🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Malibu

Year:

2008, 2009, 2010

Variant:

Hybrid

Chassis Code:

GM Epsilon Platform

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Mid-size Sedan, targeting the family sedan and commuter market with improved fuel efficiency.

Hybrid Differentiation:

The hybrid variant offers a noticeable improvement in city MPG compared to its gasoline-only counterparts, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking lower running costs.

Key Competitors:

Toyota Camry Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid (depending on specific market introductions).

Powertrain Strategy:

Chevrolet's 'Two-Mode' or integrated hybrid system designed for efficient operation in various driving conditions, blending electric and gasoline power seamlessly.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, expert-level technical information crucial for diagnosing and repairing the complex hybrid systems, making it an indispensable tool for technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

📋 Manual Details

Main Systems:

Engine, Transmission, Electrical, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Body, Chassis

Specific Systems:

Hybrid Powertrain, Battery Management System, Electric Motor, Regenerative Braking, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Drive Axles, Wheel Bearings, ABS, Traction Control, Power Steering, Climate Control, SRS Airbags, Body Control Module (BCM), Infotainment System

Estimated Pages:

1500-2000 (typical for complete workshop manuals of this era and scope)

Type:

Complete Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Hybrid:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the Hybrid Synergy Drive (GM's variant), including the electric motor/generator, high-voltage battery pack, power control unit, and associated hybrid control modules. Covers operation, troubleshooting, and component replacement.

Engine:

2.4L Ecotec LAF I4, including fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, cooling, lubrication, and turbocharger (if applicable to specific sub-models, though less common for hybrid variants).

Transmission:

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or specialized automatic transmission for hybrid application. Includes maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of planetary gearsets, electric motor integration, and fluid management.

Electrical Electronics:

Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), power distribution, fuse/relay assignments, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, and body control module functions.

Chassis Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front and rear suspension components, steering system (power steering), brake system (including ABS, EBD, and regenerative braking integration), wheel alignment specifications, and wheel/tire information.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, seats, SRS airbag system, climate control (HVAC), and body hardware.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid changes (engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement, and tire rotation.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, use of scan tools, interpretation of DTCs, and step-by-step troubleshooting trees for all major vehicle systems, including hybrid-specific faults.

Repair Replacement:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for component removal, inspection, repair, and reinstallation for all major systems, including engine, transmission, hybrid components, suspension, brakes, electrical modules, and body parts.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, tightening sequences, alignment data, fluid capacities, component dimensions, and electrical system voltage/resistance checks.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive. Covers basic owner maintenance to advanced mechanical and electrical diagnostics and repairs, including hybrid system specific fault finding and component overhaul.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire document.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder

Engine Code:

2.4L Ecotec LAF

Displacement:

2.4 Liters (2384 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

3.50 in x 3.82 in (88.9 mm x 97.0 mm)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 16 Valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

Combined Horsepower Gas Electric:

Approximately 164 hp (system output, varies with operating mode)

Gasoline Engine Horsepower:

Approximately 155 hp @ 6400 rpm

Gasoline Engine Torque:

Approximately 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Electric Motor Specs:

Integrated into transmission, provides supplemental torque and electric-only propulsion. Exact output varies.

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Port Fuel Injection (PFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Tank Capacity:

15.0 Gallons

Coolant Type:

GM P/N 12346290 (Dex-Cool Long Life Coolant) or equivalent.

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic

Oil Capacity W Filter:

4.5 Quarts (4.3 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Automatic with Hybrid Integration (likely a form of eAssist or similar GM hybrid transmission technology)

Optional Transmissions:

N/A for Hybrid models

Hybrid Integration:

Seamless blending of gasoline engine and electric motor power, regenerative braking, electric-only drive modes.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Specific for hybrid transmission. Manual will specify GM P/N or Dexron equivalent.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

191.8 inches (4872 mm)

Width:

72.4 inches (1839 mm)

Height:

58.0 inches (1473 mm)

Wheelbase:

110.5 inches (2807 mm)

Front Headroom:

38.5 inches (978 mm)

Front Legroom:

42.2 inches (1072 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.4 inches (950 mm)

Rear Legroom:

35.8 inches (909 mm)

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:

15.1 cubic feet (428 Liters)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500-3700 lbs (1588-1678 kg) - varies by trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4750 lbs (2154 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

5-Star (for 2008-2010 models generally)

NHTSA Side Crash Test:

5-Star (for 2008-2010 models generally)

IIHS Front Crash Test Rating:

Good (for 2008-2010 models generally)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good (for 2008-2010 models generally)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Traction Control:

Standard Traction Control System (TCS)

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Brake Assist:

Available/Standard (depending on trim)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, side-impact airbags, curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system (availability varies by trim and option packages). Includes AM/FM stereo, CD player, MP3 capability, and auxiliary audio input. Navigation may be optional.

Audio Controls:

Steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming (optional).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Available rear parking assist sensors.

Hybrid Display:

Instrument cluster provides information on hybrid system operation, battery charge level, and fuel economy tracking.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil And Filter:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions, consult manual for severe conditions).

Tire Rotation:

Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)

Cabin Air Filter:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Coolant Flush:

First flush at 5 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 3 years or 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.

Spark Plugs:

Iridium-tipped spark plugs typically rated for 100,000 miles (160,000 km).

Engine Oil Grade:

SAE 5W-30 (GM dexos1™ Gen 2 or equivalent recommended)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid Type:

GM P/N 1096180 or equivalent (typically Dexron VI ATF for electric power steering pumps, consult manual for specific system)

Hybrid Battery Degradation:

As with many early hybrid systems, battery longevity and capacity degradation can be a concern over time, though generally robust for the period.

Transmission Control Module (Tcm):

Potential issues with the TCM or hybrid control module leading to drivability problems or warning lights.

Evaporative Emissions (Evap) System:

Common issue across many vehicles of this era, including charcoal canister faults or purge valve failures, can trigger check engine lights.

Power Steering System:

Reported instances of electric power steering failures or intermittent operation.

Interior Rattles And Squeaks:

Typical for vehicles of this age and class, often related to plastic trim components.

📚 Vehicle History

Chevrolet History:

Founded in 1911, Chevrolet is one of the oldest and most recognized automotive brands, known for its diverse range of vehicles from economical commuters to performance cars and trucks.

Malibu Lineage:

The Malibu nameplate has a long history, evolving from the Chevrolet Chevelle's upscale option to a standalone model. The 2008-2012 generation (8th gen) was a significant redesign based on the global Epsilon platform, shared with Opel Insignia and others.

Hybrid Introduction:

The Malibu Hybrid was introduced as part of GM's strategy to offer more fuel-efficient options, leveraging their developing hybrid technologies. This generation marked an early entry for the Malibu into the hybrid segment.

Assembly Locations:

Primarily assembled in Kansas City, Kansas, USA, and Oshawa, Ontario, Canada.

Production Years For This Generation:

2008-2012

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Fuel Economy Awards:

The hybrid variant would have been recognized for its improved fuel efficiency in the mid-size sedan segment by various automotive publications and organizations upon its release.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings vary by model year; early hybrid implementations could be more complex to predict than conventional powertrains. Consult specific model year reports.

Emissions Certification:

Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model years.