Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
STEERING
06023200703/01/2008060232007C10020816Clunk, knock or rattle noise from front of vehicle while driving or turning over bumps at low speeds. *kb (diagnose noise - lubricate inner and outer steering shaft, reposition i-shaft, add foam to radiator surge tank mounting bracket01/23/2007
06023200212/01/2006060232002B10019478Normal operating characteristics of electric power steering (eps) system during extended lock-to-lock (maximum steering wheel rotation) usage. *tt03/16/2006
03023200502/01/2004030232005A10004296Parts restriction program for electric power steering (eps) system components. *tt update. *tt12/01/2003
STEERING - COLUMN
SB-09-02-35-00608/01/200910032292Chevrolet/pontiac/saturn: steering column tilt wheel release lever inoperative/broken (replace tilt wheel release lever kit and/or release lever retainer (tilt teeth)). *pe03/01/2010
05023500103/01/200510014975Steering column tilt/telescope wheel lever available for service use. *tt05/13/2005
0407200404/07/200410009202Rattle or clunk steering column noise coming from the left lower instrument panel, or foot well area. *tt09/17/2004
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
379710018531Intermittent steering wheel dither after front end alignment was performed. *tt01/05/2006
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST - POWER STEERING FLUID
08-02-32-00505/01/200810025672Loss of power steering assist, power steering warning message displayed in dic, ipc/radio displays erratic, dtc c0900, b1325 set (replace ignition coil/module assembly and add ground strap). vehicles with 3.5l engine. *pe08/28/2008
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
41274127D10020217Loss of power steering assist at high engine rpm. *tt updated 08-15-07. *kb updated on 10/03/07. *nj08/18/2006
0405012/03/200410012081Customer satisfaction program 04050 power steering assist. product field action announcement. *tt02/10/2005

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
STEERING
PE04031GENERAL MOTORS CORP.03/30/200407/01/2004LOSS OF ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
 Odi opened pe04-031 based on eight reports of alleged power steering failure in the subject vehicles.the complaints allege that the driver suddenly lost all electric power steering assistance without warning making the vehicle difficult to steer. the subject vehicle utilizes an electric power steering assist system (eps) that provides variable steering assistance based on steering wheel torque, steering wheel postion, and vehicle speed.general motors documents identified the following two factors that contributed to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles: a.contamination of the torque and position sensor from theseparation of grease applied to the steering column assembly. b.electrical noise generated on the power and ground slip ring surfaces of the torque and position sensor.the noise is generated as the sensor contact brushes move along the slip ring surfaces when the steering wheel is rotated.odi's analysis showed failurerates that are of concern to odi and indicated that the alleged defect is continuing to occur in the subject vehicles. this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further investigate this concern, to assess the potential safety-related consequences, and to determine the scope of the affected population.
EA04018GENERAL MOTORS CORP.07/01/200405/10/2005LOSS OF ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
 In performing this engineering analysis, odi determined that the electric power steering system in the subject vehicles can malfunction or fail, causing the driver to lose power steering assistance; however, due to the following reasons, odi has decided that further expenditure of agency resources on this investigation is not warranted at this time: - gm issued customer satisfaction campaign (csc) 04050a indecember 2004 to address the alleged defect in approximately58,700 subject vehicles, encompassing at least 97 percent of thecomplaint and warranty claims population.vehicles outside thecsc 04050a population contain a newly designed torque andposition sensor and have experienced a relatively low complaintrate.this customer satisfaction campaign presently has acompletion rate of 52%. - the impact on the driver
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
PE04031GENERAL MOTORS CORP.03/30/200407/01/2004LOSS OF ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
 Odi opened pe04-031 based on eight reports of alleged power steering failure in the subject vehicles.the complaints allege that the driver suddenly lost all electric power steering assistance without warning making the vehicle difficult to steer. the subject vehicle utilizes an electric power steering assist system (eps) that provides variable steering assistance based on steering wheel torque, steering wheel postion, and vehicle speed.general motors documents identified the following two factors that contributed to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles: a.contamination of the torque and position sensor from theseparation of grease applied to the steering column assembly. b.electrical noise generated on the power and ground slip ring surfaces of the torque and position sensor.the noise is generated as the sensor contact brushes move along the slip ring surfaces when the steering wheel is rotated.odi's analysis showed failurerates that are of concern to odi and indicated that the alleged defect is continuing to occur in the subject vehicles. this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further investigate this concern, to assess the potential safety-related consequences, and to determine the scope of the affected population.
EA04018GENERAL MOTORS CORP.07/01/200405/10/2005LOSS OF ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
 In performing this engineering analysis, odi determined that the electric power steering system in the subject vehicles can malfunction or fail, causing the driver to lose power steering assistance; however, due to the following reasons, odi has decided that further expenditure of agency resources on this investigation is not warranted at this time: - gm issued customer satisfaction campaign (csc) 04050a indecember 2004 to address the alleged defect in approximately58,700 subject vehicles, encompassing at least 97 percent of thecomplaint and warranty claims population.vehicles outside thecsc 04050a population contain a newly designed torque andposition sensor and have experienced a relatively low complaintrate.this customer satisfaction campaign presently has acompletion rate of 52%. - the impact on the driver

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
STEERING
03/01/2013188100
 Power steering fault light on yellow wrench light intermittern. steering shake.
03/02/2013110000
 I started the car, put the car in drive and accelerated. when i went to turn the wheel, a light appeared on the dash (looks like a wrench) and on the radio display said power steering. i lost all power steering. this has now happened multiple times in the last month. i pulled out on to another road and while in the process of turning, i lost my power steering. i had to pull over into a parking lot, which was very difficult to do since i did not have power steering. turned the car off and restarted the car. the light went away and my power steering came back. the car is very unsafe because the failure happens while driving. my husband called chevy dealer and they stated that this car is not covered under the service recall notice!!
02/13/201386000
 I was driving on the highway and an engine light came on and it said power steering across my radio. i thought that meant i need power steering fluid but after doing google searches, i find that means i lost my power steering control. luckily, i was going straight and at a high speed so i didn't lose control based upon what i read. however, i have two little girls and will sue in a heartbeat if anything happens to them as a result of this issue. especially, since this is a known issue since 2004. why the heck haven't you forced chevy to recall these vehicles. i don't care that in most cases steering is not affected and that it can be reset by turning the car off and on. i have read about so many incidents of near crashes and some injuries. this is ridiculous and needs to be fixed before someone dies.
01/07/2013920001
 Stopped and put vehicle in reverse. check engine light came on and power steering stopped working. returned to normal after turning vehicle off and restarting. *tr
01/07/201392000
 Stopped and put vehicle in reverse. check engine light came on and power steering stopped working. returned to normal after turning vehicle off and restarting.
06/06/2011950001
 I have been having power steering problems with my 2004 chevy malibu for several years. it feels like the steering goes completely out while driving on freeway or other roads and find this to be a safety issue. i originally had dealership check steering and was told it was fine and there was no recall, but i have read where several others are experiencing the same problem. in the last few months, the problem has gotten worse for my daughter, who now drives the car. the power steering light has been coming on and goes off when you park or restart the car. she recently lost all power steering and had difficulty steering the vehicle off the road. today, we took the malibu to the gm dealership where we purchased it, and ouch!...was told the repairs total $900 plus tax. dealership will need to replace steering column as motor has gone bad and also need to replace the intermediate shaft that connects to the column since it is binding up. i don't know whether to get a second opinion and wonder if we can wait to have the shaft replaced? should i also contact gm to see if they will reimburse for parts? *tr
01/02/20131354741
 Driving down straight section of road. power steering alarm comes on and steering wheel goes stiff. slowed and stopped before next turn (would not have been able to negotiate turn). this has happened on an often enough basis (usually before being on the road) and using fix described in other often reported issues with this type of steering, stopped car, turned off, adjusted position of steering column and restarted. steering returned to normal. *tr
06/06/201195000
 I have been having power steering problems with my 2004 chevy malibu for several years. it feels like the steering goes completely out while driving on freeway or other roads and find this to be a safety issue. i originally had dealership check steering and was told it was fine and there was no recall, but i have read where several others are experiencing the same problem. in the last few months, the problem has gotten worse for my daughter, who now drives the car. the power steering light has been coming on and goes off when you park or restart the car. she recently lost all power steering and had difficulty steering the vehicle off the road. today, we took the malibu to the gm dealership where we purchased it, and ouch!...was told the repairs total $900 plus tax. dealership will need to replace steering column as motor has gone bad and also need to replace the intermediate shaft that connects to the column since it is binding up. i don't know whether to get a second opinion and wonder if we can wait to have the shaft replaced? should i also contact gm to see if they will reimburse for parts?
01/02/2013135474
 Driving down straight section of road. power steering alarm comes on and steering wheel goes stiff. slowed and stopped before next turn (would not have been able to negotiate turn). this has happened on an often enough basis (usually before being on the road) and using fix described in other often reported issues with this type of steering, stopped car, turned off, adjusted position of steering column and restarted. steering returned to normal.
12/02/20121491543
 Power steering went out while idling at drive thru window of fast food(first incident). 2 more after that while idling. the message center said power steering and chimed every incident. is there a recall for this? *tr
12/02/2012149154
 Power steering went out while idling at drive thru window of fast food(first incident). 2 more after that while idling. the message center said power steering and chimed every incident. is there a recall for this?
11/21/2012117654
 My pregnant wife was driving when the power steering just went out this is the second time and from reading multiple complaints and they do nothing to solve it
10/06/2012673991
 After backing out of a parking space, drove forward a few feet, turned right at a stop sign and proceeded forward when the car's warning chimes sounded, the power steering came up on the dic, the service vehicle light came on and all power steering was lost. it was late at night so i continued driving home which was about 2 miles away but it was very difficult to make turns. have not tried to drive car due to difficulty and since it is sunday was not able to get assistance from mechanics or dealer. have been reading online and seems to be a common and dangerous problem. no recalls or notices received by dealer. this car was bought new and maintained. *tr
08/22/2012690001
 The car became very hard to steer. turning the steering wheel was difficult to turn. this has happened several time since august. this has almost cause two accidents. *tr
10/06/2012673991
 After backing out of a parking space, drove forward a few feet, turned right at a stop sign and proceeded forward when the car's warning chimes sounded, the power steering came up on the dic, the service vehicle light came on and all power steering was lost. it was late at night so i continued driving home which was about 2 miles away but it was very difficult to make turns. have not tried to drive car due to difficulty and since it is sunday was not able to get assistance from mechanics or dealer. have been reading online and seems to be a common and dangerous problem. no recalls or notices received by dealer. this car was bought new and maintained. *tr
08/22/2012690001
 The car became very hard to steer. turning the steering wheel was difficult to turn. this has happened several time since august. this has almost cause two accidents. *tr
10/06/201267399
 After backing out of a parking space, drove forward a few feet, turned right at a stop sign and proceeded forward when the car's warning chimes sounded, the power steering came up on the dic, the service vehicle light came on and all power steering was lost. it was late at night so i continued driving home which was about 2 miles away but it was very difficult to make turns. have not tried to drive car due to difficulty and since it is sunday was not able to get assistance from mechanics or dealer. have been reading online and seems to be a common and dangerous problem. no recalls or notices received by dealer. this car was bought new and maintained.
08/22/201269000
 The car became very hard to steer. turning the steering wheel was difficult to turn. this has happened several time since august. this has almost cause two accidents.
10/06/201267399
 After backing out of a parking space, drove forward a few feet, turned right at a stop sign and proceeded forward when the car's warning chimes sounded, the power steering came up on the dic, the service vehicle light came on and all power steering was lost. it was late at night so i continued driving home which was about 2 miles away but it was very difficult to make turns. have not tried to drive car due to difficulty and since it is sunday was not able to get assistance from mechanics or dealer. have been reading online and seems to be a common and dangerous problem. no recalls or notices received by dealer. this car was bought new and maintained.
08/22/201269000
 The car became very hard to steer. turning the steering wheel was difficult to turn. this has happened several time since august. this has almost cause two accidents.
10/06/201267399
 After backing out of a parking space, drove forward a few feet, turned right at a stop sign and proceeded forward when the car's warning chimes sounded, the power steering came up on the dic, the service vehicle light came on and all power steering was lost. it was late at night so i continued driving home which was about 2 miles away but it was very difficult to make turns. have not tried to drive car due to difficulty and since it is sunday was not able to get assistance from mechanics or dealer. have been reading online and seems to be a common and dangerous problem. no recalls or notices received by dealer. this car was bought new and maintained.
08/22/201269000
 The car became very hard to steer. turning the steering wheel was difficult to turn. this has happened several time since august. this has almost cause two accidents.
08/29/201286200
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the power steering warning light illuminated as the steering became hard to turn. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who performed a diagnostic, which located the failure at the steering column. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the approximate failure and current mileage was 86,200.
