Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima.
Platform:
Built on GM's Epsilon II global platform, shared with models like the Buick Regal and Cadillac XTS, offering a refined driving experience.
Design Philosophy:
Designed to offer a blend of sophisticated styling, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency, competing in a highly contested segment.
Powertrain:
Engine diagnostics, repair, overhaul; transmission service and repair (automatic, manual if applicable); driveline components; exhaust system; cooling system; fuel system; lubrication system.
Chassis:
Suspension systems (front and rear); steering system (rack and pinion, power steering); brake system (hydraulic, ABS, electronic parking brake); wheels and tires.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting system, instrument cluster, power windows, locks, mirrors, HVAC controls, body control modules (BCM), infotainment system wiring, sensor diagnostics, fused circuits.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim components, upholstery, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts), climate control system (HVAC), glass replacement, door mechanisms.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, battery maintenance, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code lookup and interpretation (OBD-II), electrical circuit testing, pressure testing, component testing.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, brake pads, suspension components), engine and transmission rebuild procedures, bodywork repair techniques.
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment specifications, steering angle sensor calibration, throttle body relearn procedures, adaptive transmission learning.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Engine Code:
LSB (2.4L ECOTEC)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Displacement:
2.4 L (2384 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
88.0 mm x 98.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.4:1
Horsepower:
182 hp @ 6700 rpm
Torque:
172 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Engine Code:
LCV (2.5L ECOTEC)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 with Direct Injection
Displacement:
2.5 L (2492 cc)
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Horsepower:
196 hp @ 6300 rpm
Torque:
186 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Engine Code:
LTG (2.0L Turbo ECOTEC)
Engine Type:
Turbocharged Inline-4 with Direct Injection
Displacement:
2.0 L (1998 cc)
Horsepower:
259 hp @ 5300 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 2500-4700 rpm
Injection Type:
Port Fuel Injection (LSB), Direct Injection (LCV, LTG)
Fuel Requirement:
Regular Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended), Premium recommended for 2.0L Turbo for optimal performance.
Emissions Control:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Transmission Type:
6-speed automatic (Hydra-Matic 6T40/6T45)
Transmission Type:
N/A (No manual transmission offered for 2014 Malibu in North America)
Gear Ratios:
Varies by specific transmission variant (e.g., 6T40/6T45), detailed in manual.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (GM Part No. 88861017 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.1 quarts (6.7 liters) dry fill, 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) for drain and fill.
Length:
191.5 inches (4864 mm)
Width:
73.0 inches (1854 mm)
Height:
58.0 inches (1473 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.1 inches (2720 mm)
Front Track:
62.4 inches (1585 mm)
Rear Track:
62.6 inches (1590 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 5.1 inches (130 mm)
Front Headroom:
38.5 inches (978 mm)
Rear Headroom:
37.5 inches (953 mm)
Front Legroom:
45.5 inches (1156 mm)
Rear Legroom:
38.1 inches (968 mm)
Trunk Volume:
16.3 cu ft (462 liters)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg), varies by trim and engine.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4700 lbs (2132 kg).
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for models equipped with specific safety features, consult NHTSA for exact ratings)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models achieving good ratings in all tests)
ABS:
Yes, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Yes, Traction Control System (TCS).
Stability Control:
Yes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system.
Driver Assistance:
Available options included Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, side-impact airbags, knee airbags (driver), roof rail airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters in all seating positions, LATCH child seat anchors.
Child Safety:
Rear door child security locks, LATCH system.
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink system with touch-screen display, Bluetooth connectivity for audio streaming and hands-free calling, USB ports, auxiliary audio input.
Audio System:
Available premium audio systems from Bose. SiriusXM Satellite Radio capability.
Advanced Driver Assistance:
Optional Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, rearview camera.
Connectivity Features:
OnStar turn-by-turn navigation and emergency services (subscription-based), optional 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot (depending on trim and options).
Climate Control:
Available dual-zone automatic climate control.
Keyless Entry:
Keyless entry and push-button start.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil. Consult manual for specific oil life monitoring system recommendations.
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or with every oil change.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles or 48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or as needed based on air quality and usage.
Spark Plugs:
Replace iridium spark plugs at 97,500 miles (157,000 km) for 2.4L and 2.5L engines; 70,000 miles (112,000 km) for 2.0L Turbo engines.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) under normal driving conditions, or more frequently under severe driving conditions. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Full Synthetic (GM dexos1™ Gen 2 or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
GM Delco-Bot 6277M (Orange Long Life Coolant) or equivalent silicate-free, extended-life coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. 12345866) or equivalent.
Common Complaints:
Some owners have reported issues with the electric power steering system, premature brake wear, and minor electrical glitches. The 2.4L Ecotec engine has had reports of oil consumption in some instances.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, is one of America's oldest and most recognized automotive brands, known for a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to trucks and performance vehicles.
Malibu History:
The Malibu nameplate originated in 1964 as a premium trim level of the Chevrolet Chevelle. It evolved into its own model line in 1978 and has since undergone numerous redesigns and reclassifications, becoming a mid-size sedan in its modern iterations.
2014 Generation:
The 2014 model is part of the ninth generation Malibu (introduced for the 2013 model year), which featured a significant redesign with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and a revised interior, aiming to boost sales and competitiveness.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at the Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas City, Kansas, USA, and also at the Oshawa Car Assembly plant in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.
Iiihs Ratings:
The 2014 Malibu received good ratings from the IIHS in most crash tests, contributing to its potential Top Safety Pick designation.
Consumer Reports:
While Consumer Reports ratings vary, the Malibu often placed in the middle of the mid-size sedan segment, with specific praise for ride comfort and handling, but some criticism regarding interior noise and powertrain refinement in certain configurations.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emission standards for its model year.