Q: 2009 chevy malibu, traction light on , service esc, and reduce engine power comes on after 30 min of driving.

asked by on September 22, 2017

First thing in the morning car runs fine after 30 min of driving traction light comes on, service esc , reduce engine power and engine starts shaking runs only 20mph top speed

My car has 97000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Check Engine Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

There is likely an electrical malfunction that is intermittent but "heat" related. That is, once the engine warms up, the malfunction occurs. Sometimes ignition coils or crankshaft position sensors will do this but there are quite a few possibilities. In your circumstance, typically a real time scanner will be used by a mechanic to read engine operating data as the engine runs. Even prior to the "warm-up", when the fault occurs, it is possible that sensors will appear (on the scanner) to be operating outside of normal range but once the fault occurs, the scanner, combined with some diagnostics, will reveal the cause of the problem for sure. The recommended service to resolve this is a check engine light diagnostic. If you schedule that diagnostic, the mechanic will resolve this promptly for you and all on a mobile basis right at your location. If you have further questions or concerns as you decide what to do, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic because we want you to make the most of your repair dollars and help you to get the best possible results.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I use autoset?
The preset stations on the radio can help you choose your favorite radio stations without having to search for them. There is a feature that will save you the time and trouble of having to manually enter each preset called...
What is the recommended tire pressure during high speed driving?
First off, Honda does not recommend driving faster than the speed limit at any time, unless you’re part of a sanctioned (licensed and legal) event. If you do intend to put the pedal to the metal in such an event,...
Car starts, then dies
Hello. From what you are describing, it sounds like the mass airflow (MAF) sensor is not working properly (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-mass-airflow-sensor). The mass airflow (MAF) sensor helps to regulate the air/fuel mixture and the idle of the car. When the mass airflow...
The truck cannot be started, u1000 code
The code is for lost communication with the ECM's data lines. Try to loosen and retighten the ECM connector ground and the battery negative cable ground to the body. Clean and check both these connections and clear codes and see...
Range Rover Sport v6 2.7 with fault code p2455 but the car does not have any sensor or circuit for the dpf.
Hi there. The DPF apparently was not installed in all markets, which may cause issues if the vehicle did not have it when manufactured, but is transported and sold into a market which does require it. I would check with...
Ticking when accelerating
With the information that you've provided, I think you are describing an exhaust leak. It's not uncommon for a minor exhaust leak to tick, especially when cool, and then go away as it warms up. It can also increase when...
High pitched whistle sound
It sounds like you may be having an issue with your suspension or brakes on the passenger rear side of the vehicle. I would recommend a brakes and suspension inspection be performed on your vehicle by a qualified professional to...
Car vibrates. Quoted $800 engine mounts replaced. Second opinion? 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Hi there - there are 4 engine/transmission mounts in total for your vehicle. Engine vibration is a symptom (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-engine-mount) of broken or failed motor/transmission mounts. Depending on how many of these are damaged, the estimate you received may be perfectly...
Coast Replacing a fuel filter and a fan a fuel pump in 2002 Buick Regal
Hi...both of these services are available. To obtain an exact quote for the fuel pump replacement, please click on "Get a Quote" at YourMechanic's fuel pump replacement service page (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-replacement). Similarly, to get an exact quote for the replacement of...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado
While While the Ford F-150 is still the best-selling pickup truck in the US, the 2012 Chevrolet Silverado is one of the finest half-ton pickups available today. In fact, the Silverado and the GMC Sierra are actually the same vehicle...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2013 Chevrolet Spark
The The Chevy Spark nimbly walks the line between being functional and being totally adorable. In the spirit of mini cars past like the Ford Festiva and the Yugo, this spritely little creation offers improved safety combined with the tech...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
You You might not always need all of the cargo and passenger space available to you when you buy a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, but it’s nice to know it’s there. This seven-passenger crossover utility vehicle (CUV) has tons of space...