2017 CHEVROLET MALIBU ESP

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
260 Driving and Operating
vehicles, or shadows. These alertsare normal operation and thevehicle does not need service.
Cleaning the System
If the FCA system does not seem tooperate properly, cleaning theoutside of the windshield in front ofthe camera sensor may correct theissue
Forward Automatic
Braking (FAB)
If the vehicle has Forward CollisionAlert (FCA), it also has FAB, whichincludes Intelligent BrakeAssist (IBA). When the systemdetects a vehicle ahead in your paththat is traveling in the samedirection that you may be about tocrash into, it can provide a boost tobraking or automatically brake thevehicle. This can help avoid orlessen the severity of crashes whendriving in a forward gear. Dependingon the situation, the vehicle mayautomatically brake moderately orhard. This forward automaticbraking can only occur if a vehicle is
detected. This is shown by the FCAvehicle ahead indicator being lit.SeeForward Collision Alert (FCA)System0258.
The system works when driving in aforward gear between 8 km/h(5 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph),or on vehicles with Adaptive CruiseControl (ACC), above 4 km/h(2 mph). It can detect vehicles up toapproximately 60 m (197 ft).
{Warning
FA B i s a n e m e r g e n c y c r a s h
preparation feature and is not
designed to avoid crashes. Do
not rely on FAB to brake the
vehicle. FAB will not brake
outside of its operating speed
range and only responds to
detected vehicles.
FA B m a y n o t :
.Detect a vehicle ahead onwinding or hilly roads.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
.Detect all vehicles,especially vehicles with atrailer, tractors, muddyvehicles, etc.
.Detect a vehicle whenweather limits visibility, suchas in fog, rain, or snow.
.Detect a vehicle ahead if itis partially blocked bypedestrians or other objects.
Complete attention is always
required while driving, and you
should be ready to take action
and apply the brakes and/or steer
the vehicle to avoid crashes.
FA B m a y s l o w t h e v e h i c l e t o acomplete stop to try to avoid apotential crash. If this happens, FABmay engage the Electric ParkingBrake (EPB) to hold the vehicle at astop. Release the EPB or firmlypress the accelerator pedal.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
Driving and Operating 261
{Warning
FA B m a y a u t o m a t i c a l l y b r a k e t h e
vehicle suddenly in situations
where it is unexpected and
undesired. It could respond to a
turning vehicle ahead, guardrails,
signs, and other non-moving
objects. To override FAB, firmly
press the accelerator pedal, if it is
safe to do so.
Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA)
IBA may activate when the brakepedal is applied quickly by providingaboosttobrakingbasedonthespeed of approach and distance toavehicleahead.
Minor brake pedal pulsations orpedal movement during this time isnormal and the brake pedal shouldcontinue to be applied as needed.IBA will automatically disengageonly when the brake pedal isreleased.
{Warning
IBA may increase vehicle braking
in situations when it may not be
necessary. You could block the
flow of traffic. If this occurs, take
your foot off the brake pedal and
then apply the brakes as needed.
FA B a n d I B A c a n b e d i s a b l e dthrough vehicle personalization. See“Collision/Detection Systems”underVehicle Personalization0147.
{Warning
Using FAB or IBA while towing a
trailer could cause you to lose
control of the vehicle and crash.
Turn the system to Alert, or if the
vehicle has ACC to Off, when
towing a trailer.
Front Pedestrian Braking
(FPB) System
If equipped, the Front PedestrianBraking (FPB) system may helpavoid or reduce the harm caused byfront-end crashes with nearbypedestrians when driving in aforward gear. FPB displays apedestrian ahead indicator when anearby pedestrian is detecteddirectly ahead. When approaching adetected pedestrian too quickly,FPB provides a red flashing alert onthe windshield and rapidly beeps.FPB can provide a boost to brakingor automatically brake the vehicle.This system includes IntelligentBrake Assist (IBA), and the ForwardAutomatic Braking (FAB) may alsorespond to pedestrians. SeeForward Automatic Braking(FAB)0260.
