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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M
In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-4
Vehicle Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Performance and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Keys, Doors and Windows . . . 2-1
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-25
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1
Additional Storage Features . . . 4-3
Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Information Displays . . . . . . . . . . 5-22
Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-25
Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . . 5-30
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15
Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25
Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1
Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-16
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 9-24
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27
Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . . 9-29
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-32
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-41
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-47
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
Vehicle Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-84
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-88
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . 10-90

Summary of content (390 pages)

PAGE 1
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) 2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-4 Vehicle Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15 Performance and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20 Keys, Doors and Windows . . . 2-1 Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2 Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (2,1) 2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1 General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . 11-2 Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . . 11-6 Maintenance Records . . . . . . . . 11-8 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Vehicle Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 Customer Information . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Introduction The names, logos, emblems, slogans, vehicle model names, and vehicle body designs appearing in this manual including, but not limited to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, MALIBU, and the MALIBU Emblem are trademarks and/or service marks of General Motors LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates, or licensors. Litho in U.S.A. Part No.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 iv Black plate (4,1) Introduction Using this Manual To quickly locate information about the vehicle, use the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found. Danger, Warnings, and Cautions Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or reduce them. { WARNING These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Introduction Vehicle Symbol Chart Here are some additional symbols that may be found on the vehicle and what they mean. For more information on the symbol, refer to the Index. 9 : Airbag Readiness Light # : Air Conditioning ! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) % : Audio® Steering Wheel Controls or OnStar $ : Brake System Warning Light " : Charging System I : Cruise Control B : Engine Coolant Temperature O : Exterior Lamps # : Fog Lamps .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 vi Black plate (6,1) Introduction 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) In Brief In Brief Instrument Panel Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 Initial Drive Information Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-2 In Brief Instrument Panel Black plate (2,1)
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) In Brief A. Air Vents on page 8‑9. J. B. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever. See Turn and Lane-Change Signals on page 6‑4. C. Instrument Cluster on page 5‑9. D. Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 5‑3. Cruise Control on page 9‑32. Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑22. K. Data Link Connector (DLC) (Out of View). See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑15. Q. Hazard Warning Flashers on page 6‑4. R.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-4 Black plate (4,1) In Brief Initial Drive Information Press L and hold for more than two seconds to sound the panic alarm. This section provides a brief overview about some of the important features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle. Press L again to cancel the panic alarm. See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) In Brief When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running. The doors will be locked and the climate control system may come on. The engine will continue to run for 10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a 10-minute time extension. Remote start can be extended only once. Canceling a Remote Start To cancel a remote start: .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-6 Black plate (6,1) In Brief Seat Adjustment Height Adjustment Seatback Adjustment If available, press and hold the top or bottom of the switch to raise or lower the seat. Release the switch when the desired height is reached. To recline the seatback: Manual Seats Seat Position To adjust the seat position: 1. Lift the bar under the front of the seat cushion to unlock the seat. 2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release the bar. 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) In Brief To return the seatback to the upright position: 1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback, and the seatback will return to the upright position. Power Seats Seat Position 1-7 See Power Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4. Seatback Adjustment 2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked. See “Manual Reclining Seatbacks” under Reclining Seatbacks on page 3‑5. To adjust a power seat, if available: . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-8 Black plate (8,1) In Brief Lumbar Adjustment Second Row Seats With this feature, either side of the seatback can be folded down for more cargo space. Before folding a seatback, make sure the front seat is not reclined. If it is, the rear seatback will not fold down all the way. Push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked in position. Make sure that the safety belts are properly stowed over the seatback in all three positions.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) In Brief Press the top of the switch again to go to the low heat setting. The indicator light “1” will be lit. Safety Belts The heated seats are canceled when the ignition is turned off. For more information, see Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7. The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-10 Black plate (10,1) In Brief Mirror Adjustment Exterior Mirrors 2. Press one of the four arrows located on the control pad to move the mirror to the desired direction. Keep the selector switch in the center position when not adjusting either outside mirror. United States See Power Mirrors on page 2‑14. Interior Mirror Canada and Mexico See Passenger Sensing System on page 3‑32 for important information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) In Brief Steering Wheel Adjustment 3. Pull or push the steering wheel closer or away from you. 4. Pull the lever up to lock the steering wheel in place. Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Interior Lighting Dome Lamps The dome lamps come on when any door is opened. They turn off after all the doors are closed. The lever is located on the left side of the steering wheel column. To adjust the steering wheel: 1. Pull the lever down. 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-12 Black plate (12,1) In Brief Exterior Lighting P: Briefly turn to this position to manually turn the automatic lamp control off or on. In Canada, this position only works when a vehicle is in the P (Park) position. When the vehicle is put into D (Drive) the lights come on. AUTO: Automatically turns on the Daytime Running Lamps during daytime, and the headlamps, parking lamps, and taillamps at night. ;: Manual operation of the parking lamps and taillamps.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) In Brief Climate Controls A. Fan Control E. Air Delivery Mode Control B. Air Recirculation F. C. Temperature Control G. Rear Window Defogger D. Outside Air See Climate Control Systems on page 8‑1 (If Equipped).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-14 Black plate (14,1) In Brief Automatic Climate Control System (If Equipped) A. Fan Control F. B. Air Conditioning G. Display C. Air Recirculation H. Temperature Control D. Outside Air See Automatic Climate Control System on page 8‑5 (If Equipped). E.
PAGE 21
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) In Brief Transmission Vehicle Features Driver Shift Control (DSC) Radio(s) 1-15 This position allows you to change gears similar to a manual transmission. To use this feature: 1. Move the shift lever from D (Drive) rearward to M (Manual). Radio with CD (MP3) and USB Port shown 2. Press the + (plus) end of the button on the side of the shifter to upshift, or push the − (minus) end of the button to downshift. See Manual Mode on page 9‑25.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-16 Black plate (16,1) In Brief © ¨ : Seek or scan stations. 4 : For vehicles with XM, MP3, WMA, or RDS features, press to display additional text information related to the current FM-RDS or XM station; or CD, MP3, WMA song. Song title information will be displayed on the top line of the display while the artist information will be displayed on the bottom line, if the information is available during XM, CD, MP3, or WMA playback.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) In Brief Satellite Radio XM is a satellite radio service based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces. XM satellite radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast to coast, and in digital-quality sound. A fee is required to receive the XM service. For more information, refer to: . . www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-929-2100 (U.S.) www.xmradio.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-18 Black plate (18,1) In Brief Steering Wheel Controls b g : Press to silence the vehicle speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. Press and hold longer than two seconds to interact with the OnStar® or Bluetooth systems. x c : Press to reject an incoming call, or to end a call. For more information, see Steering Wheel Controls on page 5‑2. Cruise Control For more information, see Cruise Control on page 9‑32. Increases or decreases volume.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) In Brief Driver Information Center (DIC) The DIC display is located at the bottom of the instrument panel cluster. It shows the status of many vehicle systems and enables access to the personalization menu. r: Press to reset some vehicle information displays, select a personalization setting, or acknowledge a warning message. For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑22.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-20 In Brief Performance and Maintenance Traction Control System (TCS) The traction control system limits wheel spin. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started. . . Black plate (20,1) To turn off traction control, press and release t on the instrument panel. F illuminates and the appropriate DIC message is displayed. See Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑27. Press and release the button again to turn on traction control.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) In Brief indicator that the tire pressures are getting low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper pressure. The TPMS does not replace normal monthly tire maintenance. It is the driver’s responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 10‑53. Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-22 Black plate (22,1) In Brief . When road and weather conditions are appropriate, use cruise control. Roadside Assistance Program . Always follow posted speed limits or drive more slowly when conditions require. U.S.: 1-800-243-8872 . Keep vehicle tires properly inflated. . Combine several trips into a single trip. . Replace the vehicle's tires with the same TPC Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near the size. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) In Brief OnStar® For vehicles with an active OnStar subscription, OnStar uses several innovative technologies and live Advisors to provide a wide range of safety, security, navigation, diagnostics, and calling services. Automatic Crash Response In a crash, built‐in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor who is immediately connected to the vehicle to see if you need help.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 1-24 Black plate (24,1) In Brief hardware. The vehicle has to have a working electrical system and adequate battery power for the OnStar equipment to operate. OnStar service may not work if the OnStar equipment isn’t properly installed or you haven’t maintained it and the vehicle is in good working order and in compliance with all government regulations. If you try to add, connect, or modify any equipment or software in the vehicle, OnStar service may not work.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Keys, Doors and Windows Exterior Mirrors Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 Interior Mirrors Keys and Locks Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-2 Black plate (2,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Keys and Locks If you are locked out of your vehicle, contact Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8 or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10. Keys { WARNING Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. Children or others could be badly injured or even killed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Keys, Doors and Windows . Check the transmitter's battery. See “Battery Replacement” later in this section. . If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service. confirm locking. See “LOCK HORN” and “LIGHT FLASH” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑30 for more information. Pressing Q may also arm the anti-theft alarm system. See Anti-Theft Alarm System on page 2‑11.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-4 Black plate (4,1) Keys, Doors and Windows See “EXT (Exterior) LIGHTS” under Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑30 for additional information. Pressing K on the RKE transmitter disarms the anti-theft alarm system. See Anti-Theft Alarm System on page 2‑11. V (Remote Trunk Release): Press and hold for about one second to unlock the trunk. The trunk can be opened with the transmitter when the vehicle speed is less than 3 km/h (2 mph) or when the ignition is off.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Keys, Doors and Windows 3. Insert the new battery, positive side facing up. Replace with a CR2032 or equivalent battery. doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles. 4. Snap the transmitter back together. Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-6 Keys, Doors and Windows If it is the first remote start since the vehicle has been driven, repeat the previous steps, while the engine is still running, to extend the engine running time by 10 minutes from the time you repeat the steps for remote starting. The remote start running time can be extended one time and only after the first remote start. After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Door Locks WARNING (Continued) { WARNING Unlocked doors can be dangerous. . . Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-8 Black plate (8,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Delayed Locking Automatic Door Locks Lockout Protection This feature will delay the actual locking of the doors and arming of the theft-deterrent system for five seconds when the power door lock switch or remote keyless entry transmitter is used to lock the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Doors WARNING (Continued) Trunk Press the trunk release button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter for one second to open the trunk from the outside. { WARNING Open the rear doors to access the security locks on the inside edge of each door. To set the locks, insert a key into the slot and turn it to the horizontal position. The door can only be opened from the outside with the door unlocked.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-10 Black plate (10,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Remote Trunk Release Emergency Trunk Release Handle Press the button located on the driver door near the map pocket to open the trunk. The trunk can only be opened while the vehicle is in P (Park) or when the ignition is off. Close the trunk by pulling on the handle. Notice: Do not use the emergency trunk release handle as a tie-down or anchor point when securing items in the trunk as it could damage the handle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Vehicle Security Disarming the System This vehicle has theft-deterrent features; however, they do not make it impossible to steal. To disarm the system: Anti-Theft Alarm System Your vehicle may have an anti-theft alarm system. Arming the System With the ignition off, press the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter lock button to arm the system.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-12 Keys, Doors and Windows When an alarm event has finished, the system will re-arm itself automatically. How to Turn Off the System Alarm To turn off the system alarm: . . . Black plate (12,1) Press the lock button on the RKE transmitter. The system will then re-arm itself. Press the unlock button on the RKE transmitter. This will also disarm the system. Insert the key in the ignition and turn it on. This will also disarm the system.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Keys, Doors and Windows If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged or the light continues to stay on, try another ignition key. If the engine does not start with the other key, the vehicle needs service. If the vehicle does start, the first key may be damaged. See your dealer who can service the theft-deterrent system and have a new key made.