Does a 2013 Chevy Malibu have a fuel pressure regulator?
The quick answer is that there isn’t a traditional external fuel pressure regulatorMounted on the engine. The 2013 Malibu uses a returnless fuel system, with the regulator function embedded in the fuel pump module in the fuel tank, and the engine computer actively maintaining the rail pressure.
In more detail, GM redesigned many late-model fuel systems to be returnless to reduce evaporative emissions and heat in the fuel lines. In this setup, there is no separate regulator attached to the fuel rail under the hood. Instead, the fuel pump module inside the tank regulates pressure, and a rail pressure sensor feeds data to the powertrain control module (PCM), which adjusts pump output to hold the desired pressure, typically around the mid-50s to low-60s psi depending on engine variant and operating conditions.
How the fuel pressure system is regulated in the Malibu
Key points about where the regulator sits and how it is controlled.
- Returnless design: No return line from the engine to the tank. The system maintains pressure by controlling the pump and regulating flow in the tank.
- Regulator location: The regulatory mechanism is inside the fuel pump module located in the fuel tank, not on the engine’s intake or fuel rail.
- Rail pressure sensing: A fuel rail pressure sensor monitors how much pressure is actually in the rail and reports it to the PCM.
- PCM control: The PCM modulates the fuel pump’s output to achieve and maintain the target rail pressure within a narrow range (approximately 58–62 psi for many 2.5L/2.4L configurations).
- Service implications: Because regulation is integrated with the pump, a faulty regulator effecting pressure typically means replacing the pump module rather than a separate regulator valve.
In short, there isn’t a traditional external regulator on the engine; the pump module in the tank handles regulation, and the PCM ensures the correct pressure is maintained for proper engine performance.
Troubleshooting fuel pressure in a 2013 Malibu
When diagnosing fuel pressure issues, keep in mind the regulator is inside the pump module. The steps below help identify whether the problem lies with the pump, sensors, or wiring.
- Check for codes related to fuel pressure (for example P0087/P0088 on some vehicles) and review live data for rail pressure.
- Measure rail pressure with an appropriate gauge to confirm it stays within the expected range (roughly 58–62 psi for many configurations) under various loads and temperatures.
- Inspect the fuel pump module connections and wiring to the fuel pressure sensor and pump itself for corrosion, damage, or loose connectors.
- Consider the fuel filter (if applicable) and overall fuel delivery to rule out restrictions that could affect pressure.
- If pressure cannot be maintained, replacement of the fuel pump module is often required since the regulator is integrated into that assembly.
Note that these steps are general guidelines. Always consult the specific service information for your exact engine variant and model year to confirm the target pressures and diagnostic procedures.
Summary
For the 2013 Chevy Malibu, there is no conventional external fuel pressure regulator you can find on the engine. The vehicle uses a returnless fuel system with the regulator integrated into the fuel pump module in the tank. The PCM controls the pump to maintain the proper rail pressure, monitored by a rail pressure sensor. If you suspect fuel pressure issues, diagnostics typically focus on the pump module, sensor wiring, and the pressure readings rather than an external regulator valve.
