Chevrolet Malibu 2011 User Manual

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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M
In Brief . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . 1-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . .1-4
Performance and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Keys, Doors and Windows . . . 2-1
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-2
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9
Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-11
Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . ... .2-14
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15
Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18
Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Front Seats . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . 3-3
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9
Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..3-25
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1
Additional Storage Features . . . 4-3
Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Information Displays . . . . . . . .. . 5-22
Vehicle Messages.. . . . . . . . . . . 5-25
Vehicle Personalization.. . . . . . 5-30
Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Interior Lighting . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . 6-5
Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Radio . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ..7-7
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15
Phone . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 7-25
Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Air Vents.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9
Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1
Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-16
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Automatic Transmission . . . . . .9-24
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-27
Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . .9-29
Cruise Control . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 9-32
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-41
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-47
Vehicle Care . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 10-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Vehicle Checks.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-29
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-35
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-42
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-84
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-88
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . .10-90
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2011 Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual M
Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Scheduled Maintenance . . . . . . 11-2
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . . 11-6
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . . 11-8
Technical Data . . . . . . ......... 12-1
Vehicle Identification.. . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-16
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-17
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011

Introduction iii

The names, logos, emblems, slogans, vehicle model names, and vehicle body designs appearing in this manual including, but not limited to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, MALIBU, and the MALIBU Emblem are trademarks and/or service marks of General Motors LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates, or licensors.
Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 20786885 B Second Printing
This manual describes features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle either because they are options that you did not purchase or due to changes subsequent to the printing of this owner manual. Please refer to the purchase documentation relating to your specific vehicle to confirm each of the features found on your vehicle. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name General Motors of Canada Limitedfor Chevrolet Motor Division wherever it appears in this manual.
Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.
©
2010 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Canadian Vehicle Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens
A French language copy of this manual can be obtained from your dealer or from:
On peut obtenir un exemplaire de ce guide en français auprès du concessionnaire ou à l'adresse suivante:
Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207
1-800-551-4123 Numéro de poste 6438 de langue française www.helminc.com
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
iv Introduction

Using this Manual

To quickly locate information about the vehicle, use the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found.

Danger, Warnings, and Cautions

Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or reduce them.
Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk which will result in serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a hazard that could result in injury or death.
WARNING
{
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
Notice: This means there is something that could result in property or vehicle damage. This would not be covered by the vehicle's warranty.
A circle with a slash through it is a safety symbol which means Do Not,” “Do not do this,or Do not let this happen.

Symbols

The vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gauge, or indicator.
M : This symbol is shown when
you need to see your owner manual for additional instructions or information.
* : This symbol is shown when
you need to see a service manual for additional instructions or information.
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Introduction v
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbols that may be found on the vehicle and what they mean. For more information on the symbol, refer to the Index.
9 : Airbag Readiness Light # : Air Conditioning ! : Antilock Brake System (ABS) % : Audio Steering Wheel Controls
or OnStar
®
$ : Brake System Warning Light " : Charging System
I : Cruise Control
B : Engine Coolant Temperature
O : Exterior Lamps
# : Fog Lamps
. : Fuel Gauge
+ : Fuses
3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer
j : LATCH System Child
Restraints
* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp : : Oil Pressure
} : Power
/ : Remote Vehicle Start
> : Safety Belt Reminders
7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
d : Traction Control
M : Windshield Washer Fluid
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vi Introduction
2 NOTES
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In Brief 1-1

In Brief

Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-4
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-5
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Second Row Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Heated Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-8
Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . 1-9
Safety Belts . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Sensing System for Passenger
Airbag . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Steering Wheel
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Windshield Wiper/Washer .... 1-12
Climate Controls . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-13
Vehicle Features
Radio(s) . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Portable Audio Devices
(Auxiliary Input or
USB Port) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Bluetooth
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . 1-18
®
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-18
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Performance and Maintenance
Traction Control
System (TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Electronic Stability
Control (ESC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . 1-20
Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-21
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 1-21
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . 1-21
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . 1-22
®
OnStar
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23
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1-2 In Brief

