EasyManua.ls Logo

Chevrolet Malibu 2007 Chevrolet Malibu User Manual

Chevrolet Malibu 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
514 pages
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
To Next Page IconTo Next Page
Page #1 background imageLoading...
Page #1 background image
Seats and Restraint Systems
....................... 7
Front Seats
.............................................. 8
Rear Seats
............................................. 17
Safety Belts
............................................ 20
Child Restraints
...................................... 44
Airbag System
........................................ 74
Restraint System Check
......................... 92
Features and Controls
................................ 95
Keys
....................................................... 97
Doors and Locks
.................................. 107
Windows
............................................... 114
Theft-Deterrent Systems
....................... 116
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
..... 120
Mirrors
.................................................. 140
OnStar
®
System
................................... 145
Universal Home Remote System
.......... 148
Storage Areas
...................................... 159
Sunroof
................................................ 162
Instrument Panel
....................................... 165
Instrument Panel Overview
................... 168
Climate Controls
................................... 189
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
.... 200
Driver Information Center (DIC)
............ 219
Audio System(s)
................................... 227
Driving Your Vehicle
................................. 287
Your Driving, the Road, and
Your Vehicle
..................................... 288
Towing
................................................. 328
2007 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M
1

Table of Contents

Question and Answer IconNeed help?

Do you have a question about the Chevrolet Malibu 2007 Chevrolet Malibu and is the answer not in the manual?

Chevrolet Malibu 2007 Chevrolet Malibu Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandChevrolet
ModelMalibu 2007 Chevrolet Malibu
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Seats and Restraint Systems

Front Seats

Instructions for adjusting manual and power front seats, including lumbar support.

Rear Seats

Information on folding rear seatbacks and operation of rear sliding seats (MAXX only).

Safety Belts

Guidance on proper safety belt usage, including for children and pregnant women.

Child Restraints

Types of child restraints, proper use, placement, and securing methods.

Airbag System

Explanation of airbag types, deployment, and safety precautions for occupants.

Restraint System Check

Procedures for checking the proper function of safety belts and related systems.

Features and Controls

Keys

Information on vehicle keys, keyless entry systems, and key codes for duplicates.

Doors and Locks

Details on locking/unlocking doors, power locks, and security features.

Windows

Operation of power windows, express-down feature, and window lockout.

Theft-Deterrent Systems

Explanation of content theft-deterrent alarms and arming/disarming procedures.

Starting and Operating Your Vehicle

Guidance on new vehicle break-in, ignition positions, and starting the engine.

Mirrors

Instructions for adjusting manual and automatic dimming rearview mirrors, including compass.

Instrument Panel

Instrument Panel Overview

Visual guide to the layout and identification of instrument panel components and controls.

Hazard Warning Flashers

Explanation of how to use hazard lights to alert others and for signaling problems.

Horn

Instructions on how to sound the vehicle's horn using the steering wheel pad.

Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel

How to adjust the steering wheel for optimal driving position and comfort.

Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

Operation of turn signals, headlamp controls, and flash-to-pass features.

Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer

How to switch between high and low beam headlamps and use the flash-to-pass function.

Windshield Wipers

Operation of windshield wipers, including speed settings and delay function.

Windshield Washer

How to operate the windshield washer fluid system and important precautions.

Rear Window Wiper/Washer (MAXX Model)

Operation of the rear window wiper and washer system specific to MAXX models.

Cruise Control

How to set, resume, and cancel cruise control for maintaining speed.

Exterior Lamps

Operation of exterior lighting switches, including automatic headlamp system.

Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators

Explains the function and meaning of various warning lights, gauges, and indicators on the instrument panel.

Instrument Panel Cluster

Overview of the instrument panel cluster and its role in displaying vehicle status.

Speedometer and Odometer

Information on how to read vehicle speed and distance traveled.

Trip Odometer

How to access and reset the trip odometer via the Driver Information Center.

Tachometer

Explanation of the tachometer's function for monitoring engine speed.

Safety Belt Reminder Light

Indicates when the driver's safety belt is unbuckled and the vehicle is in motion.

Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light

Alerts the front passenger to buckle up if the airbag is enabled.

Airbag Readiness Light

Indicates the status and potential malfunctions of the vehicle's airbag system.

Passenger Airbag Status Indicator

Shows whether the front passenger airbag is enabled or disabled based on occupant detection.

