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NHTSA ID Number: 10201120

Manufacturer Communication Number: 15-NA-085

TSB/Document Date: 2021-09-07


Summary

2016 ChevroleteBay logo Malibu New Model Features


Bulletin No.: 15-NA-085
Date: Jul-2016

Subject:

2016 Chevrolet Malibu New Model Features

Attention:

This Bulletin Also Applies to Export Vehicles.

Brand:

ChevroleteBay logo

Model:

Malibu — (VIN
Z)

Model Year:

VIN:

From:

To:

From:

To:

2016

2016

All

All

Engine:

Transmission:

4 Cylinder L4 1.5L
Turbocharged with
Stop/Start
Technology —
RPO LFV

Hydra-Matic
6T40 6-Speed
Automatic FWD —
RPO MNH

4 Cylinder L4 2.0L
Turbocharged —
RPO LTG

Overview

1

Aisin AF50–8 8Speed Automatic
FWD — RPO
MRC

Bulletin Purpose
This is a special bulletin to introduce the 2016 ChevroleteBay logo Malibu. The purpose of this bulletin is to help the Service Department Personnel become familiar with
some of the vehicle’s new features and to describe some of the action they will need to take to service this vehicle.

About the Car
The 2016 Malibu — VIN Z (VIN Code 4th digit) will be offered in L, LS, 1LT and 2LT (excluding Canada) trims and Chevrolet's new uplevel designation, the
Premier which replaces the LTZ trim. The 2016 Malibu will be built at GM’s Fairfax Assembly Plant, in Kansas City, Kansas.
The all-new 2016 Chevrolet Malibu offers dramatic design, exceptional efficiency, and advanced safety technology. Malibu will also keep you informed and
entertained on the go with available built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi. The Malibu has ChevroleteBay logo MyLink™ with available Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay™ compatibility,
nine new-to-Malibu safety features, including available Front Automatic Braking and the new Teen Driver feature (standard when equipped with the 8-inch
(203 mm) diagonal color touch-screen display) which provides driving statistics to the parents.
GM engineers designed the 2016 ChevroleteBay logo Malibu with approximately a four-inch (101 mm) longer wheelbase, resulting in more interior space and greater
comfort and to be lighter, more fuel efficient, stronger and safer. An important goal was to make the Malibu the most mass-efficient car in its class. With the
mass savings spread throughout the vehicle, it provides greater overall balance, a more responsive and agile driving experience and decreased fuel
consumption. The result is an all-new Malibu that is nearly 300 pounds (136 kg) lighter than the current model, an achievement that gives it the segment’s
lightest base curb weight and contributes to an estimated 37 mpg highway (6.3 L/100 km highway) for the all-new standard 1.5L turbocharged engine with fuelsaving stop/start technology and equipped with the 6-speed automatic transmission. The 1.5L engine is 86 pounds (39 kg) lighter than the current model’s
standard 2.5L engine which enhances the Malibu’s front-to-rear weight balance contributing to a more responsive driving experience. A lighter curb weight also
improves ride and handling.
More than a third of the mass savings, approximately 120 pounds (54 kg) comes from the all-new body structure, which features greater use of high-strength
steels.
The increased use of aluminum in the vehicle such as an aluminum hood which is 5.6 pounds (2.5 kg) lighter than the current model’s aluminum hood and more
aluminum chassis and suspension components also deliver weight savings. New power window regulators collectively save 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg) while another
2.2 pounds (1 kg) was saved by streamlining the instrument panel and reducing the complexity of components within it.
The Malibu’s available leather seats are collectively 40.6 pounds (18.4 kg) lighter than the current model.
A range of 16 to19-inch wheels specifically designed for Malibu to complement its new exterior design.
The Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) has been moved to the roofline for a better aesthetic.

Additional Highlights

Standard Rear View Camera on LS, LT and Premier models.

Ten standard air bags.

Improved visibility.

Wider-opening rear doors.

Standard Passive Entry/Push-Button Start.

StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control System.

Rollover Mitigation Technology.

Torque Vectoring by Brakes.

Engine Drag Control.

More standard seat content, including greater control over seat positioning.

2

The rear decklid features a standard integrated spoiler with aerodynamic benefits that help fuel efficiency.

Available ventilated front seats.

Available contemporary lighting technology that includes LED Daytime Running Lamps and Tail lamps. LED Daytime Running Lamps are featured on LT
and Premier models and the Premier receives LED tail lamps.

Available heated steering wheel.

Available dual-pane power sunroof.

Available Bose® Premium 9-speaker system.

Available dual rear-seat USB ports.

Available wireless charging (owner must supply an adapter).

Available integrated chrome-trimmed dual exhaust outlets.

