How big is a Chevy Malibu gas tank?
The gas tank in a Chevy Malibu is typically around 15.8 gallons, with some older or higher-capacity configurations capable of about 18.5 gallons. Exact capacity varies by model year and trim, so the precise figure for your car should be checked on the door sticker or in the owner's manual.
Tank sizes across Malibu generations
Here is a snapshot of the range you might encounter, reflecting how tank capacity has varied as the Malibu evolved.
- Common modern Malibu models often use a 15.8-gallon (about 60 liters) fuel tank.
- Some older or larger-engine configurations may have tanks up to about 18.5 gallons (roughly 70 liters).
- Exact capacity depends on engine, transmission, and market specifications; always verify for your specific vehicle.
To confirm the exact figure for your car, refer to the door jamb placard or the owner's manual, which list the official fuel tank capacity for your trim and year.
How to determine the exact capacity for your Malibu
If you want to know the precise size for your specific vehicle, follow these steps.
- Inspect the driver's door jamb placard for the fuel tank capacity; GM vehicles often include this data on the label near the latch.
- Check the owner's manual in the Specifications section under Fuel System or Fuel Tank Capacity.
- Use Chevrolet's official resources or a VIN-based spec lookup to pull the exact tank size for your year and trim.
- When in doubt, contact a Chevrolet dealership's service department with your VIN to obtain the precise figure.
Knowing the exact capacity helps with trip planning, fuel budgeting, and understanding range estimates for your specific Malibu.
Practical notes for drivers
While the tank size provides a baseline, real-world range depends on driving conditions, maintenance, and driving style. Always rely on your vehicle’s displayed range and fuel economy data rather than assuming based solely on tank capacity.
Summary
The Chevy Malibu generally carries about 15.8 gallons of fuel, with some configurations capable of around 18.5 gallons. Because tank size varies by generation, trim, and engine, verify the exact figure for your car using the door placard, the owner's manual, or an official VIN-based specification look-up. This ensures accurate planning for long trips and fuel budgeting.
