Check engine lights are designed to alert you to a problem with your vehicle. However, you may have fixed the issue, but not reset the light.
In these instances, it’s important to know how to reset the check engine light on your Chevy Malibu.
How do you reset the check engine light on a Chevy Malibu?
There is conflicting information about this. Some owners state that you can remove the battery cable for two minutes, and then put it back on. Others say it requires a code reader to erase the error codes.
Many Malibu owners having issues with their check engine light staying on.
We’ll cover how to reset the check engine light on your Chevy Malibu. You’ll also learn what you should know about the check engine light, and what to do when it comes on. We’ll also look at the problems Malibu owners typically encounter.
What You Should Know about the Check Engine Light
As vehicles incorporated computers and sensors into their systems, manufacturers began using diagnostic codes to identify problems. In 1996, the OBD-2 protocol was released. Instead of each manufacturer using its own system, the OBD-2 provided a universal list of codes.
A diagnostic code reader is plugged into the OBD port, which is located underneath the steering column. The code is displayed, which indicates the problem. This is designed for more than convenient repairs. It’s linked to the car’s emissions system.
The check engine light can come on for many reasons, but they are usually related to your engine not running properly. This can cause an increase in emissions as well as problems with the engine itself.
However, mundane issues like forgetting to put your gas cap on can also cause the light to come on.
On the Chevy Malibu, the check engine light is a yellow dashboard light in the shape of an engine. If it stays on, it indicates a minor problem. This doesn’t require emergency service, but shouldn’t be ignored for a long period of time.
If the light is flashing, it indicates a more serious problem. It’s wise to discover the problem as quickly as possible, and get the needed repairs.
How to Reset the Check Engine Light on a Chevy Malibu
There are a few things to consider when attempting to reset your check engine light. The first is if there’s a problem with the engine that needs to be repaired. If the check engine light is functioning properly, it will come on when something isn’t right with your vehicle.
If you repair the problem, you should be able to reset the check engine light and expect it to stay off. However, if the problem has not been fixed, the light will simply come back on again.
If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar, you can opt to receive diagnostic reports. If you have a paid plan, you can press the OnStar button and an agent will check all the diagnostic programs on your vehicle.
Many Chevrolet dealerships will perform a free diagnostic test to identify the reason your check engine light is on. You can also take the vehicle to an independent mechanic, or purchase your own diagnostic tool.
The simplest way to reset the engine light is to remove the negative battery terminal cable for two minutes, and then replace it. If this doesn’t reset the light, you will have to use a code reader to erase the error codes. This should reset the light.
Problems with the Chevy Malibu
Many Malibu owners are finding that these methods aren’t working for the Malibu. There are multiple reports of owners bringing their vehicle to the dealership and having the light reset. Soon after it comes on again.
The 2017 and 2018 Malibus seem to have the most problems, with some reporting the issue with the 2019 model as well.
There’s currently a class action lawsuit regarding an abrupt loss of power. The reduced engine power dash light comes on, and the speed of the vehicle is abruptly reduced. This is dangerous for those traveling on a highway or interstate at high speeds.
The problem seems to be the electronic throttle control and pedal positioning sensor. The electronic throttle control electronically connects the gas pedal to the throttle. When it malfunctions, the vehicle isn’t receiving the message to apply the throttle correctly.
