CHEVROLET MALIBU 2023 User Guide

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
10 Keys, Doors, and Windows
heard. Passive locking will then remain
disabled until
Qon the interior door is
pressed, or until the vehicle is turned on.
Remote Left In Vehicle Alert
When the vehicle is turned off and an
remote key is left in the vehicle, the horn
will chirp three times after all doors are
closed. To view available settings from the
infotainment screen, touch Settings >
Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.
Remote No Longer In Vehicle Alert
If the vehicle is on with a door open, and
then all doors are closed, the vehicle will
check for an remote key inside. If an remote
key is not detected, the Driver Information
Center (DIC) will display NO REMOTE
DETECTED and the horn will chirp three
times.
This occurs only once each time the vehicle
is driven. To view available settings from the
infotainment screen, touch Settings >
Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start.
Keyless Trunk Opening
Press the touch pad on the rear of the trunk
to open it if the remote key is within 1 m
(3 ft) of the trunk.
Key Access
To access a vehicle with a weak remote key
battery, see Door Locks014.
Programming Remote Keys to the
Vehicle
Only remote keys programmed to the
vehicle will work. If a remote key is lost or
stolen, a replacement can be purchased and
programmed through your dealer. The
vehicle can be reprogrammed so that lost or
stolen remote keys no longer work. Any
remaining remote keys will need to be
reprogrammed. Each vehicle can have up to
eight remote keys matched to it.
Programming with Recognized Remote Keys
A new remote key can be programmed to
the vehicle when there are two recognized
remote keys. To program, the vehicle must
be off and all of the remote keys, both
currently recognized and new, must be
with you.
1. Place the two recognized remote keys in the cupholder.
2. Remove the key lock cylinder cap on the driver door handle. See Door Locks014.
Insert the vehicle key of the new remote
key into the key lock cylinder on the outside of the driver door and turn the
key counterclockwise five times within
10 seconds.
The DIC displays READY FOR REMOTE #2,
3, 4, or 5.
3. Place the first new remote key into the
remote key pocket with the buttons
facing the rear of the vehicle. The
remote key pocket is inside the center
console storage area.
4. Press ENGINE START/STOP. When the remote key is learned, the DIC will show
that it is ready to program the next
remote key.
5. Remove the remote key from the remote key pocket and press
KorQ.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
Keys, Doors, and Windows 11
To program additional remote keys,
repeat Steps 3–5 for each new
remote key.
When all additional remote keys are
programmed, press and hold ENGINE
START/STOP for 12 seconds to exit
programming mode.
6. Put the key back into the remote key.
7. Replace the key lock cylinder cap. See Door Locks 014.
Programming without Recognized
Remote Keys
If two currently recognized remote keys are
not available, follow this procedure to
program up to eight remote keys. This
feature is not available in Canada. This
procedure will take approximately
30 minutes to complete. The vehicle must
be off and all of the remote keys to be
programmed must be with you. 1. Remove the key lock cylinder cap on the driver door handle. See Door Locks014.
Insert the vehicle key of the remote key
into the key lock cylinder on the outside
of the driver door and turn the key
counterclockwise five times within
10 seconds. The DIC displays REMOTE LEARN
PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.
2. Wait for 10 minutes until the DIC displays PRESS ENGINE START BUTTON TO
LEARN and then press ENGINE
START/STOP.
The DIC will again display REMOTE LEARN
PENDING, PLEASE WAIT.
3. Repeat Step 2 two additional times. After the third time, all previously known
remote keys will no longer work with
the vehicle. Remaining remote keys can
be relearned during the next steps.
The DIC should now display READY FOR
REMOTE # 1.4. Place the new remote key into theremote key pocket with the buttons
facing toward the rear of the vehicle.
The remote key pocket is inside the
center console storage area.
5. Press ENGINE START/STOP. When the remote key is learned, the DIC will show
that it is ready to program the next
remote key.
6. Remove the remote key from the remote key pocket and press
KorQ.
To program additional remote keys,
repeat Steps 4–6.
When all additional remote keys are
programmed, press and hold ENGINE
START/STOP for 12 seconds to exit
programming mode.