Engines
Ecotec 1.5L DOHC l-4 VVT DI Turbocharged — RPO LFV with Stop/Start Technology — RPO KL9

An all-new Ecotec 1.5L turbo is the standard engine and it is part of a new global family of small-displacement gasoline engines designed with greater power
density to deliver consistent performance and efficiency.

Displacement: 91 cu in (1,490 cc)

Bore and Stroke: 2.91 x 3.40 in (74 x 86.6 mm)

Block Material: Cast aluminum

Cylinder Head Material: Cast aluminum

Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing

Valve Lifters: Hydraulic roller finger follower

Ignition System: Coil-on-plug

Fuel Delivery: High-pressure direct injection and electronic throttle control

Compression Ratio: 10:1

Horsepower: 163 hp (122 kW) @ 5,700 rpm (SAE Certified)

Torque: 184 lb.-ft. (250 Nm) @ 2,500-3,000 rpm (SAE Certified)

Maximum Engine Speed (Fuel Cut-Off): 6,500 rpm

Recommended Fuel: Regular unleaded

Emission Controls: Close-coupled, catalytic converter, positive crankcase ventilation; evaporative system
3

Ecotec 2.0L DOHC l-4 VVT DI Turbocharged — RPO LTG

A higher-output 2.0L turbocharged engine is available, offering a higher degree of performance, but not at the expense of good efficiency.

Displacement: 122 cu in (1,998 cc)

Bore and Stroke: 3.39 x 3.39 in (86 x 86 mm)

Block Material: Cast aluminum

Cylinder Head Material: Cast aluminum

Valvetrain: DOHC, four-valves per cylinder, continuously variable valve timing

Valve Lifters: Hydraulic roller finger follower

Ignition System: Coil-on-plug

Fuel Delivery: High-pressure direct injection and electronic throttle control

Compression Ratio: 9.5:1

Horsepower: 259 hp (193 kW) @ 5,300 rpm (SAE Certified)

Torque: 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) @ 3,000-5,000 rpm (SAE Certified)

Recommended Fuel: Use Premium Unleaded with an octane rating of 91 or higher

Maximum Engine Speed (Fuel Cut-Off): 6,700 rpm

Emission Controls: Close-coupled, catalytic converter, positive crankcase ventilation; evaporative system

Engine — Stop/Start System — RPO KL9
Stop/Start System Overview

4

Notice: The Stop/Start System is automatically activated each time the ignition is turned ON.
A fuel-saving Stop/Start system has been integrated with the 1.5L engine. When driving and bringing the vehicle to a complete stop and firmly applying the brake
pedal, the Stop/Start system may turn the engine OFF, depending on operating conditions. When the Stop/Start system turns the engine OFF, the tachometer
needle will point at AUTO STOP (2) indicating the engine has been shut down by the Stop/Start System. Once the engine is restarted, the tachometer will
function normally.
Upon releasing the brake pedal or applying the accelerator pedal, the engine will restart. After parking the vehicle and turning the engineOFF, the tachometer
will read OFF (1).
An upgraded starter motor and advanced battery technology support the increased number of engine starts. The starter motor has a high performance electric
motor and stronger pinion engagement mechanism. The starter motor has also been re-designed to reduce the noise on startup. Advanced battery technology
ensures it can handle frequent charge and discharge cycles. An intelligent battery sensor module monitors the state of charge and health of the battery. Battery
state of charge and health are used by the ECM to determine if the Stop/Start function may be performed. It only takes the Stop/Start system around
0.3 seconds to start the engine.

AutoStop Inhibiting Conditions
In order to ensure neither the needs of the driver or the vehicle are compromised, the engine will not AutoStop if the following conditions are met:

The ambient (outside) temperature and the engine coolant temperature (ECT) correlation do not meet the specified values.

The ambient temperature is colder than 14°F (−10°C).

The battery temperature is colder than 32°F (0°C) or warmer than 131°F (55°C).

The HVAC system demand is high.

The HVAC system has been set to Defrost.

The 12V battery state of charge is low.

The Battery Sensor Module Learn procedure has not been completed. Refer to Battery Sensor Module Learn in SI.

Driver seat belt is not fastened and the driver door is not fully closed. (Not applicable to vehicles in North America).

AutoStop Enabling Conditions
The engine will AutoStop if ALL of the following conditions are met:

The initial minimum vehicle speed during the drive cycle must be 12 mph (19 km/h) or more. Subsequent AutoStop minimum speed may vary from 1 to
6 mph (2 to 10 km/h), depending on the vehicle.

The ambient temperature and the ECT correlation meets the specified values.

The ambient temperature and transmission fluid temperature (TFT) correlation meets the specified values.

