Common questions

What causes a Chevy Malibu to not start?

What causes a Chevy Malibu to not start?

Misadjusted or damaged transmission shift cable. Park Neutral (PN) switch installation or internal failure. Loose or broken battery ground cable to ground stud (mostly on the 3.5L engine on the ground stud on the trans) Loose or damaged cable at the B+ post at the starter.

Why does my fuel pump not start when I change it?

You always want to replace the fuel filter when replacing the fuel pump. This could cause the concern you are having. It may seem as you are getting enough fuel from the pressure regulator but if the pressure from the fuel tank is not correct, it will still not start. Another problem you could be having is spark.

Why does my Chevy Spark Plug not start?

Chevrolets have a common issue with fuel filters getting clogged. You always want to replace the fuel filter when replacing the fuel pump. This could cause the concern you are having. It may seem as you are getting enough fuel from the pressure regulator but if the pressure from the fuel tank is not correct, it will still not start.

What causes a car to not start with no gas?

Problem may be at wiring connector on top of fuel tank (hard to reach!). No gas in fuel tank (Check the fuel gauge, and keep in mind the gauge may not be reading accurately). Bad gas (Contaminated with water or too much alcohol or diesel fuel). If you just filled up with gas and now your car won’t start, suspect bad gas.

What to do if your Chevy Malibu won’t start?

Because the battery may have a defect with these measured values ​​and must be replaced. If dead battery is the reason for the breakdown of your Malibu, you can easily jump start it using jumper cables and a healthy battery from another vehicle, or using a battery booster if available.

What’s the problem with the Malibu fuel pump?

The wire (using a VOM) runs directly to 37a on the fuel pump relay. Call and thank GM for saving a few bucks on wire and costing all of us hundreds! My theory: as the fuel pump gets older, it draws more power (amperage) and heats up and eventually overloads the circuit; but not bad enough to pop the 15 amp fuse!

What to do if your fuel pump won’t turn over?

Replaced fuel pump turns over like new but won’t start fu… Replaced fuel pump new engine but still won’t turn over what else could it be My car has 157000 miles. My car has an automatic transmission. Of course, confirm that the engine immobilizer system (security system) is not activated thus preventing the car from starting.

What’s the problem with my 2012 Chevy Malibu?

Discovered that a slight tap on the fuse box the car would start fine. A few weeks ago, the pick back up after a couple of seconds. Last week, nearly 30 minutes to get it started. Any dealer replace the ECM? I think you have wires grounding out that shouldn’t above the fuel tank , did you do the fuel pump or did the mechanic ?

In this article we go through most common causes of Malibu’s breakdown and how you can fix the problem.

What are the symptoms of a slow cranking starter?

In a cranking system, you can divide your symptoms into one of three possible troubleshooting categories: Slow Crank: The starter will crank, however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank.

What does it mean when your car starter doesn’t crank?

Slow Crank: The starter will crank, however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank.

What’s the problem with starting a car slow?

Same problem right off the bat, slow cranking, but it did start at least. Let it run for a little bit and checked battery voltage with the car running and it was 13.8 volts, then 12.4 with the engine off. Restarted a number of times and it just cranks very slowly, but did start 5 or 6 times while I was poking around.

In a cranking system, you can divide your symptoms into one of three possible troubleshooting categories: Slow Crank: The starter will crank, however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank.

Slow Crank: The starter will crank, however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank.

What’s the difference between slow crank and crank no crank?

Slow Crank: The starter will crank, however, the engine RPM is slow to start the vehicle. Click No-Crank: The solenoid clicks but the starter doesn’t crank. No-Click No-Crank: The solenoid doesn’t click and the starter doesn’t crank. Once you’ve identified which problem you’re dealing with,…

What does no click no crank mean on a car?

No-Click No-Crank: When this occurs, power is not being sent to the solenoid, making it very unlikely that the issue is related to the starter motor. If all systems have been checked, and the starter is found to be the cause, the ring gear also should be inspected for damage that could cause future starter damage.

Is there a problem with my malibu relay?

This is a very common issue with the Malibu’s and it can get quiet costly. This 2010 Malibu can be a nightmare since there are many possibilities to a no start condition. I had to do it the hard way yet to discover that a faulty and poorly designed relay could also be one of those possibilities. The issue with the relay is it has a mind of its own.

Why does my GM car say no start no crank?

How to diagnose a no start no click on GM vehicle. If you have a late model GM vehicle and turn the key only to hear nothing, you’ll most likely think you have a dead battery—and you may. But a no start, no crank, no click condition can be far more involved than that.

What’s the warranty on a 2010 Chevy Malibu?

@Ken, on page 8-8 of the 2010 Chevrolet Malibu owner’s manual it reads that the Roadside Assistance program is provided for up to 5 years or 100,000 miles whichever happens first. I recommend contacting them and having the vehicle towed. This might be something covered under the Powertrain warranty.

