Chevrolet Malibu Limited Engine Is Stalling

Common Causes of Engine Stalling in Your Chevrolet Malibu Limited and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
30% chance it's the
Fuel System
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15% chance it's the
Air Intake System
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55% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Chevrolet Malibu Limited engine is stalling are the fuel system, the air intake system, or the ignition system.
  • Fuel System: A clogged fuel filter or failing fuel pump can restrict fuel flow, resulting in poor engine performance and starting issues.
  • Air Intake System: A dirty or damaged air filter or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can restrict airflow, leading to reduced engine performance and efficiency.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Chevrolet Malibu Limited engine is stalling?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

If the MAF sensor sends an erroneous signal, a few things happen. The engine's computer will trigger the check engine light, and the on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes will reflect the airflow discrepancy noted by the MAF sensor. Depending on the reported volume of air, the engine may try to compensate for these conditions, causing the engine to burn excessive amounts of fuel and emit black smoke from the exhaust. In this case, the OBD trouble codes would also reference faults recognized by the exhaust oxygen sensors. The engine may also have issues with idling roughly, failing to start, stalling, hesitation, power loss, misfires, and fuel consumption.

»MORE: Signs of a failing mass airflow sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

Troubleshooting Engine Stalling in a Chevrolet Malibu Limited

When troubleshooting engine stalling in a Chevrolet Malibu Limited, start by examining the fuel system, as fuel-related issues are often the primary culprits. Begin with checking the fuel quality; contaminated or old fuel can lead to stalling. Next, inspect the air intake system, particularly the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor and vacuum lines, as dirt or leaks can disrupt airflow and cause rough idling. Following this, assess the ignition system, focusing on components like the throttle position sensor and ignition switch, which can affect engine performance during acceleration. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, consider more complex factors such as the fuel sensor, transmission oil, timing chain, and Engine Control Module. By methodically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and remedy stalling problems, ensuring your Chevrolet Malibu Limited runs smoothly and reliably.

What Are the Common Causes of Engine Stalling in a Chevrolet Malibu Limited?

When diagnosing engine stalling in a Chevrolet Malibu Limited, it's crucial to consider several common problems that could be affecting your vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is the fuel system, where issues such as clogged fuel injectors or a failing fuel pump can disrupt the flow of fuel, leading to stalling. Additionally, the air intake system plays a vital role; a dirty Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor or vacuum leaks can cause rough idling and contribute to engine shutdowns. Ignition system problems, including incorrect engine timing or Variable Valve Timing (VVT) malfunctions, can also result in stalling or misfiring. Mechanical issues, such as a dirty throttle body or disconnected vacuum hoses, may further exacerbate the problem. Moreover, electronic sensor errors, particularly from the MAF sensor, can trigger warning lights and lead to stalling. For specific model years, particularly from 2013 to 2018, drivers have reported issues like deacceleration and notifications indicating "Engine Power Reduced." To effectively address these concerns, regular maintenance and timely inspections are essential, allowing DIY enthusiasts to tackle these common causes and ensure their Chevrolet Malibu Limited runs smoothly.

Why is the Engine Stalling in a Chevrolet Malibu Limited?

When your Chevrolet Malibu Limited experiences engine stalling, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid serious safety risks and potential damage to your vehicle. Ignoring symptoms such as stalling can lead to dangerous situations on the road, especially if the engine fails while driving. Common causes like fuel system malfunctions, ignition system failures, or air intake issues can escalate if not resolved quickly, potentially resulting in costly repairs. For instance, a malfunctioning Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor not only triggers warning lights but can also lead to further engine complications if left unchecked. Additionally, problems with engine timing or low oil levels can exacerbate stalling issues, leading to more severe engine damage over time. By diagnosing and addressing these problems early, you can ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable, preventing minor issues from turning into major repairs. Therefore, if you notice your Malibu stalling, take immediate action to investigate and resolve the underlying causes to maintain optimal performance and safety.

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