🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Malibu Year: 2004 Product Name: 2004 CHEVY/Chevrolet Malibu Owners Manual 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan Target Audience: Families and individuals seeking a comfortable, reliable, and practical daily driver. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Dodge Stratus. Key Features Interior Comfort: Known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride quality, making it a good choice for longer journeys. Value Proposition: Offered a good balance of features, comfort, and affordability within its class. Styling: Featured a distinctive styling that set it apart from some of its more conservative competitors. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Owner's Manual Language: English Format: Printed Booklet Page Count Page Count: Approximately 350-450 pages (estimated for a typical 2004 Malibu owner's manual) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Operation: Detailed explanation of engine controls, starting and stopping procedures, and engine break-in recommendations. Instrument Panel: Identification and function of all gauges, warning lights, and indicator symbols. Lighting Systems: Operation of headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lamps (if equipped), and turn signals. Climate Control: Instructions for using the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including manual and automatic climate control features. Audio System: Operation of the factory-installed radio/CD player, speaker system, and any associated controls. Power Windows And Locks: Operation and features of power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry. Seating And Restraints: Adjustment of seats, seat belt usage, operation of airbags and pretensioners. Storage Compartments: Location and usage of glove box, center console storage, door pockets, and trunk storage. Fuel And Refueling: Fuel recommendations, refueling procedures, and fuel tank capacity. Tires And Wheels: Tire pressure information, changing a flat tire, and information on wheel covers/alloy wheels. Brakes: Basic information on brake system operation and warning indicators. Steering: Information on steering system operation. Cruise Control: Operation of the cruise control system. Wipers And Washers: Operation of windshield wipers and washers, including intermittent settings. Procedures Included Maintenance Schedule: Recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections. Fluid Checking And Refilling: Instructions on how to check and add engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Tire Pressure Adjustment: Guidance on checking and adjusting tire pressure to recommended levels. Changing A Flat Tire: Step-by-step instructions for safely changing a flat tire, including jack placement and lug nut torque. Jump Starting The Battery: Detailed procedures for safely jump-starting a dead battery using jumper cables. Replacing Wiper Blades: Instructions on how to replace worn windshield wiper blades. Fuse Replacement: Location of fuse boxes and guidance on replacing blown fuses. Bulb Replacement: Information on replacing common exterior and interior light bulbs. Interior Care And Cleaning: Recommendations for cleaning and maintaining the vehicle's interior surfaces. Exterior Care And Cleaning: Guidance on washing, waxing, and cleaning the vehicle's exterior. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive operational and basic maintenance guidance for the average owner. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics typically found in service manuals. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Format: Physical printed booklet Print Quality Print Quality: Standard professional print quality with clear text and diagrams. Binding Type Binding Type: Saddle-stitched or perfect bound (typical for owner's manuals) Paper Type Paper Type: Durable paper stock suitable for automotive environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: 3.8L V6 (L36) Displacement: 3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches) Horsepower: 200 hp @ 5200 rpm Torque: 225 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Optional Engine Engine Type: 2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder (L61) Displacement: 2.2 Liters (134 cubic inches) Horsepower: 144 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque: 155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Central Port Fuel Injection (SCPI) Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended Engine Internals Valvetrain: Overhead Valve (OHV) for 3.8L V6; Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves for 2.2L Ecotec Bore X Stroke: 3.8L V6: 3.74 in x 3.40 in; 2.2L Ecotec: 3.51 in x 3.39 in Compression Ratio: 3.8L V6: 9.4:1; 2.2L Ecotec: 9.5:1 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E) Gear Ratios: Typical for 4T65-E: 2.92:1 (1st), 1.57:1 (2nd), 1.00:1 (3rd), 0.70:1 (4th), 2.34:1 (Reverse) Optional Transmission Type: Not Applicable for 2004 model year. Only automatic was offered. Features Transmission Control: Driver-selectable modes (e.g., 'D' for Drive, '3' for 3rd gear hold, '2' for 2nd gear hold) Fluid Specifications Fluid Type: Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), though Dexron-III was common at the time of manufacture. Always check the owner's manual for the most accurate recommendation. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approximately 191.8 inches (4872 mm) Width: Approximately 69.9 inches (1775 mm) Height: Approximately 57.7 inches (1466 mm) Wheelbase: Approximately 110.5 inches (2807 mm) Interior Passenger Volume: Approximately 102.6 cubic feet (2905 L) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 15.7 cubic feet (445 L) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3250-3450 lbs (1474-1565 kg), depending on engine and equipment Gross Vehicle Weight...
Families and individuals seeking a comfortable, reliable, and practical daily driver.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Dodge Stratus.
Key Features
Interior Comfort:
Known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride quality, making it a good choice for longer journeys.
Value Proposition:
Offered a good balance of features, comfort, and affordability within its class.
Styling:
Featured a distinctive styling that set it apart from some of its more conservative competitors.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Language:
English
Format:
Printed Booklet
Page Count
Page Count:
Approximately 350-450 pages (estimated for a typical 2004 Malibu owner's manual)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine controls, starting and stopping procedures, and engine break-in recommendations.