Instrument Panel

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In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 89.
B. Turn and LaneChange Lever.
See Turn and Lane-Change Signals on page 64.
C. Instrument Cluster on page 59.
D. Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 53.
E. Instrument Panel Storage on
page 41.
F. Infotainment on page 71.
G. Instrument Panel Illumination
Control on page 65.
H. Driver Compartment Storage.
See Front Storage on page 42.
I. Hood Release. See Hood on
page 105.
J. Cruise Control on page 932.
Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 522.
K. Data Link Connector (DLC) (Out
of View). See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 515.
L. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
page 52.
M. Horn on page 53.
N. Steering Wheel Controls on
page 52 (If Equipped).
O. Ignition Positions on page 916.
P. Climate Control Systems on
page 81 (If Equipped).
Automatic Climate Control System on page 85 (If
Equipped) .
Q. Hazard Warning Flashers on
page 64.
R. Shift Lever. See Automatic
Transmission on page 924.
S. Front Storage on page 42.
Power Outlets on page 57.
T. Passenger Sensing System on
page 332.
U. Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 929.
V. Glove Box on page 41.
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1-4 In Brief

Initial Drive Information

This section provides a brief overview about some of the important features that may or may not be on your specific vehicle.
For more detailed information, refer to each of the features which can be found later in this owner manual.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

The RKE transmitter is used to remotely lock and unlock the doors from up to 60 m (195 ft) away from the vehicle.
Press K to unlock the driver door. Press again within five seconds to unlock all remaining doors.
Q to lock all doors.
Press
Lock and unlock feedback can be personalized. See Vehicle Personalization on page 530 for additional information.
Press and hold approximately one second to open the trunk.
Press
L and release to locate the
vehicle.
V for
L and hold for more than
Press two seconds to sound the panic alarm.
L again to cancel the panic
Press alarm.
See Keys on page 22 and Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 23.

Remote Vehicle Start

With this feature the engine can be started from outside of the vehicle.
Starting the Vehicle
1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press
3. Immediately after completing
Q.
Step 2, press and hold the turn signal lamps flash.
/ until
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In Brief 1-5
When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running. The doors will be locked and the climate control system may come on.
The engine will continue to run for 10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a 10-minute time extension. Remote start can be extended only once.
Canceling a Remote Start
To cancel a remote start:
.
Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press and hold
until the parking lamps turn off.
.
Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
.
Turn the ignition on and then back off.
See Remote Vehicle Start on page 25.
/

Door Locks

Manual Locks
From inside the vehicle slide the door lock knob to unlock or lock a door.
Power Door Locks
On vehicles with power door locks, the switches are on the front doors.
" : Press to unlock the doors. Q : Press to lock the doors.
For more information, see:
.
Door Locks on page 27.
.
Power Door Locks on page 27.

Trunk Release

In addition to the trunk release button on the RKE transmitter, there
is a remote release located on the driver door near the map pocket.
The trunk can only be opened when the vehicle is in P (Park), or when the ignition is off.
V button
See Trunk on page 29.

Windows

On vehicles with power windows, the switches are on the driver door armrest. Each passenger door has a switch that controls only that window.
Press the front of the switch to open the window. Pull the switch up to close it.
See Power Windows on page 216.
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1-6 In Brief

Seat Adjustment

Manual Seats
Seat Position
To adjust the seat position:
1. Lift the bar under the front of the seat cushion to unlock the seat.
2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release the bar.
3. Try to move the seat back and forth to make sure it is locked in place.
Height Adjustment
If available, press and hold the top or bottom of the switch to raise or lower the seat. Release the switch when the desired height is reached.
See Seat Adjustment on page 33.
Seatback Adjustment
To recline the seatback:
1. Lift the lever.
2. Move the seatback to the desired position, and then release the lever to lock the seatback in place.
3. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
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In Brief 1-7
To return the seatback to the upright position:
1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback, and the seatback will return to the upright position.
2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
See Manual Reclining Seatbacks under Reclining Seatbacks on page 35.
Power Seats
Seat Position
To adjust a power seat, if available:
.
Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the control forward or rearward.
.
Raise or lower the front or rear part of the seat cushion by moving the front or rear of the horizontal control up or down.
.
Raise or lower the entire seat by moving the entire control up or down.
See Power Seat Adjustment on page 34.
Seatback Adjustment
To adjust a power seatback, if equipped:
.
Tilt the top of the control rearward to recline.
.
Tilt the top of the control forward to raise.
See Power Reclining Seatbacks under Reclining Seatbacks on page 35.
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1-8 In Brief
Lumbar Adjustment
A. Increase Lumbar Support
Control
B. Decrease Lumbar Support
Control
If available, press the front (A) or rear (B) of the control to increase or decrease lumbar support. Release the control when the desired level of support is reached.
See Lumbar Adjustment on page 34.