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-14 Black plate (14,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Power Mirrors 2. Press one of the four arrows located on the control pad to move the mirror to the desired direction. Interior Mirrors 3. Adjust each outside mirror so that a little of the vehicle and the area behind it can be seen. Hold the inside rearview mirror in the center to move it for a clearer view of behind your vehicle. Adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Keys, Doors and Windows to subscribe to OnStar®. See the OnStar® owner's guide for more information about the services OnStar® provides. See Compass on page 5‑4 for more information. O (On/Off): Press to turn the dimming feature on or off. Automatic Dimming Mirror Operation Automatic dimming reduces the glare of lights from behind the vehicle. The dimming feature comes on and the indicator light illuminates each time the vehicle is started.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-16 Black plate (16,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Power Windows To stop the window while it is lowering, pull the front of the switch momentarily. To raise the window, pull and hold the front of the switch. Express-Up Window On windows with this feature, pull the switch up to the second position and release the switch to activate the express-up feature. To stop the window as it is going up, pull up or press down briefly on the switch again.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Express Window Anti-Pinch Feature If any object is in the path of the window when the express‐up is active, the window stops at the obstruction and auto‐reverse to a preset factory position. Weather conditions such as severe icing may also cause the window to auto‐reverse. The window returns to normal operation once the obstruction or condition is removed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-18 Black plate (18,1) Keys, Doors and Windows Sun Visors Roof Sunroof Pull the sun visor down to block glare. Detach the sun visor from the center mount to pivot to the side window, or to extend along the rod, if available. The sunroof only operates when the ignition is in ON/RUN, ACC/ ACCESSORY, or if Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑20.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Keys, Doors and Windows A deflector will automatically raise when the sunroof is opened. The deflector will retract when the sunroof is closed. To close the sunroof, press the front of the switch and hold it until the sunroof is closed. The sunroof will stop if the switch is released. Close the sunshade by hand. The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if the vehicle has an electrical failure.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 2-20 Black plate (20,1) Keys, Doors and Windows 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Seats and Restraints Seats and Restraints Safety System Check . . . . . . . . 3-24 Safety Belt Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24 Replacing Safety Belt System Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-24 Airbag System Head Restraints Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 Front Seats Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Power Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-2 Black plate (2,1) Seats and Restraints Head Restraints The vehicle's front and rear seats have adjustable head restraints in the outboard seating positions. { WARNING With head restraints that are not installed and adjusted properly, there is a greater chance that occupants will suffer a neck/ spinal injury in a crash. Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Seats and Restraints Front Seats 3-3 To adjust the seat position: Height Adjustment 1. Lift the bar under the front of the seat cushion to unlock the seat. If available, press and hold the top or bottom of the switch to raise or lower the seat. Release the switch when the desired height is reached. Seat Adjustment Seat Position { WARNING You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver seat while the vehicle is moving.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-4 Black plate (4,1) Seats and Restraints Power Seat Adjustment Lumbar Adjustment { WARNING You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust the seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver seat only when the vehicle is not moving. To adjust a power seat, if available: . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Seats and Restraints Reclining Seatbacks { WARNING Sitting in a reclined position when the vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even when buckled up, the safety belts cannot do their job when reclined like this. The shoulder belt cannot do its job because it will not be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-6 Black plate (6,1) Seats and Restraints Manual Reclining Seatbacks To return the seatback to the upright position: { WARNING You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver seat only when the vehicle is not moving. 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Seats and Restraints Power Reclining Seatbacks 3-7 Heated Front Seats { WARNING To adjust a power seatback, if equipped: . Tilt the top of the control rearward to recline. . Tilt the top of the control forward to raise. If you cannot feel temperature change or pain to the skin, the seat heater may cause burns even at low temperatures.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-8 Black plate (8,1) Seats and Restraints Raising the Seatback Rear Seats { WARNING Folding the Seatback Either side of the seatback can be folded down for more cargo space. Adjust the seatback only when the vehicle is not moving. Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety belts still fastened may cause damage to the seat or the safety belts. Always unbuckle the safety belts and return them to their normal stowed position before folding a rear seat.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING If either seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatbacks to be sure they are locked. To raise the seatback: 1. Push the seatback up and back to lock it into place. 2. Push and pull the top of the seatback to be sure it is locked into position. 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-10 Black plate (10,1) Seats and Restraints A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up, a person would not survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without safety belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Seats and Restraints Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider does not stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... or the instrument panel...
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-12 Black plate (12,1) Seats and Restraints With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why safety belts make such good sense. Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after a crash if I am wearing a safety belt? A: You could be — whether you are wearing a safety belt or not.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Seats and Restraints How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This section is only for people of adult size. First, before you or your passenger(s) wear a safety belt, there is important information you should know. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and infants.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-14 Black plate (14,1) Seats and Restraints Q: What is wrong with this? { WARNING Q: What is wrong with this? You can be seriously hurt if the shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit snugly against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give as much protection this way. A: The lap belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as much protection this way.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING Q: What is wrong with this? You can be seriously hurt if the lap belt is too loose. In a crash, you could slide under the lap belt and apply force on your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The lap belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. 3-15 { WARNING You can be seriously injured if the belt is buckled in the wrong place like this.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-16 Black plate (16,1) Seats and Restraints Q: What is wrong with this? { WARNING Q: What is wrong with this? You can be seriously injured if the belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied on the abdomen, not on the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests. A: The belt is over an armrest.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which are not as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-18 Black plate (18,1) Seats and Restraints Q: What is wrong with this? { WARNING You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you would not have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. Lap-Shoulder Belt A: The belt is twisted across the body. All seating positions in the vehicle have a lap-shoulder belt.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Seats and Restraints 3-19 effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash. See “Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster” later in this section for instruction on use and important safety information. 3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 3‑23.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-20 Black plate (20,1) Seats and Restraints Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Safety Belt Pretensioners Your vehicle has a shoulder belt height adjuster for the driver and right front passenger position. This vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for the front outboard occupants. Although the safety belt pretensioners cannot be seen, they are part of the safety belt assembly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) Seats and Restraints Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides 3-21 Here is how to install a comfort guide to the safety belt: This vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides. If not, they are available through your dealer. The guides may provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for some adults. When installed and properly adjusted, the comfort guide positions the belt away from the neck and head. 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-22 Black plate (22,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING A safety belt that is not properly worn may not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. 4.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) Seats and Restraints Safety Belt Extender To remove and store the comfort guide, squeeze the belt edges together so that the safety belt can be removed from the guide. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Turn the guide and clip inward and slide them in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of the elastic cord exposed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-24 Black plate (24,1) Seats and Restraints Safety System Check Safety Belt Care Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light, safety belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job. See your dealer to have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (25,1) Seats and Restraints See your dealer to have the safety belt assemblies inspected or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the safety belt system was not being used at the time of the crash. Have the safety belt pretensioners checked if the vehicle has been in a crash, or if the airbag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑13.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-26 Black plate (26,1) Seats and Restraints Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system: { WARNING You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if you have airbags. Airbags are designed to work with safety belts, but do not replace them. Also, airbags are not designed to deploy in every crash. In some crashes safety belts are your only restraint.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (27,1) Seats and Restraints 3-27 Where Are the Airbags? There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑13 for more information. The driver's frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-28 Black plate (28,1) Seats and Restraints WARNING (Continued) or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (29,1) Seats and Restraints When Should an Airbag Inflate? Frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes to help reduce the potential for severe injuries mainly to the driver's or right front passenger's head and chest. However, they are only designed to inflate if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-30 Black plate (30,1) Seats and Restraints Seat-mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags are not intended to inflate in frontal impacts, near-frontal impacts, rollovers, or rear impacts. A seat-mounted side impact airbag is intended to deploy on the side of the vehicle that is struck. A roof-rail airbag is intended to deploy on the side of the vehicle that is struck.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (31,1) Seats and Restraints Airbags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts. What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? After the frontal airbags and seat-mounted side impact airbags inflate, they quickly deflate, so quickly that some people may not even realize an airbag inflated. Roof-rail airbags may still be at least partially inflated for some time after they deploy.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-32 Seats and Restraints Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger airbag. . . Black plate (32,1) Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for the airbag system. If you do not get them, the airbag system will not be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (33,1) Seats and Restraints The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger seat. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the right front passenger frontal airbag and seat‐mounted side impact airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-34 Black plate (34,1) Seats and Restraints . The system determines that a small child is present in a child restraint. . The system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat. . A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time. . The right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (35,1) Seats and Restraints 4. Reinstall the child restraint following the directions provided by the child restraint manufacturer and refer to Securing Child Restraints (Rear Seat) on page 3‑55 or Securing Child Restraints (Front Passenger Seat) on page 3‑57. If the on indicator is still lit with an infant present in a child restraint, secure the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and see your dealer.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-36 Black plate (36,1) Seats and Restraints Additional Factors Affecting System Operation Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the seat during vehicle maneuvers and braking, which helps the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger airbag status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints” in the Index for additional information about the importance of proper restraint use.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (37,1) Seats and Restraints Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Q: Is there anything I might add to or change about the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly? A: Yes. If you add things that change the vehicle's frame, bumper system, height, front end or side sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from working properly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-38 Black plate (38,1) Seats and Restraints In addition, your dealer and the service manual have information about the location of the airbag sensors, sensing and diagnostic module and airbag wiring. Airbag System Check The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled maintenance or replacement. Make sure the airbag readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑13 for more information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (39,1) Seats and Restraints Child Restraints Older Children The manufacturer's instructions that come with the booster seat state the weight and height limitations for that booster. Use a booster seat with a lap-shoulder belt until the child passes the fit test below: . Sit all the way back on the seat. Do the knees bend at the seat edge? If yes, continue. If no, return to the booster seat. . Buckle the lap-shoulder belt.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-40 Black plate (40,1) Seats and Restraints According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear seating position. WARNING (Continued) might also slide under the lap belt. The belt force would then be applied right on the abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (41,1) Seats and Restraints Infants and Young Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-42 Black plate (42,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING Never do this. Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. It is also better to secure a forward-facing child restraint in a rear seat.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (43,1) Seats and Restraints { WARNING { WARNING To reduce the risk of neck and head injury during a crash, infants need complete support. This is because an infant's neck is not fully developed and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing child restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant's body, the back and shoulders.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-44 Black plate (44,1) Seats and Restraints Securing an Add-On Child Restraint in the Vehicle { WARNING (B) Forward-Facing Child Seat A forward-facing child seat (B) provides restraint for the child's body with the harness. (C) Booster Seats A booster seat (C) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle's safety belt system. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (45,1) Seats and Restraints endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. When securing an add-on child restraint, refer to the instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-46 Black plate (46,1) Seats and Restraints A label on your sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { WARNING A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (47,1) Seats and Restraints If you secure a child restraint in the left or center rear seat using LATCH, review the following illustrations. Depending on where you place the child restraint, you may not be able to access certain safety belt assemblies or LATCH anchors for additional passengers or child restraints. A. Occupant prohibited B. Child restraint using LATCH 3-47 A.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-48 Black plate (48,1) Seats and Restraints Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System) The LATCH system holds a child restraint during driving or in a crash. This system is designed to make installation of a child restraint easier. The LATCH system uses anchors in the vehicle and attachments on the child restraint that are made for use with the LATCH system.