2006 Chevrolet Malibu

Above average

Owners filed 1,118 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 9 times.

Not among the Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid. Which Chevrolet Malibu years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
85,000 milesMedian miles at failure

908 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 120,000–150,000 miles.

Most common 2006 Chevrolet Malibu problems

734 of the 1,118 complaints (66%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering713
1718
Electrical System72
220
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system37
202
Service Brakes · brakes33
201
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system27
200
Power Train · transmission24
000
Engine24
000
Air Bags · airbags22
8011
Exterior Lighting · headlights19
000
Unknown or Other17
110

2006 Chevrolet Malibu steering problems

66% of all complaints

734 of the 1,118 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks26% · 191
  • sets off warning lights on the dash18% · 130
  • loses power12% · 85
  • vibrates or shakes7% · 54
  • knocks, grinds or clunks4% · 29
  • jerks, lurches or bucks3% · 23

Share of the 734 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
84,567 mi
median of 621 reports
Peak year of filing
2010
120 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
18 · 1 · 8
in these complaints
“The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while pulling out of a parking space, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was pushed back into the parking space. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 23, 2026 at 158,000 miles
“The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. There were three audible dings with the message "Power Steering" displayed on the instrument panel. The contact reset the steering wheel and the battery, but the failure persisted.”
Owner complaint, filed Feb 3, 2026

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2005: 0 complaints, 0 about the steering'052006: 8 complaints, 2 about the steering2007: 20 complaints, 8 about the steering'072008: 31 complaints, 20 about the steering2009: 67 complaints, 50 about the steering'092010: 144 complaints, 120 about the steering2011: 101 complaints, 82 about the steering'112012: 50 complaints, 30 about the steering2013: 69 complaints, 43 about the steering'132014: 197 complaints, 106 about the steering2015: 110 complaints, 53 about the steering'152016: 53 complaints, 31 about the steering2017: 51 complaints, 32 about the steering'172018: 60 complaints, 44 about the steering2019: 38 complaints, 23 about the steering'192020: 27 complaints, 17 about the steering2021: 19 complaints, 15 about the steering'212022: 22 complaints, 18 about the steering2023: 21 complaints, 17 about the steering'232024: 11 complaints, 9 about the steering2025: 12 complaints, 9 about the steering'252026: 7 complaints, 5 about the steeringRecall 05V486000 (equipment)Recall 06V417000 (airbags)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)Recall 11E009000 (fuel system)Recall 14V153000 (steering)Recall 14V224000 (transmission)Recall 15V064000 (steering)
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)

Complaints about the 2006 Malibu peaked in 2014, with 197 filed that year. Owners had filed 366 complaints about the steering before the first recall that covers it, 14V153000 in March 2014; 368 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 7 so far.

9 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Steering › Electric Power Assist System15V064000
Filed Feb 4, 201569,633 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured April 1, 2006, to June 30, 2006, and 2006-2007 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured April 18, 2006, to June 30, 2006. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.

Risk. If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly, free of charge. The recall began February 24, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14772. Note: This is an expansion of recall 14V-153 to cover additional vehicles built between April 1, 2006 and June 30, 2006.

Steering14E044000
Filed Jul 21, 20147,304 vehiclesDorman Products, Inc.

Defect. Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain replacement intermediate steering shafts sold under the Dorman, OE Solutions, and Solutions brand names, part numbers 425-167, 2425167, and 7-3074, for installation on 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6, and 2007-2009 Saturn Aura vehicles. The affected steering shafts may have a yoke that inadequately supports the u-joint bearing resulting in a premature failure.

Risk. A joint bearing that fails prematurely may cause separation of the u-joint resulting in a complete loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will refund the purchase price or replace the steering shafts, free of charge. The recall began in September 2014. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492.

Electronic Stability Control (esc)14V252000
Filed May 14, 20142,440,524 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2012 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured May 16, 2003, through October 11, 2012, 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, 2005-2010 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured May 26, 2004, through January 4, 2010, and 2007-2010 Saturn Aura vehicles manufactured April 24, 2006, through May 26, 2009. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the Body Control Module (BCM) connection may result in voltage fluctuations in the Brake Apply Sensor (BAS) circuit. These fluctuations can cause one or more of these conditions: the brake lights to illuminate without the brake pedal being pushed; the brake lights to not illuminate when the pedal is pushed; difficulty disengaging the cruise control; moving the gear shifter out of the 'PARK' position without pushing the brake; and disablement of crash avoidance features such as traction control, electronic stability control, and panic braking assist features.

