Chevy Malibu Code P2097: What It Is And How To Fix It

Seeing the Service Engine Soon (SES) or Check Engine Light (CEL) notification appear on your instrument cluster is never a good way to start or end your commute. Unfortunately, many Chevrolet Malibu owners have reported spotting the illuminated SES light with the P2097 fault code stored, which indicates an imbalance with the vehicle’s air-fuel ratio. This code is most commonly known to affect Chevy Malibu models from 2013-2018 with either the 2.5-liter or the 2.0-liter turbocharged engines. In this article, we’ll cover the P2097 Chevy Malibu fault code in more detail, including causes and fixes.

What Does The P2097 Error Code Mean?

The P2097 error code indicates that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has flagged a ‘lean’ or ‘rich’ condition from the post-catalyst oxygen sensor(s). A lean condition means there is an excessive amount of air post-combustion. A rich condition indicates an excessive amount of fuel post-combustion. On most engines, a lean condition would be flagged by the post-combustion air/fuel sensor and set the P0171 code, whereas a rich condition normally sets the P0172 code.

However, unique to the Chevy Malibu is the post-catalyst fuel-trim monitoring. This monitoring utilizes the post-catalyst oxygen sensors. This is why the P0171 or P0172 error codes may not be set, but P2097 will. The P2097 is set when the air/fuel ratio limit has been exceeded, either by a ‘lean’ or ‘rich’ condition.

What Causes The P2097 Error Code?

Due to the P2097 error code being set by both lean and rich conditions, there can be several causes that could trigger it:

• A non-OE sensor
• Aftermarket air filter, air intake, or exhaust
• Exhaust system leaks
• Split, kinked, or improperly connected vacuum hoses
• Insufficient fuel in the tank
• Leaks in the air induction system and air intake ducts
• Missing air filter element
• Cracked evaporative canister
• Evaporative pipes clogged, obstructed, or leaking
• Leaking crankcase ventilation system
• Engine vacuum leaks
• Low fuel system pressure
• Contaminated fuel
• Lean fuel injectors

Symptoms Of The P2097 Error Code

The following are the reported symptoms that may be experienced with the P2097 error code active:

• Illuminated SES/CEL light
• Failed emissions test
• Rough idling
• Reduced power

Can I Drive My Chevy Malibu With This Issue?

Depending on the severity of the symptoms your Malibu exhibits, continued operation may be okay. We always caution readers to repair their vehicles when drivability issues are present. This is due to the potential safety risk involved with continued operation. A vehicle that can stall or has reduced power could endanger you and other drivers with a sudden change in performance.

If your Malibu’s only symptom is an illuminated SES light, you’ll most likely be okay. If symptoms become more noticeable during operation, get your vehicle fixed as soon as possible.

How To Fix A P2097 Error Code On Your Malibu

The first step that needs to be done before any repairs are performed is to have your vehicle’s computer system scanned. The fault or error code may no longer be active on your vehicle. A system scan will confirm your vehicle is malfunctioning and in need of repairs. You can have your On-Board Diagnostic (OBD II) system scanned at most local parts stores, emissions repair/testing facilities, and automotive repair shops. Once the P2097 code is confirmed as active, we can begin our diagnosis and repairs.

By viewing the possible causes list, you can see there are many potential faults with the P2097 code. We will be covering the most common issues known to set the code.

Aftermarket Parts

Not all automotive parts are created equal; at least, they may not be equal to GM’s Original Equipment (OE) standards. Aftermarket parts such as an air intake system, air filter, exhaust, or oxygen sensor have been known to trigger the P2097 error code. If you or a shop have recently serviced the vehicle and potentially used aftermarket parts, you may want to inspect these as the cause of the code. When it comes to getting quality parts for your Chevy Malibu, we recommend using OE parts whenever possible.

Loose Intake Manifold Bolts

The intake manifold is a crucial component of an engine. It’s responsible for directing the airflow entering the engine to the cylinders. Under GM’s Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for a stall hesitation, loose intake manifold bolts may be the cause of a series of codes, including P2097. The TSB states that the gasket typically does not require replacement and only the bolts need to be torqued to the factory specification, which is 12 Nm or 108 in-lbs.

Exhaust System Leaks

Exhaust leaks can severely alter the readings from the oxygen sensors. Some leaks can be easily heard while others go undetected. Carefully inspect your exhaust system for signs of leaks or excessive rust, specifically around or near the oxygen sensors. Make any necessary repairs.

Dirty/Clogged Fuel Injectors

In the event your Malibu is setting the P2097 code for an excessively lean condition, dirty or clogged fuel injectors could be your issue. This is a service that is commonly done by automotive repair facilities. However, you can try your luck with cleaning agents that pour into the gas tank.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix?

In most cases, the P2097 Chevy Malibu error code can be remedied by tightening loose intake manifold bolts. If done by yourself, this will cost you nothing but the price of the tools. When done by a repair shop, tightening these bolts can cost you between $50 and $120. If your intake gasket needs to be replaced, RepairPal estimates the job will cost between $400 and $600.

The cost of aftermarket parts is usually what leads to purchasing them. In many instances, repair shops install aftermarket parts without clearly disclosing them to the customer. An engine air filter replacement will cost between $60 and $90, according to RepairPal. The average aftermarket filter costs about $20, whereas the OE part can cost up to $60. Saving money on the air filter may not be in your best interest when it comes to avoiding the P2097 error code. This is one example of how an aftermarket part can lead to setting the code in an effort to try to save money.

Exhaust repairs can be pricey depending on whether the catalytic converter requires replacement. Most exhaust repairs can be done at an affordable price by a specialized exhaust repair shop. When it comes to oxygen sensors, RepairPal estimates sensor replacement at as high as $200. The GM replacement oxygen sensor can cost as much as $120. Again, we see a substantial aftermarket part price difference. An aftermarket replacement oxygen sensor will cost you about $60.

The cause of the P2097 code is potentially challenging to pinpoint, but it can be fixed and even avoided when using quality parts.

Component Cost Estimates