Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 5/23/16
Introduction 3
{Danger
Danger indicates a hazard with a
high level of risk which will result
in serious injury or death.
{Warning
Warning indicates a hazard that
could result in injury or death.
Caution
Caution indicates a hazard that
could result in property or vehicle
damage.
Acirclewithaslashthroughitisasafety symbol which means“DoNot,”“Do not do this,”or“Do not letthis happen.”
Symbols
The vehicle has components andlabels that use symbols instead oftext. Symbols are shown along withthe text describing the operation orinformation relating to a specificcomponent, control, message,gauge, or indicator.
M:Shown when the ownermanual has additional instructionsor information.
*:Shown when the servicemanual has additional instructionsor information.
0:Shown when there is moreinformation on another page—“see page.”
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbolsthat may be found on the vehicleand what they mean. For moreinformation on the symbol, refer tothe Index.
9:Airbag Readiness Light
#:Air Conditioning
!:Antilock Brake System (ABS)
%:Audio Steering Wheel Controlsor OnStar®(if equipped)
$:Brake System Warning Light
":Charging System
I:Cruise Control
`:Do Not Puncture
^:Do Not Service
B:Engine Coolant Temperature
O:Exterior Lamps
g:First Responder
_:Flame/Fire Prohibited
#:Fog Lamps
.:Fuel Gauge
+:Fuses
3:Headlamp High/Low-BeamChanger
j:LATCH System Child Restraints
*:Malfunction Indicator Lamp
::Oil Pressure
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
In Brief 5
In Brief
Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Overview . . . . . . 6
Initial Drive Information
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . . . 8Stop/Start System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . 8Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Memory Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Second Row Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . 12Heated and Ventilated Seats . . . 12Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . 13Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Passenger Sensing System . . . 13Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Steering Wheel Adjustment . . . . 14Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16Windshield Wiper/Washer . . . . . . 16Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Vehicle Features
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . . . 19Radio(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Portable Audio Devices . . . . . . . . 20Bluetooth®..................... 20Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . . . 21Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Driver InformationCenter (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Forward Collision Alert (FCA)System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Forward AutomaticBraking (FAB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Front Pedestrian Braking (FPB)System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Lane Keep Assist (LKA) . . . . . . . 23Lane Change Alert (LCA) . . . . . . 24Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . 24Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Parking Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Automatic ParkingAssist (APA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24Universal Remote System . . . . . 25Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Hybrid Features
Hybrid Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
High Voltage SafetyInformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26Regenerative Braking(Hybrid Only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Performance and Maintenance
Traction Control/ElectronicStability Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . . . 28Fuel (1.5L and 1.8LEngines) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Fuel (2.0L Engine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28E85 or FlexFuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . . 29Driving for Better FuelEconomy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29Roadside AssistanceProgram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
In Brief 7
1.Air Vents0211.
2. Turn Signal Lever. SeeTu r nand Lane-ChangeSignals0167.
3.Instrument Cluster (BaseLevel)011 2orInstrumentCluster (Uplevel)011 4.
Driver Information Center (DIC)(Base Level)0131orDriverInformation Center (DIC)(Uplevel)0134.
4.Windshield Wiper/Washer0105.
5. Light Sensor. SeeAutomaticHeadlamp System0166.
6.Infotainment0171.
7.Climate ControlSystems0205.
Dual Automatic Climate ControlSystem0208(If Equipped).
8.Hazard WarningFlashers0166.
9.Power Outlets0108.
10.Tr a c t i o n C o n t r o l / E l e c t r o n i cStability Control0241.
Assistance Systems forParking or Backing0253(If Equipped).
11 . S h i f t L e v e r. S e eAutomaticTr a n s m i s s i o n0233.
12.Electric Parking Brake0238.
13.USB Port0184.
14. ENGINE START/STOP Button.SeeIgnition Positions0225.
15.Steering Wheel Controls0104.
Driver Information CenterButtons. SeeDriver InformationCenter (DIC) (Base Level)0131orDriver InformationCenter (DIC) (Uplevel)0134.
16.Horn0105.
17.Steering WheelAdjustment0104.
18.Cruise Control0243.
Adaptive Cruise Control0245(If Equipped).
