2009 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual

2009 Chevrolet Malibu owners manual
Year:
2009
Make:
Chevrolet
Model:
Malibu
Rating:
(9)

Online manual

Size:
2.29 MB

Table of Contents

2009 Chevrolet Malibu BookTOC
1
Seats and Restraint System
5
Head Restraints
6
Front Seats
7
Manual Seats
7
Power Seats
8
Manual Lumbar
8
Heated Seats
9
Reclining Seatbacks
10
Seatback Latches
12
Power Lift Seat
13
Rear Seats
14
Split Folding Rear Seat
14
Safety Belts
16
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone
16
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
21
Lap-Shoulder Belt
30
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
35
Safety Belt Extender
36
Child Restraints
36
Older Children
36
Infants and Young Children
39
Child Restraint Systems
43
Where to Put the Restraint
46
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
48
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position
56
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
58
Airbag System
62
Where Are the Airbags?
64
When Should an Airbag Inflate?
67
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?
68
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
68
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?
68
Passenger Sensing System
70
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
75
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
76
Restraint System Check
77
Checking the Restraint Systems
77
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
78
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
88
Door Ajar Reminder
89
Delayed Locking
89
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
89
Rear Door Security Locks
90
Lockout Protection
90
Trunk
90
Windows
93
Power Windows
94
Sun Visors
95
Theft-Deterrent Systems
96
Content Theft-Deterrent
96
Electronic Immobilizer
97
Electronic Immobilizer Operation
98
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
99
New Vehicle Break-In
99
Ignition Positions
100
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
101
Starting the Engine
102
Engine Coolant Heater
103
Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Transmission)
104
Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Transmission)
106
Parking Brake
110
Shifting Into Park
111
Shifting Out of Park
112
Parking Over Things That Burn
112
Engine Exhaust
113
Running the Vehicle While Parked
114
Mirrors
115
Manual Rearview Mirror
115
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
115
Compass
116
Outside Power Mirrors
117
Outside Automatic Dimming Mirror
117
Outside Heated Mirrors
118
OnStar® System
118
Universal Home Remote System
121
Universal Home Remote System Operation (With Three Round LED)
122
Storage Areas
128
Glove Box
128
Cupholders
128
Instrument Panel Storage
128
Front Storage Area
128
Center Console Storage
128
Driver Storage Compartment
129
Convenience Net
129
Sunroof
129
Instrument Panel
131
Instrument Panel Overview
134
Hazard Warning Flashers
136
Horn
136
Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel
136
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
137
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
137
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
138
Flash-to-Pass
138
Windshield Wipers
138
Windshield Washer
139
Cruise Control
140
Headlamps
143
Headlamps on Reminder
144
Headlamps Off in Park
144
Delayed Headlamps
144
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
144
Automatic Headlamp System
145
Fog Lamps
145
Instrument Panel Brightness
146
Dome Lamps
146
Entry/Exit Lighting
146
Parade Dimming
146
Reading Lamps
146
Electric Power Management
147
Battery Run-Down Protection
148
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
148
Power Outlet 115 Volt Alternating Current
149
Climate Controls
150
Climate Control System
150
Automatic Climate Control System
154
Outlet Adjustment
157
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
158
Instrument Panel Cluster
159
Speedometer and Odometer
160
Trip Odometer
160
Tachometer
160
Safety Belt Reminders
160
Airbag Readiness Light
161
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
162
Charging System Light
163
Brake System Warning Light
164
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
165
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning Light
165
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
166
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
167
Tire Pressure Light
167
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
168
Oil Pressure Light
171
Security Light
171
Cruise Control Light
172
Highbeam On Light
172
Fuel Gage
172
Driver Information Center (DIC)
173
DIC Operation and Displays
174
DIC Warnings and Messages
176
DIC Vehicle Personalization
180
Audio System(s)
186
Setting the Clock
187
Radio(s)
189
Using an MP3
201
XM Radio Messages
207
Bluetooth®
208
Theft-Deterrent Feature
219
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
219
Radio Reception
221
Backglass Antenna
222
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System
222
Chime Level Adjustment
222
Driving Your Vehicle
223
Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle
224
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
224
Defensive Driving
224
Drunk Driving
225
Control of a Vehicle
226
Braking
226
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
227
Braking in Emergencies
228
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
228
Traction Control System (TCS)
230
Steering
232
Off-Road Recovery
233
Passing
234
Loss of Control
234
Driving at Night
235
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
236
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
237
Highway Hypnosis
237
Hill and Mountain Roads
238
Winter Driving
239
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow
241
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
242
Loading the Vehicle
242
Towing
248
Towing Your Vehicle
248
Recreational Vehicle Towing
248
Towing a Trailer
251
Service and Appearance Care
259
Service
261
Accessories and Modifications
261
California Proposition 65 Warning
262
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements
262
Doing Your Own Service Work
262
Adding Equipment to the Outside of the Vehicle
263
Fuel
263
Gasoline Octane
264
Gasoline Specifications
264
California Fuel
264
Additives
265
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
266
Fuels in Foreign Countries
268
Filling the Tank
268
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
271
Checking Things Under the Hood
272
Hood Release
272
Engine Compartment Overview
274
Engine Oil
279
Engine Oil Life System
282
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
284
Automatic Transmission Fluid
286
Cooling System
286
Engine Coolant
287
Pressure Cap
291
Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
291
Engine Overheating
292
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
294
Power Steering Fluid
294
Windshield Washer Fluid
296
Brakes
297
Battery
300
Jump Starting
301
Headlamp Aiming
305
Bulb Replacement
305
Halogen Bulbs
305
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps
306
License Plate Lamp
307
Replacement Bulbs
308
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
308
Tires
309
Winter Tires
310
Tire Sidewall Labeling
311
Tire Terminology and Definitions
314
Inflation - Tire Pressure
317
High-Speed Operation
318
Tire Pressure Monitor System
319
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
320
Tire Inspection and Rotation
324
When It Is Time for New Tires
325
Buying New Tires
326
Different Size Tires and Wheels
328
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
328
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
330
Wheel Replacement
330
Tire Chains
332
If a Tire Goes Flat
333
Changing a Flat Tire
334
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
335
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
337
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools
343
Compact Spare Tire
347
Appearance Care
348
Interior Cleaning
348
Fabric/Carpet
349
Leather
350
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces
350
Care of Safety Belts
351
Weatherstrips
351
Washing Your Vehicle
351
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
352
Finish Care
352
Windshield and Wiper Blades
353
Aluminum Wheels
353
Tires
354
Sheet Metal Damage
354
Finish Damage
354
Underbody Maintenance
355
Chemical Paint Spotting
355
Vehicle Identification
355
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
355
Service Parts Identification Label
356
Electrical System
356
Add-On Electrical Equipment
356
Windshield Wiper Fuses
356
Power Windows and Other Power Options
356
Fuses
357
Instrument Panel Fuse Block
357
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
360
Rear Compartment Fuse Block
363
Capacities and Specifications
366
Maintenance Schedule
369
Maintenance Schedule
370
Introduction
370
Maintenance Requirements
370
Your Vehicle and the Environment
370
Using the Maintenance Schedule
370
Scheduled Maintenance
372
Additional Required Services
374
Maintenance Footnotes
375
Owner Checks and Services
376
At Each Fuel Fill
376
At Least Once a Month
377
At Least Once a Year
377
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
380
Maintenance Replacement Parts
381
Engine Drive Belt Routing
382
Maintenance Record
384
Customer Assistance Information
387
Customer Assistance and Information
388
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
388
Online Owner Center
391
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
392
Customer Assistance Offices
392
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program
393
Roadside Assistance Program
393
Scheduling Service Appointments
396
Courtesy Transportation
396
Collision Damage Repair
398
Reporting Safety Defects
401
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
401
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
402
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
402
Service Publications Ordering Information
402
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
403
Event Data Recorders
404
OnStar®
405
Navigation System
405
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
405
Index
407

