Target Audience:
Families, commuters, everyday drivers seeking a comfortable and practical vehicle.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Ford Fusion, Nissan Altima, Hyundai Sonata
Design Philosophy:
Modern styling, comfortable interior, fuel-efficient powertrains, and advanced safety features.
Platform:
Built on GM's Epsilon II platform, shared with vehicles like the Buick LaCrosse and Cadillac XTS, offering a refined driving experience.
Engine Coverage:
2.4L Ecotec (LAF), 3.0L V6 (LF1), 3.6L V6 (LLT)
Transmission Coverage:
6-speed automatic (6T45, 6T70)
Chassis Coverage:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical Coverage:
Body Control Module (BCM), Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Infotainment, Lighting, Power Accessories
Body Coverage:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel delivery, ignition, emission controls, exhaust systems, engine cooling, lubrication
Drivetrain:
Transmission diagnostics, repair procedures, clutch (if applicable), driveshafts, differentials
Steering Suspension:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, steering gear and linkage service, wheel alignment procedures
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service
Electrical Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing, sensor operations
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, climate control module diagnostics
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seatbelt service
Maintenance Tasks:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and flushes
Troubleshooting:
Symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic flowcharts, common problems and solutions
Repair Overhaul:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuilding, transmission overhaul, body panel repair
Diagnostics:
Scan tool usage, DTC interpretation, live data analysis, component electrical testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance and basic repairs to complex diagnostics and complete system overhauls. Includes detailed torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and component removal/installation procedures.
Engine 1 Displacement:
2.4L (2384cc)
Engine 1 Type:
Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, Ecotec (LAF)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
169 hp @ 6400 rpm
Engine 1 Torque:
156 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Engine 2 Displacement:
3.0L (2994cc)
Engine 2 Type:
V6, DOHC, 24-valve, SIDI (LF1)
Engine 2 Horsepower:
252 hp @ 6400 rpm
Engine 2 Torque:
215 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
Engine 3 Displacement:
3.6L (3564cc)
Engine 3 Type:
V6, DOHC, 24-valve, SIDI, VVT (LLT)
Engine 3 Horsepower:
281 hp @ 6000 rpm
Engine 3 Torque:
260 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm
Injection Type:
Direct Fuel Injection (SIDI for V6 engines), Port Fuel Injection for 2.4L.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Regular (87 octane recommended for all engines)
Transmission Code 1:
6T45
Transmission Code 2:
6T70 (with 3.0L and 3.6L V6)
Transmission Options:
N/A for 2011 model year; only automatic transmission offered.
Transmission Features:
Driver Shift Control, Tap-Up/Tap-Down manual shifting capability.
Fluid Type:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
NHTSA Front Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
5 Stars
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel antilock disc brakes
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, roof-rail airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system available on higher trims, offering touchscreen interface, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional navigation.
Audio Options:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, MP3 playback, auxiliary audio input, USB port, and optional Bose premium audio system.
Parking Assist:
Available rear parking assist sensors.
Camera Systems:
Optional rearview camera.
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, available OnStar communication system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.4L Ecotec: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs. V6 engines: 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium plugs.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN, ILSAC GF-5)
Engine Oil Capacity:
2.4L: 4.9 quarts (4.6 liters), 3.0L/3.6L V6: 5.0 quarts (4.7 liters) (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 12346290 or equivalent (Orange, Long-Life) Dex-Cool compatible
Engine Issues:
Some reports of oil consumption in the 2.4L Ecotec engine, potential timing chain stretching in high-mileage V6 engines.
Transmission Issues:
Occasional rough shifting or hesitant engagement reported in some 6T45/6T70 transmissions.
Electrical Issues:
Intermittent issues with power windows, door locks, and infotainment system have been noted.
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles for the American market.
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate has been used by Chevrolet for various vehicles since 1964, evolving from muscle cars to family sedans.
2011 Model Context:
The 2011 model year represents the second year of the eighth-generation Malibu, which debuted for 2008 and received a significant refresh for 2011 with styling updates and powertrain enhancements.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
IIHS Recognition:
Named an IIHS Top Safety Pick for its excellent crash test performance.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by model year and engine, with some years receiving average or below-average scores.
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.
