How many quarts of transmission fluid does a Chevy Malibu take?
The Malibu typically requires about 12 to 14 quarts of automatic transmission fluid for a full drain-and-fill, with exact numbers varying by model year and transmission code. For precise figures, consult the owner's manual or a GM service bulletin specific to your car.
Transmission options and what that means for capacity
Across its modern generations, the Malibu has used several GM automatic transmissions. The total fluid required depends on which transmission is in the car, as well as whether you’re draining only the pan or performing a full system replacement (including the torque converter and cooler lines). The figures below reflect typical ranges you’ll encounter when servicing common Malibu automatics.
Typical capacity figures you may see when performing a full transmission service:
- Pan capacity (draining only the pan): about 7–9 quarts
- Total system capacity (pan plus torque converter and lines): about 12–14 quarts
- Recommended fluid type for most modern GM automatics: Dexron VI
Note: these values are approximate and can vary by year, transmission code, and whether you replace the torque converter or perform a complete flush. Always verify against your specific vehicle information.
Estimating the exact amount for your year and transmission
To nail down the correct quantity for your Malibu, you’ll want to identify the exact transmission in your car and refer to official specifications. The numbers below provide a framework but may not apply to every model year or trim.
Guidance by generation and typical transmission family
Recent Malibu models commonly use a GM 6-speed automatic transmission family. For a full drain-and-fill on these units, plan for roughly 12–14 quarts, with about 7–9 quarts remaining in the pan when drained. If you are doing a simple pan drain and refill rather than a full system service, you’ll typically be adding back around 7–9 quarts to restore the pan level, depending on how much fluid was removed and how long you drive before checking the level.
How to determine the exact capacity for your vehicle
If you want the precise figure for your exact Malibu, here’s how to confirm it with confidence.
- Check the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s service information for the transmission code and capacity.
- Identify your transmission type/code (often stamped on the transmission itself or listed on the build sheet).
- Consult GM’s official service portal or the workshop manual for the code’s specified capacity and procedure.
- When performing a service, determine whether you are doing a pan drain/refill or a full system replacement (including the torque converter), as this changes the total quarts needed.
Always use the recommended Dexron VI fluid or the OEM-recommended specification for your specific transmission, and avoid overfilling, which can cause shifting issues and foaming.
Summary
For most modern Chevy Malibu models with automatic transmissions, you should expect to replace roughly 12–14 quarts of fluid for a full service, with about 7–9 quarts reflected in the pan if you’re only draining and refilling. Exact figures vary by year and the specific transmission code, so verify with the owner’s manual or GM service information for your car. When in doubt, consult a qualified technician to confirm the proper procedure and capacity for your vehicle.
