Positioning:
The 2007 Chevrolet Malibu was positioned as a mid-size sedan, aiming to provide a comfortable, reliable, and stylish option for families and commuters.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, and Nissan Altima.
Features Offered:
Offered a choice of efficient four-cylinder or powerful V6 engines, a comfortable ride, and a well-appointed interior for its class.
Purpose:
This owner's manual is essential for understanding and safely operating the 2007 Chevrolet Malibu, covering essential maintenance and feature explanations.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (automatic), power steering
Chassis:
Braking system (ABS overview), suspension, steering
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, gauges, warning lights, battery, basic fuse identification
Body Interior:
Seating adjustments, climate control, audio system operation, power accessories, door locks, keys and remote operation
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel filling, proper use of controls and features
Maintenance:
Fluid level checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement (exterior and interior)
Troubleshooting:
Interpreting warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting tips for common issues (e.g., battery dead, flat tire)
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system explanation, child restraint system installation guidance
Depth:
Consumer-level, focusing on safe and efficient operation and basic user maintenance. Does not cover in-depth diagnostics or repair procedures.
Transmission Option:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Transmission Code:
4T40-E / 4T45-E
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 2007 model year
Features:
Driver Shift Control (manual shifting mode on some trims), electronically controlled with overdrive
Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 L) dry fill
Length:
190.5 inches (4839 mm)
Width:
70.4 inches (1788 mm)
Height:
58.7 inches (1491 mm)
Wheelbase:
109.8 inches (2789 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 100.3 cubic feet (2840 L)
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15.1 cubic feet (427 L)
Curb Weight Min:
Approximately 3318 lbs (1505 kg) for 2.2L I4
Curb Weight Max:
Approximately 3439 lbs (1560 kg) for 3.5L V6
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 4500-4600 lbs (2041-2087 kg)
NHTSA Front Driver:
5-star
NHTSA Front Passenger:
5-star
NHTSA Side Driver:
4-star
NHTSA Side Rear Passenger:
4-star
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Not Rated (pre-dates extensive testing)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, available roof-rail airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional premium audio systems with more speakers and features were available.
Display:
Basic LCD display for audio and climate controls. No large touchscreens or complex navigation systems in base models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Auxiliary Input:
Some models may have an auxiliary input jack for external audio devices, though this was not universally standard.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available remote keyless entry and ignition
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Refer to manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed based on condition. Typically recommended every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial change at 150,000 miles (240,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30, GM Approved Synthetic Blend (API Certified)
Coolant Specification:
Dex-Cool (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (GM 6277M)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid or GM Power Steering Fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid Specification:
Automotive windshield washer fluid (non-flammable type recommended)
Common Complaints:
Some common issues reported for this generation include power steering leaks, occasional transmission issues (hard shifting), and potential for early catalytic converter failure on some models. Some interior trim pieces may also show wear.
Tip 1:
Regularly check tire pressure for optimal fuel economy and tire life.
Tip 2:
Keep engine bay clean and inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear.
Tip 3:
Listen for unusual noises from the engine, transmission, or suspension, which can indicate potential problems.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of producing popular and accessible vehicles for American consumers since 1911.
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate has been used by Chevrolet intermittently since the 1960s, with the 2007 model belonging to the eighth generation (2004-2007), based on the GM Epsilon platform.
Production Location:
Primarily assembled at the Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
Model Years:
The Malibu was produced for the 2007 model year, concluding the eighth generation. The ninth generation began with the 2008 model year.
Safety Awards:
Received good crash test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its time, indicating solid safety performance for the segment.
Fuel Economy Ratings:
EPA estimated MPG: 2.2L I4: ~23 city/31 highway; 3.5L V6: ~19 city/28 highway. (Actual mileage may vary)
Certification:
This manual is an original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) document, designed to meet all applicable automotive industry standards for owner information.