Charging System Light

Warns of potential issues with the vehicle's electrical charging system.

Brake System Warning Light

Indicates a problem with the vehicle's hydraulic brake system.

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

Alerts the driver to potential issues with the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).

Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light

Indicates a problem with the Traction Control System or if it's turned off.

Traction Control System Active Light

Illuminates when the TCS is limiting wheel spin due to slippery conditions.

Enhanced Traction System Warning Light

Indicates a problem with the Enhanced Traction System or if it's turned off.

Enhanced Traction System Active Light

Illuminates when the ETS is limiting wheel spin.

Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light

Warns of engine overheating or if the radiator cooling fan is not working.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

Displays the engine coolant temperature, with a warning for overheating.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

The "Check Engine" light, indicating potential issues with the engine or emission systems.

Oil Pressure Light

Warns of low engine oil pressure, indicating a critical issue.

Security Light

Indicates the status of the vehicle's theft-deterrent system.

Highbeam On Light

Indicates when the high-beam headlamps are in use.

Fuel Gage

Shows the amount of fuel remaining in the tank and includes a low fuel warning light.

Driver Information Center (DIC)

System for personalizing vehicle settings, viewing trip info, and receiving warning messages.

DIC Operation and Displays

How to operate the DIC and understand its display modes and information.

DIC Warnings and Messages

Explains various warning messages displayed by the DIC for vehicle systems.

DIC Vehicle Personalization

Options for customizing vehicle settings like remote start, horn chirps, and lighting.

Audio System(s)

Overview of the vehicle's audio system features and how to use them safely.

Radio with CD (Base Level)

Operation of the base-level radio with CD player, including playing music and setting time.

Radio with Six-Disc CD

Operation of the six-disc CD changer, including loading, playing, and managing CDs.

XM™ Satellite Radio Service

Information about the XM™ satellite radio service, channels, fees, and subscription.

Rear Seat Entertainment System

Features and operation of the RSE system, including DVD player and headphones.

Stereo RCA Jacks

How to connect auxiliary audio and video devices using RCA jacks for the RSE system.

Audio Output

Available audio output options for the RSE system, including headphones and speakers.

Video Screen

Location and operation of the video screen, including adjustments and storage.

DVD Player

How to control the DVD player, compatibility, and region codes.

CD Messages

Troubleshooting common messages and errors encountered with the CD player.

Driving Your Vehicle

Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle

General advice on safe driving practices, emphasizing defensive driving.

Defensive Driving

Key principles of defensive driving, focusing on anticipating hazards and maintaining distance.

Drunken Driving

Critical information on the dangers of alcohol impairment and its effects on driving ability.

Control of a Vehicle

Explanation of the three primary control systems (brakes, steering, accelerator) and their interaction with road conditions.

Braking

Details on braking action, perception/reaction time, and factors affecting stopping distance.

Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)

How the ABS system works to prevent braking skids and improve steering control.

Braking in Emergencies

Techniques for effective braking in emergency situations, with and without ABS.

Traction Control System (TCS)

How the TCS limits wheel spin in slippery conditions to improve traction.

Enhanced Traction System (ETS)

Explanation of the ETS system for limiting wheel spin and its operation.

Steering

Information on electric and hydraulic power steering systems and steering tips.

Off-Road Recovery

Steps to take if vehicle wheels drop off the road edge onto the shoulder.

Passing

Safety tips and considerations for safely passing other vehicles on the road.

Loss of Control

Understanding causes and actions to take when losing vehicle control.

Skidding

How to avoid and manage vehicle skids caused by braking, steering, or acceleration.

Competitive Driving

Guidelines and recommendations for using the vehicle for competitive driving.

Driving at Night

Tips and precautions for driving safely during nighttime conditions.

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

Advice for maintaining control and safety on wet road surfaces.

Hydroplaning

Explanation of hydroplaning and how to avoid it by driving cautiously in wet conditions.

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

Precautions and advice for driving through standing water to prevent engine damage.

Driving Through Flowing Water

Critical safety warning about the dangers of driving through flowing water.

City Driving

Tips for increasing safety and efficiency while driving in urban environments.

Freeway Driving

Advice on merging, maintaining speed, and lane usage on freeways.

Before Leaving on a Long Trip

Pre-trip checklist and preparation advice for ensuring vehicle readiness.

