Chevrolet Recall 16V-521: Hybrid propulsion system

Affected: 2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. Filed with NHTSA on July 8, 2016, covering about 534 vehicles.

The problem

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016 Malibu Hybrid vehicles manufactured October 27, 2015, to June 3, 2016. The affected vehicles have a shut-off switch for the high voltage battery for use when servicing the vehicle. This manual service disconnect switch (MSD) may not be properly installed and thus may not lock into position, unexpectedly disconnecting the high-voltage power while driving, effectively stalling the vehicle.

The risk

A vehicle stall increases the risk of a crash.

The fix

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the MSD and correct the installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 51230.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign16V-521 (16V521000)
Manufacturer number51230
ManufacturerGeneral Motors, LLC
ComponentHybrid propulsion system
Report dateJuly 8, 2016
Owners notifiedAugust 10, 2016
Vehicles affected534
Initiated byManufacturer

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 16V-521 repair free?

Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the MSD and correct the installation, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on August 10, 2016. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 51230.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 534 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.