That being said, the general process usually involves these steps:
1. Locate the shift cable: This cable connects the transmission to the shift lever inside the car. It's typically found near the transmission itself, often with some form of linkage or adjustment mechanism.
2. Identify the adjustment mechanism: This might be a nut and bolt, a turnbuckle, or a clamping device. The exact type depends on your specific Malibu's design. Your repair manual will show you exactly where it is.
3. Disconnect the battery's negative terminal: This is a crucial safety precaution to prevent electrical shorts.
4. Check the shift linkage: Inspect the linkage for any binding, damage, or wear. Addressing these issues *before* adjusting the cable is essential.
5. Shift into Park: Ensure the car is firmly parked and the parking brake is engaged.
6. Adjust the cable: This is where the repair manual becomes indispensable. The adjustment involves carefully turning the adjustment mechanism (nut, turnbuckle, etc.) The manual will specify how many turns or how much adjustment is needed to correct the shifting. You'll typically need to check the shifter's position in the car after each small adjustment. Too much adjustment can cause the transmission to not engage gears correctly.
7. Reconnect the battery's negative terminal: After the adjustment is complete.
8. Test drive the vehicle: Carefully test the vehicle to ensure smooth shifting through all gears. If the shifting isn't correct, you may need to make further minor adjustments.
Important Considerations:
* Improper adjustment can damage the transmission: Proceed with caution and refer to a repair manual.
* Transmission issues might not be cable-related: Incorrect shifting could indicate other transmission problems requiring professional attention.
* Safety first: Always work in a well-ventilated area, use jack stands properly, and never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
In short, attempting this without a repair manual is strongly discouraged. The risk of causing more damage outweighs the potential benefit of saving money. If you're not comfortable with this task, take your Malibu to a qualified mechanic. They have the tools, experience, and knowledge to diagnose and fix the problem correctly.
