So, I've noticed this odd noise lately in my 2009 3.6L. It may be happening all the time, but I only notice it at a stop while at idle because there isn't engine/road noise to interfere. It's like a cycling noise going on and off, almost like a noisy fan or some plastic on plastic rubbing. I'll here it for a second or two then it goes away for a second or two and that cycle repeats indefinitely. I thought at first it might be the blower fan, but turning that off, on, or different speeds didn't affect anything. Does anyone know what I'm talking about or what this might be?

I have heard the same type noise while driving on the highway with the cruise control on. It sounds like something cycling on for 2-3 seconds and then off for 2-3 seconds.

I've noticed a similar sound like you are describing but it happens in the morning when you remote start he car. There is a cycling sound but when you put the key in the ignition ane turn it to on it goes away.

For me it definitely exists with the key in the ignition. It sounds mechanical, whatever it is. It cycles on and off and it almost pulsates in power.

Yes, mine was doing something very similar to what you have described. Mostly at idle, a intermittent humming noise. At first i thought it was the A/C compressor cycling it's clutch because i had my defrost on, but when i turned the fan off it continued making this noise. Not very long after that my engine light came on and had to have the purge solenoid replaced and the noise went away. Was the bad solenoid the root of this noise? not sure, but all i no is the noise is gone.

It could be the radiator fan kicking in at higher temps. These do tend to cycle on and off, sometimes even when the car has been turned off and mostly during idling when there is no air flow to the radiators.

I thought it might be the fan too, but it's cycling on/off too fast for that. I thought it might also be the a/c compressor, but it happens with the fan off.

I hope it's not the purge valve. I had one of those go on my old car and at the end I could barely fill it up with gas because of the pressure.

Mine wasn't the rad fan. I know what that sounds like and that wasn't it. It would make the noise for maybe 2 seconds and stop for about 3 or 4 seconds then the noise for 2 seconds then off for 3 or 4 seconds........ you get the picture.

Mine wasn't the rad fan. I know what that sounds like and that wasn't it. It would make the noise for maybe 2 seconds and stop for about 3 or 4 seconds then the noise for 2 seconds then off for 3 or 4 seconds........ you get the picture.

Yeah that's exactly it... I wonder why the purge valve would make that noise though... and it sounds like it's from up front. I would think I'd notice the purge valve in mileage, filling up the gas tank, etc., and not a noise. I guess I'll have to see if I ever get a check engine light or notice anything else.

My guess is that the electrical impulses from the ECM was causing the two to three second noise, vibrating the solenoid that was trying to open and close the purge valve. I believe Purge solenoid is located front near the engine on these cars.

I've noticed a similar sound like you are describing but it happens in the morning when you remote start he car. There is a cycling sound but when you put the key in the ignition ane turn it to on it goes away.



I am just wondering if everyone's Malibu does this like 08LTZ has described? My 08 Malibu does the same thing. You can hear some kind of cycling noise. The way it sounds you would think something was wrong like a tooth/spinning wheel is broken/misaligned or something. Just like 08LTZ has said, as soon as you put the key in and turn, the noise stops. Sounds like something with the Remote Start Operation. Maybe this noise is normal, don't know?

I notice some "odd" noises when I use the remote start on the wife's too. My dealer said it is normal.

I notice some "odd" noises when I use the remote start on the wife's too. My dealer said it is normal.




I had brought this to my dealerships attention when I first bought the car and they said the same thing, it was normal. I thought I would throw this out there and see if there was any TSB or problem that I didn’t know about. If this caught our attention, I am sure it did with others. Anyways thanks for the response, well appreciated. :)

I had brought this to my dealerships attention when I first bought the car and they said the same thing, it was normal. I thought I would throw this out there and see if there was any TSB or problem that I didn’t know about. If this caught our attention, I am sure it did with others. Anyways thanks for the response, well appreciated. :)

I just went out and started mine by remote and walked around it, then stuck the key in it and walked around it again.

I didn't notice any unusual noises at any time.

I just went out and started mine by remote and walked around it, then stuck the key in it and walked around it again.

I didn't notice any unusual noises at any time.

Ours doesn't always do it, and seems to do it more when hot out. It is not very loud either. In all honestly we hardly use the RS anyway since the range on it sucks.

Ours doesn't always do it, and seems to do it more then hot out. It is not very loud either. In all honestly we hardly use the RS anyway since the range on it sucks.

