2008 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual

2008 Chevrolet Malibu owners manual
Year:
2008
Make:
Chevrolet
Model:
Malibu
Rating:
(8)

Online manual

Size:
2.26 MB

Table of Contents

2008 Chevrolet Malibu BookTOC\r
1
Seats and Restraint Systems
5
Front Seats
6
Manual Seats
6
Power Seats
7
Manual Lumbar
7
Heated Seats
8
Reclining Seatbacks
8
Head Restraints
11
Power Lift Seat
12
Rear Seats
13
Split Folding Rear Seat
13
Safety Belts
15
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone
15
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
20
Lap-Shoulder Belt
29
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
34
Safety Belt Extender
34
Child Restraints
35
Older Children
35
Infants and Young Children
38
Child Restraint Systems
41
Where to Put the Restraint
44
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
46
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position
54
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
56
Airbag System
60
Where Are the Airbags?
62
When Should an Airbag Inflate?
65
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?
67
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
67
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?
68
Passenger Sensing System
69
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
74
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
74
Restraint System Check
76
Checking the Restraint Systems
76
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
77
Features and Controls
79
Keys
81
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
82
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation
83
Remote Vehicle Start
85
Doors and Locks
88
Door Locks
88
Power Door Locks
89
Door Ajar Reminder
89
Delayed Locking
89
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
89
Rear Door Security Locks
90
Lockout Protection
90
Trunk
91
Windows
93
Power Windows
94
Sun Visors
96
Theft-Deterrent Systems
96
Content Theft-Deterrent
96
Electronic Immobilizer
98
Electronic Immobilizer Operation
98
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
100
New Vehicle Break-In
100
Ignition Positions
100
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
102
Starting the Engine
102
Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal
104
Engine Coolant Heater
105
Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Transmission)
106
Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Transmission)
108
Parking Brake
112
Shifting Into Park
113
Shifting Out of Park
115
Parking Over Things That Burn
115
Engine Exhaust
115
Running the Vehicle While Parked
116
Mirrors
117
Manual Rearview Mirror
117
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with OnStar® and Compass
117
Outside Power Mirrors
119
Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror
120
OnStar® System
120
Universal Home Remote System
123
Universal Home Remote System Operation (With Three Round LED)
124
Storage Areas
130
Glove Box
130
Cupholders
130
Instrument Panel Storage
130
Front Storage Area
130
Center Console Storage
130
Driver Storage Compartment
131
Convenience Net
131
Sunroof
131
Instrument Panel
133
Instrument Panel Overview
136
Hazard Warning Flashers
138
Other Warning Devices
138
Horn
138
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
139
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
139
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
140
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
140
Flash-to-Pass
140
Windshield Wipers
141
Windshield Washer
142
Cruise Control
142
Headlamps
145
Headlamps on Reminder
146
Headlamps Off in Park
146
Delayed Headlamps
146
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
146
Automatic Headlamp System
147
Fog Lamps
148
Instrument Panel Brightness
148
Dome Lamp
149
Entry/Exit Lighting
149
Parade Dimming
149
Front Reading Lamps
149
Overhead Console Reading Lamps
149
Rear Reading Lamps
150
Trunk Lamp
150
Battery Run-Down Protection
150
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
151
Power Outlet 115 Volt Alternating Current
152
Climate Controls
153
Climate Control System
153
Automatic Climate Control System
156
Outlet Adjustment
161
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
162
Instrument Panel Cluster
163
Speedometer and Odometer
164
Trip Odometer
164
Tachometer
164
Safety Belt Reminders
165
Airbag Readiness Light
166
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
167
Charging System Light
169
Brake System Warning Light
169
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
170
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning Light
171
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
172
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
172
Tire Pressure Light
173
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
173
Oil Pressure Light
176
Security Light
176
Cruise Control Light
176
Highbeam On Light
177
Fuel Gage
177
Driver Information Center (DIC)
178
DIC Operation and Displays
178
DIC Warnings and Messages
180
DIC Vehicle Personalization
185
Audio System(s)
191
Setting the Clock
192
Radio(s)
194
Using an MP3
205
XM Radio Messages
210
Theft-Deterrent Feature
211
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
211
Radio Reception
212
Backglass Antenna
213
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System
213
Driving Your Vehicle
215
Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle
216
Defensive Driving
216
Drunk Driving
216
Control of a Vehicle
217
Braking
218
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
219
Braking in Emergencies
219
Traction Control System (TCS)
220
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
222
Panic Brake Assist
224
Steering
224
Off-Road Recovery
227
Passing
227
Loss of Control
227
Driving at Night
229
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
229
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
230
Highway Hypnosis
230
Hill and Mountain Roads
231
Winter Driving
232
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow
234
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
235
Loading the Vehicle
235
Towing
240
Towing Your Vehicle
240
Recreational Vehicle Towing
240
Towing a Trailer
244
Service and Appearance Care
251
Service
253
Accessories and Modifications
253
California Proposition 65 Warning
254
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements
254
Doing Your Own Service Work
254
Adding Equipment to the Outside of the Vehicle
255
Fuel
255
Gasoline Octane
256
Gasoline Specifications
256
California Fuel
256
Additives
257
Fuels in Foreign Countries
258
Filling the Tank
258
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
261
Checking Things Under the Hood
262
Hood Release
262
Engine Compartment Overview
264
Engine Oil
269
Engine Oil Life System
272
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
274
Automatic Transmission Fluid
276
Engine Coolant
276
Pressure Cap
279
Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
279
Engine Overheating
279
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
281
Cooling System
282
Power Steering Fluid
286
Windshield Washer Fluid
288
Brakes
289
Battery
292
Jump Starting
293
Headlamp Aiming
298
Bulb Replacement
298
Halogen Bulbs
298
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps
299
License Plate Lamp
300
Replacement Bulbs
301
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
301
Tires
302
Winter Tires
303
Tire Sidewall Labeling
304
Tire Terminology and Definitions
307
Inflation - Tire Pressure
310
High-Speed Operation
312
Tire Pressure Monitor System
312
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
314
Tire Inspection and Rotation
317
When It Is Time for New Tires
319
Buying New Tires
320
Different Size Tires and Wheels
322
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
322
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
324
Wheel Replacement
324
Tire Chains
326
If a Tire Goes Flat
327
Changing a Flat Tire
328
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
329
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
331
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools
337
Compact Spare Tire
338
Appearance Care
339
Interior Cleaning
339
Fabric/Carpet
340
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces
341
Care of Safety Belts
342
Weatherstrips
342
Washing Your Vehicle
342
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
343
Finish Care
343
Windshield and Wiper Blades
344
Aluminum Wheels
344
Tires
345
Sheet Metal Damage
345
Finish Damage
345
Underbody Maintenance
346
Chemical Paint Spotting
346
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
346
Vehicle Identification
347
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
347
Service Parts Identification Label
348
Electrical System
348
Add-On Electrical Equipment
348
Windshield Wiper Fuses
348
Power Windows and Other Power Options
348
Fuses
349
Instrument Panel Fuse Block
349
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
352
Rear Compartment Fuse Block
355
Capacities and Specifications
358
Maintenance Schedule
361
Maintenance Schedule
362
Introduction
362
Maintenance Requirements
362
Your Vehicle and the Environment
362
Using the Maintenance Schedule
363
Scheduled Maintenance
364
Additional Required Services
366
Maintenance Footnotes
367
Owner Checks and Services
368
At Each Fuel Fill
368
At Least Once a Month
369
At Least Once a Year
369
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
372
Maintenance Replacement Parts
373
Engine Drive Belt Routing
374
Maintenance Record
376
Customer Assistance Information
379
Customer Assistance and Information
380
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
380
Online Owner Center
383
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
384
Customer Assistance Offices
384
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program
385
Roadside Assistance Program
385
Scheduling Service Appointments
388
Courtesy Transportation
388
Collision Damage Repair
390
Reporting Safety Defects
393
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
393
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
393
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
394
Service Publications Ordering Information
394
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
396
Event Data Recorders
396
OnStar®
397
Navigation System
397
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
397
Index
399

