Chevrolet Malibu: Problems & Solutions

rft3 · January 2006

This buffeting / noise issue is terrible. Has anyone successed in getting GM to address it?

Thanks!! Bob

kurtamaxxguy · January 2006

If both of my '04 Maxx's windows are open at the same time, there is severe buffeting, probably caused by air turbulence around the tail/hatch region.

This has been common to most hatch backs I have driven. There's no trunk to smooth the airflow out behind the rear windows.

A workaround is to open front and opposite back. You get good airflow that way with very little noise. Also, opening one side works as long as windows are not rolled down too far.

pawssc · February 2006

2000 Malibu, 3.1 engine. 92K. All of a sudden won't start. Has gas, of course! HELP??????

pwd666 · February 2006

I'm not sure what you mean... Where is the flasher located again? is it beside the blower motor? or around the steering wheel? Any word on the release switch?

e2helper · February 2006

Hmmm. Turn signal flasher is part of the hazard switch as I posted before. This term "hazard switch" is used in owner manual so I don't know how better to mention it. See page 2-46 of your owner manual if you have one for a graphic of entire instrument panel. The hazard switch is item "H" and is located between the instrument cluster and the AC vents above the radio. Most important thing I mentioned was that this part has been recalled on some vehicles and yours might be one of them. See recall number in original post.

As far as the park brake switch I am afraid you will need to stick your head under the dash and look for it. It is located on the park brake pedal assembly opposite the actual pedal for your foot. It will have an electrical connection with a single blue wire going to it. To give you a roadmap where to look

start at the bottom of pedal...measure up about 9 1/4 inches and then forward about 9 inches.

indychick73 · February 2006

I have an '05 Maxx purchased in December. Today was unseasonably warm so I decided to turn off the heat in my car. However, even though I had the heater turned to the "off" position, there was still warm air blowing from the vents. Anyone know anything about this one?
Thanks.

e2helper · February 2006

Likely because you were driving the vehicle at the time. Although you have the blower motor turned off your forward motion will result in "ram" air being forced into the passenger compartment. Under those conditions you should just adjust the temperature control.

That is my guess at least

bhw77 · February 2006

I finally decided to drop my Maxx to the dealer for oil change and take care of few annoying problems.
Here is that I've got:
Problem - Engine makes ticking noise then cold.
Response - "After oil and filter change no ticking present"
Of course 3 hours later then engine cooled off ticking is there

Problem - Rear shades will not stay closed.
Response - "shades working as designed" means not working

Problem - a rattle or clink noise from foot well area
Response - "Remove and replace steering column kit and test drove. noise now gone"
Power steering assist has gone also. I had a noise and power steering before dealer visit - now I don't have neither.

ehelper2, please could you give me TSB for sunshades problem? I found # 04-08-110-004A, but they told me that this one for "different types of shades".
Also - What is steering column kit
part #88967179 - S/col rem 6.518
Car is 04 Maxx, build in april 04

To add an insult they SMOKED in my car...
I guess I am going back tomorrow.

e2helper · February 2006

Sorry to hear your issues bhw..

I don't have suggestion on your first item (engine tick)

WRT to rear shades, the TSB now #04-08-110-004B - I don't know what changed with rev "B". Still indicating applicable to 2004/5 Maxx and adds reinforcements P/N 15227088. They have to remove the headliner to add the reinforcements. No different types of shades as far as I know but I just caution that they are removing the headliner to add them.

The steering column kit is the steering column part number replaced by campaign done on earlier 2004 Malibu - your vehicle wasn't covered by campaign but this is likely the part number of any replacement column.

Are you indicating that you now have no power assist?