Heated Steering Wheel0105(If Equipped).
Forward Collision Alert (FCA)System0258(If Equipped).
Lane Keep Assist (LKA)0266(If Equipped).
19. Hood Release. SeeHood0281.
20. Data Link Connector (Out ofView). SeeMalfunctionIndicator Lamp (Check EngineLight)0122.
21.Exterior Lamp Controls0163.
22.Instrument Panel IlluminationControl0167.
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
8 In Brief
Initial Drive
Information
This section provides a briefoverview about some of theimportant features that may or maynot be on your specific vehicle.
For more detailed information, referto each of the features which can befound later in this owner manual.
Stop/Start System
The vehicle may have a fuel savingstop/start system to shut off theengine and help conserve fuel.
When the brakes are applied andthe vehicle is at a complete stop,the engine may turn off. When thebrake pedal is released or theaccelerator pedal is pressed, theengine will restart. SeeStarting theEngine0227.
Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)transmitter may work up to 60 m(197 ft) away from the vehicle.
With Remote Start Shown
K:Press to unlock the driver dooror all doors, depending on thevehicle personalization setting.
Q:Press to lock all doors.
Lock and unlock feedback can bepersonalized.
X:Press twice quickly to open thetrunk.
7:Press and release one time toinitiate vehicle locator. Press andhold for at least three seconds tosound the panic alarm. Press againto cancel the panic alarm.
SeeKeys031andRemote KeylessEntry (RKE) System Operation032.
Remote Vehicle Start
If equipped, the engine can bestarted from outside of the vehicle.
Starting the Vehicle
1. Press and releaseQon the
RKE transmitter.
2. Immediately, press and hold/
for at least four seconds or untilthe turn signal lamps flash.
3. Start the vehicle normally afterentering.
When the vehicle starts, the parkinglamps will turn on.
For the hybrid vehicle, the enginewill only start if needed for warmingfunctions or high voltage batterycharging.
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
12 In Brief
To r e t u r n t h e s e a t b a c k t o t h e u p r i g h tposition:
1. Lift the lever fully withoutapplying pressure to theseatback, and the seatback willreturn to the upright position.
2. Push and pull on the seatbackto make sure it is locked.
Power Reclining Seatbacks
To a d j u s t a p o w e r s e a t b a c k ,if available:
.Tilt the top of the controlrearward to recline.
.Tilt the top of the control forwardto raise.
SeeReclining Seatbacks057.
Memory Features
If equipped, the 1, 2, SET, andB
(Exit) buttons on the driver door areused to manually store and recallmemory settings for the driver seatand outside mirrors.
Automatic Memory Recall and/oreasy exit recall features may beenabled in the personalizationmenus to automatically recall
positions stored to the 1, 2, andB
buttons.
SeeMemory Seats059andVehicle Personalization0147.
Second Row Seats
The rear seatbacks can be foldeddown to increase cargo space.
SeeRear Seats062.
Heated and Ventilated
Seats
If available, the buttons are on theclimate control panel. To operate,the engine must be running.
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
In Brief 19
pedal. L2 (Low 2) provides moderatebraking and L1 (Low 1) providesmaximum braking below 80 km/h(50 mph). When the battery reachesfull charge the engine may run tomaintain braking.
To u s e t h i s f e a t u r e :
1. Move the shift lever to L (Low).The transmission will enterL2 (Low 2).
2. Press + (Plus) or✓(Minus) onthe shift lever to shift betweenL2 (Low 2) and L1 (Low 1).
SeeManual Mode0235.
Vehicle Features
Infotainment System
Base radio information is included inthis manual. See the infotainmentmanual for information on otheravailable infotainment systems.
Read the following pages tobecome familiar with these features.
{Warning
Ta k i n g y o u r e y e s o f f t h e r o a d f o r
too long or too often while using
any infotainment feature can
cause a crash. You or others
could be injured or killed. Do not
give extended attention to
infotainment tasks while driving.
Limit your glances at the vehicle
displays and focus your attention
on driving. Use voice commands
whenever possible.
The infotainment system has built-infeatures intended to help avoiddistraction by disabling somefunctions when driving. These
functions may gray out when theyare unavailable. Many infotainmentfeatures are also available throughthe instrument cluster and steeringwheel controls.