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (49,1) Seats and Restraints Top Tether Anchor A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child restraint to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built into the vehicle. The top tether attachment (B) on the child restraint connects to the top tether anchor in the vehicle in order to reduce the forward movement and rotation of the child restraint during driving or in a crash. Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a dual tether (C).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-50 Black plate (50,1) Seats and Restraints Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be attached. To assist you in locating the lower anchors, each rear anchor position has a label, near the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (51,1) Seats and Restraints Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System { WARNING If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to anchors, the child restraint will not be able to protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-52 Black plate (52,1) Seats and Restraints You cannot secure three child restraints using the LATCH anchors in the rear seat at the same time, but you can install two of them. If you want to do this, install one LATCH child restraint in the passenger-side position, and install the other one either in the driver-side position or in the center position. Refer to the following illustration to learn which anchors to use. secure the restraints.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (53,1) Seats and Restraints 2. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor, if equipped. Refer to the child restraint instructions and the following steps: 3-53 2.3. Route, attach, and tighten the top tether according to the child restraint instructions and the following instructions: 2.1. Find the top tether anchor. Open the cover to expose the anchor. 2.2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-54 Black plate (54,1) Seats and Restraints 3. Before placing a child in the child restraint, make sure it is securely held in place. To check, grasp the child restraint at the LATCH path and attempt to move it side‐to‐side and back‐and‐forth. There should be no more than 2.5 cm (1 in) of movement for proper installation.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (55,1) Seats and Restraints Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash { WARNING A crash can damage the LATCH system in the vehicle. A damaged LATCH system may not properly secure the child restraint, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure the LATCH system is working properly after a crash, see your dealer to have the system inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-56 Black plate (56,1) Seats and Restraints If more than one child restraint needs to be installed in the rear seat, be sure to read Where to Put the Restraint on page 3‑45. 1. Put the child restraint on the seat. 2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (57,1) Seats and Restraints 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt, and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. When installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. Try to pull the belt out of the retractor to make sure the retractor is locked.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-58 Black plate (58,1) Seats and Restraints A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { WARNING A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (59,1) Seats and Restraints 3-59 You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. 1. Move the seat as far back as it will go before securing the forward-facing child restraint.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 3-60 Black plate (60,1) Seats and Restraints 7. Before placing a child in the child restraint, make sure it is securely held in place. To check, grasp the child restraint at the safety belt path and attempt to move it side‐to‐side and back‐and‐forth. When the child restraint is properly installed, there should be no more than 2.5 cm (1 in) of movement. 6.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Storage Storage Storage Compartments Instrument Panel Storage . . . . Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cupholders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Front Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Center Console Storage . . . . . . 4-1 4-1 4-1 4-2 4-3 Storage Compartments Glove Box Instrument Panel Storage Cupholders 4-1 Pull the handle up to open. Removable cupholders are located in front of the center console.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 4-2 Black plate (2,1) Storage Front Storage For vehicles with rear seat cupholders, access them by pulling down on the door at the back of the center console. Storage is available in front of the shift lever. Open it by pushing on the bottom of the door. A driver side storage compratment is located near the steering column on the bottom of the instrument panel. Pull the cover down to open. Pull out to remove for cleaning.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Storage Center Console Storage The center console storage has a tray and a main storage area. Pull up on the driver side latch to access the tray. Pull up on the passenger side latch to access the main storage. It is equipped with a removable divider and a storage pocket may be at the rear of the center console. The armrest on top of the center console can be adjusted to a rearward, middle, and forward position.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 4-4 Black plate (4,1) Storage 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Instruments and Controls Instruments and Controls Controls Steering Wheel Adjustment . . . 5-2 Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . . 5-2 Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 Windshield Wiper/Washer . . . . . 5-3 Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4 Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-2 Black plate (2,1) Instruments and Controls Controls 3. Pull or push the steering wheel closer or away from you. Steering Wheel Adjustment 4. Pull the lever up to lock the steering wheel in place. Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving. Steering Wheel Controls e+/e − (Volume): Press to increase or to decrease the radio volume.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Instruments and Controls To select tracks on an iPod or USB device: 1. Press and hold w or x c while listening to a song until the contents of the current folder display on the radio display. 2. Press and release w or x c to scroll up or down the list, then press and hold w to play the highlighted track. To navigate folders on an iPod or USB device: 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-4 Black plate (4,1) Instruments and Controls The amount of delay time varies between wiping cycles due to the delay setting selected or the speed of the vehicle. As vehicle speed is increased or decreased, the wiper interval also increases or decreases. 6 (Low Speed): Slow wipes. 1 (High Speed): Fast wipes. 8 (Mist): Single wipe, move the lever down, then release it. Several wipes, hold the lever down. Clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Instruments and Controls Compass Variance Clock The mirror is set in zone eight. It is necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if the vehicle is driven outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, such as a long distance, cross-country trip, it is necessary to adjust the compass variance. Without Date Display AM/FM Base Radio with a Single CD Player To set the time: 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-6 Black plate (6,1) Instruments and Controls 4. Press the H button again until the clock display stops flashing to set the currently displayed time; otherwise, the flashing stops after five seconds and the current time displayed is automatically set. 2. Press the H button and the HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and year) displays. To change the time default setting from 12 hour to 24 hour, press the H button until 12H or 24H is displayed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Instruments and Controls Power Outlets Accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player. There are two accessory power outlets. One accessory power outlet is located inside the storage bin below the climate controls and the other outlet is on the rear of the center storage console. Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use. The accessory power outlet is operational at all times.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-8 Black plate (8,1) Instruments and Controls If you try to connect equipment using more than 150 watts or a system fault is detected, a protection circuit shuts off the power supply and the indicator light turns off. To reset the circuit, unplug the item and plug it back in or turn the Remote Accessory Power (RAP) off and then back on. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑20.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Instruments and Controls Instrument Cluster English shown, Metric similar 5-9
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-10 Black plate (10,1) Instruments and Controls Speedometer Trip Odometer The speedometer shows the vehicle's speed in either kilometers per hour (km/h) or miles per hour (mph). The trip odometer can show how far the vehicle has been driven since the trip odometer was last reset. Odometer The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven, in either kilometers or miles. This vehicle has a tamper‐resistant odometer.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Instruments and Controls Here are four things that some owners ask about. These are normal and do not indicate a problem with the fuel gauge: . At the service station, the gas pump shuts off before the gauge reads full. . It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gauge indicated.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-12 Black plate (12,1) Instruments and Controls Safety Belt Reminders Driver Safety Belt Reminder Light Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light There is a driver safety belt reminder light on the instrument panel cluster. Metric This gauge shows the engine coolant temperature. If the pointer moves towards the H (United States) or to the shaded thermostat symbol area (Canada), the engine is too hot. A temperature indicator light turns on and a chime sounds.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Instruments and Controls The front passenger safety belt reminder light and chime may turn on if an object is put on the seat such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop, or other electronic device. To turn off the reminder light and/or chime, remove the object from the seat or buckle the safety belt Airbag Readiness Light The system checks the airbag's electrical system for possible malfunctions.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-14 Black plate (14,1) Instruments and Controls you know the status of the right front passenger frontal and seat-mounted side impact airbags. United States Canada and Mexico When the vehicle is started, the passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds as a system check. If you are using remote start to start the vehicle from a distance, if equipped, you may not see the system check.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Instruments and Controls Charging System Light This light comes on briefly when the ignition key is turned to START, but the engine is not running, as a check to show it is working. Malfunction Indicator Lamp A computer system called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) monitors operation of the fuel, ignition, and emission control systems.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-16 Black plate (16,1) Instruments and Controls costly repairs not covered by the vehicle warranty. This could also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/ Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3. This light comes on during a malfunction in one of two ways: Light Flashing: A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and could damage the emission control system on the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Instruments and Controls If none of the above have made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. The dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that might have developed. Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some state/provincial and local governments may have programs to inspect the on-vehicle emission control equipment.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-18 Black plate (18,1) Instruments and Controls Brake System Warning Light The vehicle brake system consists of two hydraulic circuits. If one circuit is not working, the remaining circuit can still work to stop the vehicle. For normal braking performance, both circuits need to be working If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem. Have the brake system inspected right away.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Instruments and Controls Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light For vehicles with the Antilock Brake System (ABS), this light comes on briefly when the engine is started. If it does not, have the vehicle serviced by your dealer. If the system is working normally the indicator light then goes off. If the ABS light stays on, turn the ignition off. If the light comes on while driving, stop as soon as it is safely possible and turn the ignition off.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-20 Black plate (20,1) Instruments and Controls If the indicator/warning light is on and flashing, the TCS or the ESC system is actively working. Check the DIC messaging for details to determine which system is working. If the LOW TRACTION message appears, the system is limiting wheel spin. If the ESC ACTIVE message appears, the system is aiding in maintaining directional control of the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) Instruments and Controls When the Light is On Steady This indicates that one or more of the tires are significantly underinflated. A tire pressure message can accompany the light. See Tire Messages on page 5‑29 for more information. Stop as soon as possible, and inflate the tires to the pressure value shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑51 for more information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-22 Black plate (22,1) Instruments and Controls Security Light Cruise Control Light Information Displays Driver Information Center (DIC) For information regarding this light and the vehicle's security system, see Content Theft Deterrent. High-Beam On Light The high-beam on light comes on when the high-beam headlamps are in use. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 6‑2 for more information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) Instruments and Controls buttons to enter the personalization menu. See Vehicle Personalization on page 5‑30 for more information. The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. The DIC has different modes which can be accessed by pressing the DIC buttons. The button functions are detailed in the following. Information Modes The DIC buttons are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-24 Black plate (24,1) Instruments and Controls FUEL RANGE Press the information button until FUEL RANGE displays. This mode shows the remaining distance you can drive without refueling in either kilometers (km) or miles (mi). It is based on fuel economy and the fuel remaining in the tank. To reset the average fuel economy, press and hold the reset button while MPG (L/100 KM) AVG is displayed. Average fuel economy is then calculated starting from that point.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (25,1) Instruments and Controls In addition to the engine oil life system monitoring the oil life, additional maintenance is recommended in the Maintenance Schedule in this manual. See Engine Oil on page 10‑9 and Scheduled Maintenance on page 11‑2. Always reset the engine oil life system after an oil change. See “How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System” under Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑13.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-26 Black plate (26,1) Instruments and Controls Brake System Messages Door Ajar Messages BRAKE FLUID DOOR AJAR This message displays, while the ignition is on, when the brake fluid level is low. The brake system warning light on the instrument panel cluster also comes on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 5‑18 for more information. Have the brake system serviced by your dealer as soon as possible.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (27,1) Instruments and Controls Fuel System Messages Key and Lock Messages CHECK GAS CAP KEY FOB BATT (Battery) LOW This message displays if the fuel cap has not been fully tightened. Recheck the fuel cap to make sure that it is on properly. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the message off. This message displays if the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter battery is low. Replace the battery in the transmitter.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-28 Black plate (28,1) Instruments and Controls ESC (Electronic Stability Control) OFF If your vehicle has Electronic Stability Control (ESC), this message displays and the ESC/TCS light on the instrument panel cluster comes on solid when ESC is turned off. Adjust your driving accordingly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (29,1) Instruments and Controls TRACTION OFF Service Vehicle Messages If your vehicle has the Traction Control System (TCS), this message displays and the ESC/TCS light on the instrument panel cluster comes on solid when the system is turned off. Adjust your driving accordingly. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 9‑29 and Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/ Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning Light on page 5‑19 for more information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-30 Black plate (30,1) Instruments and Controls Vehicle Reminder Messages Vehicle Personalization ICE POSSIBLE Your vehicle has personalization capabilities that allow you to program certain features to a preferred setting. All of the features listed may not be available on your vehicle. Only the features available will be displayed on the DIC. This message displays when the outside air temperature is cold enough to create icy road conditions.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (31,1) Instruments and Controls Personalization Menu Modes OIL LIFE RESET When this feature is displayed, you can reset the engine oil life system. To reset the system, see Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑13. See “OIL LIFE” under Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑22 for more information. UNITS This feature allows you to select the units of measurement in which the DIC will display the vehicle information.