There is another document dealer has available for review which might have been applicable to your vehicle for rattle complaint although you probably described it more detail to them than what you posted here. However you might suggest they look at #PIC3747. It is for a noise which doesn't have anything to do with the column but likely sometimes hard to isolate where a noise is coming from. It indicates a TSB will be issued for dealers soon with more details when parts available.

bhw77 · February 2006

to ehelper2
<<Are you indicating that you now have no power assist? >>

There is some left, but after "fix" steering became much heavier, especially at low speed (parking) and
VERY slow returns to center. Dealer "informed" me
about TSB 04-02-35-009 from May 24,2004 (steering column replacement ) and offered to do it if "fix" doesn't help.
I did not have any common issues with steering besides rattle (before "fix")
As a ticking noise - it took local mechanic who I work with my other cars 2 min to tighten a belt and it is gone.

dtownfb · February 2006

It could be a number of things but the first thing I would check is the battery. next would be the ignition module. Know problem with igniiton switches located on the dash.

e2helper · February 2006

There are several "zeroing" routines that must be done when the column is replaced - maybe dealer didn't perform them?

sgr5516 · February 2006

I have same problem with my 04 Maxx LS with sunroof. If I drive with only the back windows down, you hear the load resonating sound. The lower the windows, the louder it gets. On my car, the noise is coming from the headliner. You can see and feel the entire headliner shaking. I just don't open the back windows unless the front windows or sunroof is also open. Not sure this is unique to hatchbacks. I also have 05 Equinox SUV that does same thing.

maxxoliver · February 2006

There is a TSB on this that will provide you with a wind deflector the dealer will install. It gets rid of the noise. e2helper should be able to give you the TSB# I had one done right after buying my Maxx and I love it.

e2helper · February 2006

I am still trying to figure out why so many drive around with rear windows only down :P

However to answer request, I am only aware of a TSB for a wind deflector for sunroof on 2004/5 models. #04-08-67-009 however that is for sunroof

I believe GM Accessories (and likely aftermarket) have wind deflectors available for purchase which are to help keep out water when windows open - and likely reduce wind buffeting. I don't have any personal experience on any of those products and I don't think there is any type of TSB for that.

kurtamaxxxguy · February 2006

E2, driving with only Rear windows down helps keep blareing truck engines and other noise out of the drivers' ear.

But the buffeting at speed with both rears open is annoying.

A trick to get around that is passanger front/driver rear windows open for maximum circulation (this can blow stuff out of the car!!).

maxxoliver · February 2006

e2helper the TSB I was referring to was for the sunroof. It helped with the buffeting noise when the sunroof is open and the back windows are down. I drive with the back windows down and not the front to cool the car and not get myself windblown.

debodebbie · February 2006

I am also having the same problem. Hope someone can help soon!!!!

slidersmom · February 2006

suddenly the electric windows (all) dont work and replaced circuit breaker. still dont work. also noticed that heater/ac blower doesnt work. where do i start looking for the problem and are the two items not working related? thank you

e2helper · February 2006

What model year?

enrolk · February 2006

1st time poster. 2005 used maxx w/19K. Love it.
Is there a "Custom" plate mount for a Malibu Maxx that has a curve to match that of the bumper?
Need to put a license plate on the front bumper for SD.I hate to ruin the beautiful lines of the front with an ugly license plate.

Is there a custom mod available?

slidersmom · February 2006

dear e2helper, duhhhhh, i cant believe it 'cept if you knew how many hours i was online to get to this place and enroll and find the right place, you'd understand why i forgot to put year and model. duhhh, i cant believe it anyway.well, the year is 1997, chevy malibu LS. thanks for the response and bringing my attention to the lack of info. thanks, kat

e2helper · February 2006

OK - On the 1997 Malibu both the power windows and the ac/heater blower are fed off of fuses/circuit breakers located in right hand IP electrical center. They are on different fuses - sounds like you found the window circuit breaker.

Questions
Any other electrical issues with your vehicle?

Does your vehicle have cruise control - and if it does when you press the ON/OFF switch in steering wheel does the indicator in the switch light up?

If you look at the heater/ac control head do other functions work - like the rear defogger?

