2019 Chevrolet Malibu: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 66 owner complaints for the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11772301 (filed 10/20/2026): “The vehicle experiences sudden transmission slipping, severe shuddering, and an unexpected loss of forward drive power while in motion. specifically, while attempting to accelerate from a complete stop / merge onto the highway, the engine revs but the vehicle fails to accelerate properly or suddenly…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11766611 (filed 09/24/2026): “The contact owns a 2019 chevrolet malibu. the contact stated that after purchasing the vehicle, the following morning while waiting at the school drop-off line with her foot on the brake pedal, there was an abnormal boom, and several warning lights illuminated and flashed on the instrument panel. th…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11764778 (filed 09/16/2026): “Due to the vacuum pump failing during driving, metal shards broke inside of the car and went into the engine destroying it completely. now i need a whole new engine…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
AutoZone · O'Reilly · Advance · RockAuto
Sources
Page last updated .