08/29/201286200
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the power steering warning light illuminated as the steering became hard to turn. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who performed a diagnostic, which located the failure at the steering column. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the approximate failure and current mileage was 86,200. kmj
08/29/201286200
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that while driving the power steering light illuminated and the steering became hard to turn. the vehicle was taken to the dealer whom performed a diagnostic which located the failure at the steering column. the vehicle was not repaired. the vin was not available. the approximate failure and current mileage was 86,200. li
06/01/20121200001
 The power steering warning light has been coming on for some time now, but 3 different times the power steering has failed when leaving from being parked. turning off the car and restarting fixes it but for how long will that continue to work. *tr
06/01/2012120000
 The power steering warning light has been coming on for some time now, but 3 different times the power steering has failed when leaving from being parked. turning off the car and restarting fixes it but for how long will that continue to work.
02/01/2010100000
 The power steering locks up for approximately 5 to 10 seconds. it occurs at slow speeds on surface streets, high speeds on the the interstate, going forward and even when i'm in the midst of a turn. the check engine light will flash, the lights flash on and off and the notice bell rings ding, ding, ding. when it finally stops the, if its summer the ac will stop functioning until i stop and restart the car. it is a very scary 5 to 10 seconds and i'm very fortunate to have not caused an accident as of yet. this has also compromised the ease of the power steering when it has not locked up. parking is very difficult as the turning radius and not good and its just difficult to maneuver the cars steering.
06/13/2012160000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the driver was driving 40 mph when the steering wheel seized. the power steering light and check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel when the failure occurred. the driver stopped and shut off the vehicle. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000.
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/13/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the driver was driving 40 mph when the steering wheel seized. the power steering light and check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel when the failure occurred. the driver stopped and shut off the vehicle. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000. kmj
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/09/2012135500
 Driving approx 20 miles per hour when turning left at an intersection and the vehicle service light came on, power steering message displayed on the information console and the power steering stopped working. the unexpected loss of power steering caused the vehicle to enter into the shoulder of the road. the power steering system worked after turning the car off and then back on. however the power steering light continued to show on the information panel. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair and the steering column was replaced. no further information message concerning the power steering has been seen since the repair.
06/13/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the driver was driving 40 mph when the steering wheel seized. the power steering light and check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel when the failure occurred. the driver stopped and shut off the vehicle. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000. sm.
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/09/2012135500
 Driving approx 20 miles per hour when turning left at an intersection and the vehicle service light came on, power steering message displayed on the information console and the power steering stopped working. the unexpected loss of power steering caused the vehicle to enter into the shoulder of the road. the power steering system worked after turning the car off and then back on. however the power steering light continued to show on the information panel. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair and the steering column was replaced. no further information message concerning the power steering has been seen since the repair.
06/13/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the driver was driving 40 mph when the steering wheel seized. the power steering light and check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel when the failure occurred. the driver stopped and shut off the vehicle. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000. sm.
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/09/2012135500
 Driving approx 20 miles per hour when turning left at an intersection and the vehicle service light came on, power steering message displayed on the information console and the power steering stopped working. the unexpected loss of power steering caused the vehicle to enter into the shoulder of the road. the power steering system worked after turning the car off and then back on. however the power steering light continued to show on the information panel. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair and the steering column was replaced. no further information message concerning the power steering has been seen since the repair.
06/13/2012160000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the driver was driving 40 mph when the steering wheel seized. the power steering light and check engine light illuminated on the instrument panel when the failure occurred. the driver stopped and shut off the vehicle. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was notified and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 160,000. sm.
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/09/2012135500
 Driving approx 20 miles per hour when turning left at an intersection and the vehicle service light came on, power steering message displayed on the information console and the power steering stopped working. the unexpected loss of power steering caused the vehicle to enter into the shoulder of the road. the power steering system worked after turning the car off and then back on. however the power steering light continued to show on the information panel. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair and the steering column was replaced. no further information message concerning the power steering has been seen since the repair.
09/01/200950000
 Starting soon after purchase, several times since (approx 3-15 times a week depending on season). power steering shuts off randomly. if done while turning, it will require extra force and concentratration to keep on course. most times issue cannot be reset for full duration of travel (15min - 3hrs), this is done by shutting off vehichle, after stopping on side of road, and restarting. usually occurs when when warm, either from sunny day for first start or winter once heater is warm. many close calls!
06/09/2012135500
 Driving approx 20 miles per hour when turning left at an intersection and the vehicle service light came on, power steering message displayed on the information console and the power steering stopped working. the unexpected loss of power steering caused the vehicle to enter into the shoulder of the road. the power steering system worked after turning the car off and then back on. however the power steering light continued to show on the information panel. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair and the steering column was replaced. no further information message concerning the power steering has been seen since the repair.
12/13/2004
 I purhcased my vehicle brand new in august 2004. the power steering went while i was turning on to a street in i believe december 2004. it was taken to the dealership and the steering column was supposedly replaced. a couple of months later, the same thing happened again. when i took the car to the dealership again, i questioned why it was not recalled at the time, since this was the second time it happened. i was advised that it was a bad batch of steering boots and there were not enough problems to replace them. again, the steering column was supposedly replaced. all seemed to be fine until i believe december 2010. the steering went again. i contacted the dealership and gm to see what could be done. i was advised that my problem had been taken care of in 2004/2005 and there was nothing they could do. i took the car to a local mechanic who had to replace everything once again. this time it cost me over $1500.
04/07/201289050
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 malibu maxx. the contact stated that while turning at 3 mph, the steering wheel seized and was difficult to maneuver. the vehicle was stopped and shut off. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, where they stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 89,050.
04/07/201289050
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 malibu maxx. the contact stated that while turning at 3 mph, the steering wheel seized and was difficult to maneuver. the vehicle was stopped and shut off. the steering wheel functioned as normal upon restart. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, where they stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 89,050. sm.
04/07/201289050
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 malibu maxx. the contact stated that while driving at 3mph , making a right turn the steering column tighten up causing the steering wheel very difficult to turn . the vehicle was turned off and then able to be turned back on and function normally. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they stated that the steering column needed to be replaced. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 89,000 and the current mileage was 89,050.cv
03/16/201247000
 I just exited the highway and was turning into a parking lot and heard a loud clunk and the steering failed. the dealership informed me that the steering rack and gears to the steering column needed to be replaced along with the spring and sensor for airbag on the steering column. the steering column would then have to be re-centered and the car realigned.
06/07/2011
 Power steering keeps going off, for no apprent reason, this should be a recall there are too many complaints about the same issue happaning the same way, and at times when driving happy no one has had to loose their life due to a faulty system defect
11/19/2011123691
 Failure of electronic power steering. luckily happened at low speed and no traffic. internet shows this be a problem with other malibu owners. gm has recalled other vehicles with same problems, but no recall by nhtsa, only investigations. loss of steering is one thing that should not be acceptable.
05/04/201133000
 I bought this car in 2010. the steering problem has been intermittent since the car passed 33k. i haven't had this happen on the road, but usually after i park and turn the car back on. there will be no power steering making it almost impossible to drive. if i shut it off and turn it back on again, the problem isn't there. quite unnerving. the car also has a clunk sound in the left front under the steering wheel. the warning for power steering is on more than it is off. i wish there was a recall on this. there have been so many complaints on the internet and my mechanic says there should be a recall on this. i haven't had it fixed because i can't afford it.
11/06/201092000
 Approx. on 11-06-2011 while pulling into a parking stall the power steering went out. 11-17-2011 while driving at 30 mph the spower steering went out. 11-23-2011 while driving at highway speeds the power steering went out. all three times i was able to get the power steering back after parking and turning off the engine.
05/04/201133000
 I bought this car in 2010. the steering problem has been intermittent since the car passed 33k. i haven't had this happen on the road, but usually after i park and turn the car back on. there will be no power steering making it almost impossible to drive. if i shut it off and turn it back on again, the problem isn't there. quite unnerving. the car also has a clunk sound in the left front under the steering wheel. the warning for power steering is on more than it is off. i wish there was a recall on this. there have been so many complaints on the internet and my mechanic says there should be a recall on this. i haven't had it fixed because i can't afford it.
11/06/201092000
 Approx. on 11-06-2011 while pulling into a parking stall the power steering went out. 11-17-2011 while driving at 30 mph the spower steering went out. 11-23-2011 while driving at highway speeds the power steering went out. all three times i was able to get the power steering back after parking and turning off the engine.
12/09/201182948
 I was driving home from work going about 30 mph when power steering went out on me. it was very difficult to steer and freaked me out since my 2 yeard old daughter was in the back seat and there was a lot of traffic. thankfully i was only 4 blocks from home. got home turned the car off and then back on and it reset, but then my husband took it for a drive around the block and it happened again. after all the research, it ticks me off that gm is not taking resposibility for this problem.
05/04/201133000
 I bought this car in 2010. the steering problem has been intermittent since the car passed 33k. i haven't had this happen on the road, but usually after i park and turn the car back on. there will be no power steering making it almost impossible to drive. if i shut it off and turn it back on again, the problem isn't there. quite unnerving. the car also has a clunk sound in the left front under the steering wheel. the warning for power steering is on more than it is off. i wish there was a recall on this. there have been so many complaints on the internet and my mechanic says there should be a recall on this. i haven't had it fixed because i can't afford it.
11/06/201092000
 Approx. on 11-06-2011 while pulling into a parking stall the power steering went out. 11-17-2011 while driving at 30 mph the spower steering went out. 11-23-2011 while driving at highway speeds the power steering went out. all three times i was able to get the power steering back after parking and turning off the engine.
12/09/201182948
 I was driving home from work going about 30 mph when power steering went out on me. it was very difficult to steer and freaked me out since my 2 yeard old daughter was in the back seat and there was a lot of traffic. thankfully i was only 4 blocks from home. got home turned the car off and then back on and it reset, but then my husband took it for a drive around the block and it happened again. after all the research, it ticks me off that gm is not taking resposibility for this problem.
11/06/201092000
 Approx. on 11-06-2011 while pulling into a parking stall the power steering went out. 11-17-2011 while driving at 30 mph the spower steering went out. 11-23-2011 while driving at highway speeds the power steering went out. all three times i was able to get the power steering back after parking and turning off the engine.
12/09/201182948
 I was driving home from work going about 30 mph when power steering went out on me. it was very difficult to steer and freaked me out since my 2 yeard old daughter was in the back seat and there was a lot of traffic. thankfully i was only 4 blocks from home. got home turned the car off and then back on and it reset, but then my husband took it for a drive around the block and it happened again. after all the research, it ticks me off that gm is not taking resposibility for this problem.
11/06/201092000
 Approx. on 11-06-2011 while pulling into a parking stall the power steering went out. 11-17-2011 while driving at 30 mph the spower steering went out. 11-23-2011 while driving at highway speeds the power steering went out. all three times i was able to get the power steering back after parking and turning off the engine.
12/09/201182948
 I was driving home from work going about 30 mph when power steering went out on me. it was very difficult to steer and freaked me out since my 2 yeard old daughter was in the back seat and there was a lot of traffic. thankfully i was only 4 blocks from home. got home turned the car off and then back on and it reset, but then my husband took it for a drive around the block and it happened again. after all the research, it ticks me off that gm is not taking resposibility for this problem.
11/21/201166650
 As i was coming up a hill to a stop light . steering was lost . since i do not drive this car often , i did not know this happened before . my wife said she stops the car and restarts the problem goes away .. not a good cituation as one drives . woondering if there is a recall on this problem .
11/17/2011101024
 Driving home from work making a right hand turn the power steering went out completely, service vehicle soon light chimed and came on, power steering failure illuminated on the driver information center. after pulling over into a parking lot with no power steering i turned off car waited a few minutes restarted car and power steering was fine all warning lights had gone off. i have researched this problem and have found that there are numerous complaints regarding this issue with chevrolet malibu's. i just purchased this used car and am very concerned with this safety issue, as this needs to be addressed. not only am i jeopardizing my safety and well being, but jeopardizing those close to me.
11/08/201162500
 While stopped at a traffic signal, the car made a clicking noise. a yellow light/wrench appeared and the display showed power steering. all power steering was gone. after arriving home i turned the vehicle off. awhile later i started the car and the power steering was working and all indicators were gone. i'm concerned that this could happen while i'm moving.
10/31/2011105552
 Power steering keeps failing while driving. i have read many complaints on this issue. the car has 105,552 miles. my mechanic has talked to chevy mechanics and they say you can fix the sensor motor and steering colum but cant guaranteee that will fix the problem. how is it gm can get away without doing a recall on this problem if its unsafe? the chevy dealer told my mechanic the best thing i can do is trade it in. i am almost done paying for the car and dont want to purchase a new car. i want this one fixed and not be scared that i'm gonna get killed in it or kill someone else!
11/08/201162500
 While stopped at a traffic signal, the car made a clicking noise. a yellow light/wrench appeared and the display showed power steering. all power steering was gone. after arriving home i turned the vehicle off. awhile later i started the car and the power steering was working and all indicators were gone. i'm concerned that this could happen while i'm moving.
