Recall 16V272 affects 66 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles for EBCM memory-chip failure that disables ABS and ESC. Repair is free at any franchised Chevrolet dealer.
Chevrolet is recalling 66 2016 Malibu sedans because the electronic brake control module memory chip can fail and shut off anti-lock braking and electronic stability control while normal braking remains. Loss of those systems increases crash risk, and Chevrolet dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The electronic brake control module on the 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is the computer that helps manage electronically controlled brake functions. It supports systems such as anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control, which help the vehicle keep traction and directional control during braking or a loss of grip. The base hydraulic brakes are separate and still apply braking force when the module is not working.
On affected Malibu vehicles, the supplier reused electronic brake control modules that had failed and should have been scrapped. Those modules were reflashed with an unapproved tool, and the memory chip did not write voltage values correctly. When that memory fails, the vehicle loses the electronically controlled brake systems, including ABS and ESC, even though the primary braking system still works.
If the module fails, the driver information center will tell the driver to service stability control, traction control, or both. The ABS, ESC, and service brake system warning lights will also turn on.
Who's affected?
| 2016 Chevrolet Malibu | Electronic stability control (esc) |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 66 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
Not every 2016 Chevrolet Malibu sedan is on the list. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific sedan is included.
What's the safety risk?
Primary braking still works if the EBCM fails, but ABS and ESC stop helping the driver control braking and stability, which increases the risk of a crash. Watch for service stability control, traction control, ABS, ESC, or service brake system warnings. Schedule the repair soon. Repair is free at any franchised Chevrolet dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Chevrolet dealer to schedule the free EBCM replacement that restores ABS and ESC control.
- Bring the recall notice if Chevrolet sent one. If not, reference recall number 16V272 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete. Leave extra following distance and avoid hard braking.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Chevrolet technician installs a replacement electronic brake control module, the EBCM that helps control ABS and electronic stability control. The recall repair is free, with parts and labor covered. Reimbursement is not offered as a separate program for this campaign because all covered vehicles were under warranty. If you already have paperwork for a related brake control repair, ask the service desk how the existing warranty applies to that prior work.
| Reimbursement | Warranty coverage applies |
|---|
Timeline
| May 4, 2016 | Dealer notification began |
|---|---|
| May 4, 2016 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 5, 2016 | NHTSA published the recall |
| June 17, 2016 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 16V272?
Recall 16V272 covers 66 2016 Chevrolet Malibu vehicles with an electronic brake control module memory-chip defect. If the EBCM fails, the primary brakes still work, but anti-lock braking and electronic stability control are lost, increasing crash risk. Chevrolet dealers replace the EBCM for free.
What should I do if my 2016 Chevrolet Malibu is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Malibu is included in recall 16V272. If it is, contact a franchised Chevrolet dealer to schedule the electronic brake control module replacement. Reference recall number 16V272 or GM recall number 39440 when you call. The repair is free.
Does the recall repair cost anything?
No. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost, and Chevrolet dealers will install a replacement electronic brake control module free of charge. Parts and labor are covered for vehicles included in recall 16V272.
Is it safe to drive a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu with this recall?
The primary braking system still functions if the EBCM fails, but anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control are lost. That loss increases crash risk. Check your VIN first, then schedule the free EBCM replacement with a Chevrolet dealer if your vehicle is included.
What if I bought my Chevrolet Malibu used?
The free recall repair still applies. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to honor safety recalls regardless of ownership history. Check your VIN to confirm whether your specific Malibu is included, then call a franchised Chevrolet dealer with recall number 16V272.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/16V272000 |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet customer service | 1-800-222-1020 |
| NHTSA recall # | 16V272 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 16V272000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 31, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →