2012 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual
Year:
2012
Make:
Chevrolet
Model:
Malibu
Rating:
Table of Contents
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual BookTOC
1
Introduction
3
Canadian Vehicle Owners
3
Using this Manual
4
Danger, Warnings, and Cautions
4
Symbols
4
In Brief
7
Instrument Panel
8
Initial Drive Information
9
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
9
Remote Vehicle Start
10
Door Locks
11
Trunk Release
11
Windows
12
Seat Adjustment
12
Second Row Seats
15
Heated Seats
15
Head Restraint Adjustment
15
Safety Belts
16
Passenger Sensing System
16
Mirror Adjustment
17
Steering Wheel Adjustment
17
Interior Lighting
18
Exterior Lighting
18
Windshield Wiper/Washer
19
Climate Controls
20
Transmission
21
Vehicle Features
22
Radio(s)
22
Satellite Radio
23
Portable Audio Devices (Auxiliary Input or USB Port)
23
Bluetooth®
23
Steering Wheel Controls
24
Cruise Control
24
Driver Information Center (DIC)
25
Power Outlets
25
Performance and Maintenance
26
Traction Control System (TCS)
26
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
26
Tire Pressure Monitor
26
Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
27
Engine Oil Life System
27
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
27
Driving for Better Fuel Economy
27
Roadside Assistance Program
28
OnStar®
28
Keys, Doors, and Windows
29
Keys and Locks
30
Keys
30
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
30
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation
31
Remote Vehicle Start
33
Door Locks
35
Power Door Locks
35
Door Ajar Reminder
36
Delayed Locking
36
Automatic Door Locks
36
Lockout Protection
36
Safety Locks
36
Doors
37
Trunk
37
Vehicle Security
39
Anti-theft Alarm System
39
Immobilizer
40
Immobilizer Operation
40
Exterior Mirrors
41
Convex Mirrors
41
Power Mirrors
42
Heated Mirrors
42
Interior Mirrors
42
Manual Rearview Mirror
42
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
42
Windows
43
Power Windows
44
Sun Visors
45
Roof
46
Sunroof
46
Seats and Restraints
47
Head Restraints
48
Front Seats
49
Seat Adjustment
49
Power Seat Adjustment
50
Lumbar Adjustment
50
Reclining Seatbacks
50
Heated Front Seats
52
Rear Seats
53
Safety Belts
54
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
56
Lap-Shoulder Belt
57
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
61
Safety Belt Extender
62
Safety System Check
62
Safety Belt Care
62
Replacing Safety Belt System Parts after a Crash
62
Airbag System
63
Where Are the Airbags?
65
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 the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
74
Adding Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
74
Airbag System Check
75
Replacing Airbag System Parts after a Crash
75
Child Restraints
76
Older Children
76
Infants and Young Children
78
Child Restraint Systems
80
Where to Put the Restraint
82
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System)
84
Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash
91
Securing Child Restraints (Rear Seat)
91
Securing Child Restraints (Front Passenger Seat)
93
Storage
97
Storage Compartments
97
Instrument Panel Storage
97
Glove Box
97
Cupholders
97
Front Storage
98
Center Console Storage
99
Additional Storage Features
100
Convenience Net
100
Instruments and Controls
101
Controls
102
Steering Wheel Adjustment
102
Steering Wheel Controls
102
Horn
103
Windshield Wiper/Washer
103
Compass
104
Clock
105
Power Outlets
107
Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators
108
Instrument Cluster
109
Speedometer
110
Odometer
110
Trip Odometer
110
Tachometer
110
Fuel Gauge
110
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge
111
Safety Belt Reminders
112
Airbag Readiness Light
112
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
113
Charging System Light
114
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
114
Brake System Warning Light
117
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
117
Traction Off Light
118
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Off Light
118
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning Light
119
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light
119
Tire Pressure Light
120
Engine Oil Pressure Light
120
Security Light
121
High-Beam On Light
121
Cruise Control Light
121
Information Displays
122
Driver Information Center (DIC)
122
Vehicle Messages
125
Brake System Messages
125
Cruise Control Messages
125
Door Ajar Messages
125
Engine Oil Messages
125
Engine Power Messages
126
Fuel System Messages