10/31/2011105552
 Power steering keeps failing while driving. i have read many complaints on this issue. the car has 105,552 miles. my mechanic has talked to chevy mechanics and they say you can fix the sensor motor and steering colum but cant guaranteee that will fix the problem. how is it gm can get away without doing a recall on this problem if its unsafe? the chevy dealer told my mechanic the best thing i can do is trade it in. i am almost done paying for the car and dont want to purchase a new car. i want this one fixed and not be scared that i'm gonna get killed in it or kill someone else!
01/01/201157000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the steering wheel would seize when driving 5 mph and above. the contact would shut the vehicle off whenever the failure occurred and the vehicle would operate as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 57,000. the vin was unavailable.
01/01/201157000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the steering wheel would seize when driving 5 mph and above. the contact would shut the vehicle off whenever the failure occurred and the vehicle would operate as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 57,000. the vin was unavailable. kmj
01/01/201157000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the steering wheel would seize while driving at various speeds. the contact would shut the vehicle off whenever the failure occurred and the vehicle would operate as normal upon restart. the vehicle was not taken to have the failure diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 57,000. the vin was unavailable. sm.
10/15/2011155000
 While driving my power steering went out. it felt like wet cement in the steering column. i have driven a car with out power steering before this was much harder. i pulled over opened the hood to see if anything was loose. could not find anything. once i restarted the car it was fine. 30 mins later making a left turn it goes out again, turn car on and off and it works again.
10/10/2009124000
 When driving the vechicle, it became hard to turn. it took two of us to turn into a parking lot. i got to a safe spot to stop, turned the engine off, waited about 15 minutes and restarted, operated fine. i have dealt with this issue at various times since but have had to deal with it daily for the past week. took it to the dealer, they did diagnotic and see not problems. they have no suggestions for me.
04/09/2011125000
 The passenger front seat went to adjust it and it started going up at an angle. it got tilted and loose, the only way to correct was to put it all the way down to the floor but can feel it rock. all i can think of is i am screwed in an accident. also the power steering indicator comes on all the time and when you get an oil change, then it diappears for a little while, then comes on again everytime you start the car.
09/08/201144765
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 20 mph, the power steering failed. after turning the engine off and then on, the steering had independently reset. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure nor was the vehicle inspected or repaired. the failure mileage was 44,765.
09/08/201144765
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 20 mph, the power steering failed. after turning the engine off and then on, the steering had independently reset. the manufacturer was not notified of the failure nor was the vehicle inspected or repaired. the failure mileage was 44,765. kmj
09/08/201144765
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 20 mph the power steering fails. after turning the engine off and then on the steering resets itself. the dealer was not notified. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage was 44,765. mw
07/28/2011103000
 Knocking noise in the steering column, noise and difficulty turning. noticable play in the steering of the vehicle. occurs several times a week, i refuse to drive my car on the freeway or at high speeds in fear of electric power steering going out.
08/11/201195000
 Power steering failed today completely and i ran off the road when entering the highway. i almost crashed into a semi-truck and could have easily been in a large crash if the truck was only a few feet closer. i have researched this problem online and found that this is a common problem with this car. i am not surprised how slow the government works. i assume that nothing will come from my complaint. my power steering has been faulty for a couple years now, but this is the first time it has failed completely. i feel bad if i sell this car because it might kill the person i sell it to, because there is no telling when the steering will fail.
07/07/201152000
 Tl- the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated the vehicle stopped in the middle of an intersection while making a turn, the power steering warning indicator illuminated and the there was a sudden loss of power steering. the vehicle was driven into the median cautiously and turned off. after restarting the vehicle the steering wheel began to function normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the failure was not diagnosed nor was the vehicle repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact there was no recall related to the defect. there was a technical service bulletin nhtsa item number 10018531 (steering: electric power; assist system). the approximate failure mileage was 52,000. the vin was unavailable. rvk
07/07/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated while stopped in the middle of an intersection and attempting to make a turn, the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. the vehicle was driven into the median cautiously and the engine was turned off. after restarting, the steering wheel functioned normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the problem and they informed there was not a recall pertaining to the defect. there was a technical service bulletin associated with nhtsa item number 10018531 (steering: electric power; assist system). the approximate failure mileage was 52,000. the vin was unavailable. js
08/01/2011106772
 In the middle of making turns, right and left, the electronic power steering will deactivate causing car to jerk, then steering will be extremely difficult. car can be turned off and then restarted and the issue will stop for a short time. there has been recalls for this issue on other gm models but not my model. this issue first occurred while my 16 yr old daughter was driving and almost resulting in an accident. i am extremely concern for my daughter safety will driving this vehicle. i took the car out shortly after this happen to her and within 3 turns the steering wheel jerked, light on dash light, display showed power steering and steering reverted to what can best be described as prepower steering x 2. i am a muscular 300 pound male and i had a difficult time getting the car to turn safely into the lane and later off the road. this is a safety issue that was no covered by gm and should be addressed before someone is injured. please reopen your investigation into this issue. thank you for your time.
03/01/201065000
 First started as an occasional steering problem at low speeds. then progressed to more frequent steering problem at low speed. next a bad vibration started in the front when breaking. now a loud clunking noise. diagnosis by mechanic is defective rack and pinion, steering box, and possibly power steering failure. research indicates there have been many, many complaints about this, and that the 2005 malibu was recalled for exactly the same problem last summer.
07/07/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated while stopped in the middle of an intersection and attempting to make a turn, the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. the vehicle was driven into the median cautiously and the engine was turned off. after restarting, the steering wheel functioned normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the problem and they informed there was not a recall pertaining to the defect. there was a technical service bulletin associated with nhtsa item number 10018531 (steering: electric power; assist system). the approximate failure mileage was 52,000. the vin was unavailable. js
08/01/2011106772
 In the middle of making turns, right and left, the electronic power steering will deactivate causing car to jerk, then steering will be extremely difficult. car can be turned off and then restarted and the issue will stop for a short time. there has been recalls for this issue on other gm models but not my model. this issue first occurred while my 16 yr old daughter was driving and almost resulting in an accident. i am extremely concern for my daughter safety will driving this vehicle. i took the car out shortly after this happen to her and within 3 turns the steering wheel jerked, light on dash light, display showed power steering and steering reverted to what can best be described as prepower steering x 2. i am a muscular 300 pound male and i had a difficult time getting the car to turn safely into the lane and later off the road. this is a safety issue that was no covered by gm and should be addressed before someone is injured. please reopen your investigation into this issue. thank you for your time.
03/01/201065000
 First started as an occasional steering problem at low speeds. then progressed to more frequent steering problem at low speed. next a bad vibration started in the front when breaking. now a loud clunking noise. diagnosis by mechanic is defective rack and pinion, steering box, and possibly power steering failure. research indicates there have been many, many complaints about this, and that the 2005 malibu was recalled for exactly the same problem last summer.
07/07/201152000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while the contact was in the center of an intersection and attempting to turn the power steering warning indicator illuminated with a sudden loss of power steering. the vehicle was driven to the median cautiously and the engine was turned off. after restarting, the steering wheel functioned normally. the failure occurred intermittently. the vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the problem and they informed there was not a recall pertaining to the defect. there was a technical service bulletin associated with nhtsa item number 10018531 (steering: electric power assist system). the approximate failure mileage was 52,000. the vin was unavailable. js
08/01/2011106772
 In the middle of making turns, right and left, the electronic power steering will deactivate causing car to jerk, then steering will be extremely difficult. car can be turned off and then restarted and the issue will stop for a short time. there has been recalls for this issue on other gm models but not my model. this issue first occurred while my 16 yr old daughter was driving and almost resulting in an accident. i am extremely concern for my daughter safety will driving this vehicle. i took the car out shortly after this happen to her and within 3 turns the steering wheel jerked, light on dash light, display showed power steering and steering reverted to what can best be described as prepower steering x 2. i am a muscular 300 pound male and i had a difficult time getting the car to turn safely into the lane and later off the road. this is a safety issue that was no covered by gm and should be addressed before someone is injured. please reopen your investigation into this issue. thank you for your time.
03/01/201065000
 First started as an occasional steering problem at low speeds. then progressed to more frequent steering problem at low speed. next a bad vibration started in the front when breaking. now a loud clunking noise. diagnosis by mechanic is defective rack and pinion, steering box, and possibly power steering failure. research indicates there have been many, many complaints about this, and that the 2005 malibu was recalled for exactly the same problem last summer.
08/01/2011106772
 In the middle of making turns, right and left, the electronic power steering will deactivate causing car to jerk, then steering will be extremely difficult. car can be turned off and then restarted and the issue will stop for a short time. there has been recalls for this issue on other gm models but not my model. this issue first occurred while my 16 yr old daughter was driving and almost resulting in an accident. i am extremely concern for my daughter safety will driving this vehicle. i took the car out shortly after this happen to her and within 3 turns the steering wheel jerked, light on dash light, display showed power steering and steering reverted to what can best be described as prepower steering x 2. i am a muscular 300 pound male and i had a difficult time getting the car to turn safely into the lane and later off the road. this is a safety issue that was no covered by gm and should be addressed before someone is injured. please reopen your investigation into this issue. thank you for your time.
03/01/201065000
 First started as an occasional steering problem at low speeds. then progressed to more frequent steering problem at low speed. next a bad vibration started in the front when breaking. now a loud clunking noise. diagnosis by mechanic is defective rack and pinion, steering box, and possibly power steering failure. research indicates there have been many, many complaints about this, and that the 2005 malibu was recalled for exactly the same problem last summer.
08/01/2011106772
 In the middle of making turns, right and left, the electronic power steering will deactivate causing car to jerk, then steering will be extremely difficult. car can be turned off and then restarted and the issue will stop for a short time. there has been recalls for this issue on other gm models but not my model. this issue first occurred while my 16 yr old daughter was driving and almost resulting in an accident. i am extremely concern for my daughter safety will driving this vehicle. i took the car out shortly after this happen to her and within 3 turns the steering wheel jerked, light on dash light, display showed power steering and steering reverted to what can best be described as prepower steering x 2. i am a muscular 300 pound male and i had a difficult time getting the car to turn safely into the lane and later off the road. this is a safety issue that was no covered by gm and should be addressed before someone is injured. please reopen your investigation into this issue. thank you for your time.
03/01/201065000
 First started as an occasional steering problem at low speeds. then progressed to more frequent steering problem at low speed. next a bad vibration started in the front when breaking. now a loud clunking noise. diagnosis by mechanic is defective rack and pinion, steering box, and possibly power steering failure. research indicates there have been many, many complaints about this, and that the 2005 malibu was recalled for exactly the same problem last summer.
07/05/201180000
 2004 malibu maxx has lost power steering. weeks prior the steering to the left is loose and steering to the right is tight. mechanic cannot find an issue. found over 40 complaints in online car blogs of the same issue. several had replaced steering column only to find the issue occurred again.
03/30/2011
 My power steering on my 2004 malibu maxx locks up at random times, throws the car to the left, i was getting the battery light and a ding when this would happen. i had the serpantine belt changed in march 2011 then the tensioner in june 2011. i was told that this would cure the problem, as these components are linked to the alternator and the power steering pump/motor. this problem is still happening, however now, i do not get the battery light, just a ding when the steering locks and the car veers to the left.
04/21/201171000
 Driving through a residential district the check power steering message flashed on the dashboard and then the power steering just stopped functioning. car was very hard to maneuver and steer. once restarted, power steering resumed. since that incident, the power steering failed once again while car was in park on 6/20/2011. then once car was restarted the power steering reset itself. very very dangerous!!!
03/30/2011
 My power steering on my 2004 malibu maxx locks up at random times, throws the car to the left, i was getting the battery light and a ding when this would happen. i had the serpantine belt changed in march 2011 then the tensioner in june 2011. i was told that this would cure the problem, as these components are linked to the alternator and the power steering pump/motor. this problem is still happening, however now, i do not get the battery light, just a ding when the steering locks and the car veers to the left.
04/21/201171000
 Driving through a residential district the check power steering message flashed on the dashboard and then the power steering just stopped functioning. car was very hard to maneuver and steer. once restarted, power steering resumed. since that incident, the power steering failed once again while car was in park on 6/20/2011. then once car was restarted the power steering reset itself. very very dangerous!!!
03/30/2011
 My power steering on my 2004 malibu maxx locks up at random times, throws the car to the left, i was getting the battery light and a ding when this would happen. i had the serpantine belt changed in march 2011 then the tensioner in june 2011. i was told that this would cure the problem, as these components are linked to the alternator and the power steering pump/motor. this problem is still happening, however now, i do not get the battery light, just a ding when the steering locks and the car veers to the left.
04/21/201171000
 Driving through a residential district the check power steering message flashed on the dashboard and then the power steering just stopped functioning. car was very hard to maneuver and steer. once restarted, power steering resumed. since that incident, the power steering failed once again while car was in park on 6/20/2011. then once car was restarted the power steering reset itself. very very dangerous!!!
