light CHEVROLET MALIBU 2004 5.G Owners Manual

Tire Terminology and Denitions
Air Pressure:The amount of air inside the tire pressing
outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure
is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or
kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory Weight:This means the combined weight
of optional accessories. Some examples of optional
accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering,
power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air
conditioning.
Aspect Ratio:The relationship of a tire’s height to
its width.
Belt:A rubber coated layer of cords that is located
between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made
from steel or other reinforcing materials.
Bead:The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by
steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.
Bias Ply Tire:A pneumatic tire in which the plies are
laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the
centerline of the tread.
Cold Ination Pressure:The amount of air pressure
in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi)
before a tire has built up heat from driving.
SeeInation - Tire Pressure on page 5-57.Curb Weight:This means the weight of a motor
vehicle with standard and optional equipment including
the maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, but
without passengers and cargo.
DOT Markings:A code molded into the sidewall of a
tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the
U.S. Department of Transportation motor vehicle safety
standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identication
Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can
also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant,
brand and date of production.
GVWR:Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, seeLoading
Your Vehicle on page 4-34.
GAWR FRT:Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front
axle, seeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-34.
GAWR RR:Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle,
seeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-34.
Intended Outboard Sidewall:The side of an
asymmetrical tire that must always face outward when
mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa):The metric unit for air pressure.
There are 6.9 kPa’s to one psi.
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire:A tire used on light duty
trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.
5-55

Load Index:An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279
that corresponds to the load carrying capacity of a tire.
Maximum Ination Pressure:The maximum air
pressure to which a cold tire may be inated. The
maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum Load Rating:The load rating for a tire at
the maximum permissible ination pressure for that tire.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight:The sum of
curb weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight;
and production options weight.
Normal Occupant Weight:The number of occupants
a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 150 pounds
(68 kg). SeeLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-34.
Occupant Distribution:Designated seating positions.
Outward Facing Sidewall:The side of a asymmetrical
tire that has a particular side that faces outward
when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that
contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears
manufacturer, brand and or model name molding that is
higher or deeper than the same moldings on the
other sidewall of the tire.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire:A tire used on passenger
cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose
vehicles.Recommended Ination Pressure:Vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended tire ination pressure and
shown on the tire placard. SeeInation - Tire Pressure
on page 5-57andLoading Your Vehicle on page 4-34.
Radial Ply tire:A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords
that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the
centerline of the tread.
Rim:A metal support for a tire and upon which the tire
beads are seated.
Sidewall:The portion of a tire between the tread and
the bead.
Speed Rating:An alphanumeric code assigned to a
tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire
can operate.
Traction:The friction between the tire and the road
surface. The amount of grip provided.
Tread:The portion of a tire that comes into contact
with the road.
Treadwear Indicators:Narrow bands, sometimes
called “wear bars,” that show across the tread of a tire
when only 2/32 inch of tread remains. SeeWhen It
Is Time for New Tires on page 5-59.
5-56

Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the
tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum
section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The following information relates to the system
developed by the United States National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by
treadwear, traction and temperature performance.
(This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.)
The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most
passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading
system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type
snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires,
tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches
(25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires.
While the tires available on General Motors passenger
cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these
grades, they must also conform to federal safety
requirements and additional General Motors Tire
Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on
the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specied government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and
a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as
a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires
depends upon the actual conditions of their use,
however, and may depart signicantly from the norm
due to variations in driving habits, service practices and
differences in road characteristics and climate.
Traction – AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,
B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability
to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled
conditions on specied government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor
traction performance. Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking
traction tests, and does not include acceleration,
cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
5-61

Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
(cont’d)
Description Usage
Chrome and Wire
Wheel CleanerRemoves dirt and grime
from chrome wheels and
wire wheel covers.
Finish EnhancerRemoves dust,
ngerprints, and
surface contaminants.
Spray on wipe off.
Swirl Remover PolishRemoves swirl marks,
ne scratches and
other light surface
contamination.
Cleaner WaxRemoves light scratches
and protects nish.
Foaming Tire Shine
Low GlossCleans, shines and
protects in one easy step,
no wiping necessary.
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
(cont’d)
Description Usage
Wash Wax ConcentrateMedium foaming
shampoo. Cleans
and lightly waxes.
Biodegradable and
phosphate free.
Spot LifterQuickly and easily
removes spots and stains
from carpets, vinyl and
suede upholstery.
Odor EliminatorOdorless spray odor
eliminator used on
fabrics, vinyl, suede
and carpet.
See your General Motors parts department for these
products. SeeRecommended Fluids and Lubricants
on page 6-12.
5-85

Fuses
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from
short circuits by fuses and fusible thermal links in
the wiring itself.
Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the
band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you
replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical
size and rating.
If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t have
a spare fuse, you can borrow one that has the same
amperage. Just pick a feature of your vehicle that
you can get along without — like the radio or cigarette
lighter — and use its fuse, if it is the correct amperage.
Replace it as soon as you can.There are three fuse blocks in your vehicle: one in the
center of the instrument panel, one in the engine
compartment and one in the trunk.
There is a fuse puller located on the instrument panel
fuse block. It can be used to easily remove fuses
from the fuse block.
The instrument panel fuse blocks is located at on the
lower front side of the console, on the passenger side of
the vehicle. To access the fuses, open the fuse panel
door by pulling out.
To reinstall the door, insert the hooks at the front end
rst, then push the door into the center console panel to
secure it.
5-88

Fuses Usage
CLUSTER/THEFTInstrument Panel Cluster,
Theft Deterrent System
ONSTAR
®OnStar®System
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
AIRBAG (IGN) Airbag System
HVAC CTRL
(BATT)Climate Control System
PEDALAdjustable Throttle and
Brake Pedal
WIPER SWWindshield Wiper/Washer
Switch
IGN SENSOR Ignition Switch
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
RADIO Audio System
INTERIOR
LIGHTSOverhead Lighting,
Trunk/Cargo Lighting
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
HVAC CTRL (IGN) Climate Control System
Fuses Usage
HVAC BLOWER Climate Control System
DOOR LOCK Automatic Door Lock System
ROOF/HEAT
SEATSunroof, Heated Seats,
Automatic Dimming
Rearview Mirror
POWER
WINDOWSPower Window Switch
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
NOT INSTALLED Not Used
AIRBAG (BATT) Airbag System
FUSE PULLER Fuse Puller
SPARE FUSE
HOLDERSpare
SPARE FUSE
HOLDERSpare
SPARE FUSE
HOLDERSpare
SPARE FUSE
HOLDERSpare
5-90

Fuses Usage
9 Not Used
10 Sunroof Controls
11 Not Used
12 Auxiliary Power 2
13 Not Used
14 Heated Seat Controls
15 Not Used
16Remote Keyless Entry System,
XM Satellite Radio, Rear Seat
Entertainment System, Homelink
17 Back-up Lamps
18 Not Used
19 Not Used
20Cigarette Lighter, Auxiliary
Power Outlet
21 Not Used
22 Trunk
23 Rear Window Defogger
24 Heated Mirror Controls
25 Fuel PumpRelays Usage
26 Rear Window Defogger
27 Parklamps
28 Not Used
29 Not Used
30 Not Used
31 Not Used
32 Not Used
33 Back-up Lamps
34 Not Used
35 Not Used
36 Trunk
37 Fuel Pump
38 (Diode) Cargo Lamps
5-95

Maintenance Footnotes
†The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the
California Air Resources Board has determined that the
failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify
the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to
the completion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however,
urge that all recommended maintenance services be
performed at the indicated intervals and the
maintenance be recorded.
(a)Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chang, etc. Inspect
disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition. Inspect other brake parts, including calipers,
parking brake, etc.
(b)Visually inspect front and rear suspension and
steering system for damaged, loose or missing parts or
signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and
hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chang, etc.(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if they
are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,
ttings and clamps; replace with genuine GM parts as
needed. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test
of the cooling system and pressure cap and cleaning the
outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is
recommended at least once a year.
(d)Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking.
Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages
are working properly. Look for any other loose or
damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything
that might keep a safety belt system from doing its
job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts
replaced. Also look for any opened or broken air bag
coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air
bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
6-7

