What transmission does a Chevy Malibu have?

The transmission in a Chevy Malibu depends on the model year and engine. In modern years, Malibus typically use a 6-speed automatic; earlier generations commonly used a 4-speed automatic. The Malibu has not been offered with a manual transmission in the U.S. for many years.

Over the course of its history, the Malibu’s drivetrain evolved as GM updated its front‑wheel‑drive platforms. As Chevrolet shifted toward newer engines and transmissions, the standard setup moved from four speeds to six, with variations by market and trim. Note that the Malibu was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2023 model year, though used examples remain on the road and their specifications can still vary by year and engine option.

Transmission options by generation

The following overview reflects the most common configurations seen in the United States across the Malibu’s production history. Exact specs can vary by engine, trim, and market, so always confirm with the vehicle’s VIN or owner’s manual.

• Recent Malibu models (roughly 2013–2023) predominantly use a front‑wheel‑drive 6‑speed automatic transmission (GM 6T40/6T45 family) paired with the newer Ecotec engines.


• Earlier Malibu models (late 1990s through the 2000s into the early 2010s) commonly relied on a 4‑speed automatic transmission, with variations depending on the engine and market.


• A manual transmission has not been offered in the United States for the Malibu in modern generations.

Conclusion: If you need the exact transmission type for a specific Malibu, verify the year, trim, engine, and VIN, then consult the owner’s manual or a Chevrolet dealer for precise specifications.

Notes for owners and buyers

Knowing the correct transmission helps with maintenance planning, part compatibility, and diagnosing shifting issues. When evaluating a used Malibu, consider the following:

- Check the service history for transmission fluid changes and any documented repairs or rebuilds.

- Note any symptoms such as hard shifts, slipping, or delayed engagement, which can indicate wear in older 4-speed units or issues in newer 6-speed units.

- Confirm the engine–transmission pairing listed on the window sticker or in the owner's manual to ensure you’re looking at the correct configuration for that year and trim.

Summary

The Chevy Malibu’s transmission has evolved over its generations. Modern models typically employ a 6‑speed automatic, while earlier versions used a 4‑speed automatic. The Malibu has not been offered with a factory manual transmission in the U.S. for many years, and the line was discontinued after the 2023 model year. For any given car, the exact transmission type can vary by year, engine, and market, so verifying with the VIN or official documentation is essential.

Do Chevy Malibus have a CVT transmission?

Yes, most recent Chevy Malibu models have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for their standard 1.5L turbocharged engine, which is designed for fuel efficiency. For models with the more powerful 2.0L engine, a 9-speed automatic transmission is used instead. The CVT was introduced in the 2019 model year, replacing the previous 6-speed automatic for the base engine.
 

• 1.5L Engine: Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for better fuel economy. 
• 2.0L Engine: Available in the Premier trim, this engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. 
• 1.5L Engine introduction: The 2019 model year was when the 1.5L engine started using a CVT, which is now standard on the base engine. 

What kind of transmission is in a Chevy Malibu?

CHEVY DEBUTS NINE-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. Chevrolet is debuting its first nine-speed automatic transmission in the new 2017 Chevrolet Malibu. This new, General Motors-developed Hydra-Matic 9T50 transmission is paired with a 2.0L Turbo engine.

When did Malibu switch to CVT?

2019-2025 Chevrolet Malibu 9th Gen Facelift
Base engines received a CVT in place of the old six-speed automatic in an effort to improve gas mileage, while the 2.0L turbocharged inline-four engine carried over unchanged.

Are Chevy Malibus known for transmission problems?

Yes, the Chevy Malibu has had transmission problems, though the severity and type of issue vary by model year. Older models (2011-2013) have been associated with issues like hard shifting due to a failed transmission fluid pump, while more recent models (2019-2025) have problems with continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) that can cause slipping or a loss of forward gear. Common warning signs across various models include delayed shifts, strange noises, warning lights, and transmission fluid leaks. 
This video explains a common cause of transmission slipping in Chevy Malibus: 58sTransmissions America (John and Eddie) YouTube · Apr 18, 2022
Common transmission problems by model year

• 2011–2013: Hard shifting or difficulty starting due to a broken transmission fluid pump. 
• 2019–2025 (FWD): Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) that may lose forward gear or slip. This can be caused by the clutch regulator valve sticking, potentially leading to damage to the transmission chain, sheaves, or case. 
• 2008 and 2010: Recalls were issued for a defective shift cable that could cause the shifter to slip into park. 
• 2018: A recall was issued for a transmission fluid leak and potential loss of propulsion due to a missing bolt on the start-stop accumulator endcap. 

Common warning signs of transmission problems

• Warning light: A transmission or check engine light is on. 
• Delayed shifting: The vehicle is slow to shift gears or hesitates during shifts. 
• Unusual sounds: Grinding or humming noises when shifting. 
• Shuddering or jerking: The car shakes or jerks during gear changes. 
• Fluid leaks: Reddish-brown fluid leaks under the vehicle. 
• Strange smells: A burning smell can indicate burning transmission fluid. 

What you can do

• Check for recalls: See if your model is affected by any recalls and have the necessary repairs made. 
• Perform regular maintenance: Regularly changing the transmission fluid can help prevent many issues. 
• Address issues promptly: If you experience any of the warning signs, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to prevent more costly damage. 
• Consult the owner's manual: Some issues may be resolved with a software update to the transmission control module (TCM). 
• Get a professional evaluation: If you suspect a problem, a mechanic can use a borescope to check the transmission for internal damage. 

This video discusses potential issues with the Chevy Malibu's transmission before you buy: 58sFixITYouTube · Mar 29, 2024