Positioning:
Mid-size sedan aimed at families and commuters seeking comfort, efficiency, and modern features. Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and Ford Fusion.
Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Dodge Avenger.
Features:
Stylish design, comfortable interior, available V6 engine, fuel-efficient four-cylinder option, advanced safety features for its time.
Primary Coverage:
2008 Chevrolet Malibu
Trim Levels:
LS, LT, LTZ (coverage typically applies to all trim levels, differentiating only where specific options exist).
Estimated Pages:
Thousands (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
PDF Download (Software)
Powertrain:
Engine (2.4L, 3.5L, 3.6L), Transmission (4-speed Automatic, 6-speed Automatic)
Chassis:
Brakes (ABS, EBD, Traction Control), Steering (Power Rack and Pinion), Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link)
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC Controls, Instrument Cluster
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild/Replacement, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, HVAC System Repair
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based Troubleshooting, Component Testing, Wiring Schematics for Diagnosis
Specific Procedures:
Engine timing chain/belt inspection and replacement, fuel injector testing, exhaust system repair, climate control system evacuation and recharge, airbag system diagnosis.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level service and repair information, including diagnostic procedures, specifications, and step-by-step repair instructions.
Engine 1:
2.4L Ecotec LNF I4 (Turbocharged - less common for 2008 base models, more for performance variants or later years)
Engine 2:
2.4L LE5 I4 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine 3:
3.5L LX9 V6 (3500)
Engine 4:
3.6L LLT V6 (Direct Injection - typically later model years, but worth noting for the platform)
Hp 2.4L Le5:
169 hp @ 6200 rpm
Torque 2.4L Le5:
156 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Hp 3.5L Lx9:
217 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque 3.5L Lx9:
220 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Transmission Standard 2.4L:
6-Speed Automatic (MH7/MH9)
Transmission Standard 3.5L:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65E-HD)
Transmission Optional:
N/A (Specific to engine/trim)
Transmission Features:
Active Select Shift (on 6-speed automatic), Driver Shift Control
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger Impact:
Good
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal Offset:
Good
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak)
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, Curtain
Infotainment System:
Available touch-screen navigation system, premium audio systems (e.g., Bose), and in-dash CD player.
Driver Assistance Features:
Traction control, StabiliTrak electronic stability control.
Connectivity Features:
Available OnStar system for communication and assistance.
Oil Change Interval:
7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000-45,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
100,000 miles (Iridium plugs)
Spark Plug Replacement 3.5L:
100,000 miles (Double Platinum plugs)
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (GM dexos1™ or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Spec 4T65E-Hd:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Transmission Fluid Spec 6-Speed:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Coolant Spec:
GM Orange Coolant (Pre-diluted 50/50) - GMDOT4453
Common Issues Engine Mounts:
Premature failure of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise.
Common Issues Transmission:
Occasional rough shifting or hesitation, especially with the 4-speed automatic.
Common Issues HVAC:
HVAC blower motor resistor failure, leading to loss of fan speed control.
Common Issues Electrical:
Issues with power window regulators and door lock actuators.
Heritage:
Chevrolet, founded by Louis Chevrolet and Billy Durant, has a long history of producing popular and reliable American vehicles, from trucks to sports cars and family sedans.
Previous Generation:
The 2008 Malibu marked the first year of the sixth generation, built on the global Epsilon II platform, a significant upgrade from the previous generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Fairfax, Kansas, USA; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
