1997 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 323

Ignition TransaxleLock Check While parked, and with parking brake set, try to turn the the ignition key to in each shift lever position. OFF The key should turn toOFF only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). On all vehicles, the key should come out onlyOFF. in Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on regular brake, setthe the parking brake. To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and transaxle NEUTRAL (N), in slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only. To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then release all brakes. Underbody FlushingService When you are doing thischeck, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others couldbe injured and property could be damaged. Make sure thereis room in frontof your vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake atonce should the vehicle begin to move. At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take to care clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris can collect. 7-40