Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, home mechanics
Alternative Manuals:
Haynes, Chilton (often less detailed or factory-accurate)
Licensing:
Officially licensed, derived from OE (Original Equipment) materials
Convenience:
Instant online access, no physical manual to store or misplace
Cost Effectiveness:
Saves money compared to professional repair services and traditional printed manuals
Vehicle Coverage:
2004 Chevrolet Malibu (all trims and engines)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (digital format, equivalent to 1500+ printed pages)
Manual Type:
Factory-Derived Service and Repair Manual
Format:
PDF Download (Software)
Access Period:
1 Year Standard Access
Device Compatibility:
PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (via web browser)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emission control systems
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission (automatic), clutch, driveshafts, axles, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brakes (disc/drum), ABS, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, body control modules
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Body And Trim:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine component repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) explanation and clearing
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics, including wiring schematics and component testing
Rebuild Information:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild specifications
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners
Engine Options:
2.2L Ecotec L61 I4, 3.8L L36/L32 Series I V6, 3.5L LX9/LZ9 V6
Horsepower 2.2L:
144 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.2L:
154 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower 3.5L:
201 hp @ 5400 rpm (LZ9), 200 hp @ 5200 rpm (LX9)
Torque 3.5L:
220 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (LZ9), 225 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (LX9)
Horsepower 3.8L:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 3.8L:
230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Engine Codes Identification:
L61 (2.2L I4), LX9/LZ9 (3.5L V6), L36/L32 (3.8L V6)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, available side-impact airbags
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, steering wheel audio controls available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional OnStar telematics system.
Connectivity Options:
OnStar integration for emergency services, vehicle diagnostics, and hands-free calling (subscription required).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 - 7,500 miles (depending on oil type and driving conditions, refer to manual for specific recommendations)
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 12,000 - 15,000 miles or annually
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API SM or higher) for 3.5L & 3.8L V6; SAE 5W-30 (API SN or higher) for 2.2L Ecotec
Coolant Specification:
GM P/N 12346290 (Orange) or equivalent Dex-Cool Long Life Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues Summary:
Engine oil leaks (valve cover gaskets), transmission issues (harsh shifting, torque converter problems), power steering pump leaks, HVAC blower motor failures, ABS sensor failures.
Manufacturer Heritage:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing popular and reliable vehicles in the North American market.
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate has been used intermittently since the 1960s, evolving from a full-size car to a mid-size offering.
2004 Malibu Positioning:
The 2004 model represented a significant update, adopting the global GM Epsilon platform, sharing its underpinnings with vehicles like the Pontiac G6 and Saab 9-3.
Assembly Locations:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Lordstown, Ohio, USA
