What kind of battery does a 2018 Chevy Malibu take?
When it comes to maintaining your 2018 Chevy Malibu, ensuring you have the correct battery is crucial for optimal performance. In this article, we’ll explore the type of battery your Malibu requires, why it’s important to choose the right one, and some tips for maintaining your car battery to extend its lifespan.
The Recommended Battery for a 2018 Chevy Malibu
The 2018 Chevy Malibu typically requires a Group Size H6 (also known as 48H6) battery. This is a 12-volt battery with a Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating of around 730, which is suitable for the Malibu’s engine and electrical systems. It’s important to ensure the battery you choose meets or exceeds the manufacturer’s specifications for CCA and reserve capacity.
Why Choosing the Right Battery Matters
Using the correct battery for your vehicle is essential for several reasons:
- Optimal Performance: The right battery ensures your car starts reliably and powers all electrical components effectively.
- Longevity: A battery that matches your car’s specifications is less likely to fail prematurely.
- Warranty Compliance: Using a battery that meets manufacturer recommendations helps maintain your vehicle’s warranty.
By selecting the appropriate battery, you can avoid potential issues such as starting problems or electrical malfunctions.
Tips for Maintaining Your Chevy Malibu’s Battery
To get the most out of your car battery, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them as needed.
- Secure Connections: Ensure the battery is securely mounted and the connections are tight.
- Avoid Draining: Turn off lights and accessories when the engine is off to prevent unnecessary battery drain.
- Test the Battery: Have the battery tested periodically, especially before extreme weather seasons.
- Drive Regularly: Driving your car regularly helps keep the battery charged.
Proper maintenance can significantly extend the life of your battery and ensure your Chevy Malibu runs smoothly.
Conclusion
The 2018 Chevy Malibu requires a Group Size H6 battery, which provides the necessary power and reliability for your vehicle. By choosing the correct battery and following simple maintenance practices, you can ensure your car remains dependable for years to come. If you’re unsure about which battery to purchase or need assistance with installation, don’t hesitate to visit your trusted auto repair shop for expert advice and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of battery does a 2018 Chevy Malibu have?
A lead-acid gel cell battery.
How do I know what size battery I need?
Choosing the Right Battery Size
Always refer to your vehicle's manual or manufacturer's recommendation to find the appropriate BCI group size. Using the wrong size could lead to poor connections, faster-than-normal degradation, or even damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
Does a 2018 Chevy Malibu have two batteries?
The 2016 and newer Malibu 1.5T (gen9) do not have an aux battery. It is a one battery system. Certain gen8 models (2013-2016 Malibu Limited) have the original 2 battery system.
What is the correct battery for my car?
Check the Owner's Manual: The battery section of your car's manual will list the recommended BCI Group Size and minimum CCA. Look at the Existing Battery: The current battery's Group Size is often labeled on the top label or front of the battery. Be sure to verify that it meets your vehicle's requirements.
Why does Chevy Malibu have two batteries?
There's the primary battery under the hood, but there's also an auxiliary battery. These are used to power other systems on the car that require 12 volts of power, and which the alternator is not capable of powering directly.
How do I know if my 2018 Chevy Malibu battery is bad?
Here are a few tips from your Chevy dealer about the signs to watch for, that let you know you might need a new car battery.
- Slow Engine Crank.
- Dimming Headlights.
- Electrical Issues.
- Dashboard Warning Light.
- Old Age.
- Corrosion and Leaking.
- Clicking Sound.
- Difficulty Starting in Cold Weather.
What brand of battery does Chevy use?
ACDelco Batteries
ACDelco Batteries: The Only Batteries Backed by GM. THE RECOMMENDED CHOICE FOR GENERAL MOTORS VEHICLES AND MOST MAKES AND MODELS. ACDelco Batteries aren't just the go-to battery for GM vehicles. Our batteries have been reliably serving most makes and models for years.
How much does it cost to replace the battery in a 2018 Chevy Malibu?
Labor costs are estimated between $44 and $56 while parts are typically priced around $302. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What does the auxiliary battery do in a Chevy Malibu?
The auxiliary battery powers systems and accessories that need 12 volts of power. These include headlights, audio systems, computer controls, and accessory systems. Unfortunately, like every battery, auxiliary batteries will fail and wear out. You will need to replace it.
How do I know what battery capacity I need?
Calculate Energy Consumption
This calculation gives you an estimate of how much energy the battery needs to provide to meet your equipment's demands. For example, if your equipment requires 10W of power and you want it to run for 8 hours, the energy consumption is 10W × 8 hours = 80Wh.
