2017 Chevrolet Malibu Coolant Capacity & Type

Your 2017 Chevrolet Malibu holds between 7.0 and 8.9 quarts (6.6 to 8.4 liters) of coolant, depending on the engine option.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity: 7.0 - 8.9 quarts (6.6 - 8.4 liters), varies by engine.
• OEM Coolant Specification: ACDelco DEX-COOL Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate (or pre-mixed). It is an orange-colored Silicate and Phosphate-free OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant meeting the GM 6277M specification.
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 mix of coolant concentrate and deionized or distilled water. Using a pre-mixed 50/50 formula is highly recommended to ensure the correct water quality and ratio.

Capacity by Engine Option

The 2017 Malibu was offered with an all four-cylinder lineup, including a hybrid variant. Each has a slightly different cooling system capacity. The hybrid model adds a secondary cooling loop for its power electronics, which has its own capacity.

Note for Hybrid Models: The 1.8L Hybrid engine's main cooling system holds 7.0 quarts. It also has a separate Power Electronics Cooling System that must be serviced independently. Always refer to the specific GM service procedure for the hybrid model to ensure both systems are drained and filled correctly.

Flush Interval

The factory-fill DEX-COOL coolant is a long-life formula designed to go the distance. However, its lifespan is not infinite.

• Normal Service: General Motors recommends a coolant flush and replacement every 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• Severe Service: If the vehicle is operated under "severe duty" conditions, more frequent inspection is advised. Severe duty includes frequent short trips, extensive idling, driving in dusty or mountainous regions, or regular towing. In these cases, it is wise to have the coolant's condition tested annually after the third year and consider a flush closer to the 100,000-mile mark.

How to Refill & Bleed

Properly refilling and bleeding the air from the cooling system is critical on the 2017 Malibu to prevent overheating and ensure proper heater function. These systems can easily trap air.

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely cool before opening any part of the cooling system. The system is pressurized and can cause severe burns.
2. Use the Right Coolant: Mix your DEX-COOL concentrate with distilled water or use a 50/50 pre-mixed bottle.
3. Use a Spill-Free Funnel: The best method for a DIY refill is to use a "spill-free" funnel kit that seals onto the coolant surge tank (reservoir). This uses a large funnel as a reservoir, which helps gravity push air out of the system.
4. Fill Slowly: Pour the 50/50 coolant mix into the surge tank until it is full.
5. Bleed the Air: With the spill-free funnel attached and partially filled, start the engine. Turn the climate control system to the highest heat setting and the fan to a low-to-medium speed. This opens the heater core and allows coolant to circulate through it.
6. Run and Monitor: Allow the engine to idle. You will see air bubbles coming up into the funnel as the thermostat opens and coolant circulates. Let the engine run for 15-25 minutes, or until the cooling fan cycles on and off and the bubbling has stopped.
7. Top Off: Squeeze the upper radiator hose occasionally to help dislodge any stubborn air pockets. Once the bubbling stops, top off the surge tank to the "Full Cold" line.

Pro Tip: Many professional technicians prefer using a vacuum-fill tool on these vehicles. It evacuates the entire system of air before introducing new coolant, providing a perfect, air-free fill every time.

Common Cooling System Issues

This generation of Malibu (2016-2023) has a few known cooling system weak points to be aware of:

• Water Pump Failure: Leaks from the water pump weep hole are a common indicator that the internal seal and bearing are failing. This is a critical repair that should not be delayed.
• Thermostat Malfunction: The thermostat can fail by sticking open (leading to a slow-to-warm engine and poor heater performance) or sticking closed (leading to rapid overheating).
• Coolant Reservoir Leaks: The plastic coolant surge tank can become brittle over time due to heat cycles and may develop hairline cracks, causing slow, difficult-to-trace leaks.
• Radiator Leaks: The point where the plastic end tanks are crimped onto the aluminum radiator core can become a leak point as the vehicle ages.

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