Same here, it is not too loud but other times it seems to be louder and other times I don't notice it as much. I learned to live with it because as soon as you turn the key it stops. "If you/ANYBODY have to really listen for the noise, then obviously yours is not having this noise issue, because you would hear it right away." I do like the Remote Start feature and use it in the Fall & Winter time and sometimes in the Summer when it is really hot outside. I do agree with the RS range, it lacks in range. I have tried this in some parking lots when shopping! Over all I like the feature very much! I was just wondering if others were experiencing the same noise and if there was a fix for this? Maybe it is just a random 2008 issue? Thanks!

I hear the same noise on remote start (as 08LTZ). It sounds like the ac compressor is kicking on but I know I have the climate control off and it isn't on auto. But it is only for about 2 seconds. After I put my key in, it is fine.

I hear the same noise on remote start (as 08LTZ). It sounds like the ac compressor is kicking on but I know I have the climate control off and it isn't on auto. But it is only for about 2 seconds. After I put my key in, it is fine.

Odd coincidence. I was going to post the same thing in these forums.

I use the remote start and after a few seconds there is a noise that sounds like a fan or AC compressor turned on... and then it goes away.

I am just wondering if everyone's Malibu does this like 08LTZ has described? My 08 Malibu does the same thing. You can hear some kind of cycling noise. The way it sounds you would think something was wrong like a tooth/spinning wheel is broken/misaligned or something. Just like 08LTZ has said, as soon as you put the key in and turn, the noise stops. Sounds like something with the Remote Start Operation. Maybe this noise is normal, don't know?

I am having the same issue.

I tried to record the noise with my camera tonight. My friends describe this noise as "diesel sounding" (to make fun of my car) after the idle drops to 600rpm, to me its more of an annoying "rattle". Once the key is inserted and twisted to "ON," the noise goes away.

It is a nice feature to have, this remote start thinga-ma-jig, but nowadays I try to avoid using it if I take my boss along for a ride... or any of my friends/family. Because the noise created is an embarrassment to Chevy, and GM. The range is good though, it has started at roughly 1,000 feet away (I had a golf scope with me), but I do have to point and aim with the fob.

Here's a synopsis of what is happening in the video:

Time (seconds)-------Action

05 ---------- Car is locked with the key fob
10 ---------- Car starts
10 - 42 ----- Car is idling at about 1,200rpm
42 - 50 ----- Car begins to lower its idle speed from 1,200rpm to 600rpm
50 - 106 ---- Idling at 600rpm, this is when the noise is occurring
105 --------- Car is unlocked using the key fob
111 --------- Key is inserted and twisted to "ON" and the noise goes away

Here's the video link:

Chevy Malibu Remote Start (http://tinypic.com/r/2lvcmyg/7)

To my ears it sounds like a loose heat shield on the cat or exhaust, or a loose piece inside an exhaust component.

But what throws me is the sound going away when the key turns on. That suggests to me that the electrical load has increased and now causes the charging system to work harder, but that usually makes it "sing" a little rather than stop rattling.

So I'm on the fence, but it sounds very much like a metallic rattle in the exhaust that I've heard on a lot of other cars, mostly foreign.

Thanks for posting the video/audio. It speaks more volumes than you ever could.

I am having the same issue.

I tried to record the noise with my camera tonight. My friends describe this noise as "diesel sounding" (to make fun of my car) after the idle drops to 600rpm, to me its more of an annoying "rattle". Once the key is inserted and twisted to "ON," the noise goes away.

It is a nice feature to have, this remote start thinga-ma-jig, but nowadays I try to avoid using it if I take my boss along for a ride... or any of my friends/family. Because the noise created is an embarrassment to Chevy, and GM. The range is good though, it has started at roughly 1,000 feet away (I had a golf scope with me), but I do have to point and aim with the fob.

Here's a synopsis of what is happening in the video:

Time (seconds)-------Action

05 ---------- Car is locked with the key fob
10 ---------- Car starts
10 - 42 ----- Car is idling at about 1,200rpm
42 - 50 ----- Car begins to lower its idle speed from 1,200rpm to 600rpm
50 - 106 ---- Idling at 600rpm, this is when the noise is occurring
105 --------- Car is unlocked using the key fob
111 --------- Key is inserted and twisted to "ON" and the noise goes away

Here's the video link:

Chevy Malibu Remote Start (http://tinypic.com/r/2lvcmyg/7)


Thank you for that video demo, that is exactly what I was talking about on my Malibu. We have the same problem. You don’t have to listen hard to hear this noise! I have had remote starts before but this sounds like crap. The dealership says this is normal, I just don’t see how! Like I have said, I have learned to live with it because as soon as you turn the key it stops. " It just annoys me" Again thanks for the video, that is really cool that you took the time to video this noise. It clearly speaks for its self!

