Chevy Malibu Oil Type

Taking care of your Chevrolet Malibu means staying on top of oil changes. Having the right oil and replacing it regularly helps your engine run smoothly and prevents potentially expensive repairs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your Chevrolet Malibu oil type, including what oil to use and when and how to change it for the best results.

Recommended Oil Types for the Chevrolet Malibu

Chevy recommends SAE 0W-30 ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic oil as the ideal Malibu oil type. You should always check your owner’s manual to see what oil type and viscosity Chevy has recommended for your specific make and model. You can also find the oil recommendation written on the oil cap inside your engine bay. Generally, Chevrolet recommends 4.2 quarts of 0W-20 dexos1 full synthetic oil for a Malibu with a 1.5-liter engine or 5 quarts of 5W-30 dexos1 oil for one with a 2.0-liter engine.

The Consequences of Using Incorrect Oil or Delaying Oil Changes

Engine oil lubricates the pistons in your engine as they move up and down. If you wait too long to change your Malibu oil, your engine pistons can overheat and warp. If the damage is beyond repair, you may need to get a brand-new engine or even a new car if the replacement cost is too high. We recommend changing your synthetic oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or once or twice a year. If you’re using conventional oil, we recommend changing it more often — every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

How To Change Your Chevrolet Malibu’s Oil

Changing the oil in your Chevy yourself is possible, but most customers prefer to have it done by professionals. It’s a messy job that requires skill and, ideally, a vehicle lift to access the area beneath the car. Our team at Pride Chevrolet will drain your existing oil and replace it within an hour. Here’s a step-by-step guide to do it at home:

1. Place a drain pan or bucket under your Chevy to collect the old oil.
2. Loosen the drain plug underneath the vehicle.
3. Let the oil drain out until the dripping stops.
4. Look at the condition of your drain pan bolt and replace it if necessary.
5. Replace the gasket with a new one.
6. Prep the new oil filter by rubbing fresh oil around the gasket.
7. Fill the new filter with fresh oil.
8. Go back under the car and clean the area with a rag.
9. Put the drain plug back in and tighten it.
10. Place your drain pan below the old filter and open it to let the old oil drain out.
11. Remove the old oil filter, ideally using a 90-degree oil filter wrench.
12. Clean it with a rag after it’s finished draining.
13. Install the new filter in place.
14. Wipe any oil off the surrounding components.
15. Use the dipstick to check your oil level.

Chevrolet Malibu Oil FAQ

Here are the answers to some common questions about changing your Chevrolet Malibu’s oil:

How Often Should I Check the Oil on a Chevrolet Malibu?

You should check the oil every 400 miles and make sure the engine is turned off for at least two hours beforehand.

How Do I Check the Oil?

Open the hood of your Chevy and locate the dipstick, a long metal rod with a yellow handle. It’s usually located on the driver’s side of the engine bay.

Pull the dipstick out and wipe the oil off with a rag to get a clean reading. Then, put the dipstick back in and push it all the way down. Take it out and read the oil level. The rod usually contains two dots: one higher up the rod and another lower down. Ideally, you want your oil to be between those dots. If it’s below the lower dot, you’re very low on oil. Add more oil until it gets close to the higher dot.

How Do I Add Oil to a Chevrolet Malibu?

Open up the hood of the car. On the driver’s side, you’ll see a black cap, usually to the left of the dipstick. Turn it and take it off. You’ll see the type of oil written on the oil cap. Fill it up with new oil, replace the cap, and recheck the level.

Why Should I Use Synthetic Oil for a Chevrolet Malibu?

Synthetic oil lasts longer, handles hot and cold temperatures better, and has cleansers and additives that keep your engine in better shape. You may save money using synthetic oil, as you don’t need to replace it nearly as often.

How Do I Know When I Need To Change My Oil?

Many new Chevrolets are equipped with GM’s Oil Life System, which tells you when to change your oil based on your vehicle’s age, driving habits, and road conditions. Those without this system should bring their car in for service at the 3,000-mile mark.

Why Should I Change My Oil Filter?

Changing your oil filter regularly helps your engine last longer and avoids expensive repairs. You’ll find the recommended service interval for your oil filter in your owner’s manual.

Visit Pride Chevrolet for Assistance

If you need help changing the oil in your Chevrolet Malibu, stop by Pride Chevrolet in Lynn, Massachusetts, for a certified oil change. Our Chevy-trained technicians can ensure the oil is circulating at a normal operating temperature, there are no engine leaks or burns, and your engine has the right oil filtration and oil levels.

We’ll replace the old oil in your Malibu. We’ll also check your wiper blades, brakes, battery, fluids, and the condition, balance, and alignment of your tires to give you the best value for money. Contact us to schedule a service today.

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