What is the reason for the abnormal noise on the right side of the Malibu when accelerating?
2 Answers
The abnormal noise on the right side of the Malibu when accelerating is caused by a loose component. To fix this issue, simply locate and secure the loose part. It is quite common for car interiors to produce abnormal noises, as most interior components are fastened with clips. Over time, these clips may become loose. When the interior clips loosen, abnormal noises may occur when driving on bumpy roads. The Malibu is a mid-size sedan under the Chevrolet brand, with body dimensions of 4859mm in length, 1854mm in width, and 1463mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2738mm. The Malibu is equipped with two engines: a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine and a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine.
I've driven several cars, including the Malibu, and a rattling noise during right-side acceleration could be a common issue. The most frequent cause is a loose or worn engine belt—when accelerating under load, the belt slips and produces a squealing sound that seems to come from the right side. Additionally, loose wheel hub bearings or suspension components like shock absorber mounts can rattle during turns or hard acceleration. Loose exhaust pipe mounting bolts may also resonate and collide, creating a metallic knocking sound. If these issues aren’t addressed early, a snapped belt could leave you stranded, and faulty bearings may compromise steering safety. I recommend shaking the right-side chassis after parking—if it feels loose, head to a repair shop promptly. Regular maintenance and drivetrain inspections can prevent many problems.