7. Return the key back into the remote key.
8. Replace the key lock cylinder cap. See Door Locks 014.
Starting the Vehicle with a Low Remote
Key Battery
While trying to start the vehicle, if the
remote key battery is weak or if there is
interference with the signal, the DIC may
display NO REMOTE DETECTED or NO
REMOTE KEY WAS DETECTED PLACE KEY IN

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
12 Keys, Doors, and Windows
TRANSMITTER POCKET THEN START YOUR
VEHICLE. The DIC may also display REPLACE
BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY.
To start the vehicle:1. Open the center console and place the remote key in the remote key pocket
with the buttons facing the rear of the
vehicle.
2. With the vehicle in P (Park) or N (Neutral), press the brake pedal and
press ENGINE START/STOP. See Starting
the Engine 0177.
Replace the remote key battery as soon
as possible.
Battery Replacement
{Warning
Never allow children to play with the
remote key. The remote key contains a
small battery, which can be a choking
hazard. If swallowed, internal burns can
occur, resulting in severe injury or death.
Seek medical attention immediately if a
battery is swallowed.
{Warning
To avoid personal injury, do not touch
metal surfaces on the remote key when
it has been exposed to extreme heat.
These surfaces can be hot to the touch at
temperatures above 59 °C (138 °F).
Caution
When replacing the battery, do not touch
any of the circuitry on the remote key.
Static from your body could damage the
remote key.
Caution
Always replace the battery with the
correct type. Replacing the battery with
an incorrect type could potentially create
a risk of battery explosion. Dispose of
used batteries according to instructions
and local laws. Do not attempt to burn,
crush, or cut the used battery, and avoid
exposing the battery to environments
with extremely low air pressures or high
temperatures.
Caution
If the remote key is not reassembled
properly, liquids could enter the housing
and damage the circuitry, resulting in a
remote key malfunction and/or failure. To
prevent damage, always follow the steps
for remote key reassembly in this manual
to ensure the remote key is sealed
properly whenever the remote key is
opened.
Replace the battery if the DIC displays
REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY.
The battery is not rechargeable. To replace
the battery:

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
Keys, Doors, and Windows 13
1. Press the button on the side of theremote key near the bottom and pull the
key out. Never pull the key out without
pressing the button.
2. Separate the two halves of the remotekey using a flat tool inserted into the
bottom center of the remote key. Do not
use the key slot.
3. Remove the battery by pushing on thebattery and sliding it toward the bottom
of the remote key. Do not use a metal
object.
4. Insert the new battery, positive side facing the back cover. Push the battery
down until it is held in place. Replace
with a CR2032 or equivalent battery.
5. Ensure that the silicone mat is correctly positioned with no gaps or wrinkles.
6. Set remote key button side down on a hard surface and press the other half
straight down to force the halves
together.
7. Reinsert the key.
Remote Vehicle Start
If equipped, this feature allows the engine
to be started from outside the vehicle.
/: This button will be on the remote key
if the vehicle has remote start.
The climate control system will determine
the best mode and temperature setting for
operation during the remote start. Once the
vehicle is started with the Engine Start/Stop
button, the climate control system will
begin to operate at the last customer
selected operating mode and temperature.
The rear window defogger may come on
during a remote start based on cold ambient
conditions. The rear defog indicator light
does not come on during a remote start.
If the vehicle has heated seats, they may
come on during a remote start. See Heated
and Ventilated Front Seats 034.
Laws in some local communities may restrict
the use of remote starters. For example,
some laws require a person using remote
start to have the vehicle in view. Check local
regulations for any requirements.
Other conditions can affect the performance
of the remote key. See Remote Key07.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
14 Keys, Doors, and Windows
If your vehicle is low on fuel, do not use the
remote start feature. The vehicle may run
out of fuel.
Starting the Engine Using Remote Start
To start the engine using the remote start
feature:1. Press and release
Q.
2. Immediately after completing Step 1, press and hold
/for at least
four seconds or until the turn signal
lamps flash. The turn signal lamps
flashing confirms the request to remote
start the vehicle has been received.
When the engine 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
15 minutes. After 30 seconds, repeat the
steps if a 15-minute extension is desired.
Remote start can be extended only once.
Start the vehicle before driving. Extending Engine Run Time
The engine run time can be extended by
another 15 minutes, if during the first
15 minutes Steps 1 and 2 are repeated while
the engine is still running. An extension can
be requested 30 seconds after starting.
