Chevrolet 2001 Malibu Owner's Manual page 249

6-10
3. Lift the hood, release the
hood prop rod from its
retainer and put the hood
prop into the slot
marked PROP ROD.
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on
properly. Lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood
prop. Then let the hood drop from about 8 to 12 inches
(20 to 30 cm) above the vehicle to latch fully. Check to
make sure the hood is closed and repeat the procedure
if necessary.