P0302 on CHEVROLET MALIBU — Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected

Q: "What does P0302 mean on a CHEVROLET MALIBU?"

"P0302 indicates: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 2 CHEVROLET MALIBU owners have reported this to NHTSA."

Q: "What are the most common causes of P0302 on CHEVROLET MALIBU?"

"Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Steering,Electronic Stability Control (Esc), Power Train,Electrical System,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints."

Q: "Is P0302 serious on my CHEVROLET MALIBU?"

"Of 2 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."

Q: "What should I do if my CHEVROLET MALIBU shows P0302?"

"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."

What P0302 Means on Your CHEVROLET MALIBU

P0302 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected. This code relates to the ignition system system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.

2 CHEVROLET MALIBU owners have reported this issue to NHTSA across model years 2012-2016. Most reports come from the 2012, 2016 model years. The most commonly reported component is Steering,Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (50.0% of reports).

Real CHEVROLET MALIBU Owner Reports

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

"Takata recall: i'm having the same issue that's attached to gm recall 13036. i just took it to the chevy dealer and this recall wasn't attached to my vin, even though my car was manufactured in the same year listed in the 13036 recall."

— 2012 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) · Filed 02/01/2019

"I am filing a complaint regarding ongoing and worsening issues with my Chevrolet vehicle, which appear to point to broader defects involving the engine and electrical systems. Months ago, while driving, the car suddenly lost power and displayed "Engine Power Reduced."

— 2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU owner · POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE · Filed 05/28/2025

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

📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year

1

'12

1

'16

Common Causes on CHEVROLET MALIBU

Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.

STEERING,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) 50%

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE 50%

What To Do Next

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
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
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 P0302 mean on a CHEVROLET MALIBU? ▾

P0302 indicates: Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected. This is a ignition system code. 2 CHEVROLET MALIBU owners have reported this to NHTSA.

What are the most common causes of P0302 on CHEVROLET MALIBU? ▾

Based on 2 NHTSA reports, the most commonly cited components are: Steering,Electronic Stability Control (Esc), Power Train,Electrical System,Engine. These percentages are based on the component field in owner complaints.

Is P0302 serious on my CHEVROLET MALIBU? ▾

Of 2 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 P0302? ▾

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.