Chevy Malibu’s Alleged Engine Power Reduced Issue Leads to Class Action
The Chevy Malibu is a popular midsize sedan that has been marketed by General Motors (GM) since 1964. However, in recent years, some Chevy Malibu owners have reported a defect that causes reduced engine power, leading to dangerous situations on the road. As a result, a class action lawsuit has been filed against GM, alleging that certain models of the Chevy Malibu have a defect that causes reduced engine power.
According to the lawsuit, the alleged defect is caused by a faulty pedal position sensor that causes the vehicle to go into “Engine Power Reduced” mode. This can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle or be unable to accelerate or pass other vehicles as needed. The lawsuit claims that GM has known about the defect for years but has failed to take corrective action.
Key Takeaways:
- The Chevy Malibu has been marketed by General Motors (GM) since 1964.
- Some Chevy Malibu owners have reported a defect that causes reduced engine power, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
- A class action lawsuit has been filed against GM, alleging that certain models of the Chevy Malibu have a defect that causes reduced engine power.
Understanding Engine Power Reduction
Reduced engine power is a common issue that many Chevy Malibu owners have experienced. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the electronic throttle control system, faulty sensors, and electrical problems.
Causes of Reduced Engine Power
There are several possible causes of reduced engine power in a Chevy Malibu. Some of the most common causes include:
- Faulty sensors: The Malibu’s electronic throttle control system relies on several sensors to function correctly. If any of these sensors fail, the engine may enter reduced power mode.
- Throttle body issues: The throttle body is responsible for regulating the airflow into the engine. If the throttle body becomes dirty or damaged, it can cause the engine to enter reduced power mode.
- Electrical issues: The Malibu’s electrical system powers many of the engine’s components. If there are any issues with the electrical system, it can cause the engine to enter reduced power mode.
Electronic Throttle Control System
The electronic throttle control system is responsible for regulating the engine’s power output. It uses several sensors to monitor the engine’s performance and adjust the throttle accordingly. If any of these sensors fail, the engine may enter reduced power mode.
Signs and Symptoms
There are several signs and symptoms that may indicate that your Malibu is experiencing reduced engine power. These include:
- The check engine light is on: If the check engine light is on, it may indicate that there is an issue with the engine’s electronic throttle control system.
- Trouble codes: If your Malibu is experiencing reduced engine power, it may generate trouble codes that can be read using a diagnostic scanner.
- Loss of power: If your Malibu is experiencing reduced engine power, you may notice a significant loss of power when accelerating.
In conclusion, reduced engine power is a common issue that many Chevy Malibu owners have experienced. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the electronic throttle control system, faulty sensors, and electrical problems. If you are experiencing reduced engine power, it is important to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to determine the underlying cause.
Chevrolet Malibu’s Engine Issues
The Chevy Malibu has been a popular midsize sedan in the United States for many years. However, it has been plagued by engine issues that can lead to safety hazards on the road. In this section, we will take a closer look at the common problems in Chevy Malibu and specific defects that have led to a class action lawsuit.
Common Problems in Chevy Malibu
One of the most common problems reported by Chevy Malibu owners is engine power reduction. This issue can cause the car to stall or decelerate suddenly, which can be dangerous on the road. Some owners have reported that the car displays an “Engine Power Reduced” notification when this occurs.
Other engine problems reported by Chevy Malibu owners include stalling, misfiring, and losing power. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty fuel pump, a dirty air filter, or a malfunctioning ignition coil.
Specific Defects and Safety Concerns
A class action lawsuit has been filed against General Motors (GM) alleging that certain models of the Chevy Malibu have a defect that causes reduced engine power. The alleged defect is related to the throttle position sensor, which can malfunction and cause the engine to go into “Engine Power Reduced” mode. This can be a serious safety hazard, as drivers may not be able to accelerate or pass other vehicles as needed.
The plaintiff in the class action lawsuit, Mr. Mark Rothschild, purchased a 2017 Chevy Malibu in September 2017 and experienced the alleged defect. The lawsuit claims that GM knew about the defect but failed to disclose it to consumers.
