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What if the drivers seat back of your 1997 Chevrolet Malibu does not recline adjustment is needed to have it move freely?

To adjust or repair a faulty reclining mechanism on a 1997 Chevrolet Malibu's driver's seat, follow these steps:

1. Access the Seat Reclining Mechanism:

- Locate the reclining mechanism lever on the side of the driver's seat.

- If the lever is obstructed, you may need to remove the plastic covers or trim around it to access the mechanism.

- Identify the reclining cable or rails behind the lever (varies based on the seat design).

2. Inspect the Cable:

- Check if the reclining cable is broken or disconnected from its attachments points. Look for frayed or damaged sections of the cable.

3. Tighten the Bolts:

- If you find the cable disconnected or loose, tighten the bolts or screws that secure it to the seat frame.

- Check if the bolts holding the seat rails in place are tight. If loose, tighten them using the appropriate tools.

4. Lubricate the Mechanism:

- Apply a lubricant, such as WD-40, to the reclining mechanism, cable, and rails to reduce friction and smoothen the reclining action.

5. Reconnecting the Cable:

- If the cable is disconnected, reattach it to its intended anchor points on the seat frame. Secure the cable ends with clips, bolts, or hooks provided.

6. Check Cable Routing:

- Make sure the cable routing is correct, making any adjustments if necessary. Ensure that the cable does not get pinched or obstructed by other components.

7. Test and Recalibrate:

- Operate the reclining lever to check if the seatback now reclines smoothly.

- Recalibrate the seat to your preferred position and ensure it locks in place.

8. Reinstall Trim and Covers:

- Replace any covers or trim you removed during the process to restore the seat to its original appearance.

9. Test and Repeat:

- Test the reclining mechanism a few times to ensure that it's working properly.

- If the issue persists or if you encounter any difficulties, seek assistance from a professional mechanic or auto upholstery expert for further diagnosis and repair.