2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid recalls and complaints

NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid; the most frequently affected component is hybrid propulsion system. Owners filed 40 complaints, most often about engine. Among the 4 model years of this model in the database, 2016 ranks #1 for number of recalls.

Recalls1

Complaints40

Crashes reported2in stored complaints

Check your own vehicle by VIN at NHTSA →

Recalls (1)

Hybrid propulsion systemCampaign 16V521000 · 08 Jul 2016

Problem: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Malibu Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 27, 2015, to June 3, 2016. The affected vehicles have a shut-off switch for the high voltage battery for use when servicing the vehicle. This manual service disconnect switch (MSD) may not be properly installed and thus may not lock into position, unexpectedly disconnecting the high-voltage power while driving, effectively stalling the vehicle.

Risk: A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the MSD and correct the installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 51230.

What owners complain about

Share of the 40 most recent complaints stored for this model year, by component. Owners can list more than one component.

Engine18 · 45%

Electrical system14 · 35%

Unknown or other10 · 25%

Service brakes8 · 20%

Fuel/propulsion system7 · 18%

Vehicle speed control4 · 10%

Steering2 · 5%

Air bags2 · 5%

When complaints were filed

202522

202618

From owner complaints

While driving, the vehicle experienced a mechanical failure involving the engine and lubrication system. Oil leakage was observed, and the engine began operating abnormally. This created a risk of sudden engine failure while the vehicle was in motion, which could result in loss of power, stalling, or loss of control,…
Engine · Dec 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

On December 16, 2025 the check engine light and service stabiltrek warning light appeared on my 2016 Chevy Malibu Hybrid. On December 17, 2015 I took the car the Capital Cheverolet service dept who has been servicing my car regularly for the past five years. They performed a complete diagnostics on my car that…
Electrical system · Dec 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

The vehicle went into shift to park and will not turn off. This is a known problem with ALL GM vehicles that hasn’t been fixed or offered a warranty for. It’s dangerous and causes the car not to move shut off in traffic and drains the battery. My car currently isn’t working due to this issue and the repair to fix is…
Steering · Dec 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

The contact owns a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate. In addition, the vehicle occasionally accelerated independently. The contact stated that several unknown warning lights were…
Engine · Dec 2025 · NHTSA complaint record

How this year compares

Recalls per model year for this model.

Full specifications All model years 2016 Chevrolet lineup

Source

Recall and complaint records from the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). A recall listed here may not apply to every vehicle of this model year — always check your VIN with NHTSA or a dealer.