Chevrolet 2002 Malibu Owner's Manual page 241

2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and lift
the secondary hood release handle before lifting
the hood.
6-10
4. 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.
3. Lift the hood.