I suppose there could be a transmission shifting problem. If you can't get to high gear you can't go fast.
Failing that, look for loss of engine output.
Loss of engine output, provided it runs smoothly at lower speeds, has only a few common causes.
1) Design limitation. Is the vehicle designed to go this fast? Some aren't.
2) Fuel limitation. From tank to carb/injectors are you getting enough fuel supply?
3) Air limitation. Do you have a clogged air filter? Damaged turbocharger? Worn cam? IMRC problem on a Ford?
4) Restricted exhaust system. This is usually easy to test for by unbolting the exhaust system immediately after the manifold(s) or header(s). If unbolting the exhaust makes car go fast, you need an exhaust system.
Other possible problems include overloading of vehicle or trailer, brake drag, or underinflated or incorrect size tires.
If your 2006 Malibu will not go over 40 mph it may be stuck in "limp home mode." You will need to have the car checked out by a mechanic.
It would be highly unlikely.
There may be something wrong with the accelerator. It might be time to get the vehicle checked out to ensure nothing is wrong.
At 40 mph, a car is traveling at about 58.6 feet per second.
The body wants to continue going 40 mph.
44feet
58.6 feet per second at 40 mph
When a car won't go over 40 MPH and won't change gears right could be the start of many problems. The most common problem would probably be the filters.
It depends on the car's stopping power. An average distance for 40 mph would be around 85 feet
40 mph = 40 miles in 60 minutes = 20 miles in 30 minutes.
10 mph
If your car has a manual speedo, it can be in it or the cable. Noises have to be heard to be correctly diagnoised.