What kind of engine does a 2005 Malibu have?

2005 Malibu (Classic, fleet version) with 2.2 L Ecotec four-cylinder engine fails to start. It turns over, and scattered weak pops indicate that there’s rudimentary combustion going on, but it does not catch.

How to diagnose a no start no click on GM vehicle. If you have a late model GM vehicle and turn the key only to hear nothing, you’ll most likely think you have a dead battery—and you may. But a no start, no crank, no click condition can be far more involved than that.

What should I do if my crank sensor is not working?

Check the compression, also if you have a lab scope check the waveform on the crank sensor, if not you could try a crank sensor. It takes about an hour and requires removal of the starter to gain access. The issue could be the timing chain. It is still intact, but slacking (possibly plastic guide or tensioners broke).

The passlock sensor in the ignition lock cylinder may fail causing an anti-theft system fault and a no start condition. Our technicians tell us that the ignition lock cylinder should be replace to correct this condition.

How to reset procedure for 2006 Chevy Malibu antitheft?

Allow the ignition to remain in the “ON” position for 30 seconds. Start the engine and verify that the security light is not illuminated. The antitheft system is now reset.

How does the antitheft system work on a Malibu?

The antitheft system on a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is activated whenever the doors are locked using the keyless entry remote. This system is designed to prevent the vehicle from being operated by an unauthorized user. The antitheft system uses the horn and lights to draw attention to the vehicle to discourage would-be thieves.

When did I Buy my 2001 Chevy Malibu?

I bought my 2001 Malibu in January of 2015. The theft system light was on when I bought it and the gentleman selling it told me that he replaced the ignition when the light first came on because he was told that would fix the problem but it didn’t.

In this article we go through most common causes of Malibu’s breakdown and how you can fix the problem.

How often does Chevy Malibu have transmission problems?

On average, transmission failure occurred at 97,400 miles, and the transmission had to be entirely replaced or rebuilt at a cost of approximately $3,250. Per Repair Pal, the Malibu’s transmission problems continued through 2011, after which they decreased, but new problems arose with electrical, engine, wheel, and ignition systems.

When did the Chevy Malibu first come out?

The Chevy Malibu has been reimagined numerous times since it was first introduced in 1964. Although it has been billed as a largely reliable midsize sedan for decades, the Malibu has had its share of growing pains in every generation, including the latest 2016 redesign.

Why is the fuel filter on my Chevy Malibu not working?

The fuel filter of your Malibu does not wear out like a mechanical part, but it gets clogged by dirt and airborne particles and clogs over time. The permeability of the filter drops, and so does the fuel pressure.

Tried switching around relays to see if there’s a bad one. Unless they’re all bad, not a problem here. Also, turning the key to start does not cause any relay to click. Setting the security system off causes the headlights relay to click repeatedly. (Probably irrelevant here). Removed and visually inspected every fuse, in all 3 fuse boxes.

Is the starter circuit good on a Chevy Malibu?

Checked the starter circuit as described by Ben’s answer. Good power and ground to the correct relays. All fuses are good. Checked wiring to ecm. Ground on X3 73 is good. Confirmed B+ power to terminal 20 red-white on X1.

Is there a crank on my Chevy Malibu?

All the guages on the dash and all go off, but there’s no crank, no sound, nothing. When I turn back from start to on, all the guages, radio, etc power back on. All the electronics turn on and get good power in the on position lights, radio, windows, etc. It’s when I turn to start, I get nothing.

What does no start no crank no click mean?

If you have a late model GM vehicle and turn the key only to hear nothing, you’ll most likely think you have a dead battery—and you may. But a no start, no crank, no click condition can be far more involved than that. In the old days, power flowed through the ignition switch and down to the starter solenoid. Not anymore.

Tried switching around relays to see if there’s a bad one. Unless they’re all bad, not a problem here. Also, turning the key to start does not cause any relay to click. Setting the security system off causes the headlights relay to click repeatedly. (Probably irrelevant here). Removed and visually inspected every fuse, in all 3 fuse boxes.

All the guages on the dash and all go off, but there’s no crank, no sound, nothing. When I turn back from start to on, all the guages, radio, etc power back on. All the electronics turn on and get good power in the on position lights, radio, windows, etc. It’s when I turn to start, I get nothing.

Checked the starter circuit as described by Ben’s answer. Good power and ground to the correct relays. All fuses are good. Checked wiring to ecm. Ground on X3 73 is good. Confirmed B+ power to terminal 20 red-white on X1.

On average, transmission failure occurred at 97,400 miles, and the transmission had to be entirely replaced or rebuilt at a cost of approximately $3,250. Per Repair Pal, the Malibu’s transmission problems continued through 2011, after which they decreased, but new problems arose with electrical, engine, wheel, and ignition systems.