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Overview

Introduction

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan that blends comfort, style, and performance, making it a noteworthy contender in its class. With its sleek and modern design, the Malibu stands out on the road, appealing to families and individuals alike. Its spacious interior and advanced features provide a driving experience that prioritizes both relaxation and functionality, making it a popular choice among car buyers in the late 2000s.

Powertrains

The 2008 Malibu is equipped with a choice of two robust powertrains. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers a respectable 169 horsepower and 161 lb-ft of torque, providing efficient performance for daily driving. For those seeking a bit more excitement, the available 3.6-liter V6 engine ups the ante with 252 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a spirited ride enhanced by a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. Both powertrains are designed for fuel efficiency, making the Malibu a practical option for both city and highway driving.

Trims

The 2008 Malibu comes in several trims, including the LS, LT, and LTZ versions. The base LS trim features essential amenities such as air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD player. Stepping up to the LT trim adds more comfort with features like a power-adjustable driver's seat and premium audio. The top-of-the-line LTZ trim includes leather upholstery, a sunroof, and advanced infotainment options, offering a luxurious touch for those who desire it.

Features

This model is equipped with an array of safety and convenience features. Standard safety offerings include front airbags, side curtain airbags, and stability control, ensuring peace of mind while on the road. Additionally, many trims come with options for Bluetooth connectivity, remote start, and an improved audio system, catering to the modern driver's needs.

Owners Manual

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu owner's manual provides comprehensive information to help owners maximize the utility of their vehicle. It covers everything from basic operation to maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and safety guidelines. This resource is invaluable for understanding the functions of the various features and ensuring the longevity and reliability of the Malibu.

User manual download

The Chevrolet Malibu owner manual for the 2008 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2008 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.

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A passionate guy about car models, makes, and manuals.

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