Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (all variants), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions control, engine management (ECM/PCM), exhaust systems.
Transmission Systems:
Automatic transmission (4-speed 4T65-E and 6-speed 6T70/6T75), manual transmission (if applicable), clutch, drivetrain components (axles, CV joints).
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS, EBD, traction control, parking brake.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson strut, multi-link), power steering system (hydraulic/electric), wheel alignment, steering column.
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience systems, infotainment, diagnostics.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, components.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, sunroof, exterior trim, bumpers, paint and coatings.
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, dashboard, console, headliner.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotation, brake inspections, tune-ups.
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., spark plugs, belts, hoses, water pump), transmission service, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, interior and exterior component repair.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, sensor testing.
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing major components and sub-assemblies.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and major component overhauls. Includes detailed specifications, torque values, and wiring diagrams.
Base Engine:
2.4L Ecotec I4 (LLP/LE5/LAP)
Optional Engine:
3.5L V6 (LZ4/LZ9)
Later Year Engine Option:
3.6L V6 (LLT - Direct Injection)
Base Engine Horsepower:
Approximately 169-173 hp
Base Engine Torque:
Approximately 156-160 lb-ft
Optional Engine Horsepower:
Approximately 214-224 hp
Optional Engine Torque:
Approximately 223-235 lb-ft
Later Year Engine Option Horsepower:
Approximately 304 hp
Later Year Engine Option Torque:
Approximately 264 lb-ft
Fuel Injection:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI) for 2.4L and 3.5L V6; Direct Injection (DI) for 3.6L V6.
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded (All engines), 91 Octane for optimal performance with 3.6L LLT.
Transmission Type Standard:
6-speed automatic (6T70/6T75) became standard on most trims by mid-generation. Earlier models may have had a 4-speed automatic (4T65-E) as standard.
Transmission Type Optional:
None for this generation; all were automatic.
Transmission Features:
Driver Shift Control (manual mode), electronically controlled.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good, with 4-star or 5-star ratings in various categories for frontal and side impacts depending on year and specific test.
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC - StabiliTrak).
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, available roof rail airbags, active head restraints (on some models).
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system (available on higher trims, with touchscreen, navigation, Bluetooth, USB connectivity). Base models may have a simpler AM/FM/CD player.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear parking assist (optional), automatic climate control.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, USB port for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial drain and fill at 5 years/100,000 miles, then every 2-5 years or 30,000-100,000 miles thereafter (refer to manual for specific Dex-Cool replacement).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, meeting GM specification GMDG6094M (Dexos 1 is later specification, consult manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron VI for 6-speed automatics; Dexron III-H or Dexron VI for 4-speed automatics (verify with manual and specific transmission model).
Coolant Specification:
GM Goodwrench Ultra Coolant (Orange) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant (typically ethylene glycol based).
Common Problem 1:
Transmission issues: Hesitation, rough shifting, or failure in the 6-speed automatic (6T70/6T75) can occur, often related to torque converter or valve body issues. The 4T65-E can also have internal wear.
Common Problem 2:
Ecotec Engine (2.4L): Oil consumption issues, timing chain stretch (especially on earlier models), and head gasket leaks have been reported. Intake manifold runner control issues can also occur.
Common Problem 3:
Electrical gremlins: Issues with power windows, door locks, interior lighting, and infotainment systems can sometimes arise due to faulty BCM or wiring issues.
Common Problem 4:
Suspension: Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and struts can lead to premature tire wear and steering looseness.
Common Problem 5:
Brakes: Premature wear of front brake pads and rotors can be an issue on some models.
Chevrolet History Context:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM), has a long history dating back to 1911, known for producing a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to trucks and performance vehicles.
Malibu Generation Context:
The 2008-2012 Malibu is part of the eighth generation, a significant redesign based on the GM Epsilon platform, shared with vehicles like the Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura. This generation saw a move to more upscale styling and improved driving dynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.