In conclusion, the Chevy Malibu has had several engine issues that can be a safety hazard on the road. While some of these issues can be caused by common mechanical problems, others are the result of specific defects that have led to a class action lawsuit. Chevy Malibu owners should be aware of these issues and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety while driving.
Legal Actions and Manufacturer Response
Class Action Lawsuit Details
In 2019, a class-action lawsuit was filed against General Motors (GM) regarding the alleged “engine power reduced” issue in Chevy Malibu models. The lawsuit claimed that the pedal position sensor defect in affected Chevy Malibus caused them to go into Engine Power Reduced (EPR) mode, which led to a sudden loss of power while driving. The plaintiff, Mark Rothschild, had purchased a 2017 Chevy Malibu in September 2017, and he claimed that the vehicle’s EPR mode engaged while he was driving on the highway, causing him to lose power and speed.
The lawsuit alleged that GM knew about the defect but failed to disclose it to customers or issue a recall. The lawsuit sought to represent all Chevy Malibu owners and lessees who had experienced the EPR issue.
General Motors’ Recalls and Bulletins
In response to the lawsuit and customer complaints, GM issued a recall for certain Chevy Malibu models in 2019. The recall affected approximately 177,000 vehicles and involved updating the software of affected vehicles to prevent the EPR mode from engaging unnecessarily. While some vehicle owners claimed that the software update did not fix the issue, GM denied any wrongdoing and settled the resulting class-action lawsuit.
In addition to the recall, GM also issued a service bulletin to dealerships regarding the EPR issue in Chevy Malibu models. The bulletin provided instructions for diagnosing and repairing the defect and advised dealers to replace the pedal position sensor if necessary.
Overall, GM’s response to the alleged engine power reduced issue with Chevy Malibu models was to issue a recall and update the software of affected vehicles. While some vehicle owners claimed that the software update did not fix the issue, GM denied any wrongdoing and settled the resulting class-action lawsuit.
Diagnostic and Repair Solutions
Troubleshooting Steps
If you own a Chevy Malibu and have noticed the “Engine Power Reduced” warning message, there are a few steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix the issue. Here are some troubleshooting steps to follow:
- Check for Diagnostic Codes: The first step is to check for any diagnostic codes that may have been set. You can do this by using an OBD-II scanner or taking your car to a professional mechanic. The codes will give you an idea of what may be causing the issue.
- Check the Throttle Body: The throttle body is responsible for regulating the amount of air that enters the engine. If it becomes dirty or clogged, it can cause the engine to lose power. Cleaning or replacing the throttle body may help fix the issue.
- Check the Pedal Position Sensor: The pedal position sensor is responsible for telling the engine how much gas to give. If it becomes faulty, it can cause the engine to go into “Engine Power Reduced” mode. Replacing the sensor may help fix the issue.
- Check for Electrical Problems: Electrical problems, such as faulty wiring, can also cause the “Engine Power Reduced” warning message. Checking the car’s electrical system may help diagnose and fix the issue.
Professional Mechanic’s Role
If you are unable to diagnose or fix the issue on your own, it is recommended to take your car to a professional mechanic. They can use their expertise and specialized equipment to diagnose and fix the issue. Additionally, they may be able to access any relevant service bulletins or recalls that may be related to the “Engine Power Reduced” issue. Regular maintenance and servicing of your car can also help prevent the issue from occurring in the first place.
Maintaining Your Chevy Malibu
Owning a Chevy Malibu comes with the responsibility of keeping it in good condition to ensure longevity and reliability. Regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent issues such as reduced engine power, which has been a common problem among some Malibu models. Here are some routine maintenance tips and warranty information to keep your Malibu running smoothly.
Routine Maintenance Tips
Regular oil changes are essential for the proper functioning of your Malibu’s engine. It is recommended to change the oil every 5,000 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. The air filter should also be checked and replaced every 30,000 miles to ensure proper airflow to the engine. Dirty air filters can cause reduced throttle response and decreased fuel economy.