Before driving:
.Become familiar with theoperation, faceplate buttons, andscreen buttons.
.Set up the audio by presettingfavorite stations, setting thetone, and adjusting thespeakers.
.Set up phone numbers inadvance so they can be calledeasily by pressing a singlebutton or by using a single voicecommand if equipped withBluetooth phone capability.
SeeDefensive Driving0216.
To p l a y t h e i n f o t a i n m e n t s y s t e m w i t hthe ignition off, seeRetainedAccessory Power (RAP)0230.
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
26 In Brief
Hybrid Features
Hybrid Vehicle Operation
The hybrid vehicle combinesgasoline and electric propulsion todrive the vehicle. The gas enginewill automatically start to providepower. It will shut off to save fuel.The engine may remainrunning when:
.There is aggressive accelerationor climbing hills.
.Vehicle speed is greater than88 km/h (55 mph).
.The high voltage battery ischarging.
.The heater is being used.
The engine and transmission worktogether to provide the requiredpower at the highest efficiency. Thismay result in higher engine speeds.SeeDriving for Better FuelEconomy029.
High Voltage Safety
Information
{Warning
Exposure to high voltage can
cause shock, burns, and even
death. The high voltage
components in the vehicle can
only be serviced by technicians
with special training.
High voltage components are
identified by labels. Do not
remove, open, take apart,
or modify these components.
High voltage cable or wiring has
orange covering or labels. Do not
probe, tamper with, cut, or modify
high voltage cable or wiring.
This vehicle has a high voltagebattery and a standard 12-voltbattery.
If the vehicle is in a crash, thesensing system may shut down thehigh voltage system. When thisoccurs, the high voltage battery isdisconnected and the vehicle will
not start. The SERVICE VEHICLESOON message in the DriverInformation Center (DIC) will bedisplayed. Before the vehicle can beoperated again, it must be servicedat your dealer.
{Warning
Damage to the high voltage
battery or high voltage system
can create a risk of electric shock,
overheating, or fire.
If the vehicle is damaged from a
moderate to severe crash, flood,
fire, or other event, the vehicle
should be inspected as soon as
possible. Until the vehicle has
been inspected, store it outside at
least 15 m (50 ft) from any
structure or anything that can
burn. Ventilate the vehicle by
opening a window or a door.
Contact Customer Assistance as
soon as possible to determine
whether an inspection is needed.
SeeCustomer Assistance
Offices0385.
Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada/Mexico-10122664) - 2017 - crc - 6/1/16
28 In Brief
.To t u r n o f f b o t h t r a c t i o n c o n t r o land StabiliTrak, press and
holdgon the center console,
untiliandgilluminate in the
instrument cluster.
.Press and releasegagain to
turn on both systems.
SeeTr a c t i o n C o n t r o l / E l e c t r o n i cStability Control0241.
Tire Pressure Monitor
This vehicle may have a TirePressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The low tire pressure warning lightalerts to a significant loss inpressure of one of the vehicle'stires. If the warning light comes on,stop as soon as possible and inflatethe tires to the recommendedpressure shown on the Tire and
Loading Information label. SeeVehicle Load Limits0222.Thewarning light will remain on until thetire pressure is corrected.
The low tire pressure warning lightmay come on in cool weather whenthe vehicle is first started, and thenturn off as the vehicle is driven. Thismay be an early indicator that thetire pressures are getting low andthe tires need to be inflated to theproper pressure.
The TPMS does not replace normalmonthly tire maintenance. Maintainthe correct tire pressures.
SeeTire Pressure MonitorSystem0327.
Fuel (1.5L and 1.8L
Engines)
Regular Fuel
Use only unleaded gasoline rated87 octane or higher in your vehicle.Do not use gasoline with an octanerating lower as it may result invehicle damage and lower fueleconomy. SeeFuel0268.
Fuel (2.0L Engine)
Premium Recommended Fuel
Use premium 93 octane unleadedgasoline in your vehicle. Unleadedgasoline with an octane rating aslow as 87 may be used, but it willreduce performance and fueleconomy. SeeFuel0268.