126
Key and Lock Messages
126
Lamp Messages
126
Ride Control System Messages
126
Airbag System Messages
128
Service Vehicle Messages
128
Tire Messages
128
Vehicle Reminder Messages
129
Washer Fluid Messages
129
Vehicle Personalization
129
Lighting
135
Exterior Lighting
135
Exterior Lamp Controls
135
Exterior Lamps Off Reminder
136
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
136
Flash-to-Pass
136
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
136
Automatic Headlamp System
137
Delayed Headlamps
138
Hazard Warning Flashers
138
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
138
Fog Lamps
139
Interior Lighting
139
Instrument Panel Illumination Control
139
Dome Lamps
140
Reading Lamps
140
Lighting Features
140
Entry/Exit Lighting
140
Parade Dimming
140
Battery Load Management
140
Battery Power Protection
141
Infotainment System
143
Introduction
143
Infotainment
143
Theft-Deterrent Feature
144
Operation
144
Radio
148
AM-FM Radio
148
Satellite Radio
150
Radio Reception
154
Backglass Antenna
154
Satellite Radio Antenna
155
Audio Players
155
CD Player
155
Auxiliary Devices
160
Phone
165
Bluetooth
165
Climate Controls
173
Climate Control Systems
173
Automatic Climate Control System
177
Air Vents
181
Driving and Operating
183
Driving Information
184
Distracted Driving
184
Defensive Driving
184
Drunk Driving
185
Control of a Vehicle
185
Braking
185
Steering
185
Off-Road Recovery
187
Loss of Control
187
Driving on Wet Roads
188
Highway Hypnosis
189
Hill and Mountain Roads
189
Winter Driving
190
If the Vehicle Is Stuck
191
Vehicle Load Limits
192
Starting and Operating
196
New Vehicle Break-In
196
Ignition Positions
197
Starting the Engine
199
Engine Heater
200
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
200
Shifting Into Park
201
Shifting out of Park
202
Parking over Things That Burn
202
Engine Exhaust
203
Running the Vehicle While Parked
203
Automatic Transmission
204
Manual Mode
205
Brakes
207
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
207
Parking Brake
208
Brake Assist
208
Ride Control Systems
209
Traction Control System (TCS)
209
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
211
Cruise Control
213
Fuel
215
Recommended Fuel
216
Gasoline Specifications (U.S. and Canada Only)
216
California Fuel Requirements
216
Fuels in Foreign Countries
217
Fuel Additives
217
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
218
Filling the Tank
219
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
220
Towing
221
General Towing Information
221
Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips
221
Trailer Towing
224
Towing Equipment
226
Conversions and Add-Ons
227
Add-On Electrical Equipment
227
Vehicle Care
229
General Information
230
California Proposition 65 Warning
231
California Perchlorate Materials Requirements
231
Accessories and Modifications
231
Vehicle Checks
232
Doing Your Own Service Work
232
Hood
232
Engine Compartment Overview
233
Engine Oil
236
Engine Oil Life System
239
Automatic Transmission Fluid
240
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
240
Cooling System
241
Engine Coolant
242
Engine Overheating
245
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
246
Power Steering Fluid
247
Washer Fluid
247
Brakes
248
Brake Fluid
249
Battery
250
Starter Switch Check
251
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
251
Ignition Transmission Lock Check
252
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
252
Wiper Blade Replacement
252
Headlamp Aiming
253
Bulb Replacement
253
Halogen Bulbs
253
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps (LS and LT)
254
Taillamps, Turn Signal, and Stoplamps (LTZ)
255
Back-Up Lamps
256
License Plate Lamp
257
Replacement Bulbs
258
Electrical System
258
Electrical System Overload
258
Fuses
259
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
259
Instrument Panel Fuse Block
262
Rear Compartment Fuse Block
264
Wheels and Tires
266
Tires
266
Winter Tires
267
Low-Profile Tires
267
Tire Sidewall Labeling
267
Tire Designations
270
Tire Terminology and Definitions
270
Tire Pressure
273
Tire Pressure for High-Speed Operation
274
Tire Pressure Monitor System
275
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation
276
Tire Inspection
279
Tire Rotation
279
When It Is Time for New Tires
280
Buying New Tires
281
Different Size Tires and Wheels
283
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
283
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
285
Wheel Replacement
285
Tire Chains
286
If a Tire Goes Flat
286
Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
288
Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
294
Tire Changing
294
Compact Spare Tire
303
Jump Starting
304
Towing
307
Towing the Vehicle
307
Recreational Vehicle Towing
308
Appearance Care
310
Exterior Care
310
Interior Care
313
Floor Mats
315
Service and Maintenance
317
General Information
317
Maintenance Schedule
319
Special Application Services
324
Additional Maintenance and Care
324
Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
327
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
327
Maintenance Replacement Parts
328
Maintenance Records
329
Technical Data
333
Vehicle Identification
333
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
333
Service Parts Identification Label
333
Vehicle Data
334
Capacities and Specifications
334
Engine Drive Belt Routing
336
Customer Information
337
Customer Information
337
Customer Satisfaction Procedure (U.S. and Canada)
337
Customer Satisfaction Procedure (Mexico)
339
Customer Assistance Offices (U.S. and Canada)
340
Customer Assistance Offices (Mexico)
341
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users (U.S. and Canada)
342
Online Owner Center
342
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program (U.S. and Canada)
343
Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada)
343
Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico)
345
Scheduling Service Appointments (U.S. and Canada)
348
Courtesy Transportation Program (U.S. and Canada)
349
Collision Damage Repair (U.S. and Canada)
350
Service Publications Ordering Information
352
Reporting Safety Defects
353
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government
353
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government
354
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors
354
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
355
Vehicle Data Recording
355
OnStar®
356
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)
356
Radio Frequency Statement
356
OnStar
357
OnStar Overview
357
OnStar Services
358
Emergency
358
Security
358
Navigation
358
Connections
359
Diagnostics
361
OnStar Additional Information
361
Index
365
Index_A
365
Index_B
366
Index_C
366
Index_D
367
Index_E
368
Index_F
368
Index_G
369
Index_H
369
Index_I
370
Index_J
370
Index_K
370
Index_L
370
Index_M
371
Index_N
372
Index_O
372
Index_P
372
Index_R
373
Index_S
374
Index_T
375
Index_U
376
Index_V
376
Index_W
376
2012 Chevrolet Malibu Overview
Introduction
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu strikes a perfect balance between stylish design, comfortable features, and efficient performance, making it a popular choice among midsize sedans. With a sleek exterior and a responsive driving experience, the Malibu invites drivers to enjoy every journey, whether it's commuting to work or embarking on a weekend getaway. This model year reinforces Chevy's commitment to quality and innovation, showcasing a blend of versatility and modern technology.
Powertrains
The 2012 Malibu is offered with two distinct engines, providing varied performance options to suit different driving preferences. The base model features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 169 horsepower, known for its commendable fuel efficiency. For those seeking a bit more power, the 3.6-liter V6 engine is available, delivering 252 horsepower for spirited acceleration without compromising on comfort. Both engines are paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, enhancing driving dynamics while ensuring a satisfying ride.
Trims
Features
Inside, the Malibu prioritizes passenger comfort with spacious seating and a thoughtfully designed cabin. Standard features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and available satellite radio. Higher trims enrich the driving experience with additional luxuries, such as a premium sound system, navigation, and heated seats, ensuring every ride is enjoyable.
Owners Manual
The 2012 Chevrolet Malibu comes with an informative owner's manual that provides valuable insights into vehicle maintenance, performance optimization, and safety features. This manual serves as a helpful guide for owners, ensuring they fully understand all aspects of their vehicle and get the most out of their driving experience.
User manual download
The Chevrolet Malibu owner manual for the 2012 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2012 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
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