How do I tell what engine my Malibu has?
If you own a Chevy Malibu, it's important to know which engine your vehicle is equipped with. This information can be crucial for maintenance, repairs, and understanding your car's performance capabilities. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to identify the engine in your Malibu.
Locate the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
The first step is to find the VIN of your Malibu. The VIN is a unique 17-digit code that identifies your specific vehicle. You can typically find the VIN on the driver's side dashboard, the driver's side door jamb, or in the owner's manual.
Decode the VIN
Once you have the VIN, you can use it to determine the engine in your Malibu. The eighth digit of the VIN represents the engine code. Here are the common engine codes for the Chevy Malibu:
- L4 - 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
- LCV - 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
- LFV - 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
- LFX - 3.6L V6 engine
You can find a detailed VIN decoder online to help you interpret the engine code for your specific Malibu model.
Check the Engine Specifications Plate
Another way to determine the engine in your Malibu is to locate the engine specifications plate. This plate is typically located on the engine block or the firewall and will provide the exact engine displacement and other details.
Consult the Owner's Manual
If you have access to your Malibu's owner's manual, it should contain information about the engine that came with your specific model and trim level.
Knowing the engine in your Chevy Malibu is important for maintaining and understanding your vehicle. By following these steps, you can easily identify the engine and ensure you have the right information for your car.
What engine is a Chevy Malibu?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Unlike many other family sedans, the Malibu is only available with a single powertrain: a dutiful 163-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through a CVT.
Can the VIN number tell me what engine I have?
Can my VIN number tell me what engine I have? Yes. Characters 4-8 on a given VIN denotes the vehicle's manufacturer, engine size, and type.
Is a Chevy Malibu LT a 4 or 6 cylinder?
Unlike many other family sedans, the Malibu is only available with a single powertrain: a dutiful 163-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through a CVT.
How do I tell what engine is in my Malibu?
CHEVROLET MALIBU VIN check: what can you find out? The first three characters are in the center of the 17-character alphanumeric VIN and indicate the country of origin and manufacturer information. Characters four through eight indicate the size and specifications of the engine, as well as the type of vehicle.
How do you check engine by VIN number?
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Step-by-Step Guide to Decoding Your VIN: Locate your VIN: The VIN can typically be found on the dashboard, visible through the windscreen, or on the inside of the driver's side door frame. Find the 8th digit: The eighth digit in the VIN refers to the engine code.
How do I identify my LS engine?
To get the right parts, you need to know which version of the LS you are starting with. The easiest way to tell the difference is to check the 8th digit of the VIN code on the original vehicle.
How do I know if my Chevy Malibu is an LT or LS?
The Difference Between LS and LT
In the beginning, LS stood for “Luxury Sport,” but now it's often the name of the base Chevy trim level, which also means it's the most affordable. LT stands for “Luxury Touring,” and it's usually the next step up from the base level.
How do I know if I have a LS or LT engine?
The best way to determine which engine you have is from the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the original vehicle. Locate the 8th digit of the VIN. Consult the tables below to identify your engine.
Which digit in a VIN number is for the engine?
The second character denote the manufacturer. The third character tells you the vehicle type or division. The fourth through the eighth characters tell you the vehicle brand, body style, engine size and type, model, and series.
How do I find my engine model?
The engine type code is stamped into the side of the engine, usually close to the serial number. Engine type codes may be up to 4 characters.