Risk. Any of the above failure conditions increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will attach the wiring harness to the BCM with a spacer, apply dielectric lubricant to both the BCM and harness connector and the BAS and harness connector, and will relearn the brake pedal home position, free of charge. The manufacturer distributed an Interim letter to customers on July 14, 2014. The recall began on August 18, 2014. Owners may contact General Motors customer service at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac), 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn). GM's number for this recall is 13036.

Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Lever and Linkage › Floor Shift14V224000
Filed Apr 30, 20141,131,113 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on April 29, 2014, that they are recalling 56,214 model year 2007 and 2008 Saturn Aura vehicles. On May 22, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 1,074,899 model year 2004-2008 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured from May 16, 2003, through October 5, 2007, model year 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx vehicles manufactured from June 25, 2003, through April 5, 2007, and model year 2005-2008 Pontiac G6 vehicles manufactured from May 26, 2004, through September 28, 2007, and equipped with 4-speed transmissions. The total number vehicles being recalled is now 1,131,113.

Risk. If the transmission shift cable fractures while the vehicle is being driven, the transmission gear selection may not match the indicated gear and the vehicle may move in an unintended or unexpected direction, increasing the risk of a crash. Furthermore, when the driver goes to stop and park the vehicle, despite selecting the ‘PARK’ position, the transmission may not be in ‘PARK.’ If the vehicle is not in the "PARK" position there is a risk the vehicle will roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and GM dealers will replace the shift cable assembly and mounting bracket, free of charge. The manufacturer has not yet provided a notification schedule. Owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for this recall is 14152.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System14V153000
Filed Mar 31, 20141,373,177 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.

Risk. If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will perform one of four bulletins. Parts are not currently available. GM expects to send an interim notification around May 28, 2014. When parts are available, owners will be mailed a second letter to come in to have the applicable bulletin applied. Bulletin 14115 covers model year 2004-2007 Saturn Ion, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalts. Dealers will replace the EPS motor. Bulletin 14116 covers model year 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from March 1, 2008, through June 27, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly. Bulletin 14117 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from February 1, 2008, through February 28, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly and EPS motor controller unit. Bulletin 14118 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from October 1, 2007, through January 31, 2008. Dealers will replace the EPS motor controller unit. The recall began on July 17, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, Saturn at 1-800-553-6000, and Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668. GM's number for this recall is N140115. Note: GM bulletin number 14119 will be implemented for model year 2006-2008 and early production of 2009 Chevrolet HHR (non-turbo) and model year 2003 Saturn ION to provide EPS Motor replacement for the life of the vehicle.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump11E009000
Filed Feb 28, 20114,887 vehiclesTi Group Automotive Systems, LLC

Defect. TI AUTOMOTIVE IS RECALLING CERTAIN FUEL PUMPS, PART NUMBERS TU456 AND TU303, SOLD UNDER VARIOUS BRAND NAMES AS AFTERMARKET AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR THE MOTOR VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP MAY SEIZE, STOPPING THE FUEL FLOW TO THE ENGINE CREATING A STALLING CONDITION.

Risk. A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR SHOULD THE ENGINE STALL WHILE IN USE.

Remedy. TI AUTOMOTIVE WILL NOTIFY OWNERS OF RECORD AND WILL REPLACE ANY DEFECTIVE FUEL PUMP WITH A NEW OR REWORKED FUEL PUMP FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 22, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT TI AUTOMOTIVE AT 1-866-867-3759 OR LOG ON TO WWW.RECALLRESPONSE.COM.

Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Air Bags › Frontal06V417000
Filed Oct 31, 2006794 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. CERTAIN VEHICLES ORIGINALLY BUILT WITH CLOTH SEATS THAT WERE EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC AIR BAG PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM AND LATER REUPHOLSTERED WITH AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVER KITS ARE INVOLVED. TESTING HAS INDICATED THAT THE AFTERMARKET LEATHER SEAT COVERS CAN CAUSE THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM TO MALFUNCTION.

Risk. IF THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, THE FRONT AIR BAG ON THE PASSENGER SIDE MAY BE DISABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE ENABLED, OR ENABLED WHEN IT SHOULD BE DISABLED. IN EITHER CASE, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THAT REQUIRES AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, A FRONT PASSENGER'S LEVEL OF INJURY MAY BE INCREASED.