Spark plugs should be replaced every 100,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Faulty spark plugs can lead to misfires and reduced engine power. The throttle body should also be cleaned periodically to prevent dirt and debris buildup, which can cause reduced engine power and poor fuel economy.
Warranty and Service Information
Chevy Malibus come with a bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers most repairs for the first three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain warranty covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first.
If you experience reduced engine power or any other issues with your Malibu, it is important to take it to a certified Chevy service center for diagnosis and repair. Attempting to fix the issue yourself or taking it to an uncertified mechanic can void your warranty and potentially cause further damage to your vehicle.
In conclusion, regular maintenance and servicing can help prevent issues such as reduced engine power in your Chevy Malibu. By following these routine maintenance tips and taking advantage of your warranty and service information, you can keep your Malibu running smoothly for years to come.
Vehicle Identification and Documentation
When facing an issue with their Chevy Malibu’s engine power reduction, it’s important for vehicle owners to have the necessary documentation and identification information on hand. This includes the vehicle identification number (VIN), which can be found on the driver’s side dashboard or door jamb, and is a unique identifier for each vehicle.
In addition to the VIN, it’s important to have documentation related to the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) and powertrain control module (PCM). These are the components responsible for controlling the vehicle’s engine and transmission, respectively, and can be a source of issues if they malfunction.
One potential cause of engine power reduction in Chevy Malibus is a faulty accelerator pedal position sensor. This sensor is responsible for communicating with the ECM and informing it of how much the accelerator pedal is being depressed. If the sensor is faulty or malfunctioning, it can cause the ECM to reduce engine power as a safety measure.
It’s also important to note that there have been reports of issues with other sensors, such as the mass airflow sensor and throttle position sensor, which can also cause engine power reduction. Vehicle owners should be aware of these potential issues and have their vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic if they suspect a sensor issue may be the cause of their engine power reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the “Engine Power Reduced” warning in Chevy Malibus?
The “Engine Power Reduced” warning in Chevy Malibus is usually caused by a defect in the accelerator pedal position sensor. This sensor is responsible for detecting the position of the accelerator pedal and sending signals to the engine control module to adjust the engine power accordingly. When the sensor fails or malfunctions, it can send incorrect signals to the engine control module, leading to a sudden reduction in engine power.
How can I fix the “Engine Power Reduced” issue on my Chevy Malibu?
If you are experiencing the “Engine Power Reduced” issue on your Chevy Malibu, you should take your car to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair. The exact fix for the problem will depend on the root cause of the issue, which may include replacing the accelerator pedal position sensor, updating the engine control module software, or replacing other related components.
What models of Chevy Malibu are affected by the “Engine Power Reduced” problem?
The “Engine Power Reduced” problem has been reported in various models of Chevy Malibu, including 2016-2018 models. The problem has been so widespread that a class action lawsuit has been filed against General Motors (GM) on behalf of affected vehicle owners.
What are the potential consequences of the “Engine Power Reduced” issue in Chevy Malibus?
The “Engine Power Reduced” issue in Chevy Malibus can lead to dangerous situations on the road, as drivers may not be able to accelerate or pass other vehicles as needed. This can increase the risk of accidents and injuries to both the driver and other road users.
How does the class action lawsuit affect Chevy Malibu owners experiencing reduced engine power?
The class action lawsuit filed against GM on behalf of Chevy Malibu owners experiencing reduced engine power seeks to hold the automaker accountable for the defect and to provide compensation to affected vehicle owners. If you are a Chevy Malibu owner experiencing reduced engine power, you may be eligible to join the lawsuit and receive compensation for any damages or losses incurred as a result of the defect.
What should Chevy Malibu owners do if they encounter the “Engine Power Reduced” message?
If you encounter the “Engine Power Reduced” message while driving your Chevy Malibu, you should immediately pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Wait for a few minutes and then restart the engine to see if the warning message disappears. If the message persists, you should take your car to a certified mechanic or dealership for diagnosis and repair.