The FPB system can detect andalert to pedestrians in a forwardgear at speeds between 8 km/h(5 mph) and 80 km/h (50 mph).During daytime driving, the systemdetects pedestrians up to a distance

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
264 Driving and Operating
the Lane Change Alert (LCA)system, read the entire LCA sectionbefore using this feature.
Lane Change Alert (LCA)
If equipped, the LCA system is alane-changing aid that assistsdrivers with avoiding lane changecrashes that occur with movingvehicles in the side blind zone (orspot) areas or with vehicles rapidlyapproaching these areas frombehind. The LCA warning displaywill light up in the correspondingoutside side mirror and will flash ifthe turn signal is on.
{Warning
LCA does not alert the driver to
vehicles outside of the system
detection zones, pedestrians,
bicyclists, or animals. It may not
provide alerts when changing
lanes under all driving conditions.
Failure to use proper care when
changing lanes may result in
injury, death, or vehicle damage.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
Before making a lane change,
always check mirrors, glance over
your shoulder, and use the turn
signals.
LCA Detection Zones
1. SBZA Detection Zone
2. LCA Detection Zone
The LCA sensor covers a zone ofapproximately one lane over fromboth sides of the vehicle, or 3.5 m(11 ft). The height of the zone isapproximately between 0.5 m (1.5 ft)and 2 m (6 ft) off the ground. TheSide Blind Zone Alert (SBZA)warning area starts at approximately
the middle of the vehicle and goesback 5 m (16 ft). Drivers are alsowarned of vehicles rapidlyapproaching from up to 25 m (82 ft)behind the vehicle.
How the System Works
The LCA symbol lights up in theside mirrors when the systemdetects a moving vehicle in the nextlane over that is in the side blindzone or rapidly approaching thatzone from behind. A lit LCA symbolindicates it may be unsafe tochange lanes. Before making a lanechange, check the LCA display,check mirrors, glance over yourshoulder, and use the turn signals.
Left Side Mirror
Display
Right Side Mirror
Display
When the vehicle is started, bothoutside mirror LCA displays willbriefly come on to indicate the

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
Driving and Operating 265
system is operating. When thevehicle is in a forward gear, the leftor right side mirror display will lightup if a moving vehicle is detected inthe next lane over in that blind zoneor rapidly approaching that zone.If the turn signal is activated in thesame direction as a detectedvehicle, this display will flash as anextra warning not to change lanes.
LCA can be disabled throughvehicle personalization. See“Collision/Detection Systems”underVehicle Personalization0147.If LCA is disabled by the driver, theLCA mirror displays will not light up.
When the System Does Not
Seem to Work Properly
The LCA system requires somedriving for the system to calibrate tomaximum performance. Thiscalibration may occur more quickly ifthe vehicle is driven on a straighthighway road with traffic androadside objects (e.g., guardrails,barriers). During a trip, the LCAsystem is not operational until thevehicle first reaches a speed of24 km/h (15 mph).
LCA displays may not come onwhen passing a vehicle quickly, forastoppedvehicle,orwhentowingatrailer. The LCA detection zonesthat extend back from the side ofthe vehicle do not move further backwhen a trailer is towed. Use cautionwhile changing lanes when towing atrailer. LCA may alert to objectsattached to the vehicle, such as atrailer, bicycle, or object extendingout to either side of the vehicle.Attached objects may also interferewith the detection of vehicles. Thisis normal system operation; thevehicle does not need service.
LCA may not always alert the driverto vehicles in the next lane over,especially in wet conditions or whendriving on sharp curves. The systemdoes not need to be serviced. Thesystem may light up due toguardrails, signs, trees, shrubs, andother non-moving objects. This isnormal system operation; thevehicle does not need service.
LCA may not operate when the LCAsensors in the left or right corners ofthe rear bumper are covered withmud, dirt, snow, ice, or slush, or in
heavy rainstorms. For cleaninginstructions, see "Washing theVehicle" underExterior Care0358.If the DIC still displays the systemunavailable message after cleaningboth sides of the vehicle toward therear corners of the vehicle, see yourdealer.
