🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Malibu

Year:

2010

Platform Code:

Epsilon II

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Mid-size sedan

Target Audience:

Families, daily commuters, general automotive enthusiasts.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata.

Platform:

Built on the global Epsilon II platform, shared with other GM vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse and Opel Insignia, offering improved ride and handling.

Design Emphasis:

Focus on European styling influence, refined interior, and improved fuel efficiency compared to previous generations.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all engine variants, including engine control systems, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, cooling, lubrication, and starting/charging.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Complete coverage of automatic transmissions (e.g., 6T40/6T70), including hydraulic controls, valve body, torque converter, electronic controls, service procedures, and fluid specifications. Also includes front-wheel drive axle/CV joint service.

Braking System:

Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), and traction control system diagnostics and repair, including hydraulic components and electronic modules.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, ball joints, sway bars), power steering system (electric or hydraulic depending on specific configuration), wheel alignment procedures and specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component location charts, diagnostic procedures for body control module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC), HVAC controls, lighting systems, power windows, door locks, and infotainment systems.

HVAC Climate Control:

Air conditioning system service (refrigerant handling, compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core replacement, climate control module diagnosis and repair.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior lighting, bumpers, underbody components, structural repair information (if available).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, tire rotation.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, trouble code (DTC) explanations and troubleshooting, component testing procedures.

Repair Replacement:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for replacing major components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, radiators, brake calipers, suspension arms, and interior/exterior trim pieces.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including torque specifications, assembly sequences, and clearances.

Specifications Tolerances:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine mechanical clearances, alignment angles, fluid capacities, and component tolerances.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive; covers from basic preventative maintenance to advanced component-level diagnostics, repair, and complete engine/transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Readability:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and text for clear visibility.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Option 1:

2.4L Ecotec Direct Injection Inline-4 (LAF)

Engine Option 1 Hp:

173 hp @ 6200 rpm

Engine Option 1 Torque:

167 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Engine Option 2:

3.5L High-Value V6 (LZ4)

Engine Option 2 Hp:

219 hp @ 6400 rpm

Engine Option 2 Torque:

219 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Acceleration 0 60 2.4L:

Approx. 8.5-9.0 seconds

Acceleration 0 60 3.5L:

Approx. 7.0-7.5 seconds

Fuel Delivery 2.4L:

Direct Injection

Fuel Delivery 3.5L:

Port Fuel Injection

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded (Premium recommended for optimal performance in some conditions)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

6-speed automatic (6T40)

Optional Transmission:

N/A (6-speed automatic was standard across most trims)

Transmission Type:

Hydra-Matic 6T40 (FWD)

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Dexron VI (GM Part Number 88864250 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.3 quarts (dry fill) / 6.2 quarts (fluid change)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.8 inches

Width:

72.4 inches

Height:

59.0 inches

Wheelbase:

107.1 inches

Front Headroom:

39.0 inches

Front Legroom:

42.2 inches

Rear Headroom:

37.8 inches

Rear Legroom:

35.7 inches

Trunk Volume:

15.1 cubic feet

Curb Weight 2.4L:

3,400 - 3,550 lbs (approx.)

Curb Weight 3.5L:

3,500 - 3,650 lbs (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,477 lbs (for 2.4L)

Towing Capacity:

Not Recommended / Not Specified

Wheelbase Bolt Pattern:

5x115 mm

Standard Wheel Size:

17-inch alloy

Standard Tire Size:

P215/55R17

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

NHTSA Rollover:

★★★★☆ (4-Star)

IIHS Frontal Offset Score:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Score:

Good

IIHS Roof Strength Score:

Good

ABS:

Standard

Traction Control:

Standard

Stability Control:

Standard (StabiliTrak)

Airbags Front:

Standard dual-stage frontal airbags

Airbags Side:

Standard front seat-mounted side-impact airbags

Airbags Curtain:

Standard roof-rail side curtain airbags (front and rear outboard seating positions)

Seatbelts:

3-point seatbelts with pretensioners for all seating positions

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet MyLink (or earlier base audio systems), optional navigation system.

Audio Features:

AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input jack, available SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park assist.

Backup Camera:

Optional.

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Port:

Optional USB port for device charging and media playback.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil and proper driving conditions).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 7,500 miles

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 30,000 miles.

Cabin Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed. Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Spark Plugs 2.4L:

Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (Iridium tipped)

Spark Plugs 3.5L:

Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (Iridium tipped)

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30, API SN or higher, GM dexos1™ or dexos1™ Gen 2 (check owner's manual for specific recommendation).

Coolant:

GM P/N 12346854 (Orange) or equivalent; 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Common Issue 1:

Transmission shuddering or harsh shifting, particularly in the 6T40/6T70 transmission. Often related to torque converter clutch solenoid or fluid condition.

Common Issue 2:

Oil consumption in the 2.4L Ecotec engine (LE5, LE8, LAF). Can be due to worn piston rings, PCV system issues, or valve stem seals.

Common Issue 3:

Issues with the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system, including loss of assist or noisy operation.

Common Issue 4:

Water pump leaks or premature failure, especially on the 3.5L V6 engine.

Common Issue 5:

FlexFuel sensor issues (if equipped) leading to incorrect fuel mixture calculations.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet Legacy:

Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history in the automotive industry since its founding in 1911, known for producing reliable and accessible vehicles.

Malibu History:

The Malibu nameplate has existed since the 1960s, evolving from a Chevelle model to its own distinct line. The 2010 model represents the seventh generation, a significant redesign from the previous generation.

Seventh Generation Start:

Launched for the 2008 model year, the 2010 model features updates including available direct injection for the 2.4L engine and revised styling.

Manufacturing Locations:

Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada

Production Volume:

Significant sales volume, making it a key player in the mid-size sedan market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Award NHTSA:

Achieved 5-star safety ratings in NHTSA frontal and side crash tests.

Safety Award IIHS:

Received 'Good' ratings from IIHS in frontal offset, side impact, and roof strength tests.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Consumer Reports typically ranked the 2010 Malibu as average to above average for reliability in its class, though specific model year variations exist.

Emissions Standards:

Meets all applicable federal emissions standards for its model year.