Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Vehicle Care 303
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion
protection.
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoid
corrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon
and attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See“Finish Care”
previously in this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions,
regularly clean the vehicle's interior.
Immediately remove any soils.
Newspapers or dark garments can
transfer color to the vehicle’s
interior.
Use a soft bristle brush to remove
dust from knobs and crevices on the
instrument cluster. Using a mild
soap solution, immediately remove
hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect
repellent from all interior surfaces or
permanent damage may result.
Use cleaners specifically designed
for the surfaces being cleaned to
prevent permanent damage. Apply
all cleaners directly to the cleaning
cloth. Do not spray cleaners on any
switches or controls. Remove
cleaners quickly.
Before using cleaners, read and
follow all safety instructions on the
label. While cleaning the interior,
open the doors and windows to get
proper ventilation. To prevent damage, do not clean
the interior using the following
cleaners or techniques:
.
Never use a razor or any other
sharp object to remove soil from
any interior surface.
. Never use a brush with stiff
bristles.
. Never rub any surface
aggressively or with too much
pressure.
. Do not use laundry detergents or
dishwashing soaps with
degreasers. For liquid cleaners,
use approximately 20 drops per
3.8 L (1 gal) of water.
A concentrated soap solution will
create streaks and attract dirt.
Do not use solutions that contain
strong or caustic soap.
. Do not heavily saturate the
upholstery when cleaning.
. Do not use solvents or cleaners
containing solvents.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
304 Vehicle Care
Interior Glass
To clean, use a terry cloth fabric
dampened with water. Wipe droplets
left behind with a clean dry cloth.
If necessary, use a commercial
glass cleaner after cleaning with
plain water.
Caution
To prevent scratching, never use
abrasive cleaners on automotive
glass. Abrasive cleaners or
aggressive cleaning may damage
the rear window defogger.
Cleaning the windshield with water
during the first three to six months
of ownership will reduce tendency
to fog.
Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker cover
gently, so that the speaker will not
be damaged. Clean spots with water
and mild soap.
Coated Moldings
Coated moldings should be cleaned. .
When lightly soiled, wipe with a
sponge or soft, lint-free cloth
dampened with water.
. When heavily soiled, use warm
soapy water.
Fabric/Carpet/Suede
Start by vacuuming the surface
using a soft brush attachment. If a
rotating vacuum brush attachment is
being used, only use it on the floor
carpet. Before cleaning, gently
remove as much of the soil as
possible:
.Gently blot liquids with a paper
towel. Continue blotting until no
more soil can be removed.
. For solid soils, remove as much
as possible prior to vacuuming.
To clean:
1. Saturate a clean, lint-free colorfast cloth with water.
Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint
transfer to the fabric or carpet.
2. Remove excess moisture by gently wringing until water does
not drip from the cleaning cloth. 3. Start on the outside edge of the
soil and gently rub toward the
center. Fold the cleaning cloth
to a clean area frequently to
prevent forcing the soil in to the
fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no
longer any color transfer from
the soil to the cleaning cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap
solution followed only by plain
water.
If the soil is not completely
removed, it may be necessary to
use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small
hidden area for colorfastness before
using a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. If ring
formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet.
After cleaning, use a paper towel to
blot excess moisture.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Vehicle Care 305
Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces
and Vehicle Information and
Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss
surfaces or vehicle displays. First,
use a soft bristle brush to remove
dirt that can scratch the surface.
Then gently clean by rubbing with a
microfiber cloth. Never use window
cleaners or solvents. Periodically
hand wash the microfiber cloth
separately, using mild soap. Do not
use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse
thoroughly and air dry before
next use.
Caution
Do not attach a device with a
suction cup to the display. This
may cause damage and would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Instrument Panel, Leather,
Vinyl, Other Plastic Surfaces,
Low Gloss Paint Surfaces, and
Natural Open Pore Wood
Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth
dampened with water to remove
dust and loose dirt. For a more
thorough cleaning, use a soft
microfiber cloth dampened with a
mild soap solution.
Caution
Soaking or saturating leather,
especially perforated leather, as
well as other interior surfaces,
may cause permanent damage.
Wipe excess moisture from these
surfaces after cleaning and allow
them to dry naturally. Never use
heat, steam, or spot removers. Do
not use cleaners that contain
silicone or wax-based products.
Cleaners containing these
solvents can permanently change(Continued)
Caution (Continued)
the appearance and feel of
leather or soft trim, and are not
recommended.
Do not use cleaners that increase
gloss, especially on the instrument
panel. Reflected glare can decrease
visibility through the windshield
under certain conditions.
Caution
Use of air fresheners may cause
permanent damage to plastics
and painted surfaces. If an air
freshener comes in contact with
any plastic or painted surface in
the vehicle, blot immediately and
clean with a soft cloth dampened
with a mild soap solution.
Damage caused by air fresheners
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Service and Maintenance 313
Footnotes—Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services - Normal
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
passenger compartment air filter
replacement may be needed if
driving in areas with heavy traffic,
poor air quality, high dust levels,
or environmental allergens.