If the LCA displays do not light upwhen moving vehicles are in theside blind zone or rapidlyapproaching this zone and thesystem is clean, the system mayneed service. Take the vehicle toyour dealer.
When LCA is disabled for anyreason other than the driver turningit off, the Lane Change Alert Onoption will not be available on thepersonalization menu.
Radio Frequency Information
SeeRadio FrequencyStatement0393.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
Driving and Operating 273
.Turn off Forward AutomaticBraking when towing. SeeForward Automatic Braking(FAB)0260.
.The Front Pedestrian Brakingsystem should be set to Alert orOff when towing. SeeFrontPedestrian Braking (FPB)System0261.
{Warning
When towing a trailer, exhaust
gases may collect at the rear of
the vehicle and enter if the
liftgate, trunk/hatch, or rear-most
window is open.
When towing a trailer:
.Do not drive with theliftgate, trunk/hatch,or rear-most window open.
.Fully open the air outlets onor under the instrumentpanel.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
.Also adjust the climatecontrol system to a settingthat brings in only outsideair. See“Climate ControlSystems”in the Index.
For information about carbon
monoxide, seeEngine
Exhaust0232.
To w i n g a t r a i l e r r e q u i r e s a c e r t a i namount of experience. Thecombination you are driving islonger and not as responsive as thevehicle itself. Get acquainted withthe handling and braking of the rigbefore setting out for the open road.
Before starting, check all trailer hitchparts and attachments, safetychains, electrical connectors, lamps,tires, and mirrors. If the trailer haselectric brakes, start thecombination moving and then applythe trailer brake controller by handto be sure the brakes work.
During the trip, check occasionallyto be sure that the load is secureand the lamps and any trailerbrakes still work.
Towing with a Stability Control
System
When towing, the sound of thestability control system might beheard. The system is reacting to thevehicle movement caused by thetrailer, which mainly occurs duringcornering. This is normal whentowing heavier trailers.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind thevehicle ahead as you would whendriving the vehicle without a trailer.This can help to avoid situationsthat require heavy braking andsudden turns.
Passing
More passing distance is neededwhen towing a trailer. Because therig is longer, it is necessary to gofarther beyond the passed vehiclebefore returning to the lane.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
Driving and Operating 275
If parking the rig on a hill:
1. Press the brake pedal, but donot shift into P (Park) yet. Turnthe wheels into the curb iffacing downhill or into traffic iffacing uphill.
2. Have someone place chocksunder the trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are inplace, release the brake pedaluntil the chocks absorbthe load.
4. Reapply the brake pedal. Thenapply the parking brake andshift into P (Park).
5. Release the brake pedal.
Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedalwhile you:
1.1. Start the engine.
1.2. Shift into a gear.
1.3. Release the parkingbrake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer isclear of the chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pickup and store the chocks.
Maintenance When Trailer
Towing
The vehicle needs service moreoften when pulling a trailer. See theMaintenance Schedule0369.Things that are especially importantin trailer operation are automatictransmission fluid, engine oil, axlelubricant, belts, cooling system, andbrake system. Inspect these beforeand during the trip.
Check periodically to see that allhitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer
Towing
The cooling system may temporarilyoverheat during severe operatingconditions. SeeEngineOverheating0297.
Trailer Towing
Before pulling a trailer, threeimportant considerations have to dowith weight:
.Weight of the trailer.
.Weight of the trailer tongue.
.To t a l w e i g h t o n y o u r v e h i c l e ' stires.
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It should never weigh more than454 kg (1,000 lb). But even that canbe too heavy.
It depends on how the rig is used.For example, speed, altitude, roadgrades, outside temperature, andhow much the vehicle is used to pullatrailerareallimportant.Itcandepend on any special equipmenton the vehicle, and the amount oftongue weight the vehicle can carry.See“Weight of the Trailer Tongue”following.