Remedy. BECAUSE A REPLACEMENT LEATHER SEAT COVER THAT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE PASSENGER SENSING SYSTEM IS NOT AVAILABLE, GENERAL MOTORS (GM) WILL REPURCHASE THESE VEHICLES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS STATED IN GM'S LETTER TO OWNERS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 6, 2006. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT GM AT 1-877-477-1022 TO BEGIN THE PROCESS OF REPURCHASING THEIR VEHICLE.

Equipment › Other › Labels05V486000
Filed Oct 19, 20052,351 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. CERTAIN VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THE TIRE LABEL TABLE SPECIFIED THE 15 INCH SPARE FOR THE FRONT DISC/REAR DRUM BRAKE SYSTEM AND IT SHOULD SPECIFY A 16 INCH SPARE TIRE SIZE.

Risk. A 15" DIAMETER REPLACEMENT SPARE TIRE CAN NOT BE INSTALLED ON THE FRONT AXLE DUE TO A FIT INTERFERENCE WITH THE BRAKE CALIPER.

Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE MAILED A CORRECTED LABEL WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS OR THE CUSTOMERS COULD HAVE THEIR DEALERS TO INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 29, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438.

All 9 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

762 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2006 Malibu. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 286electrical system 120engine 114transmission 41equipment adaptive/mobility 33visibility 25wheels 24tires 20
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

SB-10134-AWarranty extensionSep 1, 2013transmission

SATURN/PONTIAC/CHEVROLET: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. WARRANTY EXTENSION ON CATALYTIC CONVERTER. *PE UPDATED 2/06/12. *PE UPDATED 11/29/13. *PE

10134CWarranty extensionSep 1, 2013engine

Special Coverage Adjustment ? Catalytic Converter Warranty Extension

120232002BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 5, 2020steering

This technical bulletin provides a procedure to eliminate a power steering noise due to extremely low temperatures.

PI0671AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 17, 2017steering

This preliminary information bulletin provides information for diagnosing a power steering fluid leak at the fluid reservoir.

PIC3278GService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 20, 2017steering

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps needed to diagnose and repair the vehicles that may have unwanted or phantom phone calls. Technician will need to determine what type of call the customer is having that is unwanted. The vehicle may receive an incoming call just like any other phone. Typically the …

14116Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 1, 2014steering

Electric Power Steering Assist

SB-0000188787-AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 31, 2014steering

SUMMARY TO BE PROVIDED ON A FUTURE DATE.

SB-07-02-32-002NService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 1, 2013steering

BUICK/CADILLAC/CHEVROLET/GMC/PONTIAC/ SATURN: THERE IS FLUID LEAKING FROM POWER STEERING SYSTEM, ALONG A FLUID LEAK IN FRONT OF VEHICLE UNDERNEATH AND SHOULD BE INSPECTED, CLEANED AND IDENTIFIED BEFORE REPAIRING OR REPLACING. MODEL 2010-14 LACROSSE, 2011-14 REGAL, 2007-14 ESCALADE, SUBURBAN, TAHOE, YUKON, YUKON XL, YUKON DENALI, YUKON DENALI XL, 2013-14 …

Showing the newest 6 of 15 bulletins about the steering, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Steering
Filed Oct 26, 2026PA

I was driving at a busy time of the day and my steering wheel became almost impossible to turn, and it felt as though my whole car turned off but I gave it gas and went to nearest place I could pull over and noticed my radio was showing that steering fluid or something like that was on the digital part of my radio, so I googled what could the problem be and it said the steering is being recalled or something like that for steering problems, I am driving the car as little as possible because that was very scary especially driving through main street in my town, thank god i was only going 25 miles an hour or this could have really caused major problems. Please let me know what to do next [XXX] [XXX] thank you INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Air BagsCrash
Filed Oct 18, 2026TX

I got the car on June 12th on June 16th when I had a severe car vacation not deploy and the seatbelt did not buckle when I bought the car they stated in the paperwork that the airbags have never been deployed and or never been deactivated and I had to find out the hard way 4 days later and due to the transmission shift gear cable when I was driving the car it went out of control and I had to work well that day

Steering
Filed Sep 30, 2026NE

When i drive the car power steering goes out totally and bings when it goes out.

