2018 Chevrolet Malibu Transmission Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are transmission problems on the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu?
171 owners have reported transmission problems on the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 24% of all complaints for this year and the 3rd most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 27,000–60,000 miles. 1 recall covers this area.
171 complaints 24% of all 2018 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 (77 of 171). 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
Automatic transmission
Fire riskThe start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts. Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Fix: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge.
Recall 20V668000 · Oct 2020Get an email when your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu gets a new recall
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Other 2018 Chevrolet Malibu problems
Common questions
What are common 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems?
Complaints most often name the floor shift, gear position indication (PRNDL) and control module (TCM / PCM / TECM).
At what mileage do 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 27,000–60,000 miles. The middle value is about 43,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission problems?
Yes: 20V668000. 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.