Hood Position is CLOSED. Hood Position CLOSED is a viewable scan tool parameter.

The brake pedal is depressed more than a specified value, which is approximately 27%.

The accelerator pedal is in the learned minimum throttle position.

5

Brake booster vacuum is more than 7 psi (45 kPa).

The transmission range selector is in D (Drive).

Vehicle speed is less than 3 mph (5 km/h).

Engine speed is less than 1,500 rpm.

The ECT is less than 248°F (120°C).

The HVAC system does not receive any A/C compressor requests. (No A/C or Defrost mode requests).

The battery voltage is more than 12V.

The battery state of charge is more than 75%. This varies with state of health.

AutoStart Enabling Conditions
The engine will AutoStart if the following conditions are met:

Driver removes pressure from the brake pedal or depresses the accelerator pedal while the vehicle is in D (Drive).

Hood Position changes to OPENED. Hood Position CLOSED, AJAR or OPENED is a viewable scan tool parameter.

The battery state of charge is less than 73%. This varies with state of health.

The battery voltage is less than 11V.

An A/C compressor request from the HVAC system. (A/C or Defrost mode request).

The vehicle speed increases.

Brake booster vacuum is less than 6 psi (40 kPa).

The ECT is warmer than 257°F (125°C).

The HVAC system Economy mode has been turned OFF by the driver.
Notice: If the AutoStart crank time exceeds 2 seconds a manual ignition switch restart will be necessary.

The AutoStop time has exceeded 2 minutes.

Driver door is opened and the driver seat belt is unbuckled. (Not applicable to vehicles in North America).

dexos® Engine Oil

Ask for and use engine oils that meet the dexos® specification. Engine oils that have been approved by GM as meeting the dexos® specification are marked
with either of the dexos1® approved logos that are shown. For additional information, visit this General MotorseBay logo website: http://www.gmdexos.com

Viscosity Grade
Use AC Delco dexos1® synthetic blend SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade engine oil.
In an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C) use SAE 0W-30 engine oil. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold
starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures.

Engine Oil Life System
The vehicle features GM’s engine oil life system, which better protects engines by recommending oil changes based on a computer software algorithm using
6

actual engine operating conditions and can save the vehicle owner money by avoiding unnecessary oil changes.

Transmissions
Hydra-Matic™ 6T40 6-Speed Automatic FWD Transmission — RPO MNH

The Hydra-Matic™ 6T40 6-speed automatic transmission comes standard with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.
Six-speed automatic transmissions are integral in GM’s initiative to offer vehicles with excellent fuel economy. The GF-6 family of transmissions are
technologically advanced, fuel-saving 6-speed automatics. Shared traits between the versions – and other Hydra-Matic™ 6-speeds, reduce complexity, size
and mass, including clutch-to-clutch operation that enables the 6-speed to be packaged into approximately the same space of a 4-speed automatic.
This transmission also features Gen 3 upgrades that have been implemented to enhance efficiency. The pump has been moved off-axis, which allows better
sealing of the torque converter, reducing pump flow demands to enhance fuel economy. Additionally, the pump is now a binary vane-type, which allows lower
power consumption during times of lower flow demands and at higher engine speeds. An accumulator is added to the transmission to accommodate the
stop/start system.
The transmission has the following gear ratios:

First: 4.58

Second: 2.96

Third: 1.91

Fourth: 1.45

Fifth: 1.00

Sixth: 0.75

Reverse: 2.94

Final Drive Ratio: 3.23

Aisin AF50-8 8-Speed Automatic FWD Transmission — RPO MRC

7

An all-new 8-speed automatic transmission, which is the first 8-speed automatic in a GM front wheel drive vehicle comes standard with the 2.0L turbocharged
engine and contributes to its balance of performance and efficiency.
The transmission has the following gear ratios:

First: 5.25

Second: 3.03

Third: 1.95

Fourth: 1.45

Fifth: 1.22

Sixth: 1.00

Seventh: 0.81

Eighth: 0.67

Reverse: 4.01

Final Drive Ratio: 3.08

Brakes
This vehicle is equipped with a BoscheBay logo ABS 9.0 brake system. The electronic brake control module (EBCM) and the brake pressure modulator valve are
serviced separately. The brake pressure modulator valve uses a four circuit configuration to control hydraulic pressure to each wheel independently. Vehicles
built with option — RPO FX3 will feature stability enhancement. The following vehicle performance enhancement systems are provided:

12

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TSB/Document ID: 15-NA-085

Replacement Service Bulletin Number:

MFR Communication Date: 2016-07-01

MFR Internal Campaign ID/Software Version:

Communication Type: Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions

NHTSA Components: STRUCTURE

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