Steering
Filed Mar 23, 2026158,000 milesMN

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while pulling out of a parking space, the vehicle lost power steering functionality, causing the steering wheel to become difficult to turn. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was pushed back into the parking space. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The contact stated that the steering gear was previously replaced due to a similar failure. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact that the VIN was not associated with the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 158,000.

Electrical System
Filed Feb 4, 2026TX

The power steering went out on the car as I was driving down the highway going 65 mph

Steering
Filed Feb 3, 2026NE

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering assist. There were three audible dings with the message "Power Steering" displayed on the instrument panel. The contact reset the steering wheel and the battery, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Jan 16, 2026125,000 milesUT

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel failed to turn in the intended direction. The power steering failure warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with STRG shaft torque failure. The contact was informed that the STRG shaft torque needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was advised to contact the dealer. The contact was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V153000 (Steering). The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was informed that the recall repair was performed in 2015. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 5, 2025MI

My power steering goes in and out as I'm driving depending on the speed. I have trouble swerving if needed because the power steering is not working correctly all the time.

Steering
Filed Nov 27, 2025TX

Power steering warning light appeared then steering wheel tightened while slowing down to make a turn into my apartment. This occured two times in 3 weeks.

Steering
Filed Jul 15, 2025118,000 milesWY

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, an alarm sounded, and the message "Power Steering Failure" was displayed. No warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the road to restart the vehicle however, the failure persisted. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. Another local dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V153000 (Steering); however, the contact stated that the vehicle was never repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

Steering
Filed Jun 18, 2025NY

I purchased this car about a month ago in April of 2025 as of today June 2025 I have lose my power steering it’s so hard to turn and I’ve called the dealership and they told me the car has already been fixed for the recall and it was odviously not because the problem is still present!

Steering
Filed May 28, 2025IL

My electric power steering has gonna out then came back and now its not working. There's been a recall for that on my so not sure if my car is available.

Steering
Filed May 16, 2025IL

MY ELECTRIC POWER STEERING HAS GONE OUT CAUSING WHEEL TO BE TIGHT AND HARD TO TURN.

Steering
Filed Apr 4, 2025OH

I recently acquired this 2006 Chevy Malibu that belonged to my parents. It only has 29K miles on it to date. It is mint inside and out, and has been well taken care of in regard to routine maintenance. Looking through repair records I see a pattern of various power steering issues with this vehicle. The car was purchased new in 8/2006, then in 4/2009 the power steering shaft had to be replaced at the dealership. The recall in 2014 was also power steering related and was repaired at the dealership. Fast forward to the present. This vehicle now had the electronic power steering module fail - causing the steering to not work - making the car not drivable. I had it towed to a mechanic who performed an inspection and noted the electronic power steering module needed to be replaced. After 2 weeks, they confirmed no parts were available and it was best to try and deal with GM directly. I opened a case with them #9-14673786524 regarding this part and they would only work with a certified dealer so it was towed to the original dealer it was purchased at that has all of these repair records on file. As of today, it has been sitting at the dealership since 2/28 waiting on this part with no ETA in site. I feel GM should have included this with the other recall. It's pretty obvious the power steering in this year and model has serious failure issues. Had it been getting driven more - it most likely may have failed a lot sooner while it was being driving on the road - and who knows what so

Steering
Filed Mar 27, 2025MI

Steering got stiff and hard to turn and it shakes while idle

Steering
Filed Mar 18, 2025AL

No incident yet but will happen if not recalled and fixed. My EPS keeps going out while driving and will yank the steering wheel hard in either direction at any given time. Uncontrollable

Steering
Filed Mar 4, 2025165,000 milesNY

The contact's granddaughter owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the power steering assist failed to operate as needed. The contact stated that the "Steering Assist Reduced - Drive with Care" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact replaced the electronic power steering fuse; however, the failure returned soon after the repair. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 165,000.

Unknown or OtherCrash
Filed Feb 25, 2025MS

The tire rods, front axle and transmission all collapsed while driving. now the vehicle is at an auction ready for a resell? Igot robbed by my insurance company and car company i was paying them, what worries me the most is that mopar salvage yard is putting this unsafe vehicle up for auction because of the motor? I'm being told all of this by someone else. the front tire went sideways , the front wheels is what saved my life? If this vehicle resells in any way shape or form, somebodies death is in your hands. traction contol stayed on all the time, the steering suspension system locked up sterring wheel, the malibu would accellerate upbto 70 80 miles, unvoluntarily. all the recalls ya'll found were on the car, several recalls were fixed, yet when the tire rod front axle all broke at one time, the tranmission got affected too. insurance claim 24-918702376, progressive ins. santander consumer u.s.a.