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-32 Black plate (32,1) Instruments and Controls UNLOCK HORN LIGHT FLASH This feature, which allows the vehicle's horn to chirp on the first press of the unlock button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, can be enabled or disabled.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (33,1) Instruments and Controls OFF: The doors will lock immediately when pressing the power lock switch or the lock button on the RKE transmitter. See Power Door Locks on page 2‑7, Delayed Locking on page 2‑8, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3 for more information. To select a setting and move on to the next feature, press the information button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 5-34 Black plate (34,1) Instruments and Controls ON (default): The exterior perimeter lighting will turn on when the unlock button on the RKE transmitter is pressed. SPANISH: All messages will appear in Spanish. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3 for more information. To select a setting and exit out of the personalization menu mode, press the information button while the desired setting is displayed on the DIC.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Lighting Lighting Exterior Lighting Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . 6-1 Exterior Lamps Off Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 Automatic Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 Delayed Headlamps . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 6-2 Black plate (2,1) Lighting AUTO (Automatic Headlamp System): Automatically turns on the Daytime Running Lamps during daytime, and the headlamps, parking lamps, and taillamps at night. P (Off/On): Turn the band to this position to turn on the Automatic Headlamp System. In Canada, this position only works when a vehicle is in the P (Park) position. To turn on the Automatic Headlamp System, turn the switch to off/on.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Lighting . The light sensor detects daytime light. . The parking brake is released or the vehicle is not in P (Park). When the DRL system is on, the taillamps, sidemarker lamps, parking lamps, and instrument panel lights are not on unless you turn the exterior lamps control to the parking lamp position. The regular headlamp system should be turned on when they are needed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 6-4 Black plate (4,1) Lighting Hazard Warning Flashers Turn and Lane-Change Signals Fog Lamps For vehicles with fog lamps, the button for this feature is located on the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel. The ignition must be on for the fog lamps to work. An arrow on the instrument panel cluster flashes in the direction of the turn or lane change.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Lighting Interior Lighting Dome Lamps Lighting Features Instrument Panel Illumination Control The dome lamps come on when any door is opened. They turn off after all the doors are closed. Entry/Exit Lighting The knob for this control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column. D (Instrument Panel Brightness): Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to brighten or dim the lights.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 6-6 Black plate (6,1) Lighting Parade Dimming Parade dimming is a separate lighting mode that comes on while the parking lamps are turned on during the day. It prevents the display lights and indicator lights from being dim, while the parking lamps are used during the day. Battery Load Management The vehicle has Electric Power Management (EPM) that estimates the battery's temperature and state of charge.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Lighting Battery Power Protection The vehicle has a battery run-down protection feature designed to protect the vehicle's battery. When any interior lamp (trunk, reading, or visor vanity) is left on while the ignition is turned off, the battery run-down protection system will automatically shut the lamp(s) off after 20 minutes. This will avoid draining the battery. To reactivate the interior lamps, do one of the following: . Turn on the ignition. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 6-8 Black plate (8,1) Lighting 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Infotainment System Infotainment System Introduction Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . 7-2 Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 Radio AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7 Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10 Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14 Backglass Antenna . . . . . . . . . . 7-15 Satellite Radio Antenna . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-2 Black plate (2,1) Infotainment System To minimize taking your eyes off the road while driving, do the following while the vehicle is parked: . Become familiar with the operation and controls of the audio system. . Set up the tone, speaker adjustments, and preset radio stations. For more information, see Defensive Driving on page 9‑2. Notice: Contact your dealer before adding any equipment.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Infotainment System Operation Radio with CD (Base) 7-3
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-4 Black plate (4,1) Infotainment System (Information): Press to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. While the ignition is off, press this button to display the time. Speed Compensated Volume (SCV): Radios with the Speed Compensated Volume (SCV) feature automatically adjust the radio volume to compensate for road and wind noise as the vehicle speeds up or slows down, so that the volume level is consistent. To activate SCV: 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Infotainment System 4. Press the softkey under the desired Speed Compensated Volume setting (OFF, Low, Med, or High) to select the level of radio volume compensation. The display times out after approximately 10 seconds. Each higher setting allows for more radio volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) Radio with CD To adjust the bass, or treble: 1. Press the f knob until Bass or Treble displays. 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-6 Black plate (6,1) Infotainment System EQ (Equalization): Press this button to choose bass and treble equalization settings designed for different types of music. Selecting MANUAL or changing bass or treble, returns the EQ to the manual bass and treble settings. Unique EQ settings can be saved for each source. 2. To adjust the setting, do one of the following: . . . f knob. Press either ¨ SEEK, or © SEEK button. Press either \ FWD, or s REV button.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Infotainment System Radio Messages Calibration Error: Displays if the radio is no longer calibrated properly for the vehicle. The vehicle must be returned to your dealer for service. Loc or Locked: Displays when the TheftLock® system has activated. Take the vehicle to your dealer for service. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. Radio AM-FM Radio Radio Data System (RDS) The radio may have RDS.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-8 Black plate (8,1) Infotainment System Finding a Station . BAND: Press to choose between FM1, FM2, AM, or XM™ (if equipped) on the Radio with CD (Base). Press to choose between FM, AM, XM (if equipped) on the Radio with CD (MP3) and USB Port, or the Radio with CD (MP3). f (Tune): Turn to select radio stations. © SEEK: Press to seek or scan stations with a strong signal in the selected band. . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Infotainment System Radios that have a FAV button store radio stations as favorites, up to 36 stations can be programmed as favorites using the 6 softkeys below the radio station frequency tabs and by using the FAV button. Press the FAV button to go through up to 6 pages of favorites, each having 6 favorite stations available per page. Each page of favorites can contain any combination of AM, FM, or XM, if equipped, stations.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-10 Black plate (10,1) Infotainment System Satellite Radio XM™ Satellite Radio Service XM is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces. XM Satellite Radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast-to-coast, and in digital-quality sound. A service fee is required to receive the XM service.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Infotainment System ¨ SEEK: Press to go to the next XM channel. . To scan stations, press and hold ¨ SEEK for a few seconds until the radio beeps once. The radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next station. Press ¨ SEEK again to stop scanning. s REV: 2. Press either of the two softkeys below the desired category tab to immediately tune to the first XM station in that category.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-12 Black plate (12,1) Infotainment System Storing XM Channels Drivers are encouraged to store radio station while the vehicle is parked, see Defensive Driving on page 9‑2. Tune to stored radio stations using the presets, favorites button, and steering wheel controls, if the vehicle has this feature. Up to 36 stations can be programmed as favorites using the 6 softkeys below the radio station frequency tabs and by using the FAV button.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Infotainment System Channel Unauth : This channel is blocked or cannot be received with your XM Subscription package. Channel Unavail: This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned. Tune to another station. If this station was one of the presets, choose another station for that preset button. No Artist Info: No artist information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-14 Black plate (14,1) Infotainment System Radio Reception AM Frequency interference and static can occur during normal radio reception if items such as cell phone chargers, vehicle convenience accessories, and external electronic devices are plugged into the accessory power outlet. If there is interference or static, unplug the item from the accessory power outlet. The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Infotainment System Backglass Antenna The AM-FM antenna is integrated with the rear window defogger, located in the rear window. Make sure that the inside surface of the rear window is not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged. If the inside surface is damaged, it could interfere with radio reception. For proper radio reception, the antenna connector needs to be properly attached to the post on the glass.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-16 Black plate (16,1) Infotainment System load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player and the loading slot free of foreign materials, liquids, and debris. If an error displays, see “CD Messages” later in this section. Care of CDs Store a disc in its original case or a protective case and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the bottom of a disc is damaged it may not play properly or at all.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Infotainment System s REV (Reverse): Press and hold to reverse playback quickly within a track. Sound is heard at a reduced volume and the elapsed time of the track displays. Release to resume playing the track. \ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold to advance playback quickly within a track. Sound is heard at a reduced volume and the elapsed time of the track displays. Release to resume playing the track.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-18 Black plate (18,1) Infotainment System Root Directory Playlists The root directory is treated as a folder. Files are stored in the root directory when the disc or storage device does not contain folders. Files accessed from the root directory of a disc display as F1 ROOT. Discs that have playlists that were created using WinAmp™, MusicMatch™, or Real Jukebox™ software can be accessed, however, there is no playlist editing capability using the radio.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Infotainment System ¨ SEEK: Press to go to the next track. Press and hold or press multiple times to continue moving forward through tracks. s REV (Reverse): Press and hold to reverse playback quickly. Sound is heard at a reduced volume and the elapsed time of the track displays. Release s REV to resume playing. \ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold to advance playback quickly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-20 Black plate (20,1) Infotainment System When the scan is finished, the disc begins playing files in order by artist. The current artist playing is shown on the second line of the display. Once all songs by that artist are played, the player moves to the next artist in alphabetical order and begins playing files by that artist. To listen to files by another artist, press the softkey located below either arrow tab.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) Infotainment System Drivers are encouraged to set up any auxiliary device while the vehicle is in P (Park). See Defensive Driving on page 9‑2 for more information on driver distraction. Using the 3.5 mm (1/8 in) Auxiliary Input Jack The radio system may have a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) auxiliary input jack located on the lower right or left side of the faceplate. This is not an audio output; do not plug the headphone set into the front auxiliary input jack.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-22 Black plate (22,1) Infotainment System Files accessed from the root directory of a USB device display as F1 ROOT. Empty Folder Order of Play Tracks are played in the following order: . Folders that do not contain files are skipped, and the player advances to the next folder that contains files. File Naming The song name that displays is the song name that is contained in the ID3 tag.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) Infotainment System Older iPod's that are not supported can still be used by connecting it to the 3.5 mm (1/8 in) auxiliary input jack using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) cable. s REV (Reverse): Press and hold to reverse playback quickly. Sound is heard at a reduced volume. Release s REV to resume playing.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-24 Black plate (24,1) Infotainment System 4. Turn f to scroll through the files in the selected folder. . Albums . Genres 5. Press f to select the desired file to be played. . Songs . Composers To skip through large lists, the five softkeys can be used to navigate in the following order: To select tracks: . First softkey, first item in the list. . Second softkey, 1% through the list each time the softkey is pressed. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (25,1) Infotainment System > (Shuffle Off): Press the softkey below 2 to turn shuffle Phone off. This is the default mode when a USB storage device or iPod is first connected. Bluetooth 2 (Shuffle All Songs / Shuffle Songs): Press the softkey below = or < to shuffle all songs on the USB storage device or iPod. < (Shuffle Album): Press the softkey below > to shuffle all songs in the current album on an iPod. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-26 . Black plate (26,1) Infotainment System See “Storing and Deleting Phone Numbers” in this section for more information. { WARNING When using a cell phone, it can be distracting to look too long or too often at the screen of the phone or the infotainment (navigation) system. Taking your eyes off the road too long or too often could cause a crash resulting in injury or death. Focus your attention on driving.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (27,1) Infotainment System Pairing A Bluetooth cell phone must be paired to the Bluetooth system and then connected to the vehicle before it can be used. See your cell phone manufacturers user guide for Bluetooth functions before pairing the cell phone. If a Bluetooth phone is not connected, calls will be made using OnStar® Hands‐Free Calling, if available. Refer to the OnStar owner's guide for more information. Pairing Information .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-28 Black plate (28,1) Infotainment System Listing All Paired and Connected Phones The system can list all cell phones paired to it. If a paired cell phone is also connected to the vehicle, the system responds with “is connected” after that phone name. 1. Press and hold two seconds. b g for 2. Say “Bluetooth.” 3. Say “List.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (29,1) Infotainment System Using the “Store” Command 1. Press and hold two seconds. b g for 2. Say “Store.” 3. Say the phone number or group of numbers you want to store all at once with no pauses, then follow the directions given by the system to save a name tag for this number. Using the “Digit Store” Command 3. Say each digit, one at a time, that you want to store.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-30 Black plate (30,1) Infotainment System Digit Dial: This command allows a phone number to be dialed by entering the digits one at a time. Re‐dial : This command is used to dial the last number used on the cell phone. Using the “Dial” or “Call” Command 1. Press and hold two seconds. b g for 2. Say “Dial” or “Call.” 3. Say the entire number without pausing or say the name tag. Once connected, the person called will be heard through the audio speakers.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (31,1) Infotainment System . Press b g again to return to the original call. . To ignore the incoming call, no action is required. . Press x c to disconnect the current call and switch to the call on hold. Three‐Way Calling Three‐way calling must be supported on the cell phone and enabled by the wireless service carrier. 1. While on a call, press b g. 2. Say “Three‐way call.” 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 7-32 Infotainment System Voice Pass-Thru Voice pass‐thru allows access to the voice recognition commands on the cell phone. See your cell phone manufacturers user guide to see if the cell phone supports this feature. To access contacts stored in the cell phone: 1. Press and hold two seconds. b g for 2. Say “Bluetooth.” The system responds “Bluetooth ready,” followed by a tone. 3. Say “Voice.” The system responds “OK, accessing .” .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Climate Controls 8-1 Climate Controls Climate Control Systems Climate Control Systems The heating, cooling and ventilation for the vehicle can be controlled with this system. Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1 Automatic Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5 Air Vents Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 A. Fan Control E. Air Delivery Mode Control B. Recirculation F. C.