06/07/201197000
 I own a 2004 malibu maxx,imy power steering goes out constantly,while driving at a speed of 30 mph or 60 mph.i recently was on the highway with my children and it went out while i was makeing a turn and i almost went off the road .scared me and my kids to death....something has to be done about this....i have read too many stories about the same problems with various people..does someone have to loose thier life to get a recall on this or what!!!!!!!!
05/23/2011142000
 2004 malibu maxx steering failure. vehicle purchased in september 2009. sporadic difficulty with power steering going out, has increased to a daily occurrence. when accellerating into a turn, must hold onto steering wheel tightly and lean heavily into turn to navigate sufficiently to avoid collision with other vehicles/objects/pedestrians. problem also occurs on highway, changing lanes, and when navigating exit ramp when there is a curve. have had steering wheel cleaned and greased, but problem still exists. the column clicks during the turn if the power steering has failed. i see there has been no recall for this failure, and am looking for recommendation for repair, as my research has found little to remedy. a older senior friend with the same vehicle had difficulty navigating a turn in effingham nh a couple months ago, and went off the road, resulting in total loss of vehicle and fortunately, minimal injury to the driver.
05/18/201165000
 My malibu maxx power steering light comes on while driver intermittently. i had the steering column replaced in 2008 for another issue. i know some day the steering wiiill fail at a most critical time. please investigate this and other steering column problems continue to occur. i can not buy another chevy with this kind of workmanship. not looking good for the bailout repayment promise.
03/03/2011149000
 I have a 2004 malibu maxx and i was driving on the freeway and lost my power steering in the vehicle while exiting on a ramp that turned 360 degrees... i suddenly had to fight with all my might to keep the car on the road and nearly crashed. i've been researching this issue and it is a highly known issue on the internet. if i turn off the car and restart it moments later it will work for a while then fail again unexpectantly... dangerous!!! very dangerous! i'm in the process of contacting a gm service department for a fix... but please help the tens of thousands of drivers on the road who are unsuspecting of this known issue.
12/15/200960000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 malibu max. the contact was driving 30 mph when the power steering assist malfunctioned as the steering wheel became tightened. the power steering warning light was illuminated just before the failure and the contact stated that the vehicle became extremely difficult to control. the failure was experienced a minimum of three times and the vehicle was taken to the dealer where the contact was informed that the power steering sensor failed and would need repairing. the vehicle was not repaired. there were no recalls for the vehicle. the failure mileage was 60,000.
12/15/200960000
 Tl. the contact owns a 2004 malibu max. the contact stated while driving 30 mph the power steering malfunctions. the contact stated before the power steering malfunctions the power steering light on the dash board flashes. he contact stated when the power steering malfunctions the vehicle becomes difficult to control to the point where the vehicle can cause a crash. the contact stated this has occurred three times. the contact took the vehicle to the dealer and the dealer stated a defect is in the power steering sensor but will not repair the vehicle under a recall because the part was manufacturer at a different time as the recalled parts. the contact stated this is a know safety issue that the manufacturer needs to address. the failure mileage was 60,000. jo
02/25/201170000
 Tl* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact was driving 35 mph when the power steering failed. the steering wheel became firm and the vehicle was uncontrollable. the engine was shut off and when restarted, the power steering was reset and the vehicle resumed normal operation. neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was contacted in regards to the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 70,000.
02/25/201170000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated while driving 35 mph the power steering fail. as the steering failed the vehicle was uncontrollable as the engine was turned off and then on the steering reset itself. the dealer was not contacted. the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 70,000...mw
01/23/201165000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 5 mph the power steering locks. the vehicle engine was turned off and then on and the steering resets itself. the vehicle will be taken to the dealer later today. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage were 65,000..-mw
01/20/2011169000
 Power steering column is about to fail for the third time. first time at 45,000 miles, second time at 83,000, now at 169,000
01/23/201165000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 5 mph the power steering locks. the vehicle engine was turned off and then on and the steering resets itself. the vehicle will be taken to the dealer later today. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage were 65,000..-mw
01/20/2011169000
 Power steering column is about to fail for the third time. first time at 45,000 miles, second time at 83,000, now at 169,000
01/23/201165000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 5 mph the power steering locks. the vehicle engine was turned off and then on and the steering resets itself. the vehicle will be taken to the dealer later today. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage were 65,000..-mw
01/20/2011169000
 Power steering column is about to fail for the third time. first time at 45,000 miles, second time at 83,000, now at 169,000
01/23/201165000
 Tl-the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving 5 mph the power steering locks. the vehicle engine was turned off and then on and the steering resets itself. the vehicle will be taken to the dealer later today. the manufacturer was not notified. the failure mileage were 65,000..-mw
01/20/2011169000
 Power steering column is about to fail for the third time. first time at 45,000 miles, second time at 83,000, now at 169,000
10/18/2010151000
 In a turn at higher speeds, the steering wheel becomes stiff, hard to turn, and the bell alarm goes off.
12/09/2010107350
 Steering column failure, lack of control over vehicle
10/13/201098000
 Loss of power steering. was leaving a parking lot and pulling out onto street when power steering stopped working. steering wheel then abrubtly felt siezed for a moment causing me to go straight into opposite lane. then was able to regain control however steering with great dificulty to neerest dealer. when at dealer asked about recall or bulliton. dealer said there was none, however they offered a fifty fifty split to repair. strange if they didnt think it was a defect. refused service and contacted manufactuer, they said my vehicle didnt qualify for special recall . my car was an 04 special recall is for 05, i asked for an exception stating that it is the same part, they refused. one month later my car is totaled and it no longer has power steering.
11/15/2010
 My 2004 chevorlet malibu maxx has had repeated failure of the electronic power steering. the power steering has failed at both low and high rates of speed. the power steering assist goes out and makes the vehicle nearly impossible to steer.
10/13/201098000
 Loss of power steering. was leaving a parking lot and pulling out onto street when power steering stopped working. steering wheel then abrubtly felt siezed for a moment causing me to go straight into opposite lane. then was able to regain control however steering with great dificulty to neerest dealer. when at dealer asked about recall or bulliton. dealer said there was none, however they offered a fifty fifty split to repair. strange if they didnt think it was a defect. refused service and contacted manufactuer, they said my vehicle didnt qualify for special recall . my car was an 04 special recall is for 05, i asked for an exception stating that it is the same part, they refused. one month later my car is totaled and it no longer has power steering.
11/15/2010
 My 2004 chevorlet malibu maxx has had repeated failure of the electronic power steering. the power steering has failed at both low and high rates of speed. the power steering assist goes out and makes the vehicle nearly impossible to steer.
11/17/201071388
 I was driving on highway at 35mph and i changed lanes. upon steering to the right, the steering wheel locked up completely and a noise like the ding an open door makes sounded twice. i was able to make it to the side of the road. i turned off the car while i tried to catch my breath from being frightened. when i restarted the car everything was fine. i decided to drive through the parking lot making turns to see if it would happen again and it didn't. i am just very lucky that traffic was light today and i wasn't hit!
11/10/200985000
 Getting power steering error intermittently since last one year. the error message goes away at restart, but comes back again later. this is serious matter as it could mean loss of power to the steering and may result in a crash. please investigate it and have it recalled before some one gets killed.
11/15/2010
 My 2004 chevorlet malibu maxx has had repeated failure of the electronic power steering. the power steering has failed at both low and high rates of speed. the power steering assist goes out and makes the vehicle nearly impossible to steer.
11/17/201071388
 I was driving on highway at 35mph and i changed lanes. upon steering to the right, the steering wheel locked up completely and a noise like the ding an open door makes sounded twice. i was able to make it to the side of the road. i turned off the car while i tried to catch my breath from being frightened. when i restarted the car everything was fine. i decided to drive through the parking lot making turns to see if it would happen again and it didn't. i am just very lucky that traffic was light today and i wasn't hit!
11/10/200985000
 Getting power steering error intermittently since last one year. the error message goes away at restart, but comes back again later. this is serious matter as it could mean loss of power to the steering and may result in a crash. please investigate it and have it recalled before some one gets killed.
11/16/2010150000
 I own a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx vin 1g1zu648x4f172434. every time i accelerate during a turn, the steering wheel locks, making it near impossible to turn the wheel. the lock stops when i let up on the gas.
11/17/201071388
 I was driving on highway at 35mph and i changed lanes. upon steering to the right, the steering wheel locked up completely and a noise like the ding an open door makes sounded twice. i was able to make it to the side of the road. i turned off the car while i tried to catch my breath from being frightened. when i restarted the car everything was fine. i decided to drive through the parking lot making turns to see if it would happen again and it didn't. i am just very lucky that traffic was light today and i wasn't hit!
11/10/200985000
 Getting power steering error intermittently since last one year. the error message goes away at restart, but comes back again later. this is serious matter as it could mean loss of power to the steering and may result in a crash. please investigate it and have it recalled before some one gets killed.
11/16/2010150000
 I own a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx vin 1g1zu648x4f172434. every time i accelerate during a turn, the steering wheel locks, making it near impossible to turn the wheel. the lock stops when i let up on the gas.
11/17/201071388
 I was driving on highway at 35mph and i changed lanes. upon steering to the right, the steering wheel locked up completely and a noise like the ding an open door makes sounded twice. i was able to make it to the side of the road. i turned off the car while i tried to catch my breath from being frightened. when i restarted the car everything was fine. i decided to drive through the parking lot making turns to see if it would happen again and it didn't. i am just very lucky that traffic was light today and i wasn't hit!
11/10/200985000
 Getting power steering error intermittently since last one year. the error message goes away at restart, but comes back again later. this is serious matter as it could mean loss of power to the steering and may result in a crash. please investigate it and have it recalled before some one gets killed.
11/16/2010150000
 I own a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx vin 1g1zu648x4f172434. every time i accelerate during a turn, the steering wheel locks, making it near impossible to turn the wheel. the lock stops when i let up on the gas.
11/01/2010
 I have had my 2004 malibu maxx since november 2007. i have never had any issues with the power steering until today (november 1st, 2010). i was trying to make a left turn when the check engine light came on, a few dings sounded, and the steering locked up. i was able to steer it to the shoulder to get out of the way of traffic. i had absolutely no idea what to do after that. i turned the car off, then on again, and the light was no longer on and the steering was fine. about 15 minutes after that when i was trying to make a slight right turn to exit the highway, it happened all over again. thank god i wasn't going that fast both times. the second time, i turned the car off again and the car was fine after i turned it back on. i decided to research the issue and i am amazed that there are so many issues with the steering with this year, make, and model and nothing is being done about it. i am scared out of my mind to drive that car now.
01/08/200998000
 2004 malibu maxx power steering cuts out while driving. must put car in park turn it off and restart.happens in the winter. found on internet that other people have had the same problem. happened numerous times last winter.
09/24/201040000
 Failure of power steering while accelerating vehicle. steering direction becomes impossible to change until acceleratiion ceases. this has supposedly been fixed by the dealership two times previous to today. the last time it was fixed was only two weeks ago and while i was driving the kids into school this morning, the steering locked up, the dinging sound turned on, and the message board read power steering along with a tool that lit up on the dashboard.
09/17/201085000
 I was driving back home at night after work a hour away to bowie tx i work in fort worth. going on hwy 287 which is a big hwy for travling rigs, iwas going 65 mph and i came to a turn ingthe hwy and my power steering just goes out with any warning. i slamed on my breaks taping the wall in the mediian. looked on the information board and it said power steering. the next morning i looked on the internet and found around 10 to 15 websites that had this complaint with the chevrolet malibu maxx.i called gm chevrolet in north richland hills and the on in decatur and they both told me that the know this is a big deal the know about it but at this time there is nothing they can do for me. this is my wifes car and lucky this day i took it instead for her and my 3 year old son
06/14/201059645
 2004 malibu max power steering fails with no warning! it hasn't happened just once, but many times in the past few months. took car to the dealer, they can only find 1 of the components to do the repair. said it could take up to 3 months to get the part. then the repair is going to cost a total of $1200.00. i have read hundreds complaints about the same thing happening. when are they going to do a recall? how many people have to die first? i don't want to be one of them. when is someone going to do something about this. i see that the nhtsa closed the investigation of the matter in 2004. what's that? open it up again.
08/29/201050000
 Electric power steering suddenly fails resulting in loss of power streering assistance.
02/01/2009
 I have a 2004 malibu max. i have had problems with the steering column for the past 1 1/2 years. the rack and pinion and steering column was replaced last year after the power steering kept going out. a year later and the rack and pinion as been replaced again! the steering column is going to have to be replaced again as well! the power steering goes keeps going out, but if i turn the car off and back on it corrects the problem temporarily. there is no warning before it goes out. the 2005 has a recall out on it but not the 2004 and it is the same problem!
08/29/201050000
 Electric power steering suddenly fails resulting in loss of power streering assistance.
