Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima
Design Philosophy:
Expressive styling, spacious interior, and advanced technology features aimed at a broad consumer base.
Platform Advantage:
Built on GM's global E2XX platform, shared with other GM vehicles, offering modern engineering and safety standards.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical, Body, Interior, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance, Repair
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 2500-3000 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics, repair procedures, component testing, ECM/PCM calibration for all engine variants.
Transmission Service:
Complete overhaul procedures, torque converter replacement, valve body diagnostics, fluid specifications, and replacement for automatic transmissions.
Suspension And Steering:
Alignment specifications, strut and shock absorber replacement, power steering system diagnosis and repair, wheel bearing replacement.
Braking System:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, ABS system diagnostics, bleeding procedures, master cylinder replacement.
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, component location charts, diagnostic procedures for body control modules, infotainment system, lighting, and power accessories.
HVAC System:
Refrigerant handling, compressor replacement, evaporator and heater core service, diagnosis of climate control issues.
Body And Interior:
Panel replacement, trim removal and installation, seat repair, glass replacement, door and latch mechanisms.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil change procedures, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical failures.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for major and minor components, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) explanations and diagnostic procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system troubleshooting.
Engine 1 Type:
2.5L DOHC VVT (L43)
Engine 1 Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
197 hp @ 6300 rpm (approx.)
Engine 1 Torque:
191 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Type:
1.5L Turbocharged DOHC VVT (LSY)
Engine 2 Displacement:
1490 cc (1.5 Liters)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
160 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Engine 2 Torque:
184 lb-ft @ 1700-4000 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Type:
2.0L Turbocharged DOHC VVT (LTG)
Engine 3 Displacement:
1998 cc (2.0 Liters)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
250 hp @ 5300 rpm (approx.)
Engine 3 Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 2000-5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (PFI) for 2.5L, Direct Injection (DI) for 1.5T and 2.0T
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Recommended Octane:
87 Octane (minimum), 91 Octane recommended for 2.0T for optimal performance
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for 2018 model year, typically)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific optional safety features)
Active Safety Systems:
StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control System (TCS), ABS, Brake Assist, Daytime Running Lamps.
Optional Adas:
Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control, Low-Speed Forward Automatic Braking.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger frontal airbags, seat-mounted side-impact airbags, knee airbags, roof rail airbags.
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, LATCH system for child seats.
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with 7-inch or 8-inch color touchscreen display.
Smartphone Integration:
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Navigation:
Available navigation system.
Standard Driver Aids:
Rearview camera, Teen Driver mode.
Connectivity Options:
Available OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming.
Keyless Entry Start:
Keyless Access with Push Button Start.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe conditions may require more frequent changes.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 45,000 miles; replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Spark Plugs 1 5T 2 0T:
Replace at 100,000 miles (premium iridium plugs).
Spark Plugs 2 5L:
Replace at 60,000 miles (premium iridium plugs).
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 0W-20 full synthetic, meeting GM specification GM6094M.
Coolant Spec:
GM P/N 12346691 or 10-30201 (Yellow) Dex-Cool coolant, or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Complaints:
Occasional reports of AC system issues (e.g., leaks), minor electrical gremlins, and turbocharger whistling on early 1.5T models. Transmission shifting can sometimes be hesitant.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles since its founding in 1911.
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate dates back to 1964, originally as a luxury trim of the Chevelle. It has evolved through multiple generations and chassis platforms, becoming a standalone mid-size sedan in 1978.
Ninth Generation Launch:
The 2016 model year marked the introduction of the ninth generation Malibu, based on the new E2XX platform, which brought significant improvements in design, efficiency, and technology.
Manufacturing Locations:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Fairfax, Kansas, USA; Ramos Arizpe, Mexico