2015 Chevrolet Malibu: Transmission Fluid & Service

Quick answer

• Transmission make/model: GM 6T40 (RPO MNH) or 6T70 (RPO M7W)
• OEM fluid spec: DEXRON-VI
• Drain & fill capacity: 4.2–6.3 quarts (4.0–6.0L)
• Full overhaul capacity: 8.5-10.1 quarts (8.0-9.6L) depending on transmission
• Filter OEM part number: No separate filter part number for routine service; internal filter only.
• Recommended service interval: Normal: 45,000 miles. Severe: 30,000 miles.

Fluid type explained

Your 2015 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with either a GM 6T40 or 6T70 6-speed automatic transmission. Both transmissions use the same fluid: DEXRON-VI. This is a synthetic fluid developed by General Motors for its modern automatic transmissions. It offers improved oxidation stability, friction durability, and viscosity stability over previous DEXRON fluids. Using any other type of fluid (e.g., DEXRON-III, Mercon V, ATF+4) can lead to poor shifting, shuddering, and eventual transmission failure.

Service procedure

There are two main ways to service your transmission fluid: a drain and fill or a full fluid exchange. A drain and fill is the simpler of the two and involves draining the fluid from the transmission pan, then refilling it. This typically replaces 40-60% of the total fluid in the transmission. A full fluid exchange, on the other hand, uses a machine to pump out all of the old fluid while simultaneously pumping in new fluid. This replaces nearly 100% of the fluid. For this generation of Malibu, a drain and fill is generally sufficient for routine maintenance.

Service interval

For normal driving conditions, Chevrolet recommends changing the transmission fluid every 45,000 miles. However, if you drive under severe conditions, you should change the fluid more frequently, around every 30,000 miles. Severe driving conditions include: frequent short trips, driving in hot weather, towing, or driving in mountainous areas.

Common transmission problems

While generally reliable, the 6T40 and 6T70 transmissions in the 2015 Malibu can experience some issues. These include:

• Shifting problems: Hard or delayed shifts, or a "flare" between gears can be caused by old fluid, low fluid level, or internal wear.
• Torque converter shudder: A vibration or shudder, especially under light acceleration, can indicate a problem with the torque converter clutch. Fresh DEXRON-VI fluid can sometimes resolve this.
• Slipping: If the transmission slips out of gear or struggles to engage, it could be a sign of internal wear or a more serious problem.

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