02/01/2009
 I have a 2004 malibu max. i have had problems with the steering column for the past 1 1/2 years. the rack and pinion and steering column was replaced last year after the power steering kept going out. a year later and the rack and pinion as been replaced again! the steering column is going to have to be replaced again as well! the power steering goes keeps going out, but if i turn the car off and back on it corrects the problem temporarily. there is no warning before it goes out. the 2005 has a recall out on it but not the 2004 and it is the same problem!
08/29/201050000
 Electric power steering suddenly fails resulting in loss of power streering assistance.
02/01/2009
 I have a 2004 malibu max. i have had problems with the steering column for the past 1 1/2 years. the rack and pinion and steering column was replaced last year after the power steering kept going out. a year later and the rack and pinion as been replaced again! the steering column is going to have to be replaced again as well! the power steering goes keeps going out, but if i turn the car off and back on it corrects the problem temporarily. there is no warning before it goes out. the 2005 has a recall out on it but not the 2004 and it is the same problem!
08/29/201050000
 Electric power steering suddenly fails resulting in loss of power streering assistance.
02/01/2009
 I have a 2004 malibu max. i have had problems with the steering column for the past 1 1/2 years. the rack and pinion and steering column was replaced last year after the power steering kept going out. a year later and the rack and pinion as been replaced again! the steering column is going to have to be replaced again as well! the power steering goes keeps going out, but if i turn the car off and back on it corrects the problem temporarily. there is no warning before it goes out. the 2005 has a recall out on it but not the 2004 and it is the same problem!
06/16/201070000
 2004 chevrolet malibu steering:electric power suddenly lost all electric power steering assistance without warning making the vehicle difficult to steer. there is no allege to this issue it happens without warning. this is unacceptable. does someone have to die before this is addressed? i am hoping it is not my daughter.
03/08/201010000
 Chevy malibu maxx 04 steering catches in hard left or right turns with shifting and grating sounds. complain since new with steering shaft replaced (about 40,000) and other work. numerous complaints about this issue. car has 90,0000 now and the noise and steering issues have been getting worse. dealer says about $300 to replace with no guarantee that it will fix the problem. i feel it is a safety issue and am afraid to drive the car.
04/08/201094350
 We have a chevy malibu maxx, we have had numerous problems with the steering on this vehicle. i know the car has electronic steering and this is what i,m worried about. when driving the vehicle on the highway or in town the power steering sometimes goes out and other times it seems like you lose control of the steering all together.the steering also becomes very tight and then very fast it becomes very loose almost causing the driver to loose control. a few days ago on the highway the steering wheel became very loose and began pulling from side to side for many miles, we had to pull over and turn off the vehicle. this did not help the steering problem any.the car would also start pulling from one side to the other on its own. when i would try to correct the steering in the opposite direction it would then pull to the opposite direction almost causing the vehicle to wreck. even when going at low speeds the vehicles steering is becoming a real problem. it feels like you are about to lose control at any minute. i have read that mant others are having the same problem that we are and that worries me very much , because we have two small children who ride in this vehicle often. is this issue something that chevy is looking into or will it take a couple of accidents or even a death for them to recall this car for repairs. i hope you will take this matter very seriously before something very deadly happens. it is a very dangerous mechanical issue that chevy desperately needs to take a look at.
02/23/201027000
 I have a 2004 chevy malibu maxx, on seven times now the power steering goes out (inoperative with a chime and amber light) this has only happened below 15 miles an hour and while in a sharp turn. the car becomes very difficult to turn especially for my wife and impossible for my daughter. chevy could not find any faults, i had the shop replace the electric motor at a cost of $700.00 and two weeks later it happened again. i now any having the steering column with a sensor replaced for another $600.00. again chevy refuses to help. they have a service bulletin about this exact scenario but still they refuse. there have been many complaints that i have found on the internet.
03/21/2010480002
 Most recent incident was sunday march 21. noticed the steering problem for the first time about 2 weeks ago, but the double click sound has been going on for about 5 months. while turning left from a stop light the steering stopped working. i started from a stop, accelerated thru the intersection turning left. about halfway thru the turn my steering wheel tried to go back straight. it nearly jerked the wheel out of my hands. i took my foot off the gas and a second later the steering came back. i have since been able to reproduce the effect several times. i also noticed that it is accompanied by a double click sound coming from somewhere under the steering column, and is usually accompanied by a bing bing and either/or the battery light and the car with a wrench light. this also occurs when accelerating up hill on the freeway. *dt
02/25/20101509921
 While traveling on route 128 in wellesley, ma at a steady unacceleration speed of 65 mph, i experienced a near total loss of steering control, accompanied by an annunciator light on the odometer display, a repeating bell sound, and a power steering message displayed on the radio. with great effort i was able to control the vehicle. it is my opinion that had my girl friend or an elderly person been driving that the outcome could have been a fatal one. using significant strength i was able to steer to a safe area. i reviewed the owner's manual which advised going to the dealer. after about 12 minutes, i started the vehicle and everything appeared normal. i then drove to the dealer (banks chevrolet in concord, nh) from whom i purchased the vehicle and recounted the experience to them. they were very responsive and assigned a technician to obtain the (obd-ii) error codes, if any had been recorded. the readout obtained was code 545, which they researched and, although it did pertain to the power steering, it referred to an intermittent loss of power steering assist, not a full and continuous loss. since it was nearing closing time, an appointment was made for the following thursday, 3/4/10. on that date, the banks technician (jim wathen) researched the issue further and made some electrical adjustments. the vehicle has performed normally since. i am reporting this heart-stopping event because i believe that a vehicle should have a fail-safe steering system. i hold an airline transport pilot certificate and a lot of our training, both in airplanes and helicopters, is dedicated to the proper response to a total failure in the hydraulic system. this event required more strength than any i have experienced in aviation and decidedly could have been fatal, especially if the road conditions were slippery or the roadway itself twisty (as in the mountains). a hard turn to either the left of the right just could not have been made. *tr
10/14/2009450001
 Power steering control i have a 2004 chevy malibu maxx v6, i bought new a few months later i heard a faint knocking in the steering wheel each year it became more noticeable. now the service engine light comes on with the message of power steering. i have complained and had a number of diagnostic checks that are different results. chevy refuse to acknowledge the numerous complaints. my power steering failed on me going down the highway behind an 18 wheeler, i struggled just to get across 1 lane and onto the shoulder. i was too scared to turn the car off because i was 10 mi. away from home. so i slowly drove down the highway once i made it home i turned the car off and later turned it back on with power back in my steering wheel. this is just as dangerous as toyota cars. there need to be a full investigation this is one of many complaints i have posted with no results!!!!!!!! *tr
11/25/20091
 I've been driven my 04 chevy malibu max with out power steering for about 4 months now. every time i contact a chevy dealer they say oh there's nothing they can do. i had diagnostics done and they said there nothing they can do its not to big.. they also said its not a safety issue.. i just saw on the news that they are recalling the cobalts for power steering, why are they not fixing them and they know the maxxs are having problems nothing has happened yet.. *tr
02/05/2010430001
 2004 chevy malibu maxx ls. the power steering goes out when traveling at slow speeds or stopped. this has happened 3 or 4 times. no acc or injury. power steering goes back on after turning off the ignition and restarting the car. this appears to be the same problem as the other gm autos that were recalled today, march 2, 2010. tsb's have been issued, but no recall. the incident date listed is approx the last time this happened. *tr
02/26/2010860001
 My 2004 chevy malibu maxx is showing the power steering needs fixed. i took it to a dealer and they said that i need to replace it right away. i am getting fixed now so that i do not have any more problems with the power steering. *tr
01/26/2010700001
 I have a 2004 chevy malibu maxx. on jan. 26, i got into the car. my check engine light came on and the information center said to check power steering. the steering was a little hard. my friend was going to check it when i got home. by the time i got home that night, the problem was not occurring and the lights were off. this has happened a couple times since. then today, 3/2/2010, i got in the car. it was very difficult to steer until about 15 mph. it was less difficult between 15 and 30 mph, and o.k., but not normal, over 30 mph. when i got to work, i had to move my car after a few minutes. when i got into it and moved it, the steering was fine. i am reporting this because of the similarity with the cobalt steering issue that has caused a recent recall. the symptoms sound exactly like the news reports, but the malibu isn't on the list yet. *tr
01/19/20101
 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. electric power steering failure. power steering has failed multiple times, especially under acceleration. vehicle extremely hard to steer. lights and warning bells go off on dash of vehicle. vehicle was taken to hudiburg chevrolet two times and they said there is nothing they could do to repair problem and did not even look at car. wanted to charge me just to look at it. vehicle was still under warranty at the time. *tr
10/17/2009850001
 Power steering failure. when i start car and making sharp turns, in addition to just driving down the road. here clicking in the front right end when going up hill. told by mechanic that it is a prob with the electric power steering system and rack and pinion. oddly enough there was and 2006 mailbu in at the same time with the same problem mechanic felt it should be a recall issue. also have issue with the turn signals failing i have replaced many times. i also have a hole that melted on the front right side in the plastic housing. *tr
01/13/20101
 On january 13, 2010, the warning, with little wrench lit, power steering came on the dash of my 2004 chevy malibu maxx. i am concerned that there may be further problems with the steering because just the day before, my son-in-law's 2006 chevy malibu sedan's steering quit while he was driving down the road. online research shows me that this is a prominent problem with the chevy malibu vehicles for which gm is not issuing a recall or fix. are they waiting for someone to be seriously injured or to die before acting? *tr
01/10/2010130000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu max. while driving 10 mph, the contact heard a clicking noise and then the power steering malfunctioned. the failure has occurred on three occasions while driving. the vehicle has not been diagnosed by a dealer. the contact is concerned about the safety risk and the potential that a crash could occur the contact feels the manufacturer should be responsible for the repairs. the failure mileage was 130,000.
01/04/2010450001
 Power steering failure with car. steering wheel would not move. almost causing an accident. *tr
12/18/2009700001
 Lost power steering. problem was resolved by turning car off waiting a minute and restarting. power steering then resumed normal operation. this has now happened on two occasion. no repairs have been made to this point. i have reviewed car forums and noted this appears a common problem in this model. it appears the steering column may need to be replaced. additionally when cold, the power steering now feels sluggish. *tr
12/17/2009934001
 2004 chevy malibu maxx failure of electric power steering while driving. when the car is shut off it resets itself but eventually comes back. *tr
11/02/2009555791
 I was driving my 2004 malibu maxx to work yesterday and my steering locked up on me while driving down a busy road during rush hour. the steering wheel pulled to left before locking up. i hope someone will force gm to recall this and fix this problem. there may have not yet been a death, but there will be in time. how many complaints need to be reported before this is taken seriously. my dealer had to completely replace the entire steering column and power steering motor. my car only has 55k miles on. this situation is extremely unsafe! do something about it!!! *tr
10/19/2004550001
 Power steering failed while car was being driven. dealership said steering column has to be replaced. the steering column was replaced at 14,000 miles because of a service bulletin. the car has less than 56,000 miles on it and repair cost is in excess of $550. major safety issue which has already been investigated. apparently gm has not found a reliable solution to the problem. this is a major safety issue and there should be a total recall of the 2004 malibu maxx. *tr
08/31/2009976001
 Loss of power steering assist while driving. this has happened twice. the power steering assist goes away and power steering is displayed on the driver information center. *tr
06/11/2009341
 Lost power steering every time engine goes over 2500 rpms and up. steering wheel will lock up and then you have no control, to make turns or to merge onto the freeway. due to this failure of steering i have had several close calls of being involved in a crash. *tr
07/26/20091050001
 While crossing intersection, power steering gave out. created potential head on collision with on-coming traffic. steering vehicle was very difficult. *tr
07/21/2009786731
 Power steering failure. this is the second occurrence of power steering column assembly failing. first one replaced under recall notification. currently at dealership waiting for new unit to be installed. *tr
07/18/2009780001
 While driving my car, the steering just froze up and made it difficult to handle. this incident nearly caused an accident on a heavily traveled road. this has happened twice in the course of four months and each time the car had to be taken to a shop and put on a diagnostic tester to find and clear default codes to make car drivable. this problem can happen at any time again and to repair it costs 600.00 . can you please help me? *tr
06/13/20091120001
 Pwr steering failed upon vehicle start-up. turned off car and restarted and pwr steering worked ok. was told by mechanic that there have been many problems with pwr steering failures on malibu's and that it is a significant safety issue that has cause numerous accidents. i had to pay $600 to repair (replace steering column and box) since gm would not cover it. (this is the 2nd time the steering column was replaced---the 1st time was covered by warranty.) *tr
06/22/2009900001
 I have a chevy malibu maxx. i was driving yesterday and the power steering completely broke without warning. it was extremely hard to turn the wheel at all. the power steering message came on the console. i stopped the car and waited a while and tried it again. right when i started the car, i had power steering, but within 60 seconds, it locked up again and the light came on. very dangerous situation. it is at a car place now to get fixed. *tr
05/11/2009530001
 Steering unit went on 2004 chevy malibu max while driving 65 mph on thruway and gm refuses to do anything about it. *tr
05/25/2009600001
 Turning left at a major intersection the power steering went dead. the orange service indicator came on, and power steering came on the center display. i was able to glide into a gas station parking lot. the service dept said the whole steering column would need to be replaced but i needed to have that done at a dealer. i had the car towed to the dealer who then found the car to be operational. there were error codes in the system but they are so far unable to recreate the problem. they will try again tomorrow but if they can't recreate it i am supposed to come pick up the car and drive it as normal. this is very serious as had it could have resulted in a bad accident had i not been going very slowly at the time. *tr
03/01/20091240001
 Driving in rush hour at 75mph, alarm chime came on, display says power steering, and orange light with a wrench. i lost power steering, and couldn't control my vehicle whatsoever. i ran into a ditch, crashed, and smashed the front end in. after doing research, this issue is common with many users of the same vehicle, but chevy never released a recall. they refused any damage costs citing my high mileage as an excuse to not pay for it. *tr
01/03/2009500001
 We own an 04 malibu maxx, at 50000 miles app the power steering went out. it stopped working on the highway .if you turn the car off and re start power steering returns. this is happening to more than people according to internet car forums, so why no recall? *tr
02/24/200930000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. shortly after starting the vehicle in the morning, the contact placed the gear into reverse. while driving 5 mph, she turned the steering wheel and it suddenly became locked. immediately after, the power steering and check engine indicators illuminated on the instrument panel. through online research, the contact found an investigation for the same issue (nhtsa action number ea04018 (steering:electric power assist system)). she has not yet taken the vehicle to the dealer, but believes that this investigation should have issued a recall. the current and failure mileages were 30,000.