Maximum trailer weight is calculatedassuming the tow vehicle has thedriver, a front seat passenger and

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
288 Vehicle Care
1.Engine Air Cleaner/Filter0292.
2. Engine Oil Fill Cap. SeeEngine Oil0288.
3. Engine Oil Dipstick. SeeEngine Oil0288.
4. Engine Cooling Fan (Out ofView). SeeCooling System(Engine)0293orCoolingSystem (PowerElectronics)0294.
5. Brake Fluid Reservoir. SeeBrakes0299.
6. Coolant Surge Tank andPressure Cap. SeeEngineCoolant0295.
7.Battery - North America0301.
8. Remote Positive (+) BatteryTe r m i n a l ( U n d e r C o v e r ) . S e eJump Starting - NorthAmerica0352.
9.Engine Compartment FuseBlock0311.
10. Windshield Washer FluidReservoir. SeeWasherFluid0299.
11 . R e m o t e N e g a t i v e ( - ) B a t t e r yTe r m i n a l . S e eJump Starting -North America0352.
Engine Oil
To e n s u r e p r o p e r e n g i n eperformance and long life, carefulattention must be paid to engine oil.Following these simple, butimportant steps will help protectyour investment:
.Use engine oil approved to theproper specification and of theproper viscosity grade. See“Selecting the Right Engine Oil”in this section.
.Check the engine oil levelregularly and maintain theproper oil level. See“CheckingEngine Oil”and“When to AddEngine Oil”in this section.
.Change the engine oil at theappropriate time. SeeEngine OilLife System0291.
.Always dispose of engine oilproperly. See“What to Do withUsed Oil”later in this section.
Checking Engine Oil
Check the engine oil level regularly(every 650 km (400 mi), especiallyprior to a long trip. The engine oildipstick handle is a loop. SeeEngine Compartment Overview0283for the location.
{Warning
The engine oil dipstick handle
may be hot; it could burn you.
Use a towel or glove to touch the
dipstick handle.
If a low oil Driver Information Center(DIC) message displays, check theoil level.
Follow these guidelines:
.To g e t a n a c c u r a t e r e a d i n g , p a r kthe vehicle on level ground.Check the engine oil level afterthe engine has been off for atleast two hours. Checking theengine oil level on steep gradesor too soon after engine shutoffcan result in incorrect readings.Accuracy improves when

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
300 Vehicle Care
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out
brake pads could result in costly
brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climatescan cause a brake squeal when thebrakes are first applied or lightlyapplied. This does not meansomething is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts arenecessary to help prevent brakepulsation. When tires are rotated,inspect brake pads for wear andevenly tighten wheel nuts in theproper sequence to torquespecifications. SeeCapacities andSpecifications0381.
Brake pads should be replaced ascomplete sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedaldoes not return to normal height,or if there is a rapid increase inpedal travel. This could be a signthat brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system partswith new, approved replacementparts. If this is not done, the brakesmay not work properly. The brakingperformance expected can changein many other ways if the wrongreplacement brake parts areinstalled or if parts are improperlyinstalled.
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoiris filled with GM approved DOT 3brake fluid as indicated on thereservoir cap. SeeEngineCompartment Overview0283forthe location of the reservoir.
Checking Brake Fluid
With the vehicle in P (Park) on alevel surface, the brake fluid levelshould be between the minimumand maximum marks on the brakefluid reservoir.
There are only two reasons why thebrake fluid level in the reservoir maygo down:
.Normal brake lining wear. Whennew linings are installed, thefluid level goes back up.
.Afluidleakinthebrakehydraulic system. Have thebrake hydraulic system fixed.With a leak, the brakes will notwork well.
Always clean the brake fluidreservoir cap and the area aroundthe cap before removing it.
Do not top off the brake fluid.Adding fluid does not correct a leak.If fluid is added when the linings areworn, there will be too much fluidwhen new brake linings areinstalled. Add or remove fluid, asnecessary, only when work is doneon the brake hydraulic system.