2003 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 227

To check or replace the engine air cleanedfilter, do the following: Automatic Transaxle Fluid It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level. A transaxle fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealership service department and have it repaired as soon as possible. You may also have your fluid level checked by your dealer or service center when you have your oil changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain. When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. Notice: We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-III,because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@-Ill is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 1. Remove the screws that hold the cover on. 2. Lift off the cover. 3. Check or replace the engine air cleaner/filter. See Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 5-88 for replacement part numbers. 4. Put the cover back on tightly. See Using Your Maintenance Schedule on page 6-4 for replacement intervals. Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn't there and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don't drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off. Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, can easily get dirt into yourengine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you'redriving. 5-18