When the remote start is extended, the
second 15-minute period is added on to the
first 15 minutes for a total of 30 minutes.
The remote start can only be extended once.
A maximum of two remote starts, or a
single start with an extension, is allowed
between ignition cycles.
The vehicle's ignition must be turned on and
then back off before the remote start
procedure can be used again.
Canceling a Remote Start
To cancel a remote start, do one of the
following:
.Aim the remote key at the vehicle and
press and hold
/until the parking lamps
turn off.
.Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
.Turn the vehicle on and then off. Conditions in Which Remote Start Will
Not Work
The remote vehicle start feature will not
operate if:
.A remote key is in the vehicle.
.The hood is not closed.
.The vehicle is on.
.The hazard warning flashers are on.
.The malfunction indicator lamp is on.
.The engine coolant temperature is
too high.
.The oil pressure is low.
.Two remote vehicle starts, or a single
remote start with an extension, have
already been used.
.The vehicle is not in P (Park).
Door Locks
{Warning
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
.Passengers, especially children, can
easily open the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. The doors can be
unlocked and opened while the vehicle
is moving. The chance of being thrown
(Continued)

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
Keys, Doors, and Windows 15
Warning (Continued)
out of the vehicle in a crash is
increased if the doors are not locked.
So, all passengers should wear seat
belts properly and the doors should be
locked whenever the vehicle is driven.
.Young children who get into unlocked
vehicles may be unable to get out.
A child can be overcome by extreme
heat and can suffer permanent injuries
or even death from heat stroke.
Always lock the vehicle whenever
leaving it.
.Outsiders can easily enter through an
unlocked door when you slow down
or stop the vehicle. Locking the doors
can help prevent this from happening.
To lock or unlock the doors from the
outside:
.PressQorKon the remote key. See
Remote Key Operation 07.
.In the case of a dead battery, use the key
in the driver door. The key lock cylinder is
covered with a cap. To lock or unlock the doors from the inside:
.PressQorKon the power door lock
switch.
.Pull the door handle once to unlock the
door. Pull the handle again to unlatch it.
Keyless Access
The remote key must be within 1 m (3 ft) of
the trunk or door being opened. Press the
button on the door handle to open. See
“Keyless Access Operation” inRemote Key
Operation 07.
Driver Door Key Lock Cylinder Access (In
Case of Dead Battery)
To access the driver door key lock cylinder:
1. Pull the door handle (1) to the open position and hold it open until cap
removal is complete.
2. Insert the key into the slot (3) on the bottom of the cap (2) and lift the key
upward.
3. Move the cap (2) rearward and remove.
4. Use the key in the cylinder.
To replace the cap: 1. Pull the door handle (1) to the open position and hold it open until cap
installation is complete.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
16 Keys, Doors, and Windows
2. Insert the two tabs (6) at the back of thecap between the seal (5) and the metal
base (4).3. Slide the cap forward and press theforward edge to install the cap in place.
4. Release the door handle.
5. Check that the cap is secure.
Free-Turning Locks
The door key lock cylinder turns freely when
either the wrong key is used, or the correct
key is not fully inserted. The free-turning
door lock feature prevents the lock from
being forced open. To reset the lock, turn it
to the vertical position with the correct key
fully inserted. Remove the key and insert it
again. If this does not reset the lock, turn
the key halfway around in the cylinder and
repeat the reset procedure.
Power Door Locks
Q: Press to lock the doors.
K:Press to unlock the doors.
The indicator light in the switch will
illuminate when the door is locked.
Locking or unlocking the doors will also lock
or unlock the trunk. See Trunk018.
Delayed Locking
This feature delays the actual locking of the
doors until five seconds after all doors are
closed.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
Keys, Doors, and Windows 17
Delayed locking can only be turned on when
the Open Door Anti-Lockout feature has
been turned off.
When
Qis pressed on the power door lock
switch with the door open, a chime will
sound three times indicating that delayed
locking is active.
The doors will then lock automatically
five seconds after all doors are closed. If a
door is reopened before five seconds have
elapsed, the five-second timer will reset once
all the doors are closed again.
Press
Qon the door lock switch again,
or press
Qon the RKE transmitter, to
override this feature and lock the doors
immediately.
