Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Common problems: The 2021 Chevy Malibu can have issues involving the electrical system, engine, powertrain, and seat/seatbelt components.
Owners have experienced recurring problems that impact the vehicle’s performance, reliability, and safety.
Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued recalls addressing defects in the Malibu’s seat and seat belt systems.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at the most common problems reported by 2021 Chevy Malibu owners and provide insights into the challenges they have faced.
Common 2021 Chevy Malibu Problems
- Electrical System: Shift to Park Messages; Battery Drain; Issues with Gear Shift Recognition; Apple Play Connectivity Issues
- Engine: Reduced Engine Power; Excessive Vibration; Engine Noise; Turbocharger Issues
- Powertrain: Car Does not Recognize Correct Gear Shift Position; Jerking; Hesitation; Stretched Drive Chain; Issues with Shift to Park
- Seat/Seatbelt: Rear Seat Belt Retractor Issues; Seat Frame Issues
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2021 Chevy Malibu Electrical System Problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has had several reported issues with its electrical system. One of the most commonly reported problems is the “Shift to Park” issue.
Many owners have noted that the vehicle displays a “shift to park” warning even when the car is already in park.
This issue can prevent the vehicle from shutting off properly, causing the ignition to remain in accessory mode and potentially draining the battery.
Another issue is gear shift recognition. Some drivers have experienced problems where the car fails to recognize the correct gear position.
This malfunction can prevent the vehicle from moving forward or in reverse, making it difficult to drive the car in certain situations.
The electrical system may also cause battery drain. As a result of the shift to park and gear shift recognition issues, the battery may drain unexpectedly, leaving the vehicle unable to start or causing it to stall.
2021 Chevy Malibu Engine Problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has also faced some engine-related problems that owners should be aware of. One of the most common issues is a reduction in engine power.
Some owners have experienced a noticeable decrease in engine power, often accompanied by a warning light on the dashboard.
This issue can lead to sluggish acceleration and may pose safety concerns, especially on highways or in traffic.
Another reported problem is excessive vibration and noise. Drivers have complained of unusual vibrations and sounds coming from the engine, which can be distracting and uncomfortable, especially during long drives.
Turbocharger issues are also a concern, particularly with the 1.5L turbo engine. In cold weather, the turbocharger can freeze, causing the engine to go into limp mode.
This affects the car’s performance and may require repairs to the turbocharger system to restore normal function.
2021 Chevy Malibu Powertrain Problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has also been affected by several powertrain-related problems. One of the most common issues is gear shift recognition.
Similar to the electrical system issue, some owners have reported that the car does not recognize the correct gear position.
This issue can prevent the vehicle from moving forward or in reverse, causing frustration and potential safety concerns.
Another reported issue is transmission problems. Many drivers have complained of jerking or hesitation while driving.
In some cases, a stretched drive chain has been identified as the cause, resulting in weak drive performance and the presence of metal debris in the transmission.
These transmission issues can lead to poor acceleration, shifting problems, and, in some cases, require costly repairs.
Lastly, the “shift to park” problem is present in the powertrain as well. Similar to the electrical issue, the “shift to park” warning can appear even when the vehicle is in park.
This prevents the ignition from fully turning off and may leave the car in accessory mode, draining the battery over time.
2021 Chevy Malibu Seat/Seatbelt Problems
The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu has had reported issues with its seats and seatbelts. One of the key problems is with the rear seat belt retractors, which may fail to function correctly during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
This issue led to a recall under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V-649. General Motors issued a recall for certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
The recall addresses the issue of improperly secured rear seat belt retractors, which could fail during a crash, increasing the risk of injury. Dealers will inspect and secure the rear seat belt retractors at no charge to the owner.
Another concern is the seat frame, which may not have been welded properly. This can affect the ability of the seat to restrain the driver adequately in a crash.
This problem was part of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V-359, which involved certain 2021 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles.
The issue specifically involves an improperly welded seat frame in the driver’s seat cushion, particularly in the power tilt-adjustment mechanism.
As a result, the seat may not adequately restrain the driver in the event of an accident. GM has instructed dealers to inspect and replace the seat cushion frame if necessary, free of charge.
If you’re experiencing issues with your seats or seatbelts, you should check if your vehicle is affected by these recalls and have it inspected by a professional mechanic.
What Chevy Malibu Owners Say…
“When trying to park shift disappears . Parking feature unavailable. Have to try several times to or wait until parking shift appears. System glitch trying to park. Afraid car will run off by itself and hit other cars and crash. Family of four very concerned for our safety. It has been a known issue on several Chevrolet Malibu since 2015 This should have been on a recall since 2015. Why haven’t there been any recalls on this vehicle for this problem. This problem needs to get resolved and if we have to pay out of pocket money reimbursed for everyone.”
“The computer was not recognizing my car being in the correct gear shift. It did this for a few days until finally, I couldn’t drive it. The car would not recognize any part of the gear being in the correct position. The car would not move forward or reverse, resulting in a tow. The mechanic at Reed Lallier Chevrolet in Fayetteville NC was even able to guess my car make and model from the symptoms I reported (which was later discovered, in my case, the gear shift link had loosened), and confirmed that if this happened while in motion, it would have been very dangerous. He also said they had 3 other cars that SAME DAY that had different causes but the same exact faulty gear recognition, with all of them being recent-year Malibu Chevrolet models AND the following day when I was doing my follow-up call concerning my car, 2 more were brought in with the faulty gear recognition issue.”
“In late May 2022, my car would not accelerate beyond 60mph and it began making a very strange noise. My auto start simply stopped working. My mechanic identified the issues (codes P0700 and 0730) and refuse to work on my car. Long story short, I need a new transmission which was covered by extended warranties but I had to come out of pocket $713 despite having an extended warranty. Transmission was replaced on 06/28/22. July 15, 2023, car lost all power while in car with my child and again would not accelerate above 60mph. Again 0700 and 0730P codes=transmission needed. Transmission replaced again on 09/22/23. DO NOT BUY THIS CAR!!!!!!!”
What You Need to Know About the Lemon Law
If you’re experiencing repeat warranty repairs with your 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, you may qualify for assistance under your state’s Lemon Law.
This law is designed to protect consumers who purchase or lease vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards while still under warranty.
If your 2021 Malibu has recurring defects that impact its safety, performance, or value, you could be entitled to legal remedies.
Lemon Law protections vary by state, but in general, you may be eligible for a replacement vehicle, a refund, or monetary compensation.
If you choose a refund, the manufacturer may deduct an amount based on the time the vehicle was free of defects.
If you opt for a replacement vehicle, you may be responsible for covering the price difference if the new vehicle costs more than your original purchase and an applicable usage fee.
In many cases, if your Lemon Law claim is successful, the manufacturer is required to cover your legal fees and related expenses.
This ensures that you can pursue a resolution for your 2021 Chevy Blazer’s problems without incurring substantial legal costs.
Let the Lemon Law Experts Fight for You!
If you’re dealing with unresolved issues with your 2021 Chevy Blazer, our team of Lemon Law Experts is here to help.
Since 2009, we’ve assisted countless clients in securing favorable outcomes for vehicle defects, with a particular focus on Lemon Law and warranty disputes.
We understand that every situation is unique, and our legal team works with you to develop the best strategy for achieving the resolution or compensation you deserve.
Think your 2021 Chevy Malibu could be classified as a lemon? Don’t wait—reach out to the Lemon Law Experts today.
Call us at (877) 885-5366 or fill out our online form for a free, no-obligation consultation.
