🔧 FixIt
🟠

C0561 on CHEVROLET MALIBU

Vacuum Sensor A/B Correlation

NHTSA Reports
4
Severity
High
Most Affected
2009, 2007, 2010
Crashes / Fires
0 / 0
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database · SAE J2012

What C0561 Means on Your CHEVROLET MALIBU

C0561 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Vacuum Sensor A/B Correlation. This code relates to the chassis system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

4 CHEVROLET MALIBU owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2007-2010. Most reports come from the 2009, 2007 model years. The most commonly reported component is Steering (50.0% of reports).

Real CHEVROLET MALIBU Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"The following codes are active; p0463 fuel level sensor a circuit high input, b0561 abs $43 sys disabled and c0561 sys disabled issues. the fuel gauge was fluctuating, but has now stopped working. the service engine soon light came on and will not reset to off."

— 2007 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS · Filed 02/01/2011

"Started car up and message center flashes power steering, service esc. i get codes u2143, c0561 on scanner . total loss of steering assist."

— 2009 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · STEERING · Filed 04/01/2015

"Within a week of owning car error code p0011 camshaft alignment?came up. dealer got light to go off. said nothing was wrong with car. electrical problems with power locks also, now my complete steering column is gone.5 error codes c0545/c0561, non functioning electric power steering."

— 2009 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM · Filed 02/01/2014

"Fist occurred approx. 4yrs ago the steering will lock while car is in motion traction light pops on and steering will lock cannot move the only recourse is to place in park, turn off and back on to free steering."

— 2010 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · STEERING · Filed 03/22/2018

All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1
'07
2
'09
1
'10

Common Causes on CHEVROLET MALIBU

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

STEERING 50%
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE and ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS 25%
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM 25%

What To Do Next

  1. 1
    Check for recalls on YOUR VIN

    Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.

  2. 2
    Get a proper diagnosis

    A code alone doesn't tell you the exact failed part. A diagnostic at a shop ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause before you spend money on parts.

  3. 3
    Compare repair quotes

    Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does C0561 mean on a CHEVROLET MALIBU?
C0561 indicates: Vacuum Sensor A/B Correlation. This is a chassis code. 4 CHEVROLET MALIBU owners have reported this to NHTSA.
What are the most common causes of C0561 on CHEVROLET MALIBU?
Based on 4 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Steering, Service Brakes, Hydraulic,Engine And Engine Cooling,Fuel System, Gasoline,Air Bags,Seat Belts, Steering,Electrical System. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.
Is C0561 serious on my CHEVROLET MALIBU?
Of 4 NHTSA reports for this code on CHEVROLET MALIBU, none involved a crash or fire. However, any diagnostic code should be evaluated by a qualified mechanic.
What should I do if my CHEVROLET MALIBU shows C0561?
1) Check for recalls on your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. 2) Get a professional diagnosis — a code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. 3) Get 2-3 repair estimates to compare.

C0561 on Other Vehicles