What kind of oil does a Chevy Malibu use?

Most Chevy Malibu models use Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, with 0W-20 or 5W-30 depending on the engine and climate. Always check the owner's manual or under-hood label for your exact specification.

Oil specifications by engine and year

Because the Malibu has spanned multiple generations with different engines, the exact oil type can vary. The following guidelines cover common configurations found in recent years and note where specifics should be confirmed.

Common oil specs for Malibu engines

• Modern Malibu with 1.5L turbo (2016–present): Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, typically 0W-20. This grade supports fuel efficiency and cold-start performance.


• Modern Malibu with 2.0L turbo (LTG, 2016–present): Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, commonly 5W-30. Turbocharged engines may use this viscosity in warmer climates and higher loads.


• Older Malibu models (pre-2016) with larger four-cylinders or V6 options: Oil viscosities around 5W-30 were commonly used, sometimes under Dexos1 Gen 2 or the GM specification active at the time. Always verify for your exact year and engine.

Note: The above ranges reflect typical configurations. Always confirm with the manual or a Chevrolet dealer to ensure you use the exact grade and specification for your model year and engine.

How to confirm your exact spec

To avoid missteps, use these steps to confirm the right oil for your Malibu:

• Check the owner's manual under the Lubrication or Specifications section for the exact Dexos specification and viscosity.


• Look at a sticker under the hood on the engine bay or near the radiator support listing the required oil type and viscosity.


• If in doubt, contact a Chevrolet dealer or refer to GM's Dexos1 Gen 2 specification for your VIN.

Concluding paragraph: When in doubt, rely on the official documentation or a trusted dealership to ensure you use the precise oil grade for your specific model year and engine.

Summary

In short, most Chevrolet Malibu engines use Dexos1 Gen 2 synthetic oil, with 0W-20 being common for newer 1.5L turbo variants and 5W-30 for many 2.0L turbo configurations. Always verify with the owner's manual, under-hood label, or a Chevrolet dealer to ensure you use the exact grade and specification for your year and engine.

What kind of oil does a 2013 Chevy Malibu take?

The recommended oil for a 2013 Chevy Malibu is a 5W-30 or 0W-20 full synthetic oil that meets the GM dexos1 specification. The 5W-20 and 0W-20 viscosity grades are recommended for all temperatures, while 0W-30 may be used in colder climates below -29∘Cnegative 29 raised to the composed with power cap C−29∘𝐶. 
Oil specifications

• Viscosity: 5W-30 is the most common recommendation for the 2.0L engine, while 0W-20 is often recommended for the 1.5L engine. 
• Type: Full synthetic oil is recommended for improved engine protection and longer intervals between changes. 
• Specification: Always use oil that meets the GM dexos1 specification. 

Additional tips

• Check the owner's manual: For the most accurate recommendation, always consult your owner's manual or check the oil life monitor in your vehicle's driver information center. 
• Oil capacity: A 4-cylinder engine typically requires about 5 quarts of oil. 
• Oil filter: Use a new, high-quality oil filter with each oil change. 
• Switching to synthetic: It is safe to switch from conventional to full synthetic oil, and it can lead to better engine performance and reduced maintenance over time. 

Can I use 5W-30 in my Chevy Malibu?

Your ideal Chevy Malibu oil type will differ depending on the engine setup. A Malibu with a 1.5L engine configuration will require 0W-20 full synthetic oil. However, a Malibu equipped with a 2.0L engine configuration will require 5W-30.

What kind of oil does a 2010 Chevy Malibu take?

The recommended oil for a 2010 Chevy Malibu is typically 5W-30 full synthetic oil, such as the manufacturer-recommended ACDelco dexos1. Other recommended viscosities may include 0W-30 for colder climates. It is always best to confirm the exact type with your owner's manual or the information center on the dashboard, as it can vary based on the specific engine. 
Recommended oil

• For most conditions: 5W-30 full synthetic oil is the most common recommendation. 
• For cold climates: 0W-30 full synthetic is recommended for frigid winters. 
• Manufacturer-specific oil: Chevrolet recommends using the ACDelco dexos1 full synthetic oil for optimal performance and protection. 

What to do before changing the oil

• Check your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle's needs. 
• Verify the engine: The oil type can depend on whether you have the 4-cylinder or 6-cylinder engine. 
• Confirm the capacity: The oil capacity is typically 5 quarts with a filter change, but always double-check your manual. 

What kind of oil does a 2016 Chevy Malibu take?

A 2016 Chevy Malibu typically takes 0W-20 or 5W-30 full synthetic oil, depending on the engine. The specific type depends on your engine size, so it's best to check the owner's manual or the vehicle's oil cap for the precise recommendation and ensure the oil meets the GM dexos1 specification.
 
Oil type by engine

• 1.5L Turbocharged: Takes 5W-30 full synthetic oil. 
• 1.8L or other configurations: Take 0W-20 full synthetic oil. 

Important considerations

• Always check your owner's manual: The most accurate information will be in your car's owner's manual or on the oil filler cap. 
• Use full synthetic oil: Full synthetic oil is generally recommended for the 2016 Malibu for better performance and longevity, especially in varying temperatures. 
• Meet GM dexos1 specification: Ensure the oil you choose meets the GM dexos1 specification for your vehicle.