Second Row Seats

With this feature, either side of the seatback can be folded down for more cargo space. Before folding a seatback, make sure the front seat is not reclined. If it is, the rear seatback will not fold down all the way.
To lower the rear seatback, pull up on the seatback strap while folding the seatback down. This allows access to the trunk. To raise the rear seatback pull the seatback up and make sure it latches.
Push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked in position. Make sure that the safety belts are properly stowed over the seatback in all three positions.
See Rear Seats on page 38 for more information.

Heated Seats

If available, press the top of the switch to turn the heat feature on to the high heat setting. The indicator light 2will be lit.
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In Brief 1-9
Press the top of the switch again to go to the low heat setting. The indicator light 1will be lit.
Press the bottom of the switch to turn the feature off.
The heated seats are canceled when the ignition is turned off.
For more information, see Heated Front Seats on page 37.

Head Restraint Adjustment

Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants are installed and adjusted properly.
To achieve a comfortable seating position, change the seatback recline angle as little as necessary while keeping the seat and the head restraint height in the proper position.
For more information see Head
Restraints on page 32 and Seat Adjustment on page 33.

Safety Belts

Refer to the following sections for important information on how to use safety belts properly.
.
Safety Belts on page 39.
.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 313.
.
Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 318.
.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH System) on page 348.

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag

The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbags are not affected by this.
The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started.
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1-10 In Brief
United States
Canada and Mexico
See Passenger Sensing System on page 332 for important information.

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior Mirrors
Controls for the outside power mirrors are located on the driver door.
1. Move the selector switch located below the four-way control pad to the left or right to choose either the driver side or passenger side mirror.
2. Press one of the four arrows located on the control pad to move the mirror to the desired direction.
Keep the selector switch in the center position when not adjusting either outside mirror.
See Power Mirrors on page 214.
Interior Mirror
Vehicles with an automatic dimming rearview mirror will automatically reduce the glare from the headlamps of the vehicle behind. The dimming feature comes on and the indicator light illuminates each time the ignition is turned to start.
See Manual Rearview Mirror on page 214.
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In Brief 1-11

Steering Wheel Adjustment

The lever is located on the left side of the steering wheel column.
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Pull the lever down.
2. Move the steering wheel up or down.
3. Pull or push the steering wheel closer or away from you.
4. Pull the lever up to lock the steering wheel in place.
Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamps
The dome lamps come on when any door is opened. They turn off after all the doors are closed.
To turn the dome lamps on manually, turn the instrument panel brightness knob, located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column, clockwise to the farthest position. The dome lamps will remain on whether a door is opened or closed.
Reading Lamps
The front reading lamps are located in the front overhead console. The rear reading lamps are near the dome lamp overhead near the rear passenger seats.
For vehicles with front and/or rear reading lamps, press the lens to turn the lamp on and off, while the doors are closed. These lamps come on automatically when any door is opened.
For more information on interior lighting, see:
.
Instrument Panel Illumination Control on page 65.
.
Entry/Exit Lighting on page 65.
.
Parade Dimming on page 66.
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1-12 In Brief

Exterior Lighting

P: Briefly turn to this position to manually turn the automatic lamp control off or on.
In Canada, this position only works when a vehicle is in the P (Park) position. When the vehicle is put into D (Drive) the lights come on.
AUTO: Automatically turns on the Daytime Running Lamps during daytime, and the headlamps, parking lamps, and taillamps at night.
;: Manual operation of the parking lamps and taillamps.
2: Manual operation of the headlamps, parking lamps, and taillamps.
For more information, see:
.
Exterior Lamp Controls on page 61.
.
Delayed Headlamps on page 63.
.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) on page 62.
.
Automatic Headlamp System on page 63.
.
Fog Lamps on page 64.