05/09/2005240001
 I have had an ongoing complaint about a clunking noise in the steering wheel of my 2004 malibu maxx. almost as soon as i got the vehicle i felt a faint vibration in the steering wheel and have taken it to chevrolet on numerous occasions each time they claim they could not duplicate the problem. this knocking happens everytime i turn the steering wheel and it is getting louder and louder. now that it is out of warranty gm is telling me to once again go and have it diagnosed, which cost about $90 and they do not guarantee to fix it at no cost. i talked to a csr and she does not admit or admit to knowing about this problem. i referred to campaign # 04050a 12/2004 posted on your website. *tr
11/19/20081220001
 On my 2004 chevy malibu maxx, the power steering failed completely as i was driving yesterday. last month, the steering was stiff turning to the right. my dealer lubricated something and the problem seemed to be resolved. this is the third time that the parts were lubricated, however the complete failure came yesterday. it is extremely dangerous. my wife was driving and could not steer the car since the power steering shut off. i did contact my dealer who informed me that there was a recall for the 2004 chevy malibu (recall #7126) for this same problem, but my vin number was not one that was listed. according to my dealer, the entire steering column needs to be replaced, which was also the part replaced in the recall of the 2004 chevy malibu. my vehicle should definitely be added to the list of recalled vehicles since the power steering failure is an obvious design or part flaw that has already been recalled and replaced in similar models of the same production year. please advise. *tr
11/05/2008430001
 The power steering malfunctions, the wheel does not turn. the message center reads power steering, this has happened once a week for the past 4 weeks. took the car to the dealership but they could not find anything. the vehicle has approx. 40k miles. i googled this issue and seems this is a common issue with this vehicle and see that gm has not issued a fix. we already did the recall back in 2005 on the steering column. *tr
03/20/2006195574
 Tl*the contact's spouse owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving at various speeds and making a turn, the contact heard a clunking noise coming from the steering column. the vehicle has been to the dealer three times and they replaced the steering column under warranty, the ps gear, and the intermediate steering shaft; however, the clunking noise still persists. the current mileage was 45,523 and failure mileage was 19,557. updated 2/23/09 *cn updated 02/27/09. *jb
06/15/2008820001
 When driving, the power steering will jerk side to side and several times has completely failed making the vehicle extremely difficult to steer. the failure caused me to lose control on the interstate slamming me against the door of the vehicle, thankfully i was able to regain control although it was nearly impossible to steer. the driver information console displayed power steering. after doing some research i saw that there are hundreds if not thousands of people who have experienced the same failure. that is why i decided to file a complaint. *tr
07/01/2008602001
 I was traveling a straight section of i-75 going northbound that my power steering light came on. since i bought the car in 2007, i noticed a knocking noise in the engine section and never thought nothing of it, just thought as being ok. so i took my malibu to the dealership and they said that my 2004 malibu maxx steering column must be replaced. so i called another dealership and was told that there were previous recalls concerning the power steering. i notified gm of the problem and they offered to pay half of the costs which was $430 of an $860 project. i think they should pay all because its still considered a new used car. *tr
06/27/2008520001
 I own a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while driving on the nj garden state parkway, i heard an audible alarm and at the same time noticed a power steering read-out on the on the dic display. all this time i am feeling the tightness in the steering and realizing that i have lost the power steering on the vehicle. since then i have found that this loss is intermittent - it comes and goes with no prediction of when or where. i have also noticed that prior to the actually loss of ps, it seems that the system is losing control, i.e. trying to synchronize/stabilize before it fails. i have reported this to gm, who in term have suggested that i take it to the dealer for evaluation. when the problem occurs, it can be very scary. *tr
03/06/2008109/01/2004
 2004 chevy malibu maxx has major front end problem. hard to steer, always pulling hard to the right, seems like power steering is not working at times, clunking noise when stationary and turning wheels and when moving going over bumps. at 33k miles have been told the rack and pinion needs to be replaced. repairs haven't been done yet waiting on other estimates. *tr
01/01/200733000401/01/2007
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact stated that the vehicle veers to the right due to steering failure, the interior lights illuminate and dim at random, and the starter on the vehicle was malfunctioning. the failures generally occur while driving 35 mph. the main failure, however, is that the vehicle fails to start occasionally. when she starts the vehicle, it sounds as if it is attempting to engage, but never does. the vehicle also makes a cranking sound. the vehicle has been to the dealer approximately 8-10 times. the dealer will make a repair, but the failures always continue. the vin and engine size were unknown. the current mileage was 39,900 and failure mileage was 33,000.
10/20/200630000510/20/2006
 I went to the dealership and traded my saturn vue for the 2004 malibu maxx. when i test drove the car, after the acceleration reached 4rpms, there was a high pitched whine from the engine closest to the tire. they looked at it and said that it was a loose belt. so i bought the car and they said to bring it the chevy dealership to get it fixed. i took it in and they said they couldn't duplicate the problem so i had to ride with them. also, my seat heaters were turning on automatically, car constintly pulls to the right, i have to turn the key over for a long time to get the car to fully start up. they couldn't duplicate any of the problems so i am still dealing with all of them. for the whining noise, they said it is a drive belt that needs to be replaced, but it is out of stock. how convienient. *jb
07/08/20061
 My car makes a groaning or low growling sound when i turn the steering wheel. it seems that the hotter the weather is the more it growls and groans. *nm
06/15/200514000103/09/2004
 When slowing down and sometimes when accelerating there is a clunk sound from the bottom left of the steering column. at first we could hardly hear it and as the months passed on it got worse. brought it to the dealer on march 31, 2004. they said gm is aware of the problem and are manufacturing parts to repair the defect. they gave me a gm document with id#1764730 and stating that the part will be available in the second quarter. i think i may have a lemon because earlier the power steering stopped and they replaced the whole steering system. it is now five months since i have been to the dealer and i have not heard anything. the car now sounds like the front end is going to fall off whenever we slow down and it sounds very dangerous. the car does not have more than 23,000 miles, which i consider fairly new, and sounds like it has 500,000 miles on it. my wife and i are both in our 60's and believe me we are not hot rodders. please help us to solve this problem. *nm
12/02/2005506/15/2004
 On december 2, 2005 i was traveling to work using my typical route highway 74 also known as the ortega highway when coming to a sharp and narrow curve my brake pedal did not work and my steering was locked. i was not able to control the direction of my vehicle as a result the vehicle merged to on coming traffic and tumbled four times . *nm
01/01/1901100001
 Chevrolet malibu 2004, steering going out. consumer concern about recall for this problem . *bf the vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to find the cause of the vehicle steering problem *nm
03/24/20051900209/25/2004
 Occurence #1: with less than 2000 mi on vehicle, it lost power steering while driving. the message came on the console. towed to dealer who replaced steering column. occurrence #2: with approx. 5000 mi on vehicle lost power steering when in reverse exiting parking space. dash light went on as well as console message. towed to dealer. *ak
01/23/200531211
 While driving on an icy roadway on a downhill left cruve i felt the steering unexpectedly stiffen up as if the car had stalled. by the time i applied enough pressure to compensate the car started to veer to the left, and would not recover. it crashed and rolled over. also, the air bags did not deploy until we were hanging upside down, even though the car hit hard in the front. also only the two front air bags deployed not the side or curtain bags. the car was a total loss. *ak
11/12/2004407/11/2004
 As my family and i were driving down the road in our new malibu maxx the check engine light came on and the radio stated power steering. i tried to steer the maxx but it had no power steering. i stopped turned the car off and restarted it and it started working. i called the dealer and they said that they were having major trouble with the new malibu's electric assist steering. they replaced the column and motor. that lasted about three months. i was driving down a major interstate early on a sunday morning when the power steering went out again. this time severely jerking the steering wheel to the left pushing me into the left lane of traffic. had this been my wife on her way to work monday morning in heavy traffic on this interstate there would have been a terrible accident. we are now on the third steering column, now the heating and defrost control unit is bad, leaving us with no heat or defrost. not to mention the rear seatbelt got stuck and wouldn't move. all but the heating control have been fixed (at dealer now) but where will it stop???? my family works for gm and i think i will buy a ford!!!!!!!! gm better stand up and admit there is a problem! ea04018_cat *jb
01/21/200525303/18/2004
 Car had left pulling problem at delivery. seller suggested car have 1000+ miles before attempting alignment. car repaired at another in-town dealer under warranty. within 6-8 mos., problem set in again, especially noticeable simply cruising for hours at highway speed. (no torque steer or country crown roads.) after 3 hour drive, complained to selling dealer who replaced sensor (which required new column and reprogramming several microprocessors according to most recent bulletins.) car seemed fine for 1-2 months. again, steering seems not to center accurately, and generally pulls left. tires been rotated, balanced, w/good pressure, etc. since i drive typically left lane with left had (right hand on cell phone or materials) i now suffer tennis elbow and have had to favor my left--been wearing splints/elbow braces for 3 weeks. used gm satisfaction procedure to talk to zone rep. dealer ops mgr calls me and because i alluded to discomfort and mentioned keeping a paper trail for my attorney, the zone rep refuses to speak or act upon the matter until we have initiated our legal action! i just asked them to fix or replace the car, which i use daily for business. now i've been challenged to a legal tussle, and the car isn't right. *jb
01/14/2005201/31/2004
 I was driving in traffic when suddenly without warning a warning cam across the message screen saying power steering and the service light turned on. i had lost all power steering. i was able to manually force the vehicle over to the side. i turned off the car and restarted it. when i restarted the vehicle the warnings disappeared and power staring working fine until about 5-10 minutes later, about less than a 1/4 mile traveled power steering went out again. i contacted my dealers service department and the service person there new instantly what it was and he said that the steering column had to be replaced. *jb
01/13/20059200107/13/2004
 I was turning right onto a street and the car died. i turned it back on and everything seemed fine. i then turned into my office parking garage and as i was going down one of the levels i noticed the steering acting strange. it felt like it was loose or not catching. i went a little further and the power steering went completely out. i had an extremely hard time getting into a parking space but i did. later in the morning when a tow truck came to pick up the car, i got in and started the car and the power steering was working. i let the tow truck take the car to the dealership since i was concerned about the power steering going out and the car dying. it is as the dealership at this time. *jb
06/14/20043000503/16/2004
 Power steering went out while driving. consumer took vehicle to the dealer on 5 occasions, but dealer was unable to resolve the problem. *ak the service engine soon light illuminated. *tc *jb
12/13/200410400501/31/2004
 Electric power steering (eps) failure...eps would fail (quit working) leaving driver to attempt to steer vehicle without any eps assist...a very difficult task and a critical safety defect that easily leads to loss of control of the vehicle.*ak ea04018_cat
12/03/200461001
 On dec. 3, 2004 i was turning into my place of employment when my steering wheel completely locked up the service soon light was on and my car was dinging. i had to brake quickly or i wouldnt have gone right into the corner of a church. i quickly restarted the vehicle, which restarted the power steering, but this could be very dangerous. i called chevy and they towed my car and i received a loner vehicle. they had the repair done fairly quick and said they had to replaced the steering column. i looked on this sight and noticed multiple complaints about this issue. i am just concerned on why there hasnt been a recall?? i know this could cause serious injuries and something that could possibly cause injury or death should have already been recalled after this many occurrences. *jb ea04018_cat
11/18/20044279108/18/2004
 Recently urchased da 04 chec malibu. three weeks ago the power steering ailed...with no steering whatsoever!. car was towed to dealer. dealer fixedproblem and stated that no one has experienced this before. not true according to this web site. the vehicle should be recalled before someone gets killed. *ak ea04018_cat
11/20/20046422305/24/2004
 Here the latest on the steering problems on my 2004 maxx lt which is fully loaded: 1st visit to service: yellow wrench light on and steering locked up while driving my 2 year old and my wife. 2nd visit to service: earlier replaced steering column, gave me the car back. problem now was that i couldn't even turn the steering wheel left only right. 3rd visit to service: when i accelerate the steering wheel turns left as far as about 10 o'clock on clock for example. i test it out without holding the wheel just to see what happens and i tested it out on 10 different streets where all of them are flat. what would you in my case? would you ask for an exchange or would you allow them to fix it for a 3rd time and risk possible more problems? it has 6,900 miles on it and in perfect shape.*ak ea04018_cat
11/10/20043700108/01/2004
 While driving, vehicle lost power steering. consumer took the vehicle back to the dealer, and was told that the parts were on back order, and there was no date as to when the parts would be made available. *ak ea04018_cat steering became difficult in the vehicle. *tc
11/10/20046050108/18/2004
 2004 chevy maxx power steering light came on and lost power steering. was doing approx. 35 mph on a corner at the time. pulled off road turn off the ignition. turned ignition back on and steering came back. ea04018_cat
10/05/200412738301/19/2004
 Power steering fails while driving. can ot steer the vehilclevery very hard, older people would not be able to steer.. stop and shut the engine off and restart light goes out and steering works fine until next time.*ak ea04018_cat
10/01/2004108/31/2004
 (1) grinding noise from front of car when turning wheel (2) having to take 1 hour off of work to have it looked at by a dealer fear of it not being safe to drive. *ak (3) the front steering component needs replaced. it will take at least a week to get the part in. (1) rear defrost does not work (2) not able to see out of the back window in the morning. (3) will be looked at when car is in for steering unit to be replaced. (1) weak start up (2) embarrassing when owning a new car with only 1600 miles on it. (3) will be looked at with other problems.
