Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, coil springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings, alignment procedures.
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, electronic power steering (EPS) components and diagnosis.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), brake fluid specifications, replacement, bleeding, and component repair.
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, horns, wipers, washers, power windows, power locks, interior/exterior lighting, fuse box diagrams, wiring schematics.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core), climate control modules.
87 Octane (91 Octane for 3.6L recommended for optimal performance)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission:
6-speed automatic (6T40/6T45)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
6-speed manual (MH9) - available on certain 2.4L models
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with manual shift mode (Driver Shift Control).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron VI (GM Specification)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
190.2 inches (4831 mm)
Width:
72.3 inches (1836 mm)
Height:
59.1 inches (1501 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.1 inches (2720 mm)
Interior
Passenger Volume:
101.9 cu ft (2885 L)
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
13.4 cu ft (379 L)
Weights
Curb Weight Base:
3439 lbs (1560 kg)
Curb Weight Optional:
3600 lbs (1633 kg)
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 115 mm
Standard Tire Size:
P225/60R17
Optional Tire Size:
P235/50R18, P245/45R19
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for 2012 model year, where applicable)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2012 model year, depending on specific features and testing)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel anti-lock braking system)
Traction Control:
Standard (Electronic Traction Control System - TCSA)
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (StabiliTrak with ABS and Traction Control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side-impact airbags (front and rear outboard), curtain airbags (front and rear).
Seatbelts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Chevrolet MyLink system (available, depending on trim level).
Display Size:
7-inch diagonal color touch-screen display (MyLink).
Audio Options:
AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, auxiliary audio input jack, USB port, Bluetooth streaming audio.
Driver Assistance
Rear Vision Camera:
Available (integrated into infotainment display).
Parking Assist:
Available rear park assist sensors.
Connectivity
Bluetooth Connectivity:
Standard or available for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Ports:
Available for device charging and media playback.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil (or refer to oil life monitoring system).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 45,000 miles (72,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement 2.4L:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs (ACDelco Professional Iridium).
Spark Plug Replacement 3.6L:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) with iridium-tipped spark plugs (ACDelco Professional Iridium).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or under severe driving conditions; inspect periodically. DEXRON-VI fluid only.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM dexos1™ or equivalent)
Engine Coolant Spec:
GM Super Coolant (Blue) - P/N 10-9100 or P/N 88987989 (or equivalent orange silicate-free)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Known Issues
Common Issue 1:
Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket, especially on higher mileage vehicles.
Common Issue 2:
Transmission harsh shifting or delayed engagement, potentially related to valve body issues or fluid degradation.
Common Issue 3:
Premature wear of suspension components such as control arm bushings and struts.
Common Issue 4:
Water pump leaks on 3.6L V6 engine.
Common Issue 5:
Power steering assist issues or noise, potentially related to the electric power steering pump or rack.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Chevrolet History:
Founded in 1911, Chevrolet is one of the oldest and most recognized automotive brands globally, known for a wide range of vehicles from economy cars to performance trucks.
Model Evolution
Malibu Lineage:
The Malibu nameplate dates back to the 1960s, initially as a Chevrolet Chevelle model. It was reintroduced as a standalone model in 1997 and has evolved through several generations.
Eighth Generation Introduction:
The eighth generation Malibu debuted in 2008 for the 2008 model year and received a significant refresh for 2012, marking the transition to a global platform.
Production
Production Locations:
Kansas City, Kansas, USA; Fairfax, Kansas, USA; and distributed globally.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Recognition:
Earned 'Top Safety Pick' designation from the IIHS for models equipped with specific safety features.
Consumers Digest Best Buy:
Named a 'Best Buy' in its class by Consumers Digest magazine for its value and features.