Chevy Malibu Service Stabilitrak Car Won’t Start (Quick Fixed)
One of the most frustrating problems you can encounter with your Chevy Malibu is when the car won’t start, and the Service Stabilitrak light comes on. While it can be very alarming, it is important that you calmly assess the situation. Sometimes, it could be a minor issue that can be easily resolved.
Your Chevy Malibu not starting accompanied by the Service Stabilitrak message can leave you stranded on the road. But more often than not, the cause of your car not starting is not directly related to the Stabilitrak system. The car may fail to start due to a dead battery, faulty fuel system, or corroded battery terminals. These same problems can result in an issue with the Stabilitrak system as it relies heavily on power from the battery.
This article explains why your Chevy Malibu is not starting, and why there is a Service Stabilitrak message on your dashboard.
What is the Stabilitrak System?
The Stabilitrak system is a new and advanced vehicle safety technology that serves to assist drivers maintain control of their vehicles. It employs several actuators and sensors that are responsible for monitoring the steering and braking actions of the driver and the road conditions. This way, the system can detect when the driver loses control and intervenes with some corrective measures to regain the control. The measures include reduced engine power, activation of stability control systems, and application of brake pressure to specific wheels.
The reduced likelihood of accidents and fatalities on the roads can be attributed to this feature. It ensures that drivers maintain control of the vehicle regardless of the terrain and driving conditions.
What are the Symptoms of a Failing Stabilitrak System?
There are several tell-tale signs of a failing Stabilitrak system. For one, as a driver, you may feel like the vehicle tends to pull to one side, hence difficult to keep it in line. This may be a result of alignment issues, worn or damaged tires, or a fault in the system.
Moreover, there will be an illuminated check engine light and the Service Stabilitrak message on your dashboard. Other symptoms include poor braking performance, reduced responsiveness when turning, and stuttering feeling when accelerating. In case you notice any of these signs, it is important to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic.
What are the Causes of the Service Stabilitrak Message and car not being able to start?
This is a rare phenomenon in the Chevy Malibu. However, it is important to note that if your car fails to start, and the Service Stabilitrak light is on, it does not necessarily mean that the issue stems from the Stabilitrak system. There are other possible causes to blame for your car not starting.
Dead battery
This is the most common reason why any car won’t start and sometimes accompanied by the Service Stabilitrak message. This can be the result of leaving the interior lights or headlights on throughout the night, fault alternator, or simply that the battery is weak and needs replacement. The Stabilitrak system needs power to function, and hence, if there is no power supply, the system will be disabled. This explains the illuminated check engine light.
Faulty fuel system
A malfunctioning fuel system is bad news to any car. First, the Stablitrak system needs fuel to function optimally. In case of any fuel issues, the system will not be able to work correctly, and will be disabled. Your car is also not likely to start.
Corroded battery terminals
It could also be that the battery terminals are corroded or dirty. This can prevent flow of electrical current needed to power the Stabilitrak as well as engine systems. This causes the Stabilitrak to fail, disabling the system, and keeping the car from starting.
FAQs
What are the symptoms of a bad Stabilitrak?
There are a number of symptoms that can help you diagnose a failing Stabilitrak. These include poor and inconsistent steering, hard shifting, and loss of power. You will also get a warning message Service Stabilitrak on your dashboard, as well as an illuminated check engine light.
Can I drive my car with a Service Stabilitrak light on?
First, you have to understand what the light means. Given that the system is designed to help you maintain control on the road, any issue on the same can pose great risks. The light may mean that there is low brake fluid, a malfunction in the system, or something needs recalibration. Whatever the case, it is not safe to continue driving with the warning light. In some instances, your car may fail to start completely.
How can I reset the Service Stabilitrak light?
Once you have determined the root cause of the warning and had all underlying issues resolved, you are supposed to reset the system. You can do this by disconnecting the battery or restarting the car for 30 seconds or so. If this fails, you can seek professional help as they can use diagnostic tools to reset the system.
Conclusion
The Stabilitrak system is a great addition to any vehicle. It is particularly designed to give drivers the security and confidence they need to maneuver all terrains. This is why it is important to keep it in good working condition, failure to which, it can result in several issues.