I just went out and started mine, listened to it as it idled down, let it idle for a while, then turned the key. I didn't hear that noise with mine at any time.

So if the dealership is saying it's normal, should I go to mine and ask them put that noise in there? If not, then maybe they need to stop saying it's normal, find it, and fix it.

Mine's the V6 - does that possibly make a difference?

Mine has had the noise since I got the car when it is remote started. I did some searching on the web and here is what i found from the Saturn Aura site.

I am familiar with this issue and the above description is correct.

When remote start is used, the transmission control module (TCM) doesn't get powered up. The TCM controls the line pressure control solenoid, which ultimately controls the transmission line pressure. When the TCM isn't powered, line pressure is held at max by the pressure relief spring.

At max line pressure, the torque convertor is moved ever so slightly, causing the incorrectly installed torque convertor bolts to contact the engine block, making the clicking noise.

As soon as the key is turned in the ignition, the TCM gets powered up, line pressure is regulated, and the noise stops.

This has been an issue in a very small number of Aura’s and Malibu’s with the 3.6L V6. The correction is to replace the bolts.

Mine has had the noise since I got the car when it is remote started. I did some searching on the web and here is what i found from the Saturn Aura site.

I am familiar with this issue and the above description is correct.

When remote start is used, the transmission control module (TCM) doesn't get powered up. The TCM controls the line pressure control solenoid, which ultimately controls the transmission line pressure. When the TCM isn't powered, line pressure is held at max by the pressure relief spring.

At max line pressure, the torque convertor is moved ever so slightly, causing the incorrectly installed torque convertor bolts to contact the engine block, making the clicking noise.

As soon as the key is turned in the ignition, the TCM gets powered up, line pressure is regulated, and the noise stops.

This has been an issue in a very small number of Aura’s and Malibu’s with the 3.6L V6. The correction is to replace the bolts.


Does anyone know if there is a TSB for this problem? I can only try to convince my dealership that there is a problem and hope they fix it but a TSB would help! PS. I do have the 3.6

@BlinkQS and to the guys that are having this problem! Worked/spoken with my Dealership Service Advisor and one of the Senior techs that has worked on my Malibu. GM has advised Service dept./tech to due a Engine Control Module Update To Correct Condition. This Update to Software per GM Bulletin was done and this has corrected my issue with this noise!


Good Luck with yours and hope this helps!

Wow, good news! After having never heard the noise, when I started it remotely the other day I heard the noise for a split second. Since I read this post I knew what it was right away. Now it looks like I can set an appointment to get it fixed! :D

@BlinkQS, Did you ever take your Malibu in for this Noise? Did the update to my post correct your Remote Start Noise issue? If the update had also worked on your Malibu, Please let us know. This will give others a better chance of getting their Malibu fixed knowing that the information that was giving has definitely worked/corrected the Noise issue on more than one Malibu! Thanks!

So I'm wondering if my car is making this same noise.

I have an 08 2LT with the V6. When I use the remote start there is a clicking noise... sort of like if you would put a piece of plastic into a fan. I cannot duplicate the noise with the key.

Is there a fix to this... if we are talking the same noise?

A TCM flash fixes the audible transmission noise during remote start. If the noise stops as soon as you turn the key to ON, you indeed have the issue being discussed here. BTW, there's another update that's supposed to improve the shift feel if you've never had your vehicle in. I'm not sure it's a prerequisite or you need to raise a concern.

So I'm wondering if my car is making this same noise.

I have an 08 2LT with the V6. When I use the remote start there is a clicking noise... sort of like if you would put a piece of plastic into a fan. I cannot duplicate the noise with the key.

Is there a fix to this... if we are talking the same noise?



Did you listen to the Video that BlinkQS had made? Mine was making the same sound that BlinkQS Malibu was making! I had posted a fix for that particular Noise problem, It had corrected that noise and has not returned! Now my Malibu is making a scrape sound when it is really cold out on the first Start with the remote and Key, there is a separate post on the issue that many are starting to notice right now but has also been a on going problem/issue! We have two issues / post with two different sound issues!