It sounds like there might be an issue with the main power feed to the right hand IP fuse center (from ignition switch) or the IP fuse center itself from your description so far - answers to above will help isolate it a bit further.

slidersmom · February 2006

thanks e2helper for such a quick response. its late and i'll be checking these items out tomorrow morning and report back the results. thank you. kat

sgr5516 · February 2006

Yes, I had the dealer install the wind deflector for the sunroof on my Maxx under the TSB. However, the deflector only cuts down on wind noise when you drive with the sunroof open all the way. The deflector does nothing for the violent buffeting you hear when only the rear windows are down and the sunroof and front windows are closed. The "rear window down" buffeting noise stops if you open the sunroof, with or without the sunroof deflector.

slidersmom · February 2006

e2helper, checked those things out today. nothing works. (cruise,rear window defroster) have ordered a 'library loan' to our library "chiltons manual including 97 malibu" data. should come soon. we're gone 3 days if surgery (rotorooter) goes well tomorrow morning. our small town (page, az) doesnt have a big enough hosp to do those things. hope to be able to check out forum by early fri. evening to see if you have an update. thanks for your help. kat

e2helper · February 2006

Hmm. Since you vehicle will start (right?) then I would say the problem might be with the ignition switch (or wiring connection right at the ignition switch).

I am just kind of surprised you don't have a few other electrical problems like Check Engine Light and Daytime Running Lamps inoperative.

dtownfb · February 2006

I think you may have to live with this noise and remember to not lower the rear windows alone. Every car I have own did this as well. It's not a Malibu problem but more of the aerodynamics of cars today.

meandmymaxx · February 2006

Was wondering if the steering rack replacement for 04 - 06 Malibu's is a full blown campaign or just a fix on complaint basis??

sean74 · February 2006

My car's left turn signal worked abnormaly. Its frequency was doubled today. After I turned emergency light for a while it was back to normal.

Four months ago I have a similar case. But at that time, there was no flash for turn signal. And it was also back to normal later.

It's dangerous and wierd. Does anybody know what's the problem? Thanks.

e2helper · February 2006

Check information in your owner manual. Around page 3-8 or so. A fast flashing turn signal indication in your instrument cluster is telling you that you have a bulb outtage condition on one or both of the exterior lamps.

Next time it happens if possible try to watch and see if either front or rear left turn lamp isn't flashing and then have the dealer take a look at it. It likely isn't a blown bulb but might be a connection problem at bulb socket.

sean74 · February 2006

Thanks a lot for the information.

scottsaround · February 2006

I've had this problem too - a couple times. According NHTSA Action Number: PE05055 - you'll have to search the web site -maybe serach under defect investigations - for that number then choose the "Document Search" item, it appears that beginning in April 2006 GM will be recalling certain 2002 cars for this defect.

I would go to the NHTSA website and report your issue to see if many people are having the same problem / # of complaints to take action.

http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/ivoq/

mehere · February 2006

I have had a 2006 Malibu LT for less than 3 weeks and notice what looks like rust seeping under the plastic of the headlights.

Has anyone else noticed this? Any advice? I will be taking the car to the dealer for attention but wondered if anyone else has encountered this.

Thanks

redmaxx · February 2006

Similar to the above item, I have a 2004 (which as the big silver bar going across the front) and that bar is discolored under the headlights. I can I reasonably expect them to replace it?

brach143 · February 2006

I also am experiencing the same problems. However my Malibu is a 2004. One time it stalled as I was waiting at a red light, only to restart minutes later. However often it will just not start...I will wait minutes & then it will start snd it runs just fine. We too have taken it to the dealer numerous times & are looked at as though we are crazy. They connect it to their computer & nothing shows up as wrong. Trying to get rid of this car....in fear of the warranty ending before we have a resolution to the problem. But due to the great resale value...we are upside down in the loan. Any help would be great! :lemon:

chazz724 · February 2006

My Problem is that the gas gauge went all the way around and I dont where to start to find the problem. It seemed to have done this after we installed subs in the trunk. Please Help

drej · February 2006

That buffetting noise also happens to my 95Yukon if you open the rear windows... and its pretty bad ! , my Maxx does it to but not as bad.
so how did they fix the Rattle behind the rr seat (pass side.? I have that too.
THX D~

slidersmom · February 2006

e2helper: took longer to get back than i thought, the after surgery trip and activities. i can hardly believe it, i used the car yesterday and everything worked!!!! almost shell shocked. if there's a short somewhere, where would i look? i'm waiting on a libraryloan book on 97 malibu troubleshooting and repair. could be a long wait tho. thanks for your help. hubby doing just fine and quit smoking too!!!

enrolk · February 2006

Can you just drill holes in the front bumper to install a license plate mount?