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 8-2 Black plate (2,1) Climate Controls Operation Select from the following: Temperature Control: Turn clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the temperature inside the vehicle. H (Vent): Air is directed to the instrument panel outlets. When it is cold outside −18°C (0°F) or lower, use the engine coolant heater, if vehicle has one, to provide warmer air faster to the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Climate Controls To help clear the windshield quickly, do the following: 1. Select 0. For quick cool down on hot days, do the following: 1. Select the C vent mode. 2. Select the highest temperature. 2. Select the highest fan speed. 3. Select the highest fan speed. 3. Select # (Air Conditioning): 4. Press to turn the air conditioning system on or off. An indicator light comes on to show it is on.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 8-4 Black plate (4,1) Climate Controls Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog or frost from the rear window. < REAR: Press to turn the rear window defogger on or off. An indicator light comes on to show that the rear window defogger is on. Be sure to clear as much snow from the rear window as possible. If driving below 80 km/h (50 mph), the rear window defogger turns off about 15 minutes after the button is pressed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Climate Controls 8-5 Automatic Climate Control System Automatic Operation For vehicles with this system, the heating, cooling, and ventilation can be automatically controlled. AUTO (Automatic): Select AUTO on both the fan speed control and the air delivery mode control knobs to activate the automatic system. When automatic operation is active the system controls the inside temperature and air delivery.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 8-6 Black plate (6,1) Climate Controls 2. Set the temperature. An initial setting of 73°F (23°C) is recommended. Allow about 20 minutes for the system to regulate. Press w or x to adjust the temperature setting as necessary. If the temperature is set at 60°F (15°C) the system remains at the maximum cooling setting. If the temperature is set at 90°F (32°C) the system remains at the maximum heat setting.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Climate Controls windshield. The air conditioning indicator light blinks three times if the compressor is turned off while in this mode. # (Air Conditioning): Press turn the air conditioning on and off. An indicator light turns on to show the air conditioning is on. When air conditioning is selected or is in AUTO mode, the system runs the air conditioning automatically to cool and dehumidify the air entering the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 8-8 Black plate (8,1) Climate Controls When the weather is cool or damp, operating the system in recirculation for extended periods of time can cause fogging of the vehicle's windows. To clear the fog, select either defog or defrost. Make sure the air conditioning is on. Allow the air conditioning to run automatically to help dehumidify the air. Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Climate Controls Air Vents Use the lever located in the center of each outlet by moving it either up and down or side-to-side, to change the direction and amount of airflow in the vehicle. Operation Tips . Clear away any ice, snow, or leaves from the air inlets at the base of the windshield that may block the flow of air into the vehicle. . Do not use non-GM approved hood deflectors as they could adversely affect the performance of the system. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 8-10 Black plate (10,1) Climate Controls 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Driving and Operating Driving and Operating Shifting Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20 Shifting Out of Park . . . . . . . . . . 9-21 Parking Over Things That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22 Engine Exhaust Driving Information Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2 Drunk Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2 Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3 Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-2 Black plate (2,1) Driving and Operating Driving Information Defensive Driving Defensive driving means “always expect the unexpected.” The first step in driving defensively is to wear the safety belt. See Safety Belts on page 3‑9. { WARNING Assume that other road users (pedestrians, bicyclists, and other drivers) are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do and be ready. In addition: .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Driving and Operating Police records show that almost 40 percent of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, more than 17,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with about 250,000 people injured. For persons under 21, it is against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-4 Black plate (4,1) Driving and Operating And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road, whether it is pavement or gravel; the condition of the road, whether it is wet, dry, or icy; tire tread; the condition of the brakes; the weight of the vehicle; and the amount of brake force applied. Avoid needless heavy braking.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Driving and Operating Steering Tips Steering in Emergencies It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. These problems can be avoided by braking — if you can stop in time.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-6 Black plate (6,1) Driving and Operating Off-Road Recovery The vehicle's right wheels can drop off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while driving. tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn the steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Driving and Operating While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You might not realize the surface is slippery until the vehicle is skidding.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-8 Black plate (8,1) Driving and Operating Other Rainy Weather Tips Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Besides slowing down, other wet weather driving tips include: Always be alert and pay attention to your surroundings while driving. If you become tired or sleepy, find a safe place to park the vehicle and rest. Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different than driving on flat or rolling terrain.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Driving and Operating { WARNING Coasting downhill in N (Neutral) or with the ignition off is dangerous. The brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down and they could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have the engine running and the vehicle in gear when going downhill. . . Stay in your own lane.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-10 Black plate (10,1) Driving and Operating Blizzard Conditions Being stuck in snow can be a serious situation. Stay with the vehicle unless there is help nearby. If possible, use the Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑8 or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 13‑10. To get help and keep everyone in the vehicle safe: . . Turn on the hazard warning flashers. WARNING (Continued) If the vehicle is stuck in the snow: . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Driving and Operating feel really uncomfortable from the cold. Moving about to keep warm also helps. If it takes some time for help to arrive, now and then when you run the engine, push the accelerator pedal slightly so the engine runs faster than the idle speed. This keeps the battery charged to restart the vehicle and to signal for help with the headlamps. Do this as little as possible to save fuel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-12 Black plate (12,1) Driving and Operating Vehicle Load Limits It is very important to know how much weight the vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo and all nonfactory‐installed options. Two labels on the vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and the Certification label. WARNING (Continued) vehicle handles.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Driving and Operating Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axle. See “Certification Label” later in this section. Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle's placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-14 Black plate (14,1) Driving and Operating seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed the vehicle's capacity weight. Certification Label Example 2 A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs). Example 3 A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = 453 kg (1,000 lbs). B. Subtract Occupant Weight B. Subtract Occupant Weight @ 68 kg (150 lbs) × 5 = 340 kg (750 lbs).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Driving and Operating occupants, fuel, and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for the vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. And, if there is a heavy load, it should be spread out. See “Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit” earlier in this section. { WARNING Do not load the vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-16 Black plate (16,1) Driving and Operating Starting and Operating . Avoid making hard stops for the first 322 km (200 miles) or so. During this time the new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. . Do not tow a trailer during break-in.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Driving and Operating and turn it only with your hand. If the key cannot be turned by hand, see your dealer. 9 (STOPPING THE ENGINE/ LOCK/OFF): When the vehicle is stopped, turn the ignition switch to LOCK/OFF to turn the engine off. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) will remain active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 9‑20 This position locks the ignition. It also locks the transmission. The key can only be removed in LOCK/OFF.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-18 Black plate (18,1) Driving and Operating Starting the Engine Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). The engine will not start in any other position. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Notice: Do not try to shift to P (Park) if the vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to P (Park) only when the vehicle is stopped. Starting Procedure 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Driving and Operating Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Engine Heater The engine coolant heater can provide easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm‐ up in cold weather conditions at or below −18°C (0°F).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-20 Black plate (20,1) Driving and Operating Retained Accessory Power (RAP) These vehicle accessories can be used for up to 10 minutes after the engine is turned off: . Audio System . Power Windows . Heated Seats (if equipped) . Sunroof (if equipped) These features continue to work up to 10 minutes after the ignition is turned to LOCK/OFF. The power windows, heated seats, and sunroof will work until any door is opened.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) Driving and Operating Leaving the Vehicle with the Engine Running { WARNING It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the engine running. The vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-22 Black plate (22,1) Driving and Operating To shift out of P (Park): 1. Apply the brake pedal. 2. Press the shift lever button. 3. Move the shift lever to the desired position. If still unable to shift out of P (Park): 1. Fully release the shift lever button. 2. Hold the brake pedal down and press the shift lever button again. Parking Over Things That Burn { WARNING Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under the vehicle and ignite.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) Driving and Operating WARNING (Continued) . There are holes or openings in the vehicle body from damage or after-market modifications that are not completely sealed. If unusual fumes are detected or if it is suspected that exhaust is coming into the vehicle: . Drive it only with the windows completely down. . Have the vehicle repaired immediately.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-24 Black plate (24,1) Driving and Operating Automatic Transmission The automatic transmission has a shift lever located on the console between the seats. P (Park): This position locks the front wheels. It is the best position to use when you start the engine because the vehicle cannot move easily. { WARNING It is dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (25,1) Driving and Operating N (Neutral): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Also, use N (Neutral) when the vehicle is being towed. { WARNING Shifting into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could move very rapidly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-26 Black plate (26,1) Driving and Operating While using the DSC feature the transmission will have firmer shifting and sportier performance. You can use this for sport driving or when climbing hills to stay in gear longer or to downshift for more power or engine braking. The transmission will only allow you to shift into gears appropriate for the vehicle speed and engine revolutions per minute (RPM): . 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (27,1) Driving and Operating Brakes Antilock Brake System (ABS) This vehicle has the Antilock Brake System (ABS), an advanced electronic braking system that helps prevent a braking skid. When the engine is started and the vehicle begins to drive away, ABS checks itself. A momentary motor or clicking noise might be heard while this test is going on, and it might even be noticed that the brake pedal moves a little. This is normal.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-28 Black plate (28,1) Driving and Operating Parking Brake begin to drive, the brake system warning light comes on and a chime sounds as a warning that the parking brake is still on. The PUSH PARK PEDAL message will also display in the Driver Information Center (DIC) as a reminder to release the parking brake. See Brake System Messages on page 5‑26. To set the parking brake, push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (29,1) Driving and Operating Ride Control Systems Traction Control System (TCS) The vehicle may have a Traction Control System (TCS) that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that the front wheels are spinning too much or are beginning to lose traction.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-30 Black plate (30,1) Driving and Operating driving. For more information on the LOW TRACTION message, see Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑27. To turn the system off or on, press and release this button located on the center console. The DIC will display the appropriate message as described previously when the button is pressed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (31,1) Driving and Operating Electronic Stability Control (ESC) For more information, see Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑27. The vehicle has an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system which combines antilock brake, traction and stability control systems and helps the driver maintain directional control of the vehicle in most driving conditions.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-32 Black plate (32,1) Driving and Operating when driving in extreme off-road conditions where high wheel spin is required. See If the Vehicle is Stuck on page 9‑11. The ESC/TCS button is located on the instrument panel. The traction control system can be turned off or back on by pressing the ESC/TCS button. To disable both traction control and ESC, press and hold the button briefly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (33,1) Driving and Operating Setting Cruise Control { WARNING If the cruise button is on when not in use, it could get bumped and go into cruise when not desired. Keep the cruise control switch off when cruise is not being used. Cruise control can be dangerous where you cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do not use the cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-34 Driving and Operating Resuming a Set Speed If the cruise control is set at a desired speed and then the brakes are applied, the cruise control is disengaged without erasing the set speed from memory. The cruise symbol in the instrument panel cluster also goes out indicating cruise is no longer engaged. Once the vehicle speed is 40 km/h (25 mph) or greater, press the RES+ button on the steering wheel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (35,1) Driving and Operating use only the unleaded gasoline described under Recommended Fuel on page 9‑35. Fuel Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of this vehicle. To help keep the engine clean and maintain optimum vehicle performance, we recommend the use of gasoline advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-36 Black plate (36,1) Driving and Operating audible knocking noise, commonly referred to as spark knock, might be heard when driving. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible. If heavy knocking is heard when using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher, the engine needs service. Gasoline Specifications (U.S. and Canada Only) At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM specification D 4814 in the United States or CAN/ CGSB‐3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (37,1) Driving and Operating regulations. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean and avoid problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Look for the TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to ensure gasoline meets enhanced detergency standards developed by the auto companies. A list of marketers providing TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline can be found at www.toptiergas.com.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-38 Black plate (38,1) Driving and Operating Many service stations will not have an 85% ethanol fuel (E85) pump available. The U.S. Department of Energy has an alternative fuels website (www.afdc.energy.gov/afdc/ locator/stations/) that can help you find E85 fuel. Those stations that do have E85 should have a label indicating ethanol content. Do not use the fuel if the ethanol content is greater than 85%. At a minimum, E85 should meet ASTM Specification D 5798.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (39,1) Driving and Operating Filling the Tank Turn the tethered fuel cap counterclockwise to remove. If the vehicle has E85 fuel capability, the fuel cap will be yellow and state that E85 or gasoline can be used. See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 9‑37. While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the hook on the fuel door. Reinstall the cap by turning it clockwise until it clicks.