Windshield Wiper/Washer

The windshield wiper lever is located on the right side of the steering column.
9: Turns the wipers off. &: For intermittent or speed
sensitive operation. While in this position, turn the
x band up or
down to vary frequency.
The amount of delay time varies between wiping cycles due to the delay setting selected or the speed of the vehicle. As vehicle speed is increased or decreased, the wiper interval also increases or decreases.
6 : Slow wipes. 1 : Fast wipes. 8: Use for a single wiping cycle.
Windshield Washer: Press the button at the end of the lever until the washers begin.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on page 53.
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Climate Controls

In Brief 1-13
A. Fan Control
B. Air Recirculation
C. Temperature Control
D. Outside Air
E. Air Delivery Mode Control
F. Air Conditioning
G. Rear Window Defogger
See Climate Control Systems on page 81 (If Equipped).
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1-14 In Brief
Automatic Climate Control System (If Equipped)
A. Fan Control
B. Air Conditioning
C. Air Recirculation
D. Outside Air
E. Rear Window Defogger
F. Air Delivery Mode Control
G. Display
H. Temperature Control
See Automatic Climate Control System on page 85 (If Equipped).
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In Brief 1-15

Transmission

Driver Shift Control (DSC)
This position allows you to change gears similar to a manual transmission. To use this feature:
1. Move the shift lever from D (Drive) rearward to M (Manual).
2. Press the + (plus) end of the button on the side of the shifter to upshift, or push the (minus) end of the button to downshift.
See Manual Mode on page 925.

Vehicle Features

Radio(s)

Radio with CD (MP3) and USB Port shown
O : Press to turn the system on
and off. Turn to increase or decrease the volume.
BAND: Press to choose between FM, AM, or XM, if equipped.
f : Select radio stations.
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1-16 In Brief
© ¨ : Seek or scan stations.
4 : For vehicles with XM, MP3,
WMA, or RDS features, press to display additional text information related to the current FM-RDS or XM station; or CD, MP3, WMA song. Song title information will be displayed on the top line of the display while the artist information will be displayed on the bottom line, if the information is available during XM, CD, MP3, or WMA playback. When information is not available, "No Info" displays.
For more information about these and other radio features, see
Infotainment on page 71 and Operation on page 73.
Storing a Favorite Station
Depending on which radio the vehicle has, radio stations are stored as either favorites or presets.
For radios with a FAV button, a maximum of 36 stations can be stored as favorites using the six softkeys located below the radio station frequency tabs and by using the radio FAV button. Press FAV to go through up to six pages of favorites, each having six favorite stations available per page. Each page of favorites can contain any combination of AM, FM, or XM stations.
For radios without a FAV button, up to 18 stations (6 FM1, 6 FM2, and 6 AM), can be programmed on the 6 numbered buttons.
See Operation on page 73.
Setting the Clock
To set the time and date for the Radio with CD (MP3) and USB port or Radio with a Single CD (MP3) player:
1. Turn the ignition key to ACC/ ACCESSORY or ON/RUN.
2. Press
3. Press
4. Press the softkey located below
5. Increase or decrease the time or
For detailed instructions on setting the clock for your specific audio system, see Clock on page 55.
O to turn the radio on.
H and the HR, MIN, MM,
DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and year) displays.
any one of the tabs that you want to change.
date by turning counterclockwise.
f clockwise or
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In Brief 1-17

Satellite Radio

XM is a satellite radio service based in the 48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian provinces. XM satellite radio has a wide variety of programming and commercial-free music, coast to coast, and in digital-quality sound.
A fee is required to receive the XM service.
For more information, refer to:
.
www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-929-2100 (U.S.)
.
www.xmradio.ca or call 1-877-438-9677 (Canada)
See Satellite Radio on page 710.

