Fitment notes: Diesel engine requires higher CCA rating; side post terminals standard on GM vehicles of this era
As an Amazon Associate, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.
Every control module on the 1984-1987 Chevrolet Malibu — where it lives, replacement time, and what it takes to program a replacement. Modules marked dealer / factory tool won't work after a part swap alone — budget for programming.
📍 Behind right side of instrument panel, above passenger footwell
🔧 PROM chip replacement
⚠️ PROM chip must be transferred or replaced. 1984-1985 use 160-baud ALDL; 1986-1987 use 8,192-baud ALDL with 12-pin square OBD-I connector. Most engines now fuel-injected.
Radio Module (RAD)0.8 hr R&Rno coding
📍 Center of instrument panel
⚠️ Standalone unit with no integration to other modules.
Aftermarket tool coverage varies by software version and vehicle build — treat "aftermarket tool" rows as "usually possible" and verify against your tool maker's coverage list before promising a customer. Spot a wrong location or hour? Tell us — corrections ship fast here.
Size-standard part numbers — verify your connector type before buying. Rear blades are model-specific; check the package's vehicle list.
Fuel economy figures are EPA data via fueleconomy.gov (median across matching trims). Performance figures are compiled estimates for the 1985 Chevrolet Malibu 350ci V8 Diesel and can vary by trim.
🔧 Database maintained under the daily editorial review of Chris Hackleman · Master Technician · 20+ years and Jeff Moore · Master Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years.