What kind of car is the Chevy Malibu?

According to reviews by Car and Driver and US News, even without these problems, the 2020 Malibu leaves much to be desired, with lackluster performance and cheap-feeling interior features. If you’re looking for a midsized sedan, they suggest a better performing Honda Accord or Ford Fusion, for a reliable vehicle.

The fuel filter of your Malibu does not wear out like a mechanical part, but it gets clogged by dirt and airborne particles and clogs over time. The permeability of the filter drops, and so does the fuel pressure.

What are the problems with the Chevy Malibu?

One of the most common problems with the Chevy Malibu is when it throws the P0700 trouble code. A trouble code is a code thrown out by the vehicles computer whenever it detects that there is a real problem that needs your/a mechanics attention. P0700: Transmission Control System Malfunction.

Is a Chevy Malibu a good car?

The Chevy Malibu is a good car, but it’s not a great one . Its ride is comfortable, handling is well-balanced, and fuel economy estimates are impressive. An affordable starting price also boosts its attractiveness. However, this sedan’s drab and dated cabin design, as well as the lack of back and thigh support from its seats, hamper its appeal.

Are Chevy Malibu’s reliable cars?

The Chevrolet Malibu Reliability Rating is 4.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 24 for midsize cars. The average annual repair cost is $532 which means it has lower than average ownership costs. Repairs are less severe and less frequent than the average car, so the Malibu is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road.

Is Chevy Malibu considered full size or standar?

Chevy Malibu is not a full sized car it should officially be described as an intermediate or mid-size. The following is the description of the Chevy Malibu given by Wikipedia: The Chevrolet Malibu (named after Malibu, California) is a mid-size car produced in the United States by General Motors. It is marketed in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil and the Middle East.

Can a bad ECM cause a car to not start?

Of course, there are other reasons a car may not start, including a bad starter or a blown alternator. If you’ve replaced these parts and your car won’t start, your ECM is the most likely cause. Once again, you’ll need to take your car to a mechanic to be sure.

Can a Chevy Malibu stall at any time?

Stalls can happen at any time, and it can be incredibly jarring when it does happen. Before troubleshooting any automotive issue, including stalling issues with the Malibu, make sure that you check the vehicles trouble codes with an OBD2 scanner.

The Chevy Malibu has been reimagined numerous times since it was first introduced in 1964. Although it has been billed as a largely reliable midsize sedan for decades, the Malibu has had its share of growing pains in every generation, including the latest 2016 redesign.

What are common reasons my Chevrolet Malibu won’t start?

What are common reasons my Chevrolet Malibu won’t start? While there are a variety of reasons your Chevrolet Malibu won’t start, the most common 3 are a dead battery, an alternator problem, or failed starter. How is a no-start diagnosis fixed?

What are the most common Chevy Malibu problems?

The most common appears to be with the electric power steering system. More than 800 reports make this the largest issue affecting the Malibu, according to Repair Pal. The failure can only be repaired by a full replacement of the steering column and is common in Malibu years 2004-2015. Repair costs are relatively low, ranging from $88 to $111.

What causes a Chevy Malibu to lose its Stabilitrak system?

Chevy Malibu: Service StabiliTrak Causes. There are many things that can cause the StabiliTrak system to lose its ability to function. It is a complex system. Wheel Speed Sensor – If one of the wheel speed sensors is out, your Malibu will no longer be able to tell if all of the wheels are turning at the same speed.

Why does my GM 3.1L engine not start?

If fuel pressure is NOT at specification, then the PASS-Key/Passlock system is not the cause of the no start condition. Confirm that there’s spark in all 6 spark plug wires because the anti-theft system will not disable the ignition system. If spark is present at all 6 cylinders, the next step is to see if the engine starts with starter fluid.

How to troubleshoot a GM 3.1L no start?

Testing The Ignition Module And Crank Sensor (GM 3.1L, 3.4L) (at: easyautodiagnostics.com ). It’s extremely rare to have all 3 ignition coils bad or all 6 spark plug wires bad but if you’re interested in testing them, the following tutorial will help: How To Test The Ignition Coil Packs (GM 3.1L, 3.4L) (at: easyautodiagnostics.com ).

What to do if your Mini van won’t start?

Testing the ignition system, to see if it’s the cause of the no start condition on your car or mini-van simply involves checking that all of the six cylinders are getting spark. This is accomplish by connecting a spark tester to the spark plug wire and then having a helper crank the engine while you see if the spark tester sparks or not.

Can a bad fuel pump cause a no start?

The basic fuel pump test (with a fuel pressure gauge) is like this: If the fuel pressure test gauge indicates at least 35 PSI, then you can conclude that the no start condition is not due to a bad fuel pump. The fuel pump relay is OK. The fuel pump fuse is OK.

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Ruth Doyle