Highway Hypnosis

Awareness and tips to prevent drowsiness and loss of control while driving long distances.

Hill and Mountain Roads

Specific driving techniques and vehicle checks for navigating steep or mountainous terrain.

Winter Driving

Tips and emergency supplies for safe driving in winter conditions.

If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow

Methods for freeing a stuck vehicle, including the rocking technique and traction systems.

Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out

Step-by-step guide on how to use the rocking method to free a stuck vehicle.

Loading Your Vehicle

Guidance on vehicle capacity weight, loading, and the importance of proper distribution.

Tire and Loading Information Label

Information on the vehicle's tire capacity weight and seating positions.

Towing

General information and considerations for towing vehicles and trailers.

Towing Your Vehicle

Advice on professional towing services and preparing for recreational towing.

Recreational Vehicle Towing

Types of recreational towing (dinghy, dolly) and important pre-tow considerations.

Dinghy Towing

Step-by-step instructions for dinghy towing, including fuse removal and fuse reinstallation.

Dolly Towing

Instructions for safely towing a vehicle using a dolly with two wheels on the ground.

Towing a Trailer

Essential tips and safety rules for safely towing a trailer, including weight and handling.

If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer

Important points regarding trailer laws, sway control, and break-in periods for towing.

Weight of the Trailer

Factors to consider when determining safe trailer weight, including tongue weight.

Safety Chains

Proper attachment and use of safety chains between the vehicle and trailer.

Trailer Brakes

Instructions and precautions regarding the installation and use of trailer brakes.

Making Turns

Advice on making wider turns and avoiding sharp maneuvers while trailering.

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer

How trailer lamps and vehicle turn signals work together during towing.

Driving On Grades

Precautions for driving on steep uphill and downhill grades while towing.

Parking on Hills

Safe procedures for parking a vehicle with a trailer attached on a hill.

When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill

Steps to safely depart after parking on an incline, ensuring chocks are removed.

Service and Appearance Care

Service

General information on obtaining service from GM dealers and using genuine GM parts.

Accessories and Modifications

How non-GM accessories can affect vehicle performance, safety, and warranty.

California Proposition 65 Warning

Warning about chemicals in vehicles that may cause cancer or reproductive harm.

Doing Your Own Service Work

Guidance and cautions for performing DIY vehicle maintenance tasks.

Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle

How external additions can affect vehicle aerodynamics and performance.

Fuel

Information on recommended fuel types, octane ratings, and additives for optimal engine performance.

Gasoline Octane

Guidance on selecting the correct octane rating for gasoline and identifying engine issues like spark knock.

Gasoline Specifications

Details on meeting ASTM and Canadian gasoline specifications, including warnings about MMT.

California Fuel

Information for vehicles certified to meet California Emissions Standards and fuel availability.

Additives

Advice on fuel additives for engine cleanliness and recommendations for TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.

Fuels in Foreign Countries

Guidance on fuel availability and types when driving outside the U.S. or Canada.

Filling the Tank

Safe procedures for refueling the vehicle, including engine off and no smoking rules.

Filling a Portable Fuel Container

Safety precautions for filling portable fuel containers to prevent static discharge and fire.

Checking Things Under the Hood

Safety warnings and checks for components under the hood before starting the engine.

Hood Release

How to locate and operate the hood release handle to open the vehicle's hood.

Engine Compartment Overview

Visual identification of major engine components and fluids for the 2.2L L4 engine.

Engine Oil

Instructions for checking engine oil level and adding oil when necessary.

Engine Oil Life System

Explanation of the system that monitors oil life and when to change the oil and filter.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

When to inspect and replace the engine air cleaner/filter for optimal performance.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (2.2L L4 and 3.5L V6 Engines)

Information on automatic transaxle fluid, including checks, changes, and fluid type recommendations.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid (3.9L V6 Engine)

How to check and change automatic transaxle fluid for the 3.9L V6 engine.

Engine Coolant

Details on the engine coolant type, mixture, and its protective properties.

Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap

Notice regarding proper installation of the pressure cap to prevent coolant loss and engine damage.

Engine Overheating

Information on engine coolant temperature gauge, warning light, and what to do in case of overheating.

Power Steering Fluid

When to check power steering fluid and how to check and add fluid if needed.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Guidance on using and adding windshield washer fluid, including freezing precautions.

Brakes

Information on brake fluid, its function, and reasons for fluid level changes.