Electrical System
Filed Jan 14, 2025UT

Steering wheel very stiff after driving 70 miles an hour Sometimes very stiff when vehicle is started.

Steering
Filed Sep 4, 2024MO

My steering wheel began moving back and forth on its own. This happened both while I was driving and while idling.

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 20, 2024TX

Sent the car to fix recalls and they said it has another problem and want to charge to fix the steering recall N140772 problem. They said is not free.... Do not know if the other recalls were repaired.

Steering
Filed Aug 15, 2024TX

Steering wheel stop working and dealer do not fix it. 15V064 Recall

Steering
Filed May 22, 202472,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH and making a left turn, the steering wheel became very difficult to turn. The contact was able to get through the turn and stated that the steering functionality had resumed. The contact stated there was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but was reoccurring. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a local dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering). The contact stated that the recall repair was performed in 2015. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

Steering
Filed Apr 17, 2024IL

While son is driving down the road the power steering goes out and an alarms sounds saying the Power Steering is out. We can turn the vehicle off and turn it back on and the power steering comes back. Happens about 2 times a week.

Steering
Filed Apr 4, 2024VA

The power steering goes out when making a slight turn, an alarm on the dash sounds

Steering
Filed Mar 25, 2024NC

In 2014 there was a GM safety recall #[XXX] to replace Torque sensor assembly on electric power steering. Recall was completed by GM. Now, the electric power steering has failed again with the same warning signals that GM originally advised would happen. Issue has been diagnosed as failure of the power steering assist motor. In two separate conversations with GM one with (Sam) & another with (Chasity), GM case #[XXX], one says repair should be covered by GM & the other says it will not be covered. The NHTSA campaign ID # for this recall is [XXX]. Requesting that NHTSA help me get to the bottom of this situation. Thank you. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Steering
Filed Mar 7, 2024126,000 milesNE

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that on several occasions when the vehicle was in reverse(R), the steering wheel began shaking. Additionally, the contact stated that on several occasions, while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel became stiff. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the power steering pump and another unknown part needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 126,000.

Steering
Filed Feb 13, 2024109,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while his son was driving at an undisclosed speed, the power steering was seized. The contact stated that the vehicle was independently turned off. The contact's son was able to get the vehicle to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact's son was able to restart the vehicle and the vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed steering wheel torque input sensor. The contact was informed that the steering wheel torque input sensor needed to be replaced. The contact was informed about NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000(Steering) however, the VIN was not associated with the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

Steering
Filed Jan 25, 2024MO

Each time I’m driving my vehicle, I’ll hear a ding, ding, ding and my power steering will stop working. This seems to happen, most times, immediately after starting my car, while backing up. I did have it happen once, while in the middle of turning onto the road. Each time this happens, I must put the car in park, turn it off and restart it.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jan 25, 2024MO

Opened my trunk two days ago and the carpet on the driver side was soaked, as well as the carpeted panel that covers the spare tire. The panel is warped and moldy. I removed my spare tire, to find that my jack was completely rusted out, along with a pool of water in the bottom of my trunk. I then put my back seats down and could see the metal beneath them was also rusted out. Apparently, it’s been leaking for some time. I then proceeded to clean the rest of my car out, and found my rear and front driver side floor boards were also soaked. I do not know where any of the water is coming from but I believe it’s causing electrical components to fail in my vehicle, such as: Doors won’t lock or unlock using the lock switch inside the car Driver door won’t look or unlock using switch inside car or remote Power mirrors only move up and down, not side to side Half of the controls on radio don’t work and it doesn’t display all the info that should be available Radio does not turn off after turning off ignition and opening driver door and removing key Power outlets stay on after car is off

Steering
Filed Dec 21, 202355,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel started to turn independently, prompting the contact to pull over to the shoulder of the roadway. The contact became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed failures with the electronic power steering control module and steering column. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 55,000.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 16, 2023IN

While driving, the power steering stopped working and I couldn’t turn the wheel. This will be the 2nd time in 7 months that I will have had to replace the electrical power steering

Steering
Filed Dec 12, 2023TX

While driving the power steering message came on screen. And all electrical power steering assist stopped working. Had to use all my strength just to turn the steering wheel.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 8, 2023MN