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-40 Black plate (40,1) Driving and Operating { WARNING { WARNING Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. This spray can happen if the tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. If a fire starts while you are refueling, do not remove the nozzle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (41,1) Driving and Operating WARNING (Continued) . Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the inside of the fill opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the filling is complete. . Do not smoke while pumping fuel. . Do not use a cellular phone while pumping fuel. 9-41 Towing See the following trailer towing information in this section: General Towing Information .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-42 Black plate (42,1) Driving and Operating Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips { WARNING The driver can lose control when pulling a trailer if the correct equipment is not used or the vehicle is not driven properly. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even at all. The driver and passengers could be seriously injured. The vehicle may also be damaged; the resulting repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (43,1) Driving and Operating Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires experience. Get familiar with handling and braking with the added trailer weight. The vehicle is now longer and not as responsive as the vehicle is by itself. Check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connectors, lamps, tires and mirror adjustments.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-44 Black plate (44,1) Driving and Operating Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer The turn signal indicators on the instrument panel flash whenever signaling a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps also flash, telling other drivers the vehicle is turning, changing lanes or stopping. When towing a trailer, the arrows on the instrument panel flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (45,1) Driving and Operating 4. Reapply the brake pedal. Then apply the parking brake and shift into P (Park). 5. Release the brake pedal. Leaving After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply and hold the brake pedal. 2. Start the engine. 3. Shift into a gear. 4. Release the parking brake. 5. Let up on the brake pedal. 6. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 7. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-46 Black plate (46,1) Driving and Operating Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight. Ask your dealer for trailering information or advice, or write us at our Customer Assistance Offices. See Customer Assistance Offices (U.S.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (47,1) Driving and Operating Towing Equipment Safety Chains Hitches Always attach chains between the vehicle and the trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Leave enough slack so the rig can turn. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Use the correct hitch equipment. See your dealer or a hitch dealer for assistance. . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 9-48 Black plate (48,1) Driving and Operating 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Vehicle Care Vehicle Care General Information General Information . . . . . . . . . . California Proposition 65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . California Perchlorate Materials Requirements . . . . Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2 10-3 10-3 10-3 Vehicle Checks Doing Your Own Service Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4 Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-2 Black plate (2,1) Vehicle Care When It Is Time for New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59 Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59 Different Size Tires and Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-61 Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-63 Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-64 Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Vehicle Care 10-3 California Proposition 65 Warning California Perchlorate Materials Requirements Accessories and Modifications Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems, many fluids, and some component wear by-products contain and/or emit these chemicals.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-4 Black plate (4,1) Vehicle Care GM Accessories are designed to complement and function with other systems on the vehicle. Your GM dealer can accessorize the vehicle using genuine GM Accessories. When you go to your GM dealer and ask for GM Accessories, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM Accessories. Also, see Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 3‑37.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Vehicle Care 10-5 Hood 3. Lift the hood. To open the hood: 4. After the hood is slightly lifted, it will continue to open to the full position. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Lower the hood until the lifting force of the strut is reduced, then release the hood to latch fully. Check to make sure the hood is closed and repeat the process if necessary. 1. Pull the hood release handle with this symbol on it.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-6 Black plate (6,1) Vehicle Care Engine Compartment Overview 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Vehicle Care A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 10‑14. B. Engine Cooling Fan (Out of View). See Cooling System on page 10‑16. C. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 10‑9. D. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 10‑9. E. Engine Coolant Surge Tank. See Engine Coolant on page 10‑16. F. H. Battery on page 10‑26. I. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-8 Black plate (8,1) Vehicle Care 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Vehicle Care A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 10‑14. G. Pressure Cap. See Cooling System on page 10‑16. B. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid on page 10‑22. H. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid” under Brakes on page 10‑24. C. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 10‑9. I. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 10‑9. E.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-10 Black plate (10,1) Vehicle Care Checking Engine Oil It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill. In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6 for the location of the engine oil dipstick. When to Add Engine Oil L4 Engine Obtaining an accurate oil level reading is essential: 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Vehicle Care Selecting the Right Engine Oil Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade: Specification Use and ask for engine oils with the dexos™ certification mark. Oils meeting the requirements of the vehicle should have the dexos certification mark on the container. This certification mark indicates that the oil has been approved to the dexos specification.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-12 Black plate (12,1) Vehicle Care (−20°F), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, be sure to always select an oil that meets the required specification, dexos. See “Specification” earlier in this section for more information. Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes Do not add anything to the oil.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Vehicle Care Engine Oil Life System When to Change Engine Oil This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-14 Black plate (14,1) Vehicle Care If the CHANGE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure. Automatic Transmission Fluid It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealer and have it repaired as soon as possible.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Vehicle Care To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter: 10-15 { WARNING Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. Use caution when working on the engine and do not drive with the air cleaner/filter off. 3. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter. 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-16 Black plate (16,1) Vehicle Care Cooling System The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature. { WARNING An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan. { WARNING 3.6 L V6 Engine Shown, 2.4 L L4 Engine Similar A. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View) B. Engine Coolant Surge Tank C.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Vehicle Care What to Use { WARNING Adding only plain water or some other liquid to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water and other liquids, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. The coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-18 Black plate (18,1) Vehicle Care The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark on the coolant surge tank. If it is not, there may be a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank { WARNING An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Vehicle Care 2. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it. 1. Remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise about two or two and one-half turns. If a hiss is heard, wait for that to stop. This will allow any pressure still left to be vented out the discharge hose. 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-20 Black plate (20,1) Vehicle Care Engine Overheating The vehicle has several indicators to warn of engine overheating. There is an engine coolant temperature gauge as well as an engine coolant temperature warning light on the vehicle's instrument panel cluster. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge on page 5‑11 and Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 5‑20.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (21,1) Vehicle Care If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of steam: 1. Turn the air off. 2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary. 3. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and let the engine idle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-22 Black plate (22,1) Vehicle Care Power Steering Fluid See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6 for reservoir location. It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless a leak is suspected in the system, or an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. How to Check Power Steering Fluid To check the power steering fluid: When to Check Power Steering Fluid 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (23,1) Vehicle Care Washer Fluid . Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. . Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint. What to Use When windshield washer fluid is needed, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before use.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-24 Black plate (24,1) Vehicle Care Brakes This vehicle has disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound can come and go or be heard all the time the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly. { WARNING The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (25,1) Vehicle Care Brake Fluid The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6 for the location of the reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down: . The brake fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-26 Vehicle Care Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir. { WARNING With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid. Notice: . Black plate (26,1) Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (27,1) Vehicle Care Starter Switch Check { WARNING When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See Parking Brake on page 9‑28. Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. 10-27 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-28 Black plate (28,1) Vehicle Care Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position. . The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park). . The ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF. Contact your dealer if service is required.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (29,1) Vehicle Care Wiper Blade Replacement To replace the wiper blade: Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear or cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 11‑2 for more information. 1. Pull the windshield wiper arm connector away from the windshield. Headlamp Aiming Headlamp aim has been preset at the factory and should need no further adjustment. However, if the vehicle is damaged in a crash, the headlamp aim may be affected.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-30 Black plate (30,1) Vehicle Care Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 10‑34. For any bulb‐changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. Halogen Bulbs { WARNING Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps (LS and LT) Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (31,1) Vehicle Care 2. Remove the two rear convenience net hooks holding the trunk trim and move the trim aside. 10-31 3. Remove the three wing nuts (A), which hold the taillamp assembly, from inside the trunk. 5. Turn the bulb socket (B) counterclockwise to remove it from the lamp assembly (A). 4. Remove the taillamp assembly. 6. Pull the bulb from the socket (B). 7. Install a new bulb. 8.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-32 Black plate (32,1) Vehicle Care Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps (LTZ) A. Back‐up Lamp B. Stoplamp, Taillamp and Turn Signal Lamp 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2‑9 for more information. 2. Remove the two rear convenience net hooks holding the trunk trim and move the trim aside. 3. Remove the three wing nuts (A), which hold the taillamp assembly, from inside the trunk. 4. Remove the taillamp assembly.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (33,1) Vehicle Care 10-33 Back-Up Lamps 5. Disconnect the wiring harness connector (C) from the LED (B). 6. Turn the LED (B) counterclockwise to remove it. 7. Install a new LED (B). 8. Reverse Steps 2 through 6 to reinstall the taillamp assembly (A). 2. Remove the push pins holding the trunk trim (B). 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2‑9 for more information. 3. Move the trim aside far enough to gain access to the bulb assembly (A).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-34 Black plate (34,1) Vehicle Care License Plate Lamp To replace the license plate lamp bulb: 4. Push the new bulb in and turn it clockwise to install. 5. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reinstall. Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp 4. Turn the bulb socket (B) counterclockwise to remove from the lamp assembly. 5. Pull the bulb (A) from the socket (B). 6. Install the new bulb. 7. Reverse Steps 1 through 4 to reinstall. 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (35,1) Vehicle Care Electrical System Electrical System Overload The vehicle has fuses and circuit breakers to protect against an electrical system overload. When the current electrical load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circuit until the current load returns to normal or the problem is fixed. This greatly reduces the chance of circuit overload and fire caused by electrical problems.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-36 Black plate (36,1) Vehicle Care To identify and check fuses, circuit breakers, and relays, see Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page 10‑36, Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 10‑38, and Rear Compartment Fuse Block on page 10‑40. Engine Compartment Fuse Block The engine compartment fuse block is located on the driver side of the engine compartment, near the battery. Notice: Spilling liquid on any electrical component on the vehicle may damage it.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (37,1) Vehicle Care Fuses Usage Fuses Usage 10-37 Fuses Usage 42 Transmission Control Module Battery 43 Ignition Module (LE9 & LE5); Injectors, Ignition Coils Odd (LY7) 44 Injectors (LE9 & LE5); Injectors, Ignition Coils Even (LY7) 7 Left Headlamp Low-Beam 18 Cooling Fan 2 8 Horn 19 9 Right Headlamp Low-Beam Run Relay, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Blower 20 10 Front Fog Lamps Body Control Module 1 11 Left Headlamp High-
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-38 Black plate (38,1) Vehicle Care Fuses Usage Relays Usage 55 DC/AC Inverter 36 Front Fog Lamps 56 Antilock Brake System BATT 37 Horn 38 Low-Beam Headlamp Usage 39 Windshield Wiper 1 28 Cooling Fan 1 40 Windshield Wiper 2 29 Cooling Fan Series/ Parallel 48 Daytime Running Lamps 30 Cooling Fan 2 49 Stoplamps 31 Starter 53 AIR Solenoid 32 Run/Crank, Ignition 33 Powertrain 34 Air Conditioning Clutch 35 High Beam Relays Diode
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (39,1) Vehicle Care Fuses The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays and features shown.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-40 Black plate (40,1) Vehicle Care Fuses Usage Fuses Usage STRG WHL ILLUM Steering Wheel Illumination NOT INSTALLED Not Used NOT INSTALLED Not Used AIRBAG (BATT) Airbag (Battery) RADIO Audio System INTERIOR LIGHTS Spare Fuse Holder Interior Lamps SPARE FUSE HOLDER NOT INSTALLED Not Used SPARE FUSE HOLDER Spare Fuse Holder POWER WINDOWS Power Windows Spare Fuse Holder HVAC CTRL (IGN) Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning Control (Ignition)