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Overview

Introduction

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu emerges as a stylish and dependable mid-size sedan, marrying sophisticated design with advanced technology. This model year showcases a refined exterior with a bold front grille, sculpted lines, and an eye-catching profile that exudes confidence on the road. With its emphasis on comfort and practicality, the Malibu aims to serve as a perfect daily driver for families and individuals alike.

Powertrains

Under the hood, the 2009 Malibu offers a choice of two efficient powertrains to cater to a variety of driving preferences. The base engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, producing 169 horsepower, which provides adequate power while maintaining good fuel economy. For those seeking a more robust driving experience, a 3.6-liter V6 engine is also available, delivering an impressive 252 horsepower, allowing for spirited performance. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Trims

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is offered in four distinct trims: LS, LT, LTZ, and the eco-conscious Hybrid. Each trim builds upon the last, with the LTZ offering luxury features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. The Malibu Hybrid focuses on fuel efficiency, providing an eco-friendly option without sacrificing comfort or technology.

Features

Inside, the Malibu is designed with driver comfort and convenience in mind. Standard features include an intuitive central console, available Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Higher trims boast additional luxuries like a navigation system, premium sound options, and upscale interior finishes, ensuring every ride feels special.

Owner's Manual

The 2009 Chevrolet Malibu owner's manual provides comprehensive information on vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, and safety features. This essential guide assists owners in maximizing their driving experience and maintaining the vehicle’s performance and reliability throughout its life.

User manual download

The Chevrolet Malibu owner manual for the 2009 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2009 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.

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