GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Chevrolet 🢒 1998 🢒 Malibu 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Seats 🢒 Driver or Passenger Seat Recliner Actuator Cable Replacement

Removal Procedure
  1. Remove the front seat. Refer to Seat Replacement .
  2. Remove the seat back recliner handle.
  3. Remove the outer trim panel from the seat cushion.
  4. Remove the J-retainers from the front seat cushion cover.

    5. Object Number: 280460 Size: SH
  5. Remove the recliner cable retaining screw (4) from the outboard seat back recliner.
  6. Disconnect the cable from the seat back recliner (5) by rotating the cable downward approximately 90 degrees.

    7. Object Number: 280463 Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the cable (2) from the inboard recliner mechanism (1). Unsnap the cable casing from the inboard seat back recliner. Disconnect the cable by rotating the cable end downward.
  8. Remove the cable (2) from the seat back recliner mechanism (1).

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 280463 Size: SH
  1. Connect the new cable (2) to the inboard recliner mechanism (1).

    2. Object Number: 280460 Size: SH
  2. Connect the cable (2) to the outboard recliner mechanism (5).

    3. Important: Do not apply excessive force in order to remove the slack. This action may partially unlatch the inboard seat back recliner.

  3. Remove the cable slack by pulling rearward on the cable casing.

    4. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  4. Install the recliner cable retaining screw (4).

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the recliner cable retaining screw (4) to 4 N·m (35 lb in).

  5. Inspect the inboard seat back recliner after installing the cable by pulling back and forth on the seat back recliner arm. Ensure that no play is felt.
  6. Inspect the seat back recliner for secure latching.
  7. Install the J-retainers to the front seat cushion cover.
  8. Install the outer trim panel to the seat cushion.
  9. Install the outer trim panel screws.

    10. Tighten
    Tighten the screws to 1 N·m (9 lb in).

  10. Install the seat back recliner handle.
  11. Install the recliner handle screws.

    12. Tighten
    Tighten the screws to 1 N·m (9 lb in).

  12. Install the front seat. Refer to Seat Replacement .