Print this page

8.0

pretty bad
Typical Repair Cost:
No data
Average Mileage:
104,500 miles
Total Complaints:
4 complaints

Most Common Solutions:

  1. not sure (4 reports)
2003 Chevrolet Malibu engine problems

engine problem

Find something helpful? Spread the word.
Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 2003 Chevrolet Malibu:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

2003 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Comments

problem #4

Sep 282010

Malibu

  • Automatic transmission
  • 70,000 miles

A D V E R T I S E M E N T S

My car will not start!! And it is not permanently fixable. The theft device light will come on. When I turn my key, the car acts like it is going to start, but won't fully turn over. Apparently it is an issue with the ignition switch, and is a common problem, but for some reason there has been no recall. It's happened 3 times in the past year. The first time I had EVERYTHING checked- the fuel pump, fuel lines, battery connection, tried starter fluid, etc. Finally after many,many phone calls I get an answer.

THE FIX: turn the key to the 'on position', leave it like this for 11 minutes- (yes, it sounds strange) then turn the key to off, and start the car as usual. It will fire right up. I've also been told that I could get the ignition switch replaced for $800, but odds are it will happen again even after this.

- theak, Mill Hall, PA, US

problem #3

Dec 102009

Malibu LS V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 145,000 miles

I have had this car for about 2yrs didnt have a problem then all of a sudden my fuel system crashed! I got a new fuel pump and all that good sh*t and it ran fine for about a month now it cranks up like its gonna start, u can hear the fuel pump kick on and all that good stuff. I dont have a catalytic converter... couldnt afford one so a buddy of mine put a long pipe on it and that left mt check engine light on. But that was a year ago. Some one told me to check my spark plugs others have said use ether on the the intake valve or whatever that things called. I dunno im at my wits end with this pos please if u have had this problem HELP ME!!!!

- Jessica B., Harrison, Arkanasas, US

problem #2

Jun 182009

Malibu V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 106,000 miles

My car will almost start then doesn't. We let the car sit a couple hours then it will start. Happens only once in a while.

- Lori D., Simi Valley, CA, US

problem #1

Apr 202008

Malibu 3.1L V6

  • Automatic transmission
  • 97,000 miles

Put key in ignition, turn to run, get several normal dash lights and fuel pump can be heard humming. Turn key to crank, engine cranks normally, will usually give a sputter like it's gonna start but only one sputter per crank. Adding throttle makes no difference. It's like two spark plugs fire and then just cranks like out of gas. Stick pen into fuel rail, get gasoline without air. Don't know if have spark. Don't know if what fuel pressure is. No tools at the moment. Car drove to where it sits yesterday, then wouldn't start today...

- Seth W., Bonney Lake, WA, US

Not what you are looking for?