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (41,1) Vehicle Care Fuses The vehicle may not be equipped with all of the fuses, relays, and features shown.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-42 Fuses Black plate (42,1) Vehicle Care Usage Relays Usage 22 Trunk Release 30 Not Used 23 Rear Defog 31 Not Used 24 Heated Mirrors 32 Not Used 25 Fuel Pump 33 Back-up Lamps 34 Not Used Relays Usage 35 Not Used 26 Rear Window Defogger 36 Trunk Release 27 Park Lamps 37 Fuel Pump 28 Not Used 29 Not Used 38 (Diode) Cargo Lamp Wheels and Tires Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (43,1) Vehicle Care WARNING (Continued) . . Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting crash could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by a sudden impact — such as when hitting a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-44 Black plate (44,1) Vehicle Care See your dealer for details regarding winter tire availability and proper tire selection. Also, see Buying New Tires on page 10‑59. If using snow tires: . Use tires of the same brand and tread type on all four wheel positions. . Use only radial ply tires of the same size, load range, and speed rating as the original equipment tires.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (45,1) Vehicle Care (B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-46 Black plate (46,1) Vehicle Care (G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum load that can be carried and the maximum pressure needed to support that load. Compact Spare Tire Example (A) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (47,1) Vehicle Care (G) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM's specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM's TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines. Tire Designations Tire Size The following is an example of a typical passenger vehicle tire size.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-48 Black plate (48,1) Vehicle Care Tire Terminology and Definitions Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascal). Accessory Weight: The combined weight of optional accessories. Some examples of optional accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air conditioning.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (49,1) Vehicle Care GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12. Intended Outboard Sidewall : The side of an asymmetrical tire, that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle. Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure. Light Truck (LT‐Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-50 Black plate (50,1) Vehicle Care Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread. Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire beads are seated. Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and the bead. Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire can operate.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (51,1) Vehicle Care Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively. Notice: Neither tire underinflation nor overinflation is good. Underinflated tires, or tires that do not have enough air, can result in: . Tire overloading and over-heating which could lead to a blowout. . Premature or irregular wear. . Poor handling. . Reduced fuel economy. Overinflated tires, or tires that have too much air, can result in: .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-52 Black plate (52,1) Vehicle Care How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. You cannot tell if the tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they are underinflated. Check the tire's inflation pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means the vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1.6 km (1 mi).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (53,1) Vehicle Care Tire Pressure Monitor System pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under‐inflated. The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses radio and sensor technology to check tire pressure levels. The TPMS sensors monitor the air pressure in your tires and transmit tire pressure readings to a receiver located in the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-54 Black plate (54,1) Vehicle Care Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry Canada about the DIC operation and displays see Tire Messages on page 5‑29. See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑19 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (55,1) Vehicle Care Notice: Tire sealant materials are not all the same. A non-approved tire sealant could damage the TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor damage caused by using an incorrect tire sealant is not covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use only the GM-approved tire sealant available through your dealer or included in the vehicle. Factory-installed Tire Inflator Kits use a GM approved liquid tire sealant.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-56 . Black plate (56,1) Vehicle Care Operating electronic devices or being near facilities using radio wave frequencies similar to the TPMS could cause the TPMS sensors to malfunction. If the TPMS is not functioning properly, it cannot detect or signal a low tire condition. See your dealer for service if the TPMS malfunction light and DIC message come on and stay on. TPMS Sensor Matching Process Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification code.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (57,1) Vehicle Care 8. The driver side rear turn signal comes on to indicate that corner sensor is ready to be learned. Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 5. 9. After hearing the single horn chirp for the driver side rear tire, two additional horn chirps sound to indicate the tire learning process is done. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK/OFF.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-58 Black plate (58,1) Vehicle Care Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate the tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 10‑59 and Wheel Replacement on page 10‑64. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑51 and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑12.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (59,1) Vehicle Care When It Is Time for New Tires Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect the wear rate of the tires. The rubber in tires ages over time. This also applies for the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple conditions including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-60 Black plate (60,1) Vehicle Care GM's exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a dozen critical specifications that impact the overall performance of the vehicle, including brake system performance, ride and handling, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring performance. GM's TPC Spec number is molded onto the tire's sidewall near the tire size. If the tires have an all‐season tread design, the TPC Spec number will be followed by an MS for mud and snow.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (61,1) Vehicle Care If you must replace the vehicle's tires with those that do not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction type (radial and bias‐belted tires) as the vehicle's original tires. The vehicle's original equipment tires are listed on the Tire and Loading Information label.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-62 Black plate (62,1) Vehicle Care Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which grades tires by treadwear, traction, and temperature performance.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (63,1) Vehicle Care Traction – AA, A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-64 Black plate (64,1) Vehicle Care Wheel Replacement Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it. Some aluminum wheels can be repaired. See your dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel that is needed.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (65,1) Vehicle Care Tire Chains { WARNING Do not use tire chains. There is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-66 Black plate (66,1) Vehicle Care AA rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction as used in a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator pedal and steer to straighten the vehicle. It may be very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible. { WARNING Driving on a flat tire will cause permanent damage to the tire.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (67,1) Vehicle Care This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit. To use the jacking equipment to change a spare tire safely, follow the instructions below. Then see Tire Changing on page 10‑75. To use the tire sealant and compressor kit, see Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑67. When the vehicle has a flat tire (B), use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks (A).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-68 Black plate (68,1) Vehicle Care { WARNING Overinflating a tire could cause the tire to rupture and you or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the tire sealant and compressor kit instructions and inflate the tire to its recommended pressure. Do not exceed the recommended pressure. { WARNING Storing the tire sealant and compressor kit or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (69,1) Vehicle Care Tire Sealant Read and follow the safe handling instructions on the label adhered to the compressor. Check the tire sealant expiration date on the sealant canister. The sealant canister should be replaced before its expiration date. Replacement sealant canisters are available at your local dealer. See “Removal and Installation of the Sealant Canister” following.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-70 Black plate (70,1) Vehicle Care 5. Attach the sealant/air hose (F) onto the tire valve stem. Turn it clockwise until it is tight. 6. Plug the power plug (G) into the accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets. See Power Outlets on page 5‑7. If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter. If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (71,1) Vehicle Care 11. Press the on/off button (A) to turn the tire sealant and compressor kit off. 15. Return the sealant/air hose (F) and the power plug (G) back in their original locations. The tire is not sealed and will continue to leak air until the vehicle is driven and the sealant is distributed in the tire; therefore, Steps 12 through 18 must be done immediately after Step 11.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-72 Black plate (72,1) Vehicle Care 20. Wipe off any sealant from the wheel, tire, and vehicle. 21. Dispose of the used sealant canister and sealant/air hose (F) assembly at a local dealer or in accordance with local state codes and practices. Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit without Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not Punctured) To use the air compressor to inflate a tire with air only and not sealant: 22.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (73,1) Vehicle Care 6. Plug the power plug (G) into the accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets. See Power Outlets on page 5‑7. If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter. If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter. Do not pinch the power plug cord in the door or window. 7. Start the vehicle.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-74 Black plate (74,1) Vehicle Care Removal and Installation of the Sealant Canister To remove the sealant canister: 4. Replace with a new canister which is available from your dealer. 5. Push the new canister into place. 6. Screw the connector (B) to the canister (A). 7. Slide the plastic cover back on. Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit 1. Remove the plastic cover. 2. Unscrew the connector (B) from the canister (A). 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (75,1) Vehicle Care Tire Changing Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you will need is in the trunk. 10-75 4. Remove the wing nut holding the jack in place. 5. Remove the jack and wheel wrench from the trunk. Tire Changing Tools 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2‑9 for more information. 2. Remove the spare tire cover. 1. Turn the wing nut counterclockwise to loosen wheel wrench. 2. Unhook the wheel wrench from the jack.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-76 Black plate (76,1) Vehicle Care Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. Do a safety check before proceeding. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑65. 3. Extend the handle on the wheel wrench by pressing the button and pulling on the end of the wrench. You must do this before using the wheel wrench. 2. If the vehicle has a wheel cover or hubcap that has plastic wheel nut caps, loosen the plastic nut caps.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (77,1) Vehicle Care 10-77 { WARNING Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. 5. Position the lift head at the jack location nearest the flat tire. Make sure all of the jack lift head is touching the jacking flange under the body. Do not place the jack under a body panel. 6.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-78 Black plate (78,1) Vehicle Care WARNING (Continued) an emergency, use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt off. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑65. { WARNING Never use oil or grease on bolts or nuts because the nuts might come loose. The vehicle's wheel could fall off, causing a crash. 12. Put the wheel nuts back on with the rounded end toward the wheel.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (79,1) Vehicle Care 10-79 WARNING (Continued) aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for original equipment wheel nut torque specifications. 13. Lower the vehicle by turning the wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. { WARNING Wheel nuts that are improperly or incorrectly tightened can cause the wheels to become loose or come off.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-80 Black plate (80,1) Vehicle Care Storing a Flat Tire and Tools { WARNING Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. To store the flat tire and jack in the compact spare tire compartment: 3. Collapse the wrench using the same button used to extend it. 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2‑9.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (81,1) Vehicle Care 10-81 7. With the valve stem up, place the tire on the compartment floor with the rear of the tire under the trim panel. The tire may not lay completely flat. 8. Line up the bolt with the wheel center. 6. Place the jack over the bolt (A) on the floor, making sure it contacts the bolt. Thread the jack retainer nut until it contacts the jack. 9.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-82 Black plate (82,1) Vehicle Care Storing the Spare Tire and Tools { WARNING Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2‑9. 2. Collapse the wrench using the same button used to extend it. 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (83,1) Vehicle Care 6. Place the compact spare into the tire compartment with the stow bolt going through the center hole of the wheel. 7. Turn the spare tire retainer nut until it firmly contacts the wheel. Do not over tighten. Compact Spare Tire { WARNING Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-84 Black plate (84,1) Vehicle Care Jump Starting For more information about the vehicle battery, see Battery on page 10‑26. If the battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely. { WARNING Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: . They contain acid that can burn you. . They contain gas that can explode or ignite. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (85,1) Vehicle Care needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save the radio! 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations on each vehicle. Your vehicle's positive (+) terminal and negative (–) terminal are located under a black cover on the battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 10‑6 for more information on location.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-86 Black plate (86,1) Vehicle Care Do not connect positive (+) to negative (−) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too. And do not connect the negative (−) cable to the negative (−) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks. 7. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 8.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (87,1) Vehicle Care Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal. 10-87 To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-88 Black plate (88,1) Vehicle Care Towing Towing the Vehicle Notice: To avoid damage, the disabled vehicle should be towed with all four wheels off the ground. Care must be taken with vehicles that have low ground clearance and/or special equipment. Always flatbed on a car carrier. Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if the disabled vehicle must be towed. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (89,1) Vehicle Care Dinghy Towing When dinghy towing, the vehicle should be run at the beginning of each day and at each RV fuel stop for about five minutes. This will ensure proper lubrication of transmission components. 2. Shift the transmission to P (Park) and turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 3. Set the parking brake. 4.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-90 Black plate (90,1) Vehicle Care Dolly Towing 5. Secure the vehicle to the dolly. Appearance Care 6. Release the parking brake. Exterior Care Cleaning Exterior Lamps/ Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing the Vehicle” later in this section.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (91,1) Vehicle Care Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/ clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-92 Black plate (92,1) Vehicle Care High pressure car washes could cause water to enter the vehicle. Avoid using high pressure washes closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals. Notice: Conveyor systems on some automatic car washes could damage the vehicle. There may not be enough clearance for the undercarriage.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (93,1) Vehicle Care 10-93 Windshield and Wiper Blades Tires Finish Damage Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean the tires. Clean the rubber blades using a lint‐free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-94 Black plate (94,1) Vehicle Care At least every spring, flush these materials from the underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud and debris can collect. Dirt packed in close areas of the frame should be loosened before being flushed. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this. Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (95,1) Vehicle Care Do not clean the interior using the following cleaners or techniques: . Never use a knife or any other sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface. . Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage. . Never apply heavy pressure or rub aggressively with a cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure can damage the interior and does not improve the effectiveness of soil removal. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-96 Black plate (96,1) Vehicle Care Leather Leather, and lighter colored leather in particular, will need more frequent cleaning to prevent the buildup of dust, dirt, and colors transferred from other items so that these do not become permanent stains. To remove dust, a soft cloth dampened with water can be used. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (97,1) Vehicle Care Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. { WARNING Do not bleach or dye safety belts. It may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Floor Mats { WARNING If a floor mat is the wrong size or is not properly installed, it can interfere with the accelerator pedal and/or brake pedal.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 10-98 Black plate (98,1) Vehicle Care Removing and Replacing the Floor Mat 1. Pull up on the rear of the mat to remove it from the hooks. 2. Reinstall the floor mat by lining up the openings in the floor mat over the hooks and push it down into position. The driver side floor mat is held in place by two hooks. 