Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Vehicle Care 297
.Does the vehicle have the
proper towing equipment? See
your dealer or trailering
professional for additional advice
and equipment
recommendations.
. Is the vehicle ready to be
towed? Just as preparing the
vehicle for a long trip, make sure
the vehicle is prepared to be
towed.
Dinghy Towing
Vehicles equipped with an active
shutter system cannot be dinghy
towed without the tow equipment
damaging the vehicle. See “Dolly
Towing” following for the correct way
to tow a vehicle with an active
shutter system.To dinghy tow the vehicle from the
front with all four wheels on the
ground:
1. Position the vehicle to tow and then secure it to the towing
vehicle.
2. Shift the transmission to N (Neutral).
3. Place the ignition in the ACC/ ACCESSORY position. See
Ignition Positions (Keyless
Access) 0187 orIgnition
Positions (Key Access) 0189.
4. To prevent the battery from draining while the vehicle is
being towed, remove fuses 8, 22 (Key Access only), and 24,
from the instrument panel fuse
block. See
Instrument Panel
Fuse Block 0258.
Remember to reinstall the fuses
once the destination has been
reached.
Caution
If 105 km/h (65 mph) is exceeded
while towing the vehicle, it could
be damaged. Never exceed
105 km/h (65 mph) while towing
the vehicle.
Caution
Use of a shield mounted in front
of the vehicle grille could restrict
airflow and cause damage to the
transmission. The repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. If using a shield, only
use one that attaches to the
towing vehicle.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
298 Vehicle Care
Dolly Towing
Tow the vehicle with the two rear
wheels on the ground and the front
wheels on a dolly.
To tow the vehicle with two wheels
on the ground and a dolly:1. Put the front wheels on a dolly.
2. Put the shift lever in P (Park).
3. Secure the vehicle to the dolly.
Caution
Towing the vehicle from the rear
could damage it. Also, repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Never have the
vehicle towed from the rear.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants 0319.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based,
acidic, or abrasive cleaning
agents as they can damage the
vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic
parts. If damage occurs, it would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning
products can be obtained from
(Continued)
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Vehicle Care 301
Air Intakes
Clear debris from the air intakes,
between the hood and windshield
when washing the vehicle.
Shutter System
The vehicle may have a shutter
system designed to help increase
fuel economy. Keep the shutter
system clean for proper operation.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.Clean 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. Bugs, road grime, sap, and
a buildup of vehicle wash/wax
treatments may cause wiper
streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged. Damage can be
caused by extreme dusty
conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun,
snow, and ice.
Weatherstrips
Apply Dielectric silicone grease on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips at
least once a year. Hot, dry climates
may require more frequent
application. Black marks from
rubber material on painted surfaces
can be removed by rubbing with a
clean cloth. See
Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants 0319.
Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Caution
Using petroleum-based tire
dressing products on the vehicle
may damage the paint finish and/
or tires. When applying a tire
dressing, always wipe off any
overspray from all painted
surfaces on the vehicle.
Wheels and Trim —Aluminum
or Chrome
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild
soap and water to clean the wheels.
After rinsing thoroughly with clean
water, dry with a soft, clean towel.
A wax may then be applied.
Caution
Chrome wheels and other chrome
trim may be damaged if the
vehicle is not washed after driving
(Continued)
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
302 Vehicle Care
Caution (Continued)
on roads that have been sprayed
with magnesium, calcium,
or sodium chloride. These
chlorides are used on roads for
conditions such as ice and dust.
Always wash the chrome with
soap and water after exposure.
Caution
To avoid surface damage, do not
use strong soaps, chemicals,
abrasive polishes, cleaners,
brushes, or cleaners that contain
acid on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels. Use only
approved cleaners. Also, never
drive a vehicle with aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels through an
automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines and
hoses for proper hook-up, binding,
leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect
disc brake pads for wear and rotors
for surface condition. Inspect drum
brake linings/shoes for wear or
cracks. Inspect other brake parts,
including drums, wheel cylinders,
calipers, parking brake, master
cylinder, brake fluid reservoir,
vacuum pipes, electric vacuum
pump including bracket and vent
hose, if equipped.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of wear at
least once a year.
