P2138 on Chevrolet Malibu
Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D/E Voltage Correlation
Methodology: Reviewed against the SAE J2012 generic DTC definition and NHTSA owner-complaint patterns, then scoped to Chevrolet Malibu context without treating complaints as confirmed diagnoses.
Sources: SAE/OBD-II definitions, manufacturer service information, and public reliability reports (including NHTSA where applicable).
- SAE J2012 Diagnostic Trouble Code Definitions — Generic diagnostic trouble code definition reference for P2138.
- NHTSA recalls, complaints, and manufacturer communications — Used to check public owner complaint context, recall status, and safety-related manufacturer communications by VIN or vehicle.
Limits: Guidance is informational and may not match every model-year or revision. Confirm with the official manual and diagnostics before replacing parts. For safety-critical or electrical work, use a qualified technician.
What P2138 Means on Your Chevrolet Malibu
P2138 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D/E Voltage Correlation. This code relates to the powertrain system. The vehicle's computer detected a condition outside normal operating parameters and stored this code.
Real Chevrolet Malibu Owner Reports
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
"I was driving and the service traction control came across my car the the engine powering down notification appeared, and the check engine light. I took it to advance auto and they hooked up the machine which gave them the code DTC P2138."
"The contact owns a 2011 Chevrolet Malibu. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds in inclement weather, the vehicle displayed DCT: P2138, causing the vehicle to lunge forward, then remain idle for several seconds, before accelerating forward."
"My teenage son was driving in the rain when his malibu gave engine power reduced, service traction, service esc, and esc off warnings. car was barely drivable. this is a safety issue since it happens suddenly and increase the chances of a collision with other vehicles."
"P2138 throttle/ pedal position sensor second time same problem the power was reduce when i was driving in the highway."
"This has happened twice now, once for my wife and the second time i was driving. both incidents happened while in motion on the highway and the vehicle display showed reduced engine power and the vehicle de-rated and slowed automatically on the highway."
All reports filed by vehicle owners directly with the U.S. Department of Transportation.
📊 Complaint Trend by Model Year
Common Causes on Chevrolet Malibu
Based on NHTSA complaint component analysis for this vehicle.
What To Do Next
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1
Check for recalls on YOUR VIN
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. If your vehicle is covered, repairs are free.
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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.
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3
Compare repair quotes
Get 2–3 quotes. Dealer vs. independent shop prices often differ 30–50% for the same repair.