2020 Chevrolet Malibu: Engine complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 61 owner complaints for the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu that list the engine component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11748641 (filed 07/06/2026): “While driving, the brakes became hard and the vehicle was difficult to stop. the brake pedal required excessive force, brake assist was reduced, and the stopping distance increased, creating a serious safety hazard. the check engine light had been illuminated for approximately two years before the b…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11734196 (filed 04/27/2026): “I am writing to report a serious and dangerous issue that occurred with my 2020 chevrolet malibu lt on april 27th 2026. while driving on the interstate after work, my vehicle suddenly experienced a failure that made it extremely unsafe to operate. the brake pedal became extremely hard to press, and…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11726626 (filed 03/24/2026): “While driving the brake pedal became hard to push out of no where. once the car got to the shop it stopped cranking. the shop is stating that the brake vacuum pump is the cause of the brake pedal messing up, and that it also caused other engine damages estimating $3000.00…”
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 .