Starship is one of the guys here that can/could tell you more in details on the Technical aspect of it.:) I can only share some of my unfortunate problems/issues and only hope it helps you in some way! The sound issue that you are having might be the same as BlinkQS and Mine but I could not tell you, you need the listen to the Video that is posted above!


Good Luck!

Sorry, I must have ignored the Big Bold Black letters indicating here's the video. My Bad.

I believe that's the sound.... I'll have to stand out by it and see when it comes on, etc. I agree this sound is embarassing! But overall this is an excellent car!

So all I need to do is go to the dealer and say I need an "Engine Control Module Update" for the remote start issue and he "should" know what I'm talking about?

Haha if he doesnt, I'm going to ask for your service tech name and phone number and have him call my place. LOL

Thanks all! This site rocks

Depending on your relationship with the service advisor, you can describe your concern and let him figure it out or ask him to update your transmission control module (TCM) to calibration verification number (CVN) 272E.

Depending on your relationship with the service advisor, you can describe your concern and let him figure it out or ask him to update your transmission control module (TCM) to calibration verification number (CVN) 272E.

Right on. Will do. Thanks a ton! I owe the site one.

You're quite welcome.:) Oh, if he asks you "CVN for what?" tell him transmission calibration ID 24249043. It's best to let them figure out what to do first and then escalate it if necessary, though.:)

You're quite welcome.:) Oh, if he asks you "CVN for what?" tell him transmission calibration ID 24249043. It's best to let them figure out what to do first and then escalate it if necessary, though.:)

hahaha.. I just figured out why you are such a good guy.... You're a Redskins fan... as am I! My wife and I are pregnant and if we have a girl, naming her Hailey...

Hail to the Redskins!

Yup, there are a few of us left still in my neighborhood. My immediate neighbor did get rid of his season tickets last year, though.:( "Hailey" is a real cool name. Here's hoping the Redskins will come roaring back one of these days.:)

I went to the dealer today and they would not fix this under warranty since I have 37,500 miles on the car. Can my normal shop complete the TSB?

I also developed a transmission leak in the cooler hose. Not covered.
Dealers suck.

I went to the dealer today and they would not fix this under warranty since I have 37,500 miles on the car. Can my normal shop complete the TSB?

I also developed a transmission leak in the cooler hose. Not covered.
Dealers suck.


Mine also had the Transmission Cooling Line replaced due to a Leak! You would think if there was a TSB for a known GM problem, they would cover it! I guess that is what a Recall is for! Maybe it might be worth buying a Extented Warranty for any problems that might come up later!


Good Luck!

I'm noticing a noise too, upon starting my car and letting it get warm or when I drive and come to a stop... I can't exactly explain this sound good enough...
It sounds like a wet belt, but it's not that. My mom listened to the sound and told me it sounded to her like the water pump going out or the altenator (sp?).
But, to me, the best I can describe it is a wet/water type sound, I guess, and again, I can't explain this question good enough (I feel like an idiot! LOL, but I'm a girl who knows really nothing about cars... so this is my way) it's like something moving constantly that is making a water/wet sound.
I took it to the dealership, they said they did not hear any noise what so ever. I told them if there is other noise, they might not hear it.
Oh, also, it's kinda like a very very low pitch squeal.
When I take my car in, I like to tell them what to look at, because otherwise, In my person experience I'm told "it's normal." And I'm tired of hearing that the problems are normal, because I know they aren't, and I'd like warranty to fix the problems while I do have warranty! LOL!

2009Malibu,

For clarification, you have taken your Malibu into the dealership for diagnosis multiple times, correct?

Would you mind keeping me updated with how your experience goes at the dealership? This information will allow me to research what avenues I have to possibly assist you in getting to a resolution to the issue.

Have a great weekend!
Michelle P., Chevrolet Customer Service

I Have taken my Malibu to the dealership, but with the Loud noise inside their shops, they cannot hear the "noise" I am talking about.
I wish customer service was better... because lesson learned to me, I think this will be my last GM. It might not necessarily be the call centers as much as it is the dealerships, which there's Nothing they do except tell you to take it to the dealership, but when you do, you have to pay the dealership a diagnosis fee (mine is $85-95.) But, why should we have to waste that money, when we're paying so much for these cars??? Perhaps there are different companies who have less problems with NEW cars!! :)