🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Chevrolet Model: Malibu Year: 2002 Product Name: 2002 CHEVY/Chevrolet Malibu Owners Manual 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Mid-size sedan. Target Audience: Families and individuals seeking a comfortable and practical daily driver. Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, Dodge Intrepid. Key Features Platform: Built on the GM W-body platform, shared with other GM sedans like the Pontiac Grand Prix and Buick Regal. Styling: Known for a relatively conservative but appealing design for its era. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety, and features specific to the 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. Secondary Coverage: Basic troubleshooting, warning lights, driver controls, comfort and convenience features, basic maintenance procedures. Page Count Estimated Pages: Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for a 2002 model year owner's manual). Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed booklet 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Covers basic operation and maintenance related to the engine and transmission, but not in-depth repair diagnostics. Chassis: Details on brakes, steering, suspension components related to driver understanding and basic checks. Electrical: Information on dashboard indicators, lighting systems, fuses, and basic electrical features. Comfort Convenience: Covers climate control, audio systems, power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), seating adjustments, and interior features. Safety Security: Details on airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (LATCH/ISOFIX), anti-theft systems, and vehicle locking. Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Instructions for checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure, wiper blade replacement, and bulb replacement. Troubleshooting Basic: Guidance on interpreting warning lights and indicators, and initial steps for minor issues. Operation Controls: Explanation of all vehicle controls, switches, gauges, and how to operate various features. Technical Depth Depth: Designed for the vehicle owner. Provides operational knowledge and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a service manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format Options: While the original is printed, digital versions (PDF) are often available for download or purchase, offering searchable text and printability. Print Quality Original Print Quality: Typically standard automotive manual print quality with clear text and illustrations. Binding Type Original Binding: Stapled or perfect bound paperback booklet. Paper Type Original Paper Type: Standard paper, durable enough for glove box use. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Option 1: 2.4L L4 (LD9) 'Twin Cam' Engine Option 1 Hp: 150 hp @ 5600 rpm Engine Option 1 Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Engine Option 2: 3.1L V6 (LG8) '3100 SFI' Engine Option 2 Hp: 175 hp @ 5200 rpm Engine Option 2 Torque: 185 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI). Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane recommended. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Option 1: 4-speed automatic (4T65-E). Optional Transmission Option 2: 5-speed manual (MH7) available on some L4 models, though rare. Features Transmission Features: Driver-Shift Control (tap-up/tap-down shifting) was an option on the automatic transmission. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 191.4 inches. Width: Approx. 70.4 inches. Height: Approx. 56.2 inches. Wheelbase: Approx. 107.0 inches. Cargo Trunk Volume: Approx. 15.1 cubic feet. Weights Curb Weight L4: Approx. 3200-3300 lbs. Curb Weight V6: Approx. 3300-3450 lbs. 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Front Impact: 4/5 stars (2002 model year) NHTSA Passenger Front Impact: 4/5 stars (2002 model year) Active Features ABS: Standard on most trims. Traction Control: Optional on some models. Passive Features Airbags: Front driver and passenger airbags standard. Optional side-impact airbags available. Seat Belts: Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pretensioners. Child Restraints: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player. Higher trims may feature premium sound systems. Display: Basic analog gauges and digital odometer. No central infotainment screen. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most trims. Anti Lock Brakes: Standard or optional ABS depending on trim level. Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Not standard. Aftermarket solutions required for auxiliary audio input. Bluetooth: Not available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic or synthetic blend oil. Consult manual for specific recommendation. Tire Rotation Interval: Every 5,000-7,500 miles. Coolant Flush Interval: Initial flush at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles (using Dex-Cool or equivalent). Spark Plug Replacement: Around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs (check specific engine). Original likely used platinum. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30. Check manual for Dexos compatibility or older specs. API certified. Coolant Type: GM's recommended orange silicate-free coolant (Dex-Cool or equivalent). Transmission Fluid: Dexron III or Dexron VI (check manual for specific transmission fluid type). Brake Fluid: DOT 3. Known Issues Common Issue 1: Transmission solenoids and torque converter issues, especially on higher mileage V6 models. Common Issue 2: Headliner sagging due to...