Target Audience:
Families and individuals seeking a comfortable and practical daily driver.
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Dodge Intrepid.
Platform:
Built on the GM W-body platform, shared with other GM sedans like the Pontiac Grand Prix and Buick Regal.
Styling:
Known for a relatively conservative but appealing design for its era.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety, and features specific to the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu.
Secondary Coverage:
Basic troubleshooting, warning lights, driver controls, comfort and convenience features, basic maintenance procedures.
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for a 2002 model year owner's manual).
Powertrain:
Covers basic operation and maintenance related to the engine and transmission, but not in-depth repair diagnostics.
Chassis:
Details on brakes, steering, suspension components related to driver understanding and basic checks.
Electrical:
Information on dashboard indicators, lighting systems, fuses, and basic electrical features.
Comfort Convenience:
Covers climate control, audio systems, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), seating adjustments, and interior features.
Safety Security:
Details on airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH/ISOFIX), anti-theft systems, and vehicle locking.
Maintenance Procedures:
Instructions for checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure, wiper blade replacement, and bulb replacement.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Guidance on interpreting warning lights and indicators, and initial steps for minor issues.
Operation Controls:
Explanation of all vehicle controls, switches, gauges, and how to operate various features.
Depth:
Designed for the vehicle owner. Provides operational knowledge and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Digital Format Options:
While the original is printed, digital versions (PDF) are often available for download or purchase, offering searchable text and printability.
Original Print Quality:
Typically standard automotive manual print quality with clear text and illustrations.
Original Binding:
Stapled or perfect bound paperback booklet.
Original Paper Type:
Standard paper, durable enough for glove box use.
NHTSA Driver Front Impact:
4/5 stars (2002 model year)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact:
4/5 stars (2002 model year)
ABS:
Standard on most trims.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Optional side-impact airbags available.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pretensioners.
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Higher trims may feature premium sound systems.
Display:
Basic analog gauges and digital odometer. No central infotainment screen.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most trims.
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard or optional ABS depending on trim level.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions required for auxiliary audio input.
Bluetooth:
Not available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Consult manual for specific recommendation.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles (using Dex-Cool or equivalent).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs (check specific engine). Original likely used platinum.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30. Check manual for Dexos compatibility or older specs. API certified.
Coolant Type:
GM's recommended orange silicate-free coolant (Dex-Cool or equivalent).
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or Dexron VI (check manual for specific transmission fluid type).
Common Issue 1:
Transmission solenoids and torque converter issues, especially on higher mileage V6 models.
Common Issue 2:
Headliner sagging due to adhesive failure.
Common Issue 3:
Front suspension components (struts, ball joints) wear.
Common Issue 4:
Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP) system leaks (e.g., charcoal canister, vent solenoid).
Chevrolet Legacy:
Chevrolet, founded in 1911, has a long history of producing reliable and accessible vehicles for a broad market.
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate has a history dating back to the 1960s as a Chevrolet Chevelle trim. The modern Malibu was reintroduced in 1997 as a distinct model.
Second Generation Start:
The 2002 model year marked the beginning of the second generation of the modern Malibu, based on the revised GM Epsilon platform (derived from Opel Vectra).
Assembly Locations:
Primarily assembled in Kansas City, Kansas, USA.
Production Period:
The second generation ran from 2002 to 2007.
