The problem
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles manufactured March 7, 2016, through March 12, 2016. The memory chip in the electronic brake control module (EBCM) may fail and cause the loss of electronically controlled brake systems including anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC). As such, these vehicles fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems."
The risk
If the EBCM fails the primary braking system will still function, however, the loss of ABS and ESC increase the risk of a crash.
The fix
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a replacement EBCM, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020). GM's number for this recall is 39440.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 16V-272 (16V272000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 39440 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Electronic stability control (ESC) |
| Report date | May 5, 2016 |
| Owners notified | June 17, 2016 |
| Vehicles affected | 66 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the stability & traction control
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 16V-272 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a replacement EBCM, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020). GM's number for this recall is 39440.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 66 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.