2025 Chevrolet Malibu Problems: 1 Known Issue

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu has 1 documented issue, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is VT40 CVT Clutch Regulator Valve Sticking and Forward Clutch Damage (P2714) ($1,200-$5,500 repair). Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $1,200 to $5,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

All 1 Known Issue

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On the 2019-2025 Chevrolet Malibu 1.5L LFV I4 Turbo, the VT40 continuously variable transmission fitted behind the 1.5L turbo from the 2019 model year onward develops a sticking clutch regulator valve in the valve body. Pressure to the forward clutch falls off, the car shudders or bangs on the 1-2 engagement, delays going into drive after a cold start, and eventually sets P2714 (pressure control solenoid D stuck off). Forum teardowns report damage to the forward clutch piston and wear in the primary pulley bearing bore by the time the code appears, so the valve is only the first domino. This is a distinct unit from the 6T40 and 9-speed step automatics used elsewhere in the nameplate and its failure signature — a slip and flare with no gear change, rather than a harsh shift — should not be merged with theirs. Reports cluster after roughly five years in service.

This issue also affects: Buick Enclave, Buick Encore GX, Cadillac STS

Common Symptoms

Shudder or judder when first pulling away
Delayed engagement going into Drive after a cold start
Banging or harsh clunk into gear
Engine revs without acceleration (slipping)
Check engine light with a CVT pressure control code
Whine or growl from the transmission

How to Fix

Confirm P2714 and check line and clutch pressures before committing. A valve body replacement (or a sleeve kit for the clutch regulator bore) fixes early cases; once the forward clutch piston or pulley bearing bore is damaged the unit needs a rebuild or a remanufactured transmission, commonly $3,500-$5,500 installed. GM does not publish a lifetime fluid interval that owners can rely on here — servicing the CVT fluid with the correct GM CVT fluid around every 45,000-60,000 miles is the main preventive measure owners report. No recall exists; check whether the car is inside the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty before paying.

Typical repair cost:$1,200 - $5,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported

High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

NHTSA Recalls5 recalls

STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The front impact bar, a structural portion of the vehicle frame, may not be properly welded to the front frame rail.

Campaign #22V92300014/12/2022

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The rearview camera screen may display a distorted or blank image.

Campaign #26V21200002/04/2026

EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Cadillac XT4 and Chevrolet Malibu vehicles. The vehicles may have the wrong owner's manual in the glove box. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."

Campaign #24V57500001/08/2024

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Other Chevrolet Models

Chevrolet Silverado 150076 Chevrolet Corvette59 Chevrolet Equinox56 Chevrolet Camaro37 Chevrolet Traverse34 Chevrolet Colorado33

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chevrolet Malibu problems?

According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2025 Chevrolet Malibu has 1 documented issue. The documented issue is: VT40 CVT Clutch Regulator Valve Sticking and Forward Clutch Damage (P2714). Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chevrolet Malibu reliable?

The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu has 1 known issue compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. 1 issue is rated critical: VT40 CVT Clutch Regulator Valve Sticking and Forward Clutch Damage (P2714). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet Malibu problems?

Repair costs for known Chevrolet Malibu issues range from $1,200 to $5,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, VT40 CVT Clutch Regulator Valve Sticking and Forward Clutch Damage (P2714), typically costs $1,200-$5,500 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2019-2025 Chevrolet Malibu VT40 CVT Clutch Regulator Valve Sticking and Forward Clutch Damage (P2714)?

The VT40 continuously variable transmission fitted behind the 1.5L turbo from the 2019 model year onward develops a sticking clutch regulator valve in the valve body. Pressure to the forward clutch falls off, the car shudders or bangs on the 1-2 engagement, delays going into driv… Repairs typically run $1,200-$5,500. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.