Brake Fluid

Details on the type of brake fluid used and cautions regarding adding or spilling it.

Brake Wear

How to identify worn brake pads and drums through warning sounds and inspections.

Replacing Brake System Parts

Recommendations for using genuine GM parts when replacing brake system components.

Battery

Information about the maintenance-free battery, replacement, and handling precautions.

Vehicle Storage

Advice on preparing the vehicle for storage, including battery care.

Jump Starting

Step-by-step instructions and safety precautions for jump starting a vehicle with a dead battery.

Bulb Replacement

General information on bulb types and procedures, advising dealer contact for unlisted procedures.

Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, and Parking Lamps

Identification of headlamp, turn signal, and parking lamp bulbs.

Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps

Instructions for replacing bulbs in the taillamp, turn signal, stoplamp, and back-up lamp assemblies.

License Plate Lamp

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the license plate lamp bulb.

Replacement Bulbs

A table listing exterior lamp bulb types and their corresponding part numbers.

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

How to inspect and replace windshield wiper blades for optimal performance.

Rear Wiper Blade Replacement – MAXX

Instructions for replacing the rear wiper blade assembly on MAXX models.

Tires

Information on tire quality, warranty, and general care.

Low-Profile Performance Tire

Characteristics and considerations for low-profile performance tires, including susceptibility to damage.

Winter Tires

Advice on selecting and using winter tires for improved traction in snow and ice.

Tire Sidewall Labeling

Explanation of the information found on tire sidewalls, including size and construction details.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading

How tires are graded for treadwear, traction, and temperature performance.

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance

When to check wheel alignment and tire balance for optimal tire life and performance.

Wheel Replacement

Guidelines for replacing bent, cracked, or rusted wheels, and using proper parts.

Used Replacement Wheels

Caution against using used wheels due to unknown history and potential safety risks.

Tire Chains

Information and warnings regarding the use of tire chains, including clearance and installation.

If a Tire Goes Flat

What to expect and do in case of a tire blowout or slow air leak.

Changing a Flat Tire

Safe procedures and instructions for changing a flat tire using the vehicle's jacking equipment.

Removing the Spare Tire and Tools

How to access and remove the spare tire and tools from the trunk or cargo area.

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools (Sedan)

Proper methods for storing a flat tire and tools in the compact spare tire compartment.

Storing the Compact Spare Tire and Tools

How to store the compact spare tire and associated tools as shown in the diagram.

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools (All MAXX Models)

Safety precautions for storing jack, tire, or equipment in the passenger compartment.

Compact Spare Tire

Information on the temporary use of compact spare tires, including inflation and speed limits.

Appearance Care

General guidance on cleaning and maintaining the vehicle's interior and exterior surfaces.

Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle

General advice for cleaning the vehicle's interior, including upholstery and surfaces.

Fabric/Carpet

Techniques for cleaning fabric and carpet interiors, including stain removal.

Leather

Proper methods for cleaning and conditioning leather interior surfaces.

Ultra Lux Suede

Specific instructions for cleaning Ultra Lux Suede interior materials.

Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces

How to clean the instrument panel and other interior plastic surfaces.

Care of Safety Belts

Guidelines for cleaning and maintaining safety belts to ensure their effectiveness.

Weatherstrips

Recommendations for lubricating weatherstrips to ensure longevity and proper sealing.

Washing Your Vehicle

Best practices for washing the vehicle's exterior to preserve the paint finish.

Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses

How to clean exterior lamps and lenses using appropriate cleaning solutions.

Finish Care

Tips for maintaining the vehicle's paint finish through waxing and polishing.

Windshield and Wiper Blades

How to clean the windshield and wiper blades for clear visibility.

Aluminum Wheels

Proper cleaning methods for aluminum wheels to avoid surface damage.

Tires

Basic instructions for cleaning tires and avoiding damage from cleaning products.

Sheet Metal Damage

Importance of repairing sheet metal damage and applying anti-corrosion materials.

Finish Damage

Recommendations for repairing minor chips and scratches to prevent corrosion.

Underbody Maintenance

How to maintain the underbody by flushing materials that cause corrosion.

Chemical Paint Spotting

Information on chemical fallout damage to paint and GM's warranty coverage for it.

Vehicle Identification

Where to find the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and engine code for vehicle identification.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The legal identifier for your vehicle, appearing on multiple locations.