Power steering will suddenly go out while driving, making it harder to maintain control of the vehicle. The car dings three times and then it goes out. The only way to reengage is to turn the car off and back on. At first it was intermittent and has progressively become worse. It seems the same thing that was recalled years ago is happening again with these cars

Steering
Filed Dec 2, 2023MI

The electric power steering went out while I was driving. I will not be able to send the part in for inspection until it gets replaced. My safety and others were at risk because it made it really difficult to change lanes which could've resulted in a crash. The problem hasn't been reproduced on my vehicle specifically, but has been produced on enough vehicles to have a recall issued. There weren't any warnings prior to the power steering going out. Just a beep and a warning on the radio display as it went out. My vehicle was manufactured in May of 2006 but want recalled, although the affected vehicles were made from April - June 2006. This is the second one that has gone out on me and there is still no recall for my vehicle. First one happened October of 2020, got it fixed then the second one went out November of 2023.

Steering
Filed Nov 13, 2023174,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, he became aware that the electronic power steering was not functioning properly. The EPS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to the NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering) however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 174,000.

Steering
Filed Oct 30, 2023GA

The electronic power steering goes out while driving and while making a turn. It has almost put me in a ditch and also into oncoming traffic.

Steering
Filed Sep 18, 2023MI

Electric Power Steering - 10/2020 Suddenly went out while driving. No warnings beforehand. This made sharp turns extremely difficult. It says that my car is not part of the recall, but is still as dangerous as the vehicles that were part of the recall. From the research that I have done, the motor seems to be in good working order. The sensor is what seems to be the issue. Cruise Control - 08/2023 Goes out randomly. I was on the freeway when it turned off by itself. If I was not paying attention, this could've caused an accident. No warning beforehand. Brake Switch - 06/2023 Seems to be something wrong with the switch. The brake light stays on after braking. Turn Signal Switch - 10/2020 Does not cancel after turning right. This can potentially confuse other drivers. Fuel Pump - 10/2020 The float of the fuel pump is not working. It says it is empty, even after filling it up. It will occasionally show that the tank is all of the way filled during rapid acceleration. This could make me run out of fuel while driving if I lose track of mileage; which could result in an accident. None of the components have been inspected by a dealer or manufacturer. The Electric Power Steering and turn signal are available to be inspected. Again there were no indicators before failure. I do know that there are recalls on other vehicles with the same issues, but for some reason mine was excluded. Some of these occurred before the dates stated, but these dates are when I remember them affecting me t

Air Bags
Filed Sep 16, 2023NC

There are many recalls for the year make and model of my vehicle. They just didn't recall my exact vin. The breaks are recalled, air bags were recalled and they were buying back the vehicles, the fuel delivery system was recalled, headlights were recalled, cruise control was recalled, steering column and yoke was recalled, and a few more. None were recalled for my vin number when it should have been. I took my car to the dealership today, Chevrolet did a few things under "warranty" instead of issuing a safety recall. (They issued 10 recalls on this year make and model) (one recall was the air bags, my vehicle is doing the same thing). The fuel delivery system and fuel pump was recalled but not on my vin number. I just really need help getting my car repaired. I cannot afford to fix all of this when there's records dating back to the purchase of the vehicle, showing that there are problems and Chevrolet neglectfully didn't recall it and instead tried to brush it off as a warranty instead of safety recall. My car leaks gas, the steering it messed up, headlights no longer work due to the electrical issue, the instrument cluster was damaged due to the ecm issue, there's just so many problems... My car could potentially catch fire for the fuel leak, carbon monoxide smell, electrical wiring and the air bags could potentially deploy.

Electrical System
Filed Jul 27, 2023NH

Sudden loss of power steering while accelerating

Steering
Filed Jul 24, 2023DE

Dashboard cluster is not working properly and now I am getting and loud noise when I go to make or a slight turn

Steering
Filed Jul 1, 2023PA

Random power steering loss that happens more often in the winter. There is a recall on my model vehicle for power steering loss but not my particular VIN. I think Chevy needs to widen the range of vehicles since I am experiencing this problem as well.