3. Make sure the floor mat is properly secured and verify that it does not interfere with the accelerator or brake pedals.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Service and Maintenance Service and Maintenance General Information General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 Scheduled Maintenance Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . 11-2 Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6 Maintenance Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-7 Maintenance Records Maintenance Records . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 11-2 Black plate (2,1) Service and Maintenance { WARNING Performing maintenance work can be dangerous. Some jobs can cause serious injury. Perform maintenance work only if you have the required know-how and the proper tools and equipment. If in doubt, see your dealer to have a qualified technician do the work. See Doing Your Own Service Work on page 10‑4. At your dealer, you can be certain that you will receive the highest level of service available.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Service and Maintenance Your dealer has trained service technicians who will perform this work and reset the system. If the engine oil life system is reset accidentally, service the vehicle within 5 000 km/3,000 miles since the last service. Reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System on page 10‑13. . . Windshield washer fluid level check. See Washer Fluid on page 10‑23. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 11-4 . Black plate (4,1) Service and Maintenance Body hinges and latches, key lock cylinders, folding seat hardware, and rear compartment hinges lubrication. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑6. More frequent lubrication may be required when the vehicle is exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth makes them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Service and Maintenance . Hood/Decklid/Liftgate/Liftglass Support Gas Strut Service: Visually inspect gas strut, if equipped, for signs of wear, cracks, or other damage. Check the hold open ability of the gas strut. Contact your dealer if service is required. First Engine Oil Change After Every 80 000 km/50,000 Miles . . Engine air cleaner filter replacement. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 10‑14.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 11-6 Black plate (6,1) Service and Maintenance Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Usage Engine Oil Engine Coolant Hydraulic Brake System Windshield Washer Hydraulic Power Steering System (if equipped) Automatic Transmission Key Lock Cylinders Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and Release Pawl Fluid/Lubricant The engine requires engine oil approved to the dexos specification.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Service and Maintenance Usage 11-7 Fluid/Lubricant Hood and Door Hinges Weatherstrip Conditioning Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in Canada 10953474). Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579, in Canada 992887).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 11-8 Black plate (8,1) Service and Maintenance Maintenance Records After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. Retain all maintenance receipts.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Service and Maintenance Maintenance Record (cont.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 11-10 Black plate (10,1) Service and Maintenance Maintenance Record (cont.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Technical Data Technical Data Vehicle Identification Vehicle Identification Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Service Parts Identification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Vehicle Data Capacities and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 Engine Drive Belt Routing . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 12-2 Black plate (2,1) Technical Data Vehicle Data Capacities and Specifications Application Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a Capacities Metric English For the air conditioning system refrigerant charge amount, see the refrigerant label located under the hood. See your dealer for more information. Engine Cooling System 2.4L L4 Engine 7.1 L 7.5 qt 3.6L V6 Engines 9.4 L 9.9 qt 4.7 L 5.0 qt Engine Oil with Filter 2.4L L4 Engine 3.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Technical Data Capacities Application Metric English 6 — Speed Automatic Transmission (RPO X23F) — (Drain and Refill) 5.0 L 5.3 qt 6 — Speed Automatic Transmission (RPO 6T70) — (Drain and Refill) 6.0 L 6.3 qt 140 Y 100 ft lb Transmission Fluid* Wheel Nut Torque *See Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 10‑14 for information on checking fluid level. All capacities are approximate.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 12-4 Black plate (4,1) Technical Data Engine Drive Belt Routing 3.6L V6 Engine 2.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) Customer Information Customer Information Customer Information Customer Satisfaction Procedure (U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1 Customer Satisfaction Procedure (Mexico) . . . . . . . . 13-3 Customer Assistance Offices (U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . . . . 13-5 Customer Assistance Offices (Mexico) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users (U.S. and Canada) . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-2 Customer Information STEP TWO: If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, in the U.S., call the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-1020. In Canada, call General Motors of Canada Customer Communication Centre at 1-800-263-3777 (English), or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) Customer Information STEP THREE — Canadian Owners: In the event that you do not feel your concerns have been addressed after following the procedure outlined in Steps One and Two, General Motors of Canada Limited wants you to be aware of its participation in a no-charge Mediation/Arbitration Program. General Motors of Canada Limited has committed to binding arbitration of owner disputes involving factory-related vehicle service claims.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-4 Black plate (4,1) Customer Information Customer Assistance Procedure Owner satisfaction and goodwill are very important to your dealer and General Motors. Normally, any problem with the transaction, sale, or usage of the vehicle must be handled by your dealer sales or service departments. However, we recognize that despite the good intentions of all parties involved, sometimes a misunderstanding may occur.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) Customer Information See Customer Assistance Offices (U.S. and Canada) on page 13‑5 or Customer Assistance Offices (Mexico) on page 13‑5 for more information. Customer Assistance Offices (U.S. and Canada) Chevrolet encourages customers to call the toll-free number for assistance.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-6 Black plate (6,1) Customer Information Mexico From Mexico City 5329-0811 From Other Mexico Locations 01-800-466-0811 United States and Canada 1-866-466-8190 Costa Rica 00-800-052-1005 Guatemala 1-800-999-5252 Panama Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users (U.S.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) Customer Information Other Helpful Links Chevrolet — www.chevrolet.com Chevrolet Merchandise — www.chevymall.com Help Center — www.chevrolet.com/ pages/mds/helpcenter/faq.do . FAQ . Contact Us My GM Canada www.gm.ca Here are a few of the valuable tools and services you will have access to: 13-7 GM Mobility Reimbursement Program (U.S. and Canada) . My Showroom: Find and save information on vehicles and current offers in your area. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-8 Black plate (8,1) Customer Information General Motors of Canada also has a Mobility Program. Call 1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483) for details. TTY users call 1-800-263-3830. Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) For U.S.‐purchased vehicles, call 1‐800‐243‐8872; (Text Telephone (TTY): 1‐888‐889‐2438). For Canadian‐purchased vehicles, call 1-800-268-6800. Service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) Customer Information Services Provided . . . . Emergency Fuel Delivery: Delivery of enough fuel for the vehicle to get to the nearest service station. Lock‐Out Service: Service to unlock the vehicle if you are locked out. A remote unlock may be available if you have OnStar. For security reasons, the driver must present identification before this service is given.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-10 . . Black plate (10,1) Customer Information Trip Interruption Benefits and Assistance: Must be over 250 kilometers from where your trip was started to qualify. General Motors of Canada Limited requires pre-authorization, original detailed receipts, and a copy of the repair orders. Once authorization has been received, the Roadside Assistance advisor will help to make arrangements and explain how to receive payment.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) Customer Information Courtesy Transportation Program (U.S. and Canada) To enhance your ownership experience, we and our participating dealers are proud to offer Courtesy Transportation, a customer support program for vehicles with the Bumper-to-Bumper (Base Warranty Coverage period in Canada), extended powertrain, and/or hybrid‐specific warranties in both the U.S. and Canada.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-12 Black plate (12,1) Customer Information Courtesy Rental Vehicle The dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle that you obtain if the vehicle is kept for an overnight warranty repair. Rental reimbursement will be limited and must be supported by original receipts. This requires that you sign and complete a rental agreement and meet state/provincial, local, and rental vehicle provider requirements.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (13,1) Customer Information Recycled original equipment parts may also be used for repair. These parts are typically removed from vehicles that were total losses in prior crashes. In most cases, the parts being recycled are from undamaged sections of the vehicle. A recycled original equipment GM part may be an acceptable choice to maintain the vehicle's originally designed appearance and safety performance; however, the history of these parts is not known.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-14 Black plate (14,1) Customer Information If a Crash Occurs Gather the following information: If there has been an injury, call emergency services for help. Do not leave the scene of a crash until all matters have been taken care of. Move the vehicle only if its position puts you in danger, or you are instructed to move it by a police officer. . Driver name, address, and telephone number. . Driver license number. .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (15,1) Customer Information Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must live with the repair. Depending on your policy limits, your insurance company may initially value the repair using aftermarket parts. Discuss this with the repair professional, and insist on Genuine GM parts. Remember, if the vehicle is leased, you may be obligated to have the vehicle repaired with Genuine GM parts, even if your insurance coverage does not pay the full cost.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-16 Black plate (16,1) Customer Information Current and Past Models Technical Service Bulletins and Manuals are available for current and past model GM vehicles. ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123 Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Eastern Time For Credit Card Orders Only (VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit Helm, Inc. at: www.helminc.com. Or write to: Helm, Incorporated P.O.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (17,1) Customer Information Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government If you live in Canada, and you believe that the vehicle has a safety defect, notify Transport Canada immediately, and notify General Motors of Canada Limited.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-18 Customer Information Event Data Recorders This vehicle has an Event Data Recorder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an airbag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle's systems performed. The EDR is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (19,1) Customer Information OnStar® If the vehicle is equipped with an active OnStar system, that system may also record data in crash or near crash‐like situations. The OnStar Terms and Conditions provides information on data collection and use and is available in the OnStar glove box kit, at www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada), or by pressing the Q button and speaking to an advisor.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 13-20 Black plate (20,1) Customer Information 2 NOTES
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (1,1) INDEX A Accessories and Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3 Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20 Add-On Electrical Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47 Adjustments Lumbar, Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4 Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . 10-14 Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5 Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-2 Black plate (2,1) INDEX Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24 Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-27 Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28 Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25 Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28 System Messages . . . . . . . . . . . .5-26 Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3 Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (3,1) INDEX Collision Damage Repair . . . . . 13-12 Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . 10-83 Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4 Compressor Kit, Tire Sealant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67 Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3 Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13 Coolant Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-4 Black plate (4,1) INDEX E E85 Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37 Electrical Equipment, Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-47 Electrical System Engine Compartment Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36 Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35 Instrument Panel Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38 Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35 Rear Compartment Fuse Block .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (5,1) INDEX Front Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2 Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35 Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36 E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . . . . . . .9-37 Filling a Portable Fuel Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-40 Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39 Fuels in Foreign Countries . . . .9-36 Gasoline Specifications . . . . . . .9-36 Gauge . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-6 Black plate (6,1) INDEX High-Speed Operation . . . . . . . . 10-52 Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-8 Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 9-8 Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5 Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13 I Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-16 Ignition Transmission Lock Check . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (7,1) INDEX Lights (cont.) Engine Coolant Temperature Warning . . . . . . .5-20 Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . .5-21 Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2 High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22 High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2 Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . .5-12 Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22 Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20 Locks Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-8 Black plate (8,1) INDEX Oil (cont.) Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-13 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-26 Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21 Older Children, Restraints . . . . . 3-39 Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . 13-6 OnStar® System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23 Operation, Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 Outlets Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (9,1) INDEX Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14 Automatic Dimming . . . . . . . . . . .2-14 Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-6 Recommended Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35 Records Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8 Recreational Vehicle Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-88 Reimbursement Program, GM Mobility . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-10 Black plate (10,1) INDEX Seats Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3 Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2 Heated Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7 Lumbar Adjustment, Front . . . . . 3-4 Power Adjustment, Front . . . . . . 3-4 Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8 Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5 Securing Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-55, 3-57 Security Light . . . . . . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 Black plate (11,1) INDEX T Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10 Taillamps Turn Signal, and Stoplamps . . . . . . . . . 10-30, 10-32 Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . 13-6 Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . 2-12 Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12 Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5 Tires Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59 Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-65 Changing . .
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011 i-12 Black plate (12,1) INDEX U Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-62 Using this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv V Vehicle Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3 Identification Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1 Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-12 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-25 Personalization . .