Delayed locking can be programmed. To
view available settings for this feature,
touch the Settings icon on the infotainment
home page. Select “Vehicle”to display the
list of available options and select “Power
Door Locks”.
Automatic Door Locks
The doors will lock automatically when all
doors are closed, the ignition is on, and the
vehicle is shifted out of P (Park). If a vehicle door is unlocked, and then
opened and closed, the doors will lock either
when your foot is removed from the brake
or the vehicle speed becomes faster than
13 km/h (8 mph).
To unlock the doors:
.PressKon the power door lock switch.
.Shift the transmission into P (Park).
Automatic door locking cannot be disabled.
Automatic door unlocking can be
programmed. To view available settings for
this feature, touch the Settings icon on the
infotainment home page. Select “Vehicle”to
display the list of available options and
select “Power Door Locks”.
Lockout Protection
If the ignition is on or in accessory mode
and the power door lock switch is pressed
with the driver door open, all the doors will
lock and only the driver door will unlock.
If the vehicle is off and locking is requested
while a door is open, when all doors are
closed the vehicle will check for remote keys
inside. If an remote key is detected and the
number of remote keys inside has not
reduced, the driver door will unlock and the
horn will chirp three times. Lockout Protection can be manually
overridden with the driver door open by
pressing and holding
Qon the power door
lock switch.
Open Door Anti-Lockout
If Open Door Anti-Lockout has been turned
on and the vehicle is off, the driver door is
open, and locking is requested, all the doors
will lock and the driver door will remain
open. The Open Door Anti-Lockout feature
can be turned on or off. To view available
settings from the infotainment screen, touch
the Settings > Vehicle > Power Door Locks.
Safety Locks
The rear door safety locks prevent
passengers from opening the rear doors
from inside the vehicle.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
18 Keys, Doors, and Windows
Manual Safety Locks
If equipped, the safety lock is on the inside
edge of the rear doors. To use the
safety lock:1. Move the lever forward to the lock position.
2. Close the door.
3. Do the same for the other rear door.
To open a rear door when the safety lock
is on: 1. Unlock the door by activating the inside handle, by pressing the power door lock
switch, or by using the Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter.
2. Open the door from the outside. When the safety lock is enabled, adults and
older children will not be able to open the
rear door from the inside. Cancel the safety
locks to enable the doors to open from the
inside.
To cancel the safety lock:
1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
2. Move the lever rearward to unlock. Do the same for the other door.
Doors
Trunk
{Warning
Exhaust gases can enter the vehicle if it
is driven with the liftgate, hatch/trunk
open, or with any objects that pass
through the seal between the body and
the hatch/trunk or liftgate. Engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO)
which cannot be seen or smelled. It can
cause unconsciousness and even death.
(Continued)
Warning (Continued)
If the vehicle must be driven with the
liftgate or hatch/trunk open:
.Close all of the windows.
.Fully open the air outlets on or under
the instrument panel.
.Adjust the climate control system to a
setting that brings in only outside air
and set the fan speed to the highest
setting. See“Climate Control Systems”
in the Index.
.If the vehicle is equipped with a
power liftgate, disable the power
liftgate function.
For more information about carbon
monoxide, see Engine Exhaust 0181.
Trunk Release
To open the trunk the vehicle must be off or
the shift lever must be in P (Park).
.PressXtwice quickly on the
remote key.

Chevrolet Malibu Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-
16273584) - 2023 - CRC - 9/28/22
Keys, Doors, and Windows 19
.Press the touch pad on the rear of the
trunk after unlocking all doors.
The trunk may be opened while the vehicle
is locked by pressing the touch pad on the
rear of the trunk while the remote key is
within 1 m (3 ft) of the rear of the vehicle.
See Remote Key Operation 07.
Emergency Trunk Release Handle
Caution
Do not use the emergency trunk release
handle as a tie-down or anchor point
when securing items in the trunk as it
could damage the handle.
There is a glow-in-the-dark emergency trunk
release handle on the trunk lid. This handle
glows following exposure to light. Pull the
release handle to open the trunk from the
inside.
After pulling the emergency trunk release
handle, push the handle back into the bezel.
Vehicle Security
This vehicle has theft-deterrent features;
however, they do not make the vehicle
impossible to steal.