What kind of coolant does a 2017 Chevy Malibu take?
The 2017 Chevy Malibu uses Dex-Cool Extended Life coolant (the orange GM formulation) in a 50/50 mix with distilled water, or a premixed 50/50 version. Do not substitute green or non-GM-approved coolants unless GM explicitly approves them.
This article explains the coolant type, why GM specifies Dex-Cool for the Malibu, how to mix and replace it correctly, and common pitfalls to avoid. It also points to the owner’s manual and dealership guidance for engine-variant specifics.
What coolant to use in a 2017 Malibu
GM’s Dex-Cool Extended Life coolant is the standard for the Malibu and most GM vehicles built after 2007. It is an orange, silicate-free HOAT formulation designed for aluminum cooling systems and longer service intervals. You can use either a concentrated Dex-Cool that you mix with distilled water to achieve a 50/50 ratio, or a ready-to-use premixed 50/50 Dex-Cool solution. Always ensure the product is explicitly labeled as Dex-Cool or GM-approved for GM vehicles.
Note: Verify the exact specification for your specific engine variant (for example, 1.5L or 2.0L Turbo) in the owner's manual or with a Chevrolet dealer, and avoid mixing Dex-Cool with non-GM-approved coolants.
Before you replace or top off coolant
Before you replace or top off coolant, confirm the correct type and mixture for your Malibu. Using the wrong coolant or an incompatible mix can cause corrosion, deposits, or cooling-system failure.
- Dex-Cool Extended Life coolant (orange) or GM-approved equivalents labeled for GM vehicles
- A 50/50 mixture with distilled water if using concentrate; premixed 50/50 is also acceptable
- Do not use green, blue, or universal coolant unless GM explicitly approves it for your vehicle
- Ensure the coolant meets the vehicle’s specification and is compatible with aluminum engine components
- Check the production date or expiry on the coolant container and store correctly when not in use
Using a coolant that is not Dex-Cool or not GM-approved can lead to corrosion, deposits, and potential warranty issues, so verify the specification before purchase.
How to perform a coolant top-off or replacement
Follow these steps to add or replace coolant. The Malibu cooling system is pressurized; only open the reservoir cap once the engine is completely cool. If replacing coolant, you may need to bleed air from the system as described in the owner’s manual.
- Let the engine cool completely before opening the reservoir or radiator cap.
- Locate the coolant reservoir and check the level against the min/max marks.
- Pour the appropriate Dex-Cool into the reservoir to reach the full mark. If using concentrate, mix with distilled water to a 50/50 ratio before pouring.
- Run the engine and allow the thermostat to open, then recheck the level and top up if needed.
- Dispose of used coolant at a proper recycling facility; never pour it down the drain.
Bleed or follow any manufacturer-specified steps for air removal, and ensure the cooling system is tight and free of leaks before driving the vehicle.
Where to find official guidance
For the exact specification, capacity, and any variant-specific notes, consult the 2017 Malibu owner’s manual or Chevrolet service resources. A Chevrolet dealer can confirm Dex-Cool compatibility for your engine variant and provide the correct part numbers.
Summary
The 2017 Chevy Malibu requires Dex-Cool Extended Life coolant (orange), used in a 50/50 mix with distilled water or as premixed 50/50. Do not use green or universal coolants unless GM explicitly approves them. Always verify the exact specification in the owner's manual for your engine variant and follow proper mixing, bleeding, and disposal procedures to maintain cooling-system health.