09/17/20042400208/09/2004
 While driving, the power steering failed. the warning light illuminated, letting the consumer know that the power steering failed which made it very hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair. this was the first time it has happened. *ak ea04018_cat the steering column had been replaced and there had been no recurrence. *sc
07/12/20041
 While driving 5 mph or less and making a left turn consumer noticed dashboard indicator lights flashing. then, lost power steering. *ak ea04018_cat
02/21/20041379302/02/2004
 When the vehicle was started with the remote control dashboard components failed to function when the key was turned in the ignition. the vehicle was taken to the dealership the following day a diagnostic test was performed, but no failure codes were found. the failure recurred 4 months later while turning into a parking space. also, the steering column locked up. when this occurred, the instrument panel read steering column assistance needed. the consumer then turned the vehicle off, then back on. the vehicle started, but the steering wheel wouldn't move. the steering wheel unlocked when the vehicle was restarted 20 minutes later. the vehicle was taken back to the dealership the following day. the service person indicated that there was a technical service bulletin on this issue, and ordered a new steering column to be installed. the consumer was instructed not to drive the vehicle out of town, in addition, while driving at 1379 miles, the consumer smelled a strong fuel odor. this occurred because the fuel line clip came off, and fuel was leaking. the dealership reinstalled the fuel clip because it wasn't properly installed at factory. *ak ea04018_cat *sc
06/19/20044450104/10/2004
 Complete loss of power steering, while driveing at freeway speeds (65 mph). *ak pe04031_cat
STEERING - COLUMN
06/24/200850000
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while backing out of the driveway at approximately 5 mph, the power steering assist locked, which prevented the steering wheel from being turned. the contact turned off and restarted the vehicle. the failure has occurred twice since the initial failure. he took the vehicle to the dealer and they stated that the sensor was faulty, and recommended that the steering column be replaced. the contact would be responsible for the repair costs. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure mileage was 50,000 and current mileage was 50,020.
08/16/200751206202/24/2004
 February 2005 steering column replaced due to failure, prior to recall issued (15,050 miles). february 2007 rack and pinion system replaced due to thunking noise when turning left (45,380 miles). thunking noise returned in august 2007, this time noise was caused by steering shaft, which was replaced (51,206 miles). *tr
02/01/2006180001
 Took maxx to dealer for clicking noise in steering column and thumping noise in rear of vehicle upon deceleration. was advised that the clicking noise had been reported before but no fix was available as of yet from gm. also was advised that thumping noise was the hatch. they adjusted the hatch so poorly that now it doesn't close all the way and of course the thumping noise is still there. took car back (third time) and had service manager ride with me until he acknowledged the thumping noise in addition to the click in steering column. left maxx in service so the could re-adjust the hatch to where it was. car has been to service now three times for this issue, a total of 14 days. maxx has also been in to service for intermittent weak start. service could not duplicate it. *nm
01/14/2005201/31/2004
 I was driving in traffic when suddenly without warning a warning cam across the message screen saying power steering and the service light turned on. i had lost all power steering. i was able to manually force the vehicle over to the side. i turned off the car and restarted it. when i restarted the vehicle the warnings disappeared and power staring working fine until about 5-10 minutes later, about less than a 1/4 mile traveled power steering went out again. i contacted my dealers service department and the service person there new instantly what it was and he said that the steering column had to be replaced. *jb
11/20/20046422305/24/2004
 Here the latest on the steering problems on my 2004 maxx lt which is fully loaded: 1st visit to service: yellow wrench light on and steering locked up while driving my 2 year old and my wife. 2nd visit to service: earlier replaced steering column, gave me the car back. problem now was that i couldn't even turn the steering wheel left only right. 3rd visit to service: when i accelerate the steering wheel turns left as far as about 10 o'clock on clock for example. i test it out without holding the wheel just to see what happens and i tested it out on 10 different streets where all of them are flat. what would you in my case? would you ask for an exchange or would you allow them to fix it for a 3rd time and risk possible more problems? it has 6,900 miles on it and in perfect shape.*ak ea04018_cat
STEERING - COLUMN LOCKING - ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
02/21/20041379302/02/2004
 When the vehicle was started with the remote control dashboard components failed to function when the key was turned in the ignition. the vehicle was taken to the dealership the following day a diagnostic test was performed, but no failure codes were found. the failure recurred 4 months later while turning into a parking space. also, the steering column locked up. when this occurred, the instrument panel read steering column assistance needed. the consumer then turned the vehicle off, then back on. the vehicle started, but the steering wheel wouldn't move. the steering wheel unlocked when the vehicle was restarted 20 minutes later. the vehicle was taken back to the dealership the following day. the service person indicated that there was a technical service bulletin on this issue, and ordered a new steering column to be installed. the consumer was instructed not to drive the vehicle out of town, in addition, while driving at 1379 miles, the consumer smelled a strong fuel odor. this occurred because the fuel line clip came off, and fuel was leaking. the dealership reinstalled the fuel clip because it wasn't properly installed at factory. *ak ea04018_cat *sc
STEERING - ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
03/18/200880700110/12/2004
 Three weeks ago, noticed something was wrong with steering on 2004 malibu max. took it to the dealership and was told nothing was wrong. on march 18th the steering failed and fortunately we were going slow and go through the intersection into a parking lot avoiding accident. car was towed to dealership who now stated the lower electronic assembly of the steering failed. we were fortunate that the steering failed while going slow and able to put the car in a position to be towed. total repair cost $675. in all my years i have never had a steering fail and this is a safety issue. i understand parts wear out, but this is bad when it is not able to be diagnosed until complete failure. *tr
02/28/200860315105/22/2004
 Driving on a straight road, lost power steering. was able to pull into a parking lot without the power steering. turned off the ignition and restarted engine. power steering returned and i was able to drive to the dealership where the steering column was replaced. *tr
11/07/200737000111/01/2007
 Tl*the contact is co-owner of a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact's daughter was driving approximately 55 mph when the instrument panel lights began to flicker and there was a loss of steering power. the vehicle veered to the right and then pulled hard to the left, entering into traffic and striking two vehicles. the passenger and driver of the vehicle sustained minor injuries. the two other drivers also sustained injuries, but the contact does not know to what extent. a police report was filed. the vehicle sustained approximately $2,600 worth of damage to the front end. the vehicle was inspected by the insurance company and towed to a dealer. investigation number ea04018 was issued, but there has been no recall as of yet. the current and failure mileages were 37,000. updated 12-12-07. *kb
10/07/200729058306/26/2005
 Noise in the steering. *jb
05/19/2004500804/13/2004
 Bought a malibu lt maxx in apr 04, encountered steering wheel problems several. the worst was that it locked my steering wheel while driving on the hwy 401. i had to come to a complete stop in the middle of the hwy to re-start my engine to try my lucky to get back the steering power. i have the problem till now and yet unsolved. no choice but to get into a new car now, just to advise being kill on the road. *jb
08/17/200624000309/28/2004
 2004 malibu maxx. have lost power steering 3x's. this is the electric power assist system that needs to be changed/fixed, not putting in a new part that is the same as the old one. very annoyed. *jb
08/08/200641268609/27/2005
 Making slow left hand turn, vehicle lost power steering. power steering warning light came on and on board display listed issue as power steering. shut off vehicle and restarted. power steering was regained. contacted dealer and was notified recall for this issue was not in effect for the vin number listed for my vehicle, but any issue that warranted a recall of the models due to the same defect. *jb
03/24/20051900209/25/2004
 Occurence #1: with less than 2000 mi on vehicle, it lost power steering while driving. the message came on the console. towed to dealer who replaced steering column. occurrence #2: with approx. 5000 mi on vehicle lost power steering when in reverse exiting parking space. dash light went on as well as console message. towed to dealer. *ak
01/23/200531211
 While driving on an icy roadway on a downhill left cruve i felt the steering unexpectedly stiffen up as if the car had stalled. by the time i applied enough pressure to compensate the car started to veer to the left, and would not recover. it crashed and rolled over. also, the air bags did not deploy until we were hanging upside down, even though the car hit hard in the front. also only the two front air bags deployed not the side or curtain bags. the car was a total loss. *ak
11/12/2004407/11/2004
 As my family and i were driving down the road in our new malibu maxx the check engine light came on and the radio stated power steering. i tried to steer the maxx but it had no power steering. i stopped turned the car off and restarted it and it started working. i called the dealer and they said that they were having major trouble with the new malibu's electric assist steering. they replaced the column and motor. that lasted about three months. i was driving down a major interstate early on a sunday morning when the power steering went out again. this time severely jerking the steering wheel to the left pushing me into the left lane of traffic. had this been my wife on her way to work monday morning in heavy traffic on this interstate there would have been a terrible accident. we are now on the third steering column, now the heating and defrost control unit is bad, leaving us with no heat or defrost. not to mention the rear seatbelt got stuck and wouldn't move. all but the heating control have been fixed (at dealer now) but where will it stop???? my family works for gm and i think i will buy a ford!!!!!!!! gm better stand up and admit there is a problem! ea04018_cat *jb
01/21/200525303/18/2004
 Car had left pulling problem at delivery. seller suggested car have 1000+ miles before attempting alignment. car repaired at another in-town dealer under warranty. within 6-8 mos., problem set in again, especially noticeable simply cruising for hours at highway speed. (no torque steer or country crown roads.) after 3 hour drive, complained to selling dealer who replaced sensor (which required new column and reprogramming several microprocessors according to most recent bulletins.) car seemed fine for 1-2 months. again, steering seems not to center accurately, and generally pulls left. tires been rotated, balanced, w/good pressure, etc. since i drive typically left lane with left had (right hand on cell phone or materials) i now suffer tennis elbow and have had to favor my left--been wearing splints/elbow braces for 3 weeks. used gm satisfaction procedure to talk to zone rep. dealer ops mgr calls me and because i alluded to discomfort and mentioned keeping a paper trail for my attorney, the zone rep refuses to speak or act upon the matter until we have initiated our legal action! i just asked them to fix or replace the car, which i use daily for business. now i've been challenged to a legal tussle, and the car isn't right. *jb
01/14/2005201/31/2004
 I was driving in traffic when suddenly without warning a warning cam across the message screen saying power steering and the service light turned on. i had lost all power steering. i was able to manually force the vehicle over to the side. i turned off the car and restarted it. when i restarted the vehicle the warnings disappeared and power staring working fine until about 5-10 minutes later, about less than a 1/4 mile traveled power steering went out again. i contacted my dealers service department and the service person there new instantly what it was and he said that the steering column had to be replaced. *jb
01/13/20059200107/13/2004
 I was turning right onto a street and the car died. i turned it back on and everything seemed fine. i then turned into my office parking garage and as i was going down one of the levels i noticed the steering acting strange. it felt like it was loose or not catching. i went a little further and the power steering went completely out. i had an extremely hard time getting into a parking space but i did. later in the morning when a tow truck came to pick up the car, i got in and started the car and the power steering was working. i let the tow truck take the car to the dealership since i was concerned about the power steering going out and the car dying. it is as the dealership at this time. *jb
06/14/20043000503/16/2004
 Power steering went out while driving. consumer took vehicle to the dealer on 5 occasions, but dealer was unable to resolve the problem. *ak the service engine soon light illuminated. *tc *jb
12/13/200410400501/31/2004
 Electric power steering (eps) failure...eps would fail (quit working) leaving driver to attempt to steer vehicle without any eps assist...a very difficult task and a critical safety defect that easily leads to loss of control of the vehicle.*ak ea04018_cat
12/03/200461001
 On dec. 3, 2004 i was turning into my place of employment when my steering wheel completely locked up the service soon light was on and my car was dinging. i had to brake quickly or i wouldnt have gone right into the corner of a church. i quickly restarted the vehicle, which restarted the power steering, but this could be very dangerous. i called chevy and they towed my car and i received a loner vehicle. they had the repair done fairly quick and said they had to replaced the steering column. i looked on this sight and noticed multiple complaints about this issue. i am just concerned on why there hasnt been a recall?? i know this could cause serious injuries and something that could possibly cause injury or death should have already been recalled after this many occurrences. *jb ea04018_cat
11/18/20044279108/18/2004
 Recently urchased da 04 chec malibu. three weeks ago the power steering ailed...with no steering whatsoever!. car was towed to dealer. dealer fixedproblem and stated that no one has experienced this before. not true according to this web site. the vehicle should be recalled before someone gets killed. *ak ea04018_cat
11/20/20046422305/24/2004
 Here the latest on the steering problems on my 2004 maxx lt which is fully loaded: 1st visit to service: yellow wrench light on and steering locked up while driving my 2 year old and my wife. 2nd visit to service: earlier replaced steering column, gave me the car back. problem now was that i couldn't even turn the steering wheel left only right. 3rd visit to service: when i accelerate the steering wheel turns left as far as about 10 o'clock on clock for example. i test it out without holding the wheel just to see what happens and i tested it out on 10 different streets where all of them are flat. what would you in my case? would you ask for an exchange or would you allow them to fix it for a 3rd time and risk possible more problems? it has 6,900 miles on it and in perfect shape.*ak ea04018_cat
11/10/20043700108/01/2004
 While driving, vehicle lost power steering. consumer took the vehicle back to the dealer, and was told that the parts were on back order, and there was no date as to when the parts would be made available. *ak ea04018_cat steering became difficult in the vehicle. *tc
11/10/20046050108/18/2004
 2004 chevy maxx power steering light came on and lost power steering. was doing approx. 35 mph on a corner at the time. pulled off road turn off the ignition. turned ignition back on and steering came back. ea04018_cat
10/05/200412738301/19/2004
 Power steering fails while driving. can ot steer the vehilclevery very hard, older people would not be able to steer.. stop and shut the engine off and restart light goes out and steering works fine until next time.*ak ea04018_cat
10/01/2004108/31/2004
 (1) grinding noise from front of car when turning wheel (2) having to take 1 hour off of work to have it looked at by a dealer fear of it not being safe to drive. *ak (3) the front steering component needs replaced. it will take at least a week to get the part in. (1) rear defrost does not work (2) not able to see out of the back window in the morning. (3) will be looked at when car is in for steering unit to be replaced. (1) weak start up (2) embarrassing when owning a new car with only 1600 miles on it. (3) will be looked at with other problems.
