What oil does Chevy Malibu take?
For the latest Malibu models, Chevrolet specifies Dexos1 Gen 2 certified engine oil with a viscosity of 0W-20, typically a full synthetic. Always verify the exact specification in your owner's manual for your specific engine and model year.
The Chevy Malibu has spanned multiple generations and engine options, which means oil requirements can vary. This article outlines the current guidance for recent models and provides a practical guide to verify the right oil for your vehicle.
Current Malibu oil specification
In the most recent Malibu iterations (commonly sold around 2020–2023), GM/Chevrolet typically prescribes Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 full synthetic engine oil. This combination is designed to meet cold-start performance, fuel efficiency goals, and engine protection for the turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines offered in that period.
- Dexos1 Gen 2 certified 0W-20 synthetic engine oil
- In some older or regional variants, Dexos1 Gen 2 5W-30 may appear as an alternative specification
- Always prefer full synthetic oil that bears the Dexos1 Gen 2 certification for GM engines
Here are the oil options you should know for late-model Malibu vehicles, noting that exact grades can vary by market and year.
In short, for late-model Malibu vehicles, 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen 2 is the standard most widely recommended option. Always confirm the precise grade and certification in your owner's manual or with a Chevrolet dealer.
How to verify your exact oil specification
Because the Malibu has used different engines across generations, the exact oil grade can hinge on your specific model year and engine type. Use these steps to confirm the correct oil for your car.
- Check the owner's manual, under the Engine Oil section, for the official grade (for example, Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20) and any regional notes
- Look at the under-hood oil cap or a label near the engine bay; many GM vehicles print the required oil viscosity and certification there
- Consult Chevrolet's official website or MyChevrolet/Owner Center with your VIN to pull the exact spec for your exact build
- Ask a Chevrolet dealership service advisor or a trusted mechanic to verify the Dexos specification for your engine and year
Use these steps to verify the exact specification for your Malibu:
By verifying the exact spec through one of these sources, you ensure proper lubrication, performance, and warranty compliance for your Malibu.
Maintenance considerations and oil change intervals
Oil type and maintenance intervals are interconnected. Using Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 synthetic oil is common for recent Malibu models, but the recommended change interval can depend on driving conditions, climate, and the vehicle’s usage. Always follow Chevrolet’s maintenance schedule and consider adjusting intervals for severe driving conditions, frequent short trips, or extreme temperatures.
- Follow the manual’s recommended interval, or the service indicator if equipped
- Consider more frequent changes if you drive in extreme heat, cold, dusty conditions, or engage in stop-and-go driving
- Ensure the service shop uses Dexos1 Gen 2 0W-20 synthetic oil or the exact approved grade for your model
Before you plan an oil change, keep these considerations in mind:
Sticking to the correct oil type and maintenance interval helps protect your engine, maintain performance, and safeguard warranty coverage.
Summary
For the latest Chevy Malibu models, the default guidance is Dexos1 Gen 2 certified 0W-20 synthetic oil. Older or regional variants may use different grades such as 5W-30, so the definitive source is your vehicle’s owner's manual or a Chevrolet dealer. Always verify the exact specification for your engine and year, use the correct Dexos-certified oil, and adhere to the recommended maintenance schedule to ensure optimal engine health.
What oil does a 2015 Chevy Malibu take?
The 2015 Chevy Malibu typically uses SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil, although some engines, like the 1.5L, may specify 0W-20. It is crucial to consult your owner's manual for the exact recommendation based on your specific engine, as it may require a different oil viscosity and a specific GM dexos1 specification for optimal performance and warranty coverage.
Recommended oil type
- Engine: For the 2.0L engine, the recommended oil is SAE 5W-30 full synthetic.
- Engine: For the 1.5L engine, the recommendation is 0W-20 full synthetic.
- Specification: Chevy recommends oil that meets the GM dexos1 Gen 3 standard.
- Capacity: Most engines require approximately 5 quarts of oil.
How to confirm the correct oil
- Check the owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for your specific vehicle's requirements.
- Look on the oil filler cap: The correct viscosity grade is often printed on the cap itself.
- Consult the driver's information center: The car's on-board computer may display the recommended oil type.
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 2014 Chevy Malibu take?
A 2014 Chevy Malibu generally takes 5W-30 or 5W-20 full synthetic oil, but the exact type depends on the engine, and the specific recommendation should always be confirmed in the owner's manual. For engines requiring 5W-20, you can also use 0W-20 as a service fill.
Engine oil recommendations
- For the 2.5L I4 engine: The recommended oil is 5W-20 Dexos approved, and you can also use 0W-20 as an alternative.
- For other engines: Your specific engine configuration may call for a different oil. Some sources suggest 5W-30 for 1.5L or 2.0L engines.
- High-mileage engines: If your engine has over 75,000 miles, consider using a high-mileage formula, which can offer additional protection.
- Confirmation is key: Always check your owner's manual to confirm the exact type, weight, and specification (like the GM Dexos standard) for your specific vehicle.
What kind of oil do I need for a 2017 Chevy Malibu?
The 2017 Chevy Malibu oil type depends on the engine: use 0W-20 full synthetic oil for the 1.5L engine, and 5W-30 full synthetic oil for the 2.0L engine. You should always consult your owner's manual for the specific recommendation for your vehicle. General Motors also recommends using an oil that meets the dexos1 full synthetic standard.
- For the 1.5L engine: Use 0W-20 full synthetic oil.
- For the 2.0L engine: Use 5W-30 full synthetic oil.
- General recommendation: Opt for a full synthetic oil that meets the dexos1 standard for the best engine protection and longevity.