Inspect power steering for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity joint
boots and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinge, unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick
or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall
use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the
underbody. Take care to thoroughly
clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
Do not directly power wash the
transfer case and/or front/rear axle
output seals. High pressure water
can overcome the seals and
contaminate the fluid. Contaminated
fluid will decrease the life of the
transfer case and/or axles and
should be replaced.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Service and Maintenance 317
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage.
The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure
that they light when braking.
. With a multi-point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control
for a smoother ride.
. Signs of wear may include
steering wheel vibration, bounce/
sway while braking, longer
stopping distance, or uneven
tire wear.
. As part of the multi-point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs of leaking, blown seals,
or damage, and can advise
when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money and fuel,
and can reduce the risk of tire
failure.
. Signs that the tires need to be
replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord
or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the
tread or sidewall; or a bulge or
split in the tire.
. Trained dealer technicians can
inspect and recommend the right
tires. Your dealer can also
provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth
vehicle operation at all speeds.
Your dealer sells and services
name brand tires.
Vehicle Care
To help keep the vehicle looking like
new, vehicle care products are
available from your dealer. For information on how to clean and
protect the vehicle’s interior and
exterior, see
Interior Care 0303 and
Exterior Care 0298.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for
ensuring that the tires deliver
optimal wear and performance.
. Signs that the alignment may
need to be adjusted include
pulling, improper vehicle
handling, or unusual tire wear.
. Your dealer has the required
equipment to ensure proper
wheel alignment.
Windshield
For safety, appearance, and the
best viewing, keep the windshield
clean and clear.
. Signs of damage include
scratches, cracks, and chips.
. Trained dealer technicians can
inspect the windshield and
recommend proper replacement
if needed.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Technical Data 323
Vehicle Data
Capacities and Specifications
ApplicationCapacities
Metric English
Air Conditioning Refrigerant For the air conditioning system refrigerant type and charge amount, see the refrigerant label under thehood. See your dealer for more information.
Engine Cooling System 2.5L L4 Engine 7.4 L 7.8 qt
Engine Oil with Filter 2.5L L4 Engine 4.7 L 5.0 qt
Fuel Tank Base model 62.8 L 16.6 gal
LT or LTZ model 70.0 L 18.5 gal
Wheel Nut Torque 150 Y110 lb ft
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this
manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Customer Information 329
This program is available to
qualified applicants for cost
reimbursement of eligible
aftermarket adaptive equipment
required for the vehicle, such as
hand controls or a wheelchair/
scooter lift for the vehicle.
For more information on the limited
offer, visit www.gmmobility.com or
call the GM Mobility Assistance
Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text
Telephone (TTY) users, call
1-800-833-9935.
General Motors of Canada also has
a Mobility Program. Visit www.gm.ca
or call 1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483)
for details. TTY users call
1-800-263-3830.
Roadside Assistance
Program
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.
Calling for Assistance
When calling Roadside Assistance,
have the following information
ready:
.Your name, home address, and
home telephone number.
. Telephone number of your
location.
. Location of the vehicle.
. Model, year, color, and license
plate number of the vehicle.
. Odometer reading, Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), and
delivery date of the vehicle.
. Description of the problem.
Coverage
Services are provided for the
duration of the vehicle’s powertrain
warranty.
In the U.S., anyone driving the
vehicle is covered. In Canada, a
person driving the vehicle without
permission from the owner is not
covered. Roadside Assistance is not a part of
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
General Motors North America and
Chevrolet reserve the right to make
any changes or discontinue the
Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
General Motors North America and
Chevrolet reserve the right to limit
services or payment to an owner or
driver if they decide the claims are
made too often, or the same type of
claim is made many times.
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.
. Emergency Tow from a Public
Road or Highway: Tow to the
nearest Chevrolet dealer for
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
358 Index
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178Wheel Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . 249, 250
Storage Areas
Center Console . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Convenience Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . . . 93
Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Stuck Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Summer Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
System Forward Collision
Alert (FCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139, 338
T
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Taillamps Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . 249, 250 Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . . 328
Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . 40, 41
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260 All-Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292
Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Pressure Monitor Operation . . 270
Pressure Monitor System . . . . . 269
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Sealant andCompressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Sealant and Compressor Kit, Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Terminology and Definitions . . 264
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277 Tires (cont'd)
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 278
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Towing Driving Characteristics . . . . . . . . 218
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 218
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 296
Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296
Track Events and Competitive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Traction Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak
®Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Traction Control/Electronic Stability Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Trailer
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Transmission Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121