The wiring is as follows:
* Distributor Cap: Wires from the cap run to each spark plug. The order of these wires is crucial and specific to the engine's firing order (which you'd need to look up in a repair manual for your specific year and engine code). Getting this wrong will result in misfires or no start.
* Ignition Coil: The coil receives 12V from the ignition switch, but only fires when triggered by the distributor's electronic module (often called an ignition control module or ICM).
* Ignition Control Module (ICM): This module receives signals from the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) and camshaft position sensor (CMP) to determine when to fire the coil. It's often located near the distributor.
* Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): Provides the engine's rotational speed and position to the ICM.
* Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP): Provides the camshaft's position to the ICM for precise timing.
* Power: The coil receives power from the ignition switch, usually via a fuse. This often passes through the ICM.
In short: You don't have individual coil packs per plug. There's one coil, and wiring runs from it (via the distributor cap) to each spark plug. The ICM controls when the coil fires based on engine position sensor inputs.
To understand your specific wiring: You absolutely need a wiring diagram for your *exact* year and model Malibu. This diagram will show you the precise color codes and routing of all the wires. You can find these diagrams in:
* Repair Manuals: Haynes, Chilton, or factory service manuals are excellent resources.
* Online Resources: Some websites (like websites specific to GM vehicles) may have wiring diagrams, but be cautious of their accuracy.
Attempting to work on the ignition system without a proper wiring diagram is strongly discouraged, as incorrect wiring can damage components or even cause a fire.