Instrument Panel:
Identification and function of all gauges, warning lights, and indicator symbols.
Lighting Systems:
Operation of headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lamps (if equipped), and turn signals.
Climate Control:
Instructions for using the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, including manual and automatic climate control features.
Audio System:
Operation of the factory-installed radio/CD player, speaker system, and any associated controls.
Power Windows And Locks:
Operation and features of power windows, power door locks, and remote keyless entry.
Seating And Restraints:
Adjustment of seats, seat belt usage, operation of airbags and pretensioners.
Storage Compartments:
Location and usage of glove box, center console storage, door pockets, and trunk storage.
Fuel And Refueling:
Fuel recommendations, refueling procedures, and fuel tank capacity.
Tires And Wheels:
Tire pressure information, changing a flat tire, and information on wheel covers/alloy wheels.
Brakes:
Basic information on brake system operation and warning indicators.
Steering:
Information on steering system operation.
Cruise Control:
Operation of the cruise control system.
Wipers And Washers:
Operation of windshield wipers and washers, including intermittent settings.
Procedures Included
Maintenance Schedule:
Recommended maintenance intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and inspections.
Fluid Checking And Refilling:
Instructions on how to check and add engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
Tire Pressure Adjustment:
Guidance on checking and adjusting tire pressure to recommended levels.
Changing A Flat Tire:
Step-by-step instructions for safely changing a flat tire, including jack placement and lug nut torque.
Jump Starting The Battery:
Detailed procedures for safely jump-starting a dead battery using jumper cables.
Replacing Wiper Blades:
Instructions on how to replace worn windshield wiper blades.
Fuse Replacement:
Location of fuse boxes and guidance on replacing blown fuses.
Bulb Replacement:
Information on replacing common exterior and interior light bulbs.
Interior Care And Cleaning:
Recommendations for cleaning and maintaining the vehicle's interior surfaces.
Exterior Care And Cleaning:
Guidance on washing, waxing, and cleaning the vehicle's exterior.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive operational and basic maintenance guidance for the average owner. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics typically found in service manuals.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Physical printed booklet
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Standard professional print quality with clear text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Saddle-stitched or perfect bound (typical for owner's manuals)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for automotive environments.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
3.8L V6 (L36)
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (231 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
200 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Optional Engine
Engine Type:
2.2L Ecotec 4-cylinder (L61)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (134 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
144 hp @ 5800 rpm
Torque:
155 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Central Port Fuel Injection (SCPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended
Engine Internals
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV) for 3.8L V6; Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves for 2.2L Ecotec
Bore X Stroke:
3.8L V6: 3.74 in x 3.40 in; 2.2L Ecotec: 3.51 in x 3.39 in
Not Applicable for 2004 model year. Only automatic was offered.
Features
Transmission Control:
Driver-selectable modes (e.g., 'D' for Drive, '3' for 3rd gear hold, '2' for 2nd gear hold)
Fluid Specifications
Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), though Dexron-III was common at the time of manufacture. Always check the owner's manual for the most accurate recommendation.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approximately 191.8 inches (4872 mm)
Width:
Approximately 69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Height:
Approximately 57.7 inches (1466 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 110.5 inches (2807 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
Approximately 102.6 cubic feet (2905 L)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approximately 15.7 cubic feet (445 L)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3250-3450 lbs (1474-1565 kg), depending on engine and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Side Impact:
5 Stars (for 2004 model year)
NHTSA Front Passenger Side Impact:
5 Stars (for 2004 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Occupant:
4 Stars (for 2004 model year)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Occupant:
4 Stars (for 2004 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for 2004 model year)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, with available side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point seat belts for rear occupants.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Features:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional cassette player, steering wheel audio controls (on some trims).
Display Type:
Basic LCD or LED display for radio and clock functions.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions may exist.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect and replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
2.2L Ecotec: Approximately 100,000 miles; 3.8L V6: Approximately 100,000 miles (depending on spark plug type specified).
Coolant Replacement:
Initial fill is typically long-life. Consult manual for specific interval, often around 100,000 miles for initial change.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SJ or SL)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.8L V6: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter; 2.2L Ecotec: 4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 10529049 (Orange), Dex-Cool Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant, or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM P/N 89021180 (Dexron-VI ATF) or equivalent
Known Issues
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear or failure of engine mounts, leading to increased vibration and noise.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets can cause coolant leaks and misfires, particularly on the 3.8L V6.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators, causing windows to become inoperable.
Wheel Bearings:
Premature wear of front wheel bearings, resulting in humming or grinding noises.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Parent Company:
General Motors (GM)
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third Generation Malibu (1997-2003) was replaced by the VEGA platform based generation in 2004. The 2004 Malibu represented a significant redesign with improved chassis and powertrain options.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
Production Years For Generation:
2004-2007
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The 2004 Malibu was not on Car and Driver's 10Best list, but its predecessors and successors have been recognized.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability varied by model year and specific components. Owners' experiences are often mixed, with some reporting excellent reliability and others facing common issues.
Wenn du dich für eine Auswahl entscheidest, wird die Seite komplett aktualisiert.