2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic, but owners have filed 16 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls
0
Complaints
16
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Electrical System12
Power Train1
Steering1
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)1
Engine1
Unknown or Other1
Vehicle Speed Control1

Most reported parts

  • Electrical System › Ignition › Switch — 2
  • Electrical System › Ignition › Anti-Theft › Control Module — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 130,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Unknown or Other · at 170,000 miles · reported Jan 18, 2018
I have been having problems with the anti-theft system. My car continues to not start until I complete a 10 minute procedure each time. This is very annoying and have left me stranded many times. I believe that this is a recall that needs to be corrected immediately. There have been numerous complaints on this problem and nothing has been done.
Electrical System · at 136,000 miles · reported Nov 21, 2017
The contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that the vehicle did not start and the anti-theft warning indicator illuminated for approximately two minutes. All of the indicators illuminated because the key was in the on position, but the engine did not start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer (Art moehn chevrolet in jackson, michigan) and had the ignition switch replaced in august of 2017. The vehicle was not repaired this time. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 136,000.
Electrical System · at 143,000 miles · reported Aug 4, 2017
The drivers side brake light doesn't work.I have tried changing the bulb several times, but it will not work.a few yrs back I saw a recall on this but I didn't take advantage of it and now I cannot find it anymore I would like info on what I should do now as I got a warning ticket !! Thanks
Electrical System · at 130,000 miles · reported Jul 28, 2017
The contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. While the vehicle was stationary, the pad lock sensor became activated and the vehicle would not start. The contact stated that the anti-theft indicator illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact was able to restart the vehicle after approximately 15 minutes. The contact stated that the failure occurred on numerous occasions. The vehicle was towed on one occasion. The wins chevrolet dealer in carson, california was made aware of the failure and stated that the contact would have to purchase a new ignition system. The manufacturer was not…
Electrical System · at 144,000 miles · reported May 10, 2016
The contact owns a 2003 chevrolet malibu classic. The contact stated that while driving at 35 MPH, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was included in NHTSA campaign number: 14v400000 (Electrical system). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 144,000.

Other Chevrolet Malibu Classic years

Compare all Chevrolet Malibu Classic years · All Chevrolet models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (12 reports), followed by power train (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 130,000 miles.

Are Chevrolet recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Chevrolet dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.