Problems for specific Chevrolet Malibu years:
Problem Reports
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2003 Chevrolet Malibu Problems
"No Start" Due to Ignition Switch Failure
The ignition switch may fail causing a no start condition. This is not generally a theft system (passlock) issue because the security light does not illuminate or flash.
Intake Manifold Gasket May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil
The intake manifold gasket may develop and external engine oil or coolant leak. In some cases, an internal coolant leak may occur causing coolant to mix with the engine oil. Our technicians tell us that operating the engine with a coolant/oil mix can result in internal engine damage. Replacing the intake manifold gasket should correct these leaks.
Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue
Illumination of the Check Engine Light can be caused by a loose or worn gas cap.
Corrosion At Ignition Coil Towers
Corrosion may develop at the connection between the ignition coil tower and spark plug wire resulting in an engine misfire. The Ignition coil and spark plug wire should both be replaced to correct this condition.
Oil Pump Drive O-ring May Leak Oil From Rear of Engine
An engine oil leak may develop from the rear of the engine. This is commonly caused by a failed oil pump drive o-ring seal. The leaking o-ring should be replaced to correct this concern.
High pressure power steering hoses can leak fluid
It is common for the high pressure power steering rubber hoses to leak. Our technicians recommend replacing leaky rubber hoses to prevent the loss of power steering.
Abnormal Clicking Noise From Hazard/Turn Signal Flasher
The turn signal switch may fail causing the hazard/turn signal flasher to continue to click even when the turn signal switch is off. Replacing the faulty turn signal switch will commonly correct this condition.
Corrosion on Battery Cable Ends
Acid may leak from the battery at the cable connections, resulting in corrosion on the battery cable ends and in the battery tray. A Leaking battery should be replaced and the cables thoroughly cleaned or replaced if necessary.
Key Stuck in Ignition Lock Cylinder
The automatic transmission shifter may fail causing the ignition key to become stuck in the ignition lock cylinder.
Front Brake Rotor Wear Can Cause Pulsations
Front brake rotors can wear causing a pulsation felt in the brake pedal. Our technicians often recommend replacement of the front rotors and brake pads as the best option to correct this condition.
Coolant Leak From Heater Core
The heater core under the right side of the dashboard may leak engine coolant which can puddle on the passenger front floor. The loss of coolant may cause an engine overheating condition. Our technicians tell us that removal of the dash board is necessary to replace the heater on these vehicles.
Poor Ride/Handling Due to Worn Suspension Struts
The front struts may show signs of wear, or be excessively bouncy ride at freeway speeds. This may begin to occur at around 75,000 miles.
The Fuel Pump May Fail Causing the Engine to Stall or Crank Over But Not Start
The fuel pump may fail causing the engine to stall and not restart. Our technicians recommend replacing the fuel filter every 30,000 miles to help prevent undue strain on the fuel pump.
No Start Due to Failed Passlock Sensor
The passlock sensor in the ignition lock cylinder may fail causing an anti-theft system fault and a no start condition. Our technicians tell us that the ignition lock cylinder should be replace to correct this condition.