Portable Audio Devices (Auxiliary Input or USB Port)

This vehicle may have an 3.5 mm (1/8 in) auxiliary input jack and a USB port, located on the audio faceplate. Some portable audio devices such as iPods players, and USB storage devices can be connected to the vehicle using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) cable or a USB cable.
For more information, see Auxiliary Devices on page 720.
®
, MP3
Bluetooth
For vehicles with a Bluetooth system, it allows users with a Bluetoothenabled cell phone to make and receive hands-free calls using the vehicles audio system and controls.
The Bluetoothenabled cell phone must be paired with the Bluetooth system before it can be used in the vehicle. Not all phones will support all functions. For more information, visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.
For more information, see Bluetooth on page 725.
®
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
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Steering Wheel Controls

If equipped, some audio controls can be adjusted using the controls on the right side of the steering wheel.
e + / e : Increases or decreases
volume.
w / x c : Press to change radio
stations, select tracks on a CD, or to select tracks and navigate folders on an iPod
®
or USB device.
b g : Press to silence the vehicle
speakers only. Press again to turn the sound on. Press and hold longer than two seconds to interact with the OnStar
®
or Bluetooth systems.
x c : Press to reject an
incoming call, or to end a call.
For more information, see Steering Wheel Controls on page 52.

Cruise Control

The cruise control buttons are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
J: Press to turn the cruise control system on and off.
RES+: Press briefly to make the vehicle resume a previously set speed or press and hold to accelerate.
SET: Press to set the speed and activate cruise control or make the vehicle decelerate.
For more information, see Cruise Control on page 932.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
In Brief 1-19

Driver Information Center (DIC)

The DIC display is located at the bottom of the instrument panel cluster. It shows the status of many vehicle systems and enables access to the personalization menu.
The DIC buttons are located on the left side of the steering wheel.
INFO: Press to scroll through the vehicle information displays.
r : Press to reset some vehicle
information displays, select a personalization setting, or acknowledge a warning message.
For more information, see Driver
Information Center (DIC) on page 522.
Vehicle Personalization
Some vehicle features can be programmed by using the DIC buttons on the left side of the steering wheel. These features include:
.
Oil Life Reset
.
Units
.
RKE Lock and Unlock Feedback
.
Door Lock and Unlock Settings
.
Language
See Vehicle Personalization on page 530.

Power Outlets

Accessory power outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment, such as a cell phone or MP3 player.
There are two accessory power outlets. One accessory power outlet is located inside the storage bin below the climate controls and the other outlet is on the rear of the center storage console.
Remove the cover to access and replace when not in use.
See Power Outlets on page 57.
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Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual - 2011
1-20 In Brief

Performance and Maintenance

Traction Control System (TCS)

The traction control system limits wheel spin. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.
.
To turn off traction control, press and release instrument panel.
and the appropriate DIC message is displayed. See Ride
Control System Messages on page 527.
.
Press and release the button again to turn on traction control.
For more information, see Traction
Control System (TCS) on page 929.
t on the
F illuminates

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability Control system assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. The system turns on automatically every time the vehicle is started.
.
To turn off both traction control and Electronic Stability Control,
press and hold illuminates and the appropriate DIC message is displayed. See
Ride Control System Messages on page 527.
.
Press and release the button again to turn on both systems.
For more information, see Electronic
Stability Control (ESC) on page 931.
t until F

Tire Pressure Monitor

This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS warning light alerts you to a significant loss in pressure of one of the vehicle's tires. If the warning light comes on, stop as soon as possible and inflate the tires to the recommended pressure shown on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 912. The warning light will remain on until the tire pressure is corrected.
During cooler conditions, the low tire pressure warning light may appear when the vehicle is first started and then turn off. This may be an early
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In Brief 1-21
indicator that the tire pressures are getting low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper pressure.
The TPMS does not replace normal monthly tire maintenance. It is the drivers responsibility to maintain correct tire pressures.
See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 1053.

Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit

This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit. The kit can be used to temporarily seal small punctures in the tread area of the tire.
See Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 1067 for complete operating information.
If the vehicle came with a jack and spare tire, see If a Tire Goes Flat on page 1065.

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life based on vehicle use and displays the Change Oil Soon DIC message when it is necessary to change the engine oil and filter. The oil life system should be reset to 100% only following an oil change.
Resetting the Oil Life System
1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the engine off.
2. Press and hold the DIC INFO and reset buttons, on the left side of the steering wheel, at the same time to enter the personalization menu. The Oil Life Resetmessage displays.
3. Press and hold the reset button until the DIC display shows Acknowledged.
4. Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.
See Engine Oil Life System on page 1013.

