brand new from a Chevy dealership in 2008. Although I have had to replace several parts such as the transmission, catalytic converter, exhaust system, right front axle, trunk trim, and cupholder (which is rarely used), I am confident in finding a solution to the current issue. Despite recently replacing the battery, the car has been stalling and experiencing RPM fluctuations. I am determined to identify and resolve the problem. Do you have any suggestions?
Dock Connelly 2024-11-21
I have owned my 08 Malibu for 2 years and while it is enjoyable to drive, I have experienced several quality issues. These include problems with the left front bearing, right front axle, transmission seal, wiper motor, computer program, numerous rattles, and most recently, a leak in the back floorboard that has yet to be located. While the design is good, the overall quality is lacking. Unfortunately, this is the second Chevy I have owned with quality problems and I have decided not to purchase another. The car has required 5 visits to the shop in just 2 years.
Santa Cormier 2024-08-10
I absolutely adored this car from the moment it was released and had always dreamed of owning one. When I finally got my hands on a used one with only 13000km on it, I felt incredibly lucky. Although I did experience some issues with the car, such as it pulling to the right at 22,000km and needing cambers installed to align it properly, and the fan starting to go at 29000km, I still have a soft spot for it. Unfortunately, these problems have led me to believe that it may not be the best choice for me and I will be exploring other options in the future. Despite this, I am grateful for the time I had with it and will always cherish the memories. Thank you, GM, for creating such a unique and special vehicle.
Braden Schimmel 2024-06-18
In 2008, I was impressed with the styling and interior of this car. However, over time, I have noticed some issues with its design and build quality. The power locks on the driver's side and rear do not work, and changing the headlights requires removing the entire front end, which can be costly. Additionally, the passenger side makeup mirror cover fell off within a year of owning the car, and the tire pressure sensors continue to go off in the heat. Although disappointed with these issues, I am confident that they can be resolved with the right expertise and care.
Ethan Denesik 2024-02-24
The Malibu's initial allure faded quickly, as it developed a persistent squeak and rattle within the first 500 miles. Despite three visits to the dealer, the issue persisted until it was finally resolved. Additionally, the remote keyless entry system has proven unreliable, requiring me to roll down the rear windows so that my passengers can manually unlock the doors. This issue also occurs on the driver's side. Another frustrating aspect of owning this car is the need to visit the dealer to change the headlights, which requires the removal of the entire bumper and incurs a labor cost of $200 for a $20 bulb.