2016 Chevrolet Malibu Transmission Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are transmission problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu?
166 owners have reported transmission problems on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, 20% of all complaints for this year and the 3rd most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 26,000–57,000 miles. 1 recall covers this area.
166 complaints 20% of all 2016 complaints 43,000 miles typical
Which parts fail
The specific part named in each complaint.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (106 of 166). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Transmission complaints by the year the problem happened.
Transmission complaints by Malibu year
Related recalls
Control module (TCM / PCM / TECM), Ignition
Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention." If the key is removed without the transmission in PARK, the vehicle may rollaway as occupants are exiting, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and if necessary replace the key cylinder lock housing, free of charge.
Recall 16V502000 · Jul 2016Get an email when your 2016 Chevrolet Malibu gets a new recall
We check NHTSA every month. If a new recall or safety investigation covers the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu, you'll hear about it the same week.
One email per new recall. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Other 2016 Chevrolet Malibu problems
Common questions
What are common 2016 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems?
Complaints most often name the floor shift.
At what mileage do 2016 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 26,000–57,000 miles. The middle value is about 43,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2016 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems?
Yes: 16V502000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which Malibu year has the most transmission complaints?
The 2018 Malibu, with 171 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.