Steering
Filed Jun 7, 2023OH

I had my 5 year old in the back seat we had just left gymnastics. I was about to pull out on to state route 87 and my car just stops running. Everything shut down, no power steering, was hard to brake, and engine stopped. The dashboard lit up with all the lights anti-theft, oil, traction control, engine. I couldn't get it to turn over and when I tried it made no noise at all. I was in a dangerous spot about to pull out into oncoming traffic. Luckily there was a gentleman in a truck whose child was also at gymnastics and pulled me into a driveway with his truck to keep me and my child safe as we waited on a tow. This car also started having power steering problems early this year, I took it to a good mechanic who replaced the power steering lines and fixed what ever could be causing a leak/ power steering problems. I don't drive my car a lot, just in town usually, and after a few weeks the power steering is all messed up again (which there is a recall on the power steering issue for this year, make, and model but does not appear to include my VIN). Today this scary and dangerous incident mentioned above, when my car just stopped with no warning, happened to me and my five year old.

Steering
Filed May 1, 202375,000 milesAR

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle started to shake and vibrate. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact pulled over and turned the vehicle off and on and regained power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering column needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The contact stated that the failure was related to a recall that had been completed under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering). The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Steering
Filed Mar 28, 2023NM

Good afternoon. The electrical power system has gone out of the vehicle. It was recalled in 2015 for this same issue and it was serviced in 2015 but it’s still having the same issue. Whenever I’m driving, the steering wheel just completely locks up on me and the EPS goes out completely making it extremely difficult to steer. This happened as my wife and I were turning away from Cannon AFB, NM where we’re stationed and during the outward turn, the steering locked up making me go onto oncoming traffic. Luckily there wasn’t a vehicle directly in front of me. I called a GM dealer and they said it is not covered under warranty because the recall is no longer active.

Steering
Filed Mar 21, 2023AR

The contact stated that his daughter owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while his daughter was attempting to drive out of a parking spot the steering wheel was hard to maneuver. The power steering wheel warning light illuminated. The contact was unaware if the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic or a dealer for diagnosis. The contact stated that his daughter informed him that the diagnosis was a malfunction with the power steering assist that needs replacement. The vehicle was not repaired. The daughter was also informed of NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering) however the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact stated that his daughter called the manufacturer who confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Feb 27, 2023120,000 milesOK

The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle experienced a loss of power steering functionality, with the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was inoperable. The vehicle was not taken to an independent mechanic or a local dealer to be diagnosed or repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V064000 (Steering). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.

Steering
Filed Feb 13, 2023OK

Power steering goes in and out

Steering
Filed Feb 5, 2023CA

The power steering for my Malibu max has stopped working. The steering wheel shakes, it also locks and won't allow you to turn its wheel. The part that it needs is called power steering assist motor. There's been many recalls on this car about the same issue. There's been an incident where I almost had a collision because of this problem unexpectedly which was the last time I've used my car since. Please let me know how I can get a recall for my car issue since my VIN # isnt listed Thank you.

Steering
Filed Jan 29, 2023MN

Power steering assistance fails at random times. The DIC does show "POWER STEERING" warning when it happens. Also, when parked, the steering wheel will jerk slightly left and right a few times on its own. The power steering usually fails after this, too.

Complaints 1-50 of 1,118, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2009
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
202512100Routine
202444200Routine
202372210Routine
202299100Routine
202190210Routine
2020200101Fatalities reported
2019193110Routine
2018700640Above average
2017705440Above average
2016841921Fatalities reported
2015270391Fatalities reported
2014351681Fatalities reported
201383710100Above average
20129073130High concern
20119784170Above average
20101,3634140Above average
20091,511693Fatalities reported
2008989552Fatalities reported
2007977620Above average
2006 — this page1,118960Above average
20059756343Fatalities reported
20041,148970Above average
2003569341Fatalities reported
2002567410Above average
2001721412Fatalities reported
2000922563Fatalities reported
1999789320Above average
1998976553Fatalities reported
1997443602Fatalities reported

Compare every Malibu year →

2006 Chevrolet Malibu: questions buyers ask

Is the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu a good car?

It is not among the Malibu years to avoid. Owners filed 1,118 complaints, against about 755 for a typical Malibu year. The most common complaint is about the steering (66%).

What is the most common problem with the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu?

The steering: 734 of the 1,118 complaints (66%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (26%), sets off warning lights on the dash (18%) and loses power (12%). The typical report comes at 84,567 miles.

How many recalls does the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu have?

9 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Feb 4, 2015. The largest, 14V252000, covered 2,440,524 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2006 Chevrolet Malibu problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 85,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 84,567 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2006 Chevrolet Malibu?

The manufacturer filed 762 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (120), the engine (114) and the transmission (41). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Feb 4, 2015. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.