Is there steel befind it or just the rubber/plastic?
I bought a mount for $6 from Chevy.
The Bumper is not pre-drilled for front plates.
Can you help?

e2helper · February 2006

Well that is good news but intermittent problems can be very frustrating. I am interested when you were having this problem did you ever notice the Check Engine Light on?

mybooo · February 2006

Well, I just got a call from the service manager at my local dealer. The new steering rack that was supposed to be out 1st quarter 06 is now not going to be out until 2nd quarter 06. Man, that will be over 6 months for a fix! They told me they will not put a new one in, as the problem will just be back in a few thousand miles. What to do? What can I do? It is kinda disappointing in having a new car that takes so long to get fix! Anyone have any thoughts? Oh, I have an 05 MAXX LS. 35000miles. They said don't worry about the warranty, they will cover it.

7937 · February 2006

My 2004 Malibu came with a front plate mounting kit and instructions. I bought the car in California where a front plate is required. The kit includes a plastic mounting plate and 4 pop rivets. There are 4 dimples in the center of the bumper which are drilled for the rivets and the backing plate fixed to it. The license plate is then screwed to the backing plate with supplied screws.

Check with your dealer for the kit.

gonogo · February 2006

Does this new rack apply to 04 Malibu also.

lynn98 · February 2006

I have a 98 also, and guess what, it just did that to me a couple of weeks ago after a collision garage had worked on the front end, but I think it was due to the accident I was in and not the collision people? So I took it back to them. They fixed it but just thought I'd comment on them. Maybe you can take it to a car garage and they can help?

lynn98 · February 2006

You people won't believe how many times I've had my 1998 Malibu brakes replaced. I've finally replaced the rotors because I had enought of having to go back and get pads. Calipers have been replaced also, this was all as of just yesterday evening. It makes the car a safety issue when the brakes wear down so quickly and you don't have the money to fix them ever 6 months! And everyone tried to tell me I was a heavy braker. If that was true then I would've already rear-ended somebody since i live in Columbus Ohio!

lynn98 · February 2006

I have a 98 Malibu also and can tell you up front that brakes are the one issue it seems 98's and 99's have big problems with, if you read the updated forums it seems like the later models also. Did your mechanic show you the rotors? Seems to be a problem with most of these vehicles. I'm not sure about the MPG though, do you have any idea if the previous owner drove it on the highway a lot?

lynn98 · February 2006

Hi. I have a 1998 Malibu that ever since I've had been dealing with one tiny annoying problem: my radio seems to get interference from the heating system when I turn it up. Also, the sound has also been a bit static-y because I cannot get Columbus OH radio stations right outside of the city limits. Don't understand that because the radios in every other vehicle I've had could get the stations.

Also, I have recently found a windshield visor (driver's side) at the local junkyard, am trying to remove the piece from the old one that I accidentally broke a couple of years ago, was wondering if anyone knows of instructions anywhere on the net or something on how to install one because I wanted to replace it myself?

Thanks

kurtamaxxguy · February 2006

Now I am confused. Not sure __what__ they put in my '04 maxx to replace the bad rack that was in there.
Are __all__ the racks in '04 and up Malibu going to have problems or just selected ones?

Also....
Has anyone else had a problem with the Lumbar support in the driver seat going "boing" and abruptly shifting when adjusted?
If so, what was the fix, if any?

redmaxx · February 2006

Well, I woke up this morning to a dead Malibu. It was running fine last night. Locked it up and all the lights were off and nothing was plugged in. This morning I can barely eek out a beep from the horn and it just clicks when I try to start it. :sick:

Should the dealer perform a test to see how much power its drawing when its off?

As for the lumbar, I haven't had problems with it. Although my power driver's seat tilts toward the back right. If I lower the back of the seat bottom to the floor and then raise it, the left side comes up for awhile before the right side does anything. Make sense? Its verrrry irritating driving at an angle. :mad:

Chevrolet Malibu: Problems & Solutions

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