09/17/20042400208/09/2004
 While driving, the power steering failed. the warning light illuminated, letting the consumer know that the power steering failed which made it very hard to steer. the vehicle was taken to the dealership for repair. this was the first time it has happened. *ak ea04018_cat the steering column had been replaced and there had been no recurrence. *sc
07/12/20041
 While driving 5 mph or less and making a left turn consumer noticed dashboard indicator lights flashing. then, lost power steering. *ak ea04018_cat
02/21/20041379302/02/2004
 When the vehicle was started with the remote control dashboard components failed to function when the key was turned in the ignition. the vehicle was taken to the dealership the following day a diagnostic test was performed, but no failure codes were found. the failure recurred 4 months later while turning into a parking space. also, the steering column locked up. when this occurred, the instrument panel read steering column assistance needed. the consumer then turned the vehicle off, then back on. the vehicle started, but the steering wheel wouldn't move. the steering wheel unlocked when the vehicle was restarted 20 minutes later. the vehicle was taken back to the dealership the following day. the service person indicated that there was a technical service bulletin on this issue, and ordered a new steering column to be installed. the consumer was instructed not to drive the vehicle out of town, in addition, while driving at 1379 miles, the consumer smelled a strong fuel odor. this occurred because the fuel line clip came off, and fuel was leaking. the dealership reinstalled the fuel clip because it wasn't properly installed at factory. *ak ea04018_cat *sc
06/19/20044450104/10/2004
 Complete loss of power steering, while driveing at freeway speeds (65 mph). *ak pe04031_cat
STEERING - HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
04/02/200861000109/01/2004
 Took car in for semi annual service, car is just off warranty (105,000 km aprox 62000 miles). service light for the power steering came on, but no loss in steering. was told that the steering column needs to be replaced, but until failure happens, leave it because it is a costly repair. this seems to be a common failure and should be addressed by the company and not the consumer. i have no problems paying for repairs, but this seems to be a safety hazard. *tr
02/14/200861000111/22/2004
 Steering goes out. just driving down the road and steering failed. i could not turn the wheel. i am past the warranty and three different stories from three different people. it sounds like this is a known defect. *tr
05/11/200751400105/01/2005
 Tl*the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. while attempting to make a left turn at 35 mph, the vehicle's steering wheel felt loose, as if it could keep turning nonstop. however, the contact had difficulty when turning the wheel to the right. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the motor inside the steering column failed and was a very common failure. the current and failure mileages were 51,400. the consumer states the vehicle was repaired. the consumer stated wants to reimbursed for repairs. updated 06/06/07 *tr
08/16/2006289291
 2004 chevrolet malibu max steering failed making the vehicle undriveable. rear hatchback door is rusting. *kb when the steering failed the vehicle was towed 38 miles tot he consumer's home. the rear hatch molding clips and gaskets failed to prevent salt induced swirl rust
12/21/200411406301/12/2004
 1. power steering failure 2. noise in steering 3. noise in steering steering column was replaced in each incident, now making clunking noise again. dealer said its normal characteristic of vehicle. noise is getting worse. *nm
03/05/200624000109/09/2004
 In warm weather, when making low speed turns, power steering makes groaning, popping sounds, and occasionally stutters. afraid that steering might fail completely. *nm
02/26/200615500707/15/2004
 Own 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. power steering fails ocassionally. presents dangerous situation upon failure. steering column was replaced one week ago but problem remains. *nm
12/30/200520850103/25/2005
 While driving the vehicle i lost all power steering. i was pulling out of a parking lot across 3 lanes of traffic. a sensor light came on and i could not turn the wheel. i was able to put the car in reverse and back into the lot. i turned off my car and when i turned it back on my power steering was back. *jb
12/02/200550000106/01/2004
 Dt: the contact stated the brakes and steering malfunctioned, resulting in an accident. the steering locked up while attempting to make a right turn. prior to this incident she heard a squeaking noise in the brakes. she took the car to a mechanic, and was told brakes were in good working condition. she has not contacted the dealership. a police report was taken. . the contact suffered a concussion, and had nerve damage. *ak updated 12/30/05. *jb
01/13/20059200107/13/2004
 I was turning right onto a street and the car died. i turned it back on and everything seemed fine. i then turned into my office parking garage and as i was going down one of the levels i noticed the steering acting strange. it felt like it was loose or not catching. i went a little further and the power steering went completely out. i had an extremely hard time getting into a parking space but i did. later in the morning when a tow truck came to pick up the car, i got in and started the car and the power steering was working. i let the tow truck take the car to the dealership since i was concerned about the power steering going out and the car dying. it is as the dealership at this time. *jb
STEERING - LINKAGES - TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
06/28/2007408/16/2004
 Car leased brand new in august 2004. as of today on une 28,2007 car had brakes repaired 4 times at the dealer. rotors have been machined each time, and today brake pads replaced..car has 27,180 miles on it, and it has been maintained,garaged, kept, and no one has been rough on the brakes. the last time we had the car to dealer for brake problems was july of last year. at that time we were told that a brake line was crimped and only found it because we were having tires rotated. also, told that this was the last time rotors could be machined. well today they machined them once again as i had said previously for the fourth time. i did some research ,and i may be wrong but there was a recall on the car for abs problems in april 2004 prior to our purchase of the car.. i called gm , and was told that our car was involved, but was later told by owner of dealership that there had been a communication error and our car was involved in another recall concerning seat belts or something along those lines. i am very concerned about the safety of the brakes at this point after so many conflicting stories..i feel very frustated, and had to spend almost $500.00 because the brake pads were not covered under the bumper to bumper warranty as they had nothing to do with the previous rotor/brakeline problems or so i was told..we had computor sensor problems,short sockets on both real turn signals, loose tie rod, ignition problems ,which they could not detect..faulty gas cap etc. *ak
STEERING - RACK AND PINION
07/08/20081
 The part in question is the rack and pinion assembly part # 25902150 of a chevy malibu maxx 2004. the first part was replaced july 8 2008, that part failed and was replaced again on october 3 2008. that part is now failed again and it has not been 3 moths since it was replaced. so the part has failed by making extreme noise, clicking or thumping heard in the front end. my mechanic told me that the gm dealer that provided the part told him they keep many in stock because they have this problem a lot. my mechanic also tells me that gm refused to pay his labor cost even though they admitted the part failure in such a short time. my mechanic tells me that not replacing the part can result in my losing control of my vehicle and possibly at risk of causing serious injury to me or others. *tr
04/01/2008607461
 Car has had rattle noise from front end since car was bought from a chevy dealership with 32k on it. the car currently has 61k on it. steering rack has worn to the point where it jams and the wheel will not turn. rattle noise has turned in to clunking noise. when car was brought to dealer 3 times for noise it was returned no problems found. *tr
01/05/200560007
 Gear shift locked up and would not move. had to be towed to dealer for repair. front turn lights constantly loose connection and go out. have replaced them on average every three months. within 6 mo of purchase, steering felt loose and would lock up a slow speed turns. steering column was replaced. at the same time, thumping can be heard with left hand turns. dealer says the problem is recognized by chevrolet and is a design defect of the rack and pinion, but chevrolet says they have no reports of the problem. the shop just greases the rack and pinion and sends me on my way. after the 5th time of having in the shop and chevy refusing to do anything but give me free oil changes, i have traded in the car for a ford. *jb
02/27/200740000102/25/2004
 Around 40,000 miles on odometer, a thunk could be heard when turning steering wheel left. dealership where car was purchased could not determine cause. at 45,000 miles on odometer, took vehicle to 2nd dealership who knew of a technical bulletin - rack and pinion steering unit was failing. *jb
02/15/20057163206/05/2004
 Noisy, grinding sound + stiffness in steering. have had to dealer (john kennedy chevrolet, southampton, pa) 3 times beginning 2/15. 1st diagnosis: underinflated tires. result: no change. 2nd diagnosis: worn steering column. action: replaced column. result: no change. 3rd diagnosis: problem with steering rack. action: replace rack. result: no change. this problem only happens when the air temperature is warm (won't happen on a cool morning, but is present after sitting in the sun all day). it seems that when the metal heats up, it expands & causes binding. *ak
STEERING - RACK AND PINION - PINION SHAFT
08/10/200739455109/27/2004
 Steering went on car while driving . not involved in accident brought to dealers and had to get whole new steering column put in , but i had to pay for the balancing and rotation of the tires. that was the steering column's fault. *tr
08/16/200751206202/24/2004
 February 2005 steering column replaced due to failure, prior to recall issued (15,050 miles). february 2007 rack and pinion system replaced due to thunking noise when turning left (45,380 miles). thunking noise returned in august 2007, this time noise was caused by steering shaft, which was replaced (51,206 miles). *tr
02/23/2006330001
 Dt*: the contact stated while the vehicle was in motion at any speed, there is a clunking noise in the steering shaft. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection and repair. however, after the vehicle was inspected and the dealer determined the problem was the steering shaft, the dealer informed the contact currently no repairs could be made to the vehicle. this was due to the manufacturer not having a remedy or tsb to the problem, but they were aware the problem existed. the dealer recommended the contact should continue driving the vehicle and no repairs were made.
STEERING - WHEEL AND HANDLE BAR
01/25/2005108/01/2004
 Dt: the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet malibu maxx. the contact states that she has a dislocation of the sc joint, sternum and the collar bone. caused by telescoping of the steering wheel. the manufacturer stated that she would be receiving a call, and caller explained to them that she could not be reached until after 5:30 pm. she spoke to a lot of people, and many of them very rude because she could not be reached until after 5 pm and that was all they could tell her because it was after gm business hours. *ak