A
Accessory Power Outlets.................................3-20
Adding Washer Fluid.......................................5-34
Additional Program Information........................... 7-9
Additives, Fuel................................................. 5-7
Add-On Electrical Equipment............................5-87
Adjustable Throttle and Brake Pedal..................2-24
Adjusting the Speakers
(Balance/Fade)....................3-55, 3-62, 3-73, 3-86
Air Bag
Readiness Light..........................................3-34
Air Bag Systems.............................................1-52
How Does an Air Bag Restrain?....................1-58
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle.........1-60
What Makes an Air Bag Inate?....................1-58
What Will You See After an Air Bag Inates?......1-58
When Should an Air Bag Inate?...................1-57
Where Are the Air Bags?..............................1-54
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine.................................5-22
Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM).......7-10
AM .............................................................3-116
Antenna, Backglass.......................................3-119
Antenna, Fixed Mast......................................3-118
Antenna, XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna
System.....................................................3-119
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)............................ 4-7
Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light..............3-37Appearance Care............................................5-78
Care of Safety Belts....................................5-81
Chemical Paint Spotting...............................5-84
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle................5-78
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle..............5-81
Finish Damage............................................5-83
Sheet Metal Damage...................................5-83
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-84
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials................5-84
Weatherstrips..............................................5-81
Arming the System.........................................2-18
Audio Speakers..............................................3-98
Audio System(s).............................................3-52
Audio Steering Wheel Controls....................3-115
Backglass Antenna.....................................3-119
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player...............3-117
Care of Your CD and DVD Player................3-118
Care of Your CDs and DVDs.......................3-118
Fixed Mast Antenna...................................3-118
Radio with Cassette and CD.........................3-69
Radio with CD....................................3-53, 3-58
Radio with Six-Disc CD................................3-82
Rear Seat Audio (RSA).....................3-111, 3-113
Setting the Time for Radios with Radio Data
Systems (RDS)........................................3-53
Setting the Time for Radios without Radio
Data Systems (RDS)................................3-52
1

Audio System(s) (cont.)
Theft-Deterrent Feature...............................3-115
Understanding Radio Reception...................3-116
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System...........3-119
Automatic Climate Control System.....................3-25
Automatic Headlamp System............................3-17
Automatic Transaxle
Fluid..........................................................5-23
Operation...................................................2-27
B
Backglass Antenna........................................3-119
Backing Up....................................................4-44
Battery..........................................................5-38
Battery Replacement......................................... 2-8
Battery Run-Down Protection............................3-20
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.........................4-23
Before You Drive............................................3-97
Brake
Parking......................................................2-29
System Warning Light..................................3-36
Brake Fluid....................................................5-35
Brake Pedal, Throttle.......................................2-24
Brake Wear...................................................5-37
Brakes..........................................................5-35
Braking........................................................... 4-6
Braking in Emergencies..................................... 4-8Break-In, New Vehicle.....................................2-22
Bulb Replacement...........................................5-45
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL)........5-47
Halogen Bulbs............................................5-45
Headlamps.................................................5-45
Replacement Bulbs......................................5-49
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and
Back-up Lamps........................................5-47
Buying New Tires...........................................5-60
C
California Fuel.................................................. 5-6
Canada – Customer Assistance.......................... 7-5
Canadian Owners................................................ ii
Canadian Roadside Assistance........................... 7-7
Capacities and Specications............................5-96
Carbon Monoxide...........4-26, 4-40, 2-13, 2-15, 2-33
Care of
Safety Belts................................................5-81
Your Cassette Tape Player..........................3-117
Your CD and DVD Player...........................3-118
Your CDs and DVDs..................................3-118
Cargo Lamp...................................................3-20
Cassette Tape Messages.................................3-79
Cassette Tape Player Service............................. 6-9
CD Adapter Kits.............................................3-80
CD Messages........................3-58, 3-69, 3-82, 3-96
2