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)

Vehicles that have a FlexFuel badge and a yellow fuel cap can use either unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85). See Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 937. For all other vehicles, use only the unleaded gasoline described under Recommended Fuel on page 935.

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some driving tips to get the best fuel economy possible.
.
Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.
.
Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.
.
Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time.
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1-22 In Brief
.
When road and weather conditions are appropriate, use cruise control.
.
Always follow posted speed limits or drive more slowly when conditions require.
.
Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.
.
Combine several trips into a single trip.
.
Replace the vehicle's tires with the same TPC Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near the size.
.
Follow recommended scheduled maintenance.

Roadside Assistance Program

U.S.: 1-800-243-8872
TTY Users (U.S.): 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
Mexico: 01-800-466-0800
As the owner of a new Chevrolet, you are automatically enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program.
See Roadside Assistance Program
(U.S. and Canada) on page 138 or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) on page 1310 for more
information.
Roadside Assistance and OnStar (U.S. and Canada)
If you have an active OnStar subscription, press the
Q button
and the current GPS location will be sent to an OnStar advisor who will assess your problem, contact Roadside Assistance, and relay your exact location to get the help you need.
Online Owner Center (U.S. and Canada)
The Online Owner Center is a complimentary service that includes online service reminders, vehicle maintenance tips, online owner manual, special privileges, and more.
Sign up today at:
www.chevyownercenter.com (U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).
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In Brief 1-23
OnStar
For vehicles with an active OnStar subscription, OnStar uses several innovative technologies and live Advisors to provide a wide range of safety, security, navigation, diagnostics, and calling services.
Automatic Crash Response
In a crash, builtin sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor who is immediately connected to the vehicle to see if you need help.
®
How OnStar Service Works
Q : Push this blue button to
connect to a specially trained OnStar Advisor to verify your account information and to answer questions.
] : Push this red emergency
button to get priority help from specially trained OnStar Emergency Advisors.
X : Push this button for handsfree,
voiceactivated calling and to give voice commands for HandsFree Calling and TurnbyTurn Navigation.
Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Roadside Assistance, TurnbyTurn Navigation, and HandsFree Calling are available on most vehicles. Not all OnStar services are available on all vehicles. For more information, see the OnStar Owner's Guide; visit www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada); contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (18884667827) or TTY 18772482080; or push the
Q button to speak with an OnStar
Advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For a full description of OnStar services and system limitations, see the OnStar Owner's Guide in the glove box.
OnStar service is subject to the OnStar Terms and Conditions included in the OnStar Glove Box Kit.
OnStar service requires wireless communication networks and the Global Positioning System (GPS) satellite network. Not all OnStar services are available everywhere or on all vehicles at all times.
OnStar service cant work unless the vehicle is in a place where OnStar has an agreement with a wireless service provider for service in that area, and the wireless service provider has coverage, network capacity, reception, and technology compatible with OnStar service. Service involving location information about the vehicle cant work unless GPS signals are available, unobstructed, and compatible with the OnStar
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1-24 In Brief
hardware. The vehicle has to have a working electrical system and adequate battery power for the OnStar equipment to operate. OnStar service may not work if the OnStar equipment isnt properly installed or you havent maintained it and the vehicle is in good working order and in compliance with all government regulations. If you try to add, connect, or modify any equipment or software in the vehicle, OnStar service may not work. Other problems OnStar cant control may prevent service to you, such as hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather, electrical system design and architecture of the vehicle, damage to important parts of the vehicle in a crash, or wireless phone network congestion or jamming.
See Radio Frequency Statement on page 1319 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.
OnStar Steering Wheel Controls
This vehicle may have a Talk/Mute button that can be used to interact with OnStar Hands-Free calling. See Steering Wheel Controls on page 52 for more information.
On some vehicles, the Talk button can be used to dial numbers into voice mail systems, or to dial phone extensions. See the OnStar Owner's Guide for more information.
Your Responsibility
Increase the volume of the radio if the OnStar Advisor cannot be heard.
If the light next to the OnStar buttons is red, the system may not be functioning properly. Push the
Q button and request a vehicle
diagnostic check. If the light appears clear (no light appears), your OnStar subscription has expired and all services have been
deactivated. Push the confirm that the OnStar equipment is active.
Q button to
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