[AndrewOLOC]

So, I’ve been searching this issue since last winter, and I see a lot of problems with the power steering on Malibu’s in general. But nothing about the fact that mine goes out only when it’s cold. Since spring this year, it’s been 100% fine, so much so, I completely forgot about it being a problem. That was until today on my way to work, it went out. It only goes out when it’s cold outside. With it being electric, I can’t find any answers, everything I find is about the fluid and the fluid pump. So does anybody have a clue what’s going on?

 

[DrivenDaily]

When mechanicals get cold they get stiffer. Your steering may need some attention, such as lubrication/greasing or parts adjusted/repaired.

Also, please read this post and return with a bit more info about your car.

You might also benefit from this post and get some relief.

 

[KH2023]

Mine has been doing the same thing when it's really cold like in single digits. When I turn my car off and then back on again it's back to normal. I had a recall done on the power steering assist in 2018 done as well. Now this winter of 2023 this one is acting up. Mines an 06 Malibu.

 

[Malibu Pete]

2006 Malibu with 2.2L 4cyl. is a Gen6, but appears to use the same part number for the Steering Wheel Position Sensor as the Gen7 Malibu with 2.4L 4cyl.
My guess is it's failing again, only a matter of time before it quits completely or causes a sudden loss of control.

 

[JBM]

If your steering angle sensor fails you don't lose control of the car you just lose electric steering assist. The wheel still turns it is just more firm like a hydraulic steering car that has a leak.

 

[DrivenDaily]

I have hydraulic PS in my 2011. It comes on the V6, whereas the I4 gets EPS.

I had my car in the shop some years back and the loaner was a 4-banger Malibu.

I immediately noticed how little physical input was needed to turn the wheel compared to hydraulic. I also discovered just how hard it is to turn with the key off. Even with the car moving, it's takes a lot more effort than when hydraulic fails.

 

[repairman54]

Mine has been doing the same thing when it's really cold like in single digits. When I turn my car off and then back on again it's back to normal. I had a recall done on the power steering assist in 2018 done as well. Now this winter of 2023 this one is acting up. Mines an 06 Malibu.

Since it does it after a cold start I would suspect your battery is on the edge. I would get the battery load tested.
Weak battery may start the engine but be drained enough to affect the steering after that cold start. EPS is the biggest power draw on the battery in the car after the starter motor and it is a constant draw with any slight turn of the wheel unlike the starter motor which is a one shot to start the engine.