2015 Chevrolet Malibu: Towing Capacity & Payload

The 2015 Chevrolet Malibu was not designed, tested, or rated for towing trailers by Chevrolet. Officially, its maximum towing capacity is zero pounds, and the owner's manual explicitly advises against it. While the Malibu is a capable and comfortable mid-size sedan, its unibody construction, powertrain, and braking systems are not equipped for the unique stresses of pulling a trailer.

Quick Answer: 2015 Malibu Weight & Load Specs

Because the Malibu is not intended for towing, Chevrolet does not provide official tow ratings, tow package details, or a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). The following specifications are for vehicle loading only.

• Maximum Towing Capacity: 0 lbs (Not Recommended by Manufacturer)
• Maximum Payload Capacity: ~850-950 lbs (varies by trim, verify on door jamb sticker)
• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): ~4,400 lbs (varies by trim)
• Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR): Not Applicable
• Curb Weight: ~3,393 to 3,635 lbs (varies by engine and trim)
• Hitch Receiver Class: Not Applicable (Aftermarket Class I for accessories only)

Tow Ratings by Engine & Trim

There are no official tow ratings for any trim level or engine configuration of the 2015 Chevrolet Malibu. Towing with any Malibu model is not recommended and can result in significant damage to the vehicle and void the factory warranty.

Note: Payload capacity is an estimate. Always refer to the "Tire and Loading Information" sticker on your vehicle's driver-side door jamb for the exact combined weight of occupants and cargo that should not be exceeded.

Tow Package Contents

Chevrolet does not offer a factory tow package for the 2015 Malibu. Vehicles rated for towing from the factory are typically equipped with essential components to handle the extra load and heat generated by pulling a trailer, such as:

• Heavy-duty engine and transmission coolers
• An integrated trailer brake controller
• Pre-wiring for a 7-pin trailer connector
• Trailer sway control software
• A factory-installed receiver hitch

The Malibu does not include any of these features, as it is not built to manage the demands of towing.

The Risks of Aftermarket Hitches

While you can find aftermarket companies that sell and install Class I trailer hitches for the 2015 Malibu, this does not give the vehicle a towing capacity. Installing a hitch is physically possible, but it is not safe to use one for pulling a trailer. These hitches are intended solely for use with hitch-mounted accessories like bicycle racks or small cargo carriers, which have a minimal impact on vehicle dynamics.

Attempting to tow a trailer, even a small one weighing less than 1,000 pounds, can lead to:

• Transmission Damage: The Malibu's automatic transmission is not equipped with an adequate cooler to dissipate the extreme heat generated by towing, leading to premature wear or catastrophic failure.
• Brake Failure: The braking system is calibrated for the vehicle's GVWR, not a higher GCWR. The added weight of a trailer can cause brakes to overheat and fade, significantly increasing stopping distances.
• Suspension and Frame Damage: The Malibu’s unibody chassis is not designed to handle the tongue weight of a trailer, which can strain or damage the vehicle's structure.
• Voided Warranty: Any damage to the powertrain, drivetrain, or chassis resulting from towing will not be covered by the vehicle's warranty.

Understanding Payload Capacity

While you can't tow with a Malibu, you can still carry passengers and cargo inside the vehicle. Your payload capacity is the maximum weight of all occupants and items you can safely carry. To find your specific payload, check the yellow "Tire and Loading Information" sticker on the driver's door jamb. The figure next to "The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed" is your vehicle's payload capacity.

Remember to subtract the weight of yourself and all your passengers from the payload number to determine how much weight is left for cargo and luggage.

Common Towing-Related Issues

Since towing is not recommended, the most common issue is the damage that results from attempting it. Owners who have ignored the manufacturer's guidelines have reported severe transmission overheating, warped brake rotors, and suspension damage. Using the vehicle for a task it wasn't designed for is a significant safety risk and can lead to expensive, non-warrantable repairs.

If you need to tow a trailer, we recommend using a vehicle designed for the task, such as a Chevrolet Equinox, Traverse, or Silverado. Always put safety first and respect your vehicle's operational limits.

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