Passenger compartment air filter
replacement may also be needed if
there is reduced airflow, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer
can help determine when to replace
the filter.
(2) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook-up,
routing, and condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
(4) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 234. (5)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(6) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0240.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Service and Maintenance 315
Footnotes—Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services - Severe
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
passenger compartment air filter
replacement may be needed if
driving in areas with heavy traffic,
poor air quality, high dust levels,
or environmental allergens.
Passenger compartment air filter
replacement may also be needed if
there is reduced airflow, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer
can help determine when to replace
the filter.
(2) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook-up,
routing, and condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
(4) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 234. (5)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(6) Replace brake fluid every five
years. See Brake Fluid 0240.Special Application
Services
.
Severe Commercial Use
Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis
components every 5 000 km/
3,000 mi.
. Have underbody flushing service
performed. See "Underbody
Maintenance" in Exterior Care
0 298.
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
342 OnStar
(no Internet connection, 3G,
4G, 4G LTE), and signal quality
(poor, good, excellent).
3. To change the SSID or password, press
Qor call
1-888-4ONSTAR to connect
with an Advisor.
OnStar RemoteLink
®Mobile App
(If Equipped)
Download the OnStar RemoteLink
mobile app to select Apple
®iOS,
Android™, BlackBerry®,
or Windows®mobile devices.
OnStar Subscribers can access the
following services from a mobile
device:
. Remotely start/stop the vehicle,
if factory-equipped.
. Lock/unlock doors, if equipped
with automatic locks.
. Activate the horn and lamps.
. Check the vehicle’s fuel level, oil
life, or tire pressure,
if factory-equipped with the Tire
Pressure Monitor System.
. Send directions to the vehicle. .
Locate the vehicle on a map
(U.S. market only).
. Turn the vehicle's Wi-Fi hotspot
on/off, manage settings, and
monitor data consumption,
if equipped.
For OnStar RemoteLink information
and compatibility, see
www.onstar.com (U.S.) or
www.onstar.ca (Canada).
Remote Services
Contact an OnStar Advisor to
unlock the doors or sound the horn
and flash the lamps.
OnStar AtYourService
OnStar Advisors can provide special
offers from restaurants and retailers
on your route, help locate hotels,
or book a room.
OnStar Hands-Free Calling
Make and receive calls with the
built-in wireless calling service,
which requires available minutes. Make a Call
1. Press
=. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Call.”System responds:
“Call. Please say the name or
number to call.”
3. Say the entire number without pausing, including a “1”and the
area code. System responds:
“OK, calling.”
Calling 911 Emergency
1. Press=. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Call.”System responds:
“Call. Please say the name or
number to call.”
3. Say “911”without pausing.
System responds: “911.”
4. Say “Call.”System responds:
“OK, dialing 911.”
Retrieve My Number
1. Press=. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
Index 355
M
MaintenanceRecords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Maintenance and Care Additional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . 309 Recommended Fluids andLubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . . 106
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Memory Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Memory Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Messages Battery Voltage and
Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Engine Cooling System . . . . . . . .117
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Engine Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Fuel System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Key and Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Object Detection System . . . . . .119
Ride Control System . . . . . . . . . . 120
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Service Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120 Messages (cont'd)
Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Vehicle Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Mirrors Automatic Dimming
Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Tilt in Reverse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Mirrors, Interior Rearview . . . . . . . . 43
Monitor System, Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
Multi-band Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
N
Navigation OnStar®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
Net, Convenience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . 187
O
Object Detection System
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Oil Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . 232
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Older Children, Restraints . . . . . . . 74
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . . 328
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 337
OnStar
®Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
OnStar
®Connections . . . . . . . . . . . 341
OnStar®Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . 343
OnStar®Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
OnStar®Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
OnStar®Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339
OnStar®Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
Operation
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . 142
Ordering Service Publications . . . . . . . . . . 334
Chevrolet Malibu Limited Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S/Canada-
9086425) - 2016 - crc - 7/30/15
356 Index
OutletsPower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
P
Park Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Shifting Out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200
Brake and P (Park)Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . 243
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . . 196
Parking Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Passenger Compartment Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Passenger Sensing System . . . . . 68
Perchlorate Materials Requirements, California . . . . . . 226
Personalization Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Phone Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . . 156, 157, 161
Power Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Power (cont'd)
Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Retained Accessory (RAP) . . . 194
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Pregnancy, Using Safety Belts . . . 60
Privacy Vehicle Data Recording . . . . . . . 336
Program
Courtesy Transportation . . . . . . 331
Proposition 65 Warning,
California . . . . . . . . . . . .226, 241, 293
R
Radio Frequency Statement . . . . 335
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
RadiosAM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Satellite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Rear Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . . 206
Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Automatic Dimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319 Records
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
Recreational Vehicle Towing . . . . 296
Reimbursement Program, GM Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Replacement Parts Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320
Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . . . 74
Replacing LATCH System Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Replacing Safety Belt System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Reporting Safety Defects Canadian Government . . . . . . . . 336
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 336
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335
Restraints Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Reverse Tilt Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Ride Control Systems Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120