Engine Identification

How the engine code in the VIN helps identify engine specifications and parts.

Electrical System

Overview of the vehicle's electrical system, including add-on equipment and wiring.

Add-On Electrical Equipment

Cautions about adding electrical equipment, potential damage, and warranty implications.

Headlamp Wiring

Information on headlamp wiring protection by fuses and overload management.

Windshield Wiper Fuses

Protection of the windshield wiper motor by circuit breakers and fuses.

Power Windows and Other Power Options

Protection for power window motors and other power options via circuit breakers and fuses.

Fuses

How fuses protect wiring circuits from short circuits and overload conditions.

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Location and access instructions for the instrument panel fuse block.

Engine Compartment Fuse Block

Location of the engine compartment fuse block and access method.

Rear Compartment Fuse Block

Location of the rear compartment fuse block and how to access it.

Capacities and Specifications

Approximate capacities for vehicle fluids and specifications, including engine details.

Maintenance Schedule

Introduction

Importance of keeping engine oil at the proper level and as recommended.

Maintenance Requirements

Necessity of following maintenance schedules for vehicle condition and warranty coverage.

Your Vehicle and the Environment

How proper maintenance contributes to environmental protection and vehicle condition.

Using the Maintenance Schedule

Guidance on how to use the maintenance schedule based on driving habits and conditions.

Scheduled Maintenance

Outlines services, checks, and inspections required at specific intervals based on mileage or time.

Additional Required Services

Services to be performed at the first maintenance interval (I or II) based on mileage.

Maintenance Footnotes

Detailed notes explaining specific service items and recommendations.

Owner Checks and Services

Regular checks and services owners can perform to ensure safety and vehicle performance.

At Each Fuel Fill

Underhood checks recommended to perform each time the vehicle is refueled.

Engine Oil Level Check

How to check the engine oil level and add oil if necessary, with important notices.

Engine Coolant Level Check

How to check and add engine coolant mixture if levels are low.

Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check

Checking and adding windshield washer fluid as needed.

At Least Once a Month

Monthly checks for tire inflation and wear inspection.

Tire Inflation Check

How to check tire pressure when tires are cold and ensure proper inflation.

Tire Wear Inspection

How to inspect tires for wear and when tire rotation might be necessary.

At Least Once a Year

Annual checks for the starter switch and automatic transaxle shift lock control system.

Starter Switch Check

Safety check of the starter switch to ensure the vehicle does not move unexpectedly.

Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control System Check

Procedure to check the shift lock control system for proper operation.

Ignition Transaxle Lock Check

Checking the ignition and transaxle lock for proper function in all shift positions.

Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle Park (P) Mechanism Check

How to check the parking brake and park mechanism on a hill.

Underbody Flushing Service

Recommends flushing the underbody with water to remove corrosive materials annually.

Recommended Fluids and Lubricants

Lists recommended fluids, lubricants, and their part numbers for vehicle service.

Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

Common replacement parts and their corresponding part numbers for routine maintenance.

Engine Drive Belt Routing

Diagrams showing the routing of drive belts for different engine types.

Maintenance Record

A log to record scheduled maintenance services, checks, and performed work.

Customer Assistance Information

Customer Assistance and Information

Overview of customer assistance resources and procedures for resolving concerns.

Customer Satisfaction Procedure

A step-by-step process for addressing customer concerns that cannot be resolved by the dealership.

Online Owner Center

Information about the U.S. Online Owner Center for vehicle information, service reminders, and dealer locator.

Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users

Contact information for TTY users needing assistance.

Customer Assistance Offices

Contact details for Chevrolet Customer Assistance in the U.S. and Canada.

GM Mobility Reimbursement Program

Program details for reimbursing costs of eligible aftermarket adaptive equipment.

Roadside Assistance Program

Services provided under the roadside assistance program, including fuel delivery and lock-out service.

Courtesy Transportation

Information on courtesy transportation options offered by dealers during warranty repairs.

Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Recorders

Explanation of vehicle computer systems, data collection, and event data recorders.

Collision Damage Repair

Recommendations for proper collision repair using qualified technicians and OEM parts.

Reporting Safety Defects

Procedures for reporting safety defects to government agencies and General Motors.

Service Publications Ordering Information

How to order service manuals and bulletins for vehicle repair and diagnosis.

Related product manuals