2018 Chevrolet Malibu Serpentine Belt: Routing, Replacement, and Part Numbers

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Varies by engine (see below)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN: Varies by engine (see below)
• Aftermarket Cross-Reference (2.0L Turbo LTG Engine):
  • Gates K060565
  • Dayco 5060565
  • Continental Elite 4060565
• Aftermarket Cross-Reference (1.5L Turbo LFV Engine):
  • Gates K060550
  • Dayco 5060550
  • Continental Elite 4060550
• Auto-Tensioner PN (2.0L Turbo LTG Engine): Gates 38327, Dayco 89352, ACDelco 12658826
• Auto-Tensioner PN (1.5L Turbo LFV Engine): Gates 38435, Dayco 89355, ACDelco 12662991
• Idler Pulley PN (2.0L Turbo LTG Engine): Gates 36173, Dayco 89056, ACDelco 12610531
• Idler Pulley PN (1.5L Turbo LFV Engine): Gates 36528, Dayco 89053, ACDelco 12610531

Belt Routing

The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu utilizes a serpentine belt system that can vary slightly depending on the engine. It's crucial to identify your specific engine before sourcing parts or attempting replacement.

Always take a clear photograph of your existing belt's routing path before removal. This will be your primary guide during reinstallation.

2.0L Turbo (LTG) Engine Routing

Starting from the crankshaft pulley (the lowest, largest pulley), the belt typically routes as follows:

1. From the crankshaft pulley, the belt goes up and around the A/C compressor pulley.
2. From the A/C compressor, it reaches the first idler pulley (a smooth pulley).
3. From the first idler pulley, it loops down and around the alternator pulley.
4. After the alternator, it continues to the power steering pump pulley.
5. From the power steering pump, it wraps around the water pump pulley.
6. Finally, it goes to the automatic tensioner pulley, which maintains the correct belt tension, and then back to the crankshaft pulley to complete the loop.

1.5L Turbo (LFV) Engine Routing

Similar to the 2.0L, the 1.5L engine's routing also starts at the crankshaft:

1. Beginning at the crankshaft pulley, the belt typically moves upwards to the A/C compressor pulley.
2. From the A/C compressor, it then goes to the first idler pulley.
3. After the idler, it routes to the alternator pulley.
4. The belt then travels to the power steering pump pulley.
5. Next, it wraps around the water pump pulley.
6. To maintain tension, it goes to the automatic tensioner pulley, and then back around to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is a manageable DIY task for those with some mechanical experience. Here's a general overview:

Tools You'll Need:

• Serpentine belt tool or a 3/8-inch drive breaker bar/ratchet
• Socket (if using a breaker bar, typically 15mm or 16mm for the tensioner bolt)
• New serpentine belt

Steps:

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for added safety.
2. Locate the Tensioner: Identify the automatic tensioner. It will have a square opening or a bolt head where you can apply leverage.
3. Relieve Tension: Insert your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the tensioner's square opening or onto the bolt head. Rotate the tensioner to relieve tension on the belt. This will allow you to slip the old belt off the pulleys.
4. Remove Old Belt: Carefully remove the old belt from all the pulleys. Refer to the photograph you took earlier.
5. Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to the diagram or your photograph. Start by placing it on all the smooth pulleys first, then work your way to the ribbed pulleys. The last pulley you put the belt on should be the tensioner or an easily accessible smooth pulley.
6. Release Tensioner: Once the belt is properly seated on all pulleys, slowly release the tensioner to apply tension to the new belt.
7. Inspect: Double-check that the belt is correctly seated in all grooves on all pulleys. Start the engine briefly and listen for any unusual noises or signs of improper belt alignment.

Replacement Interval

For most 2018 Chevrolet Malibu models, the serpentine belt is designed for long service life. However, it's generally recommended to inspect the serpentine belt every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or every few years. Replacement is typically recommended around 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or sooner if signs of wear are observed. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the most accurate and manufacturer-specific replacement intervals.

Signs of a Failing Serpentine Belt or Tensioner

Ignoring a failing serpentine belt or tensioner can lead to significant problems, as these components drive crucial accessories like the alternator, power steering pump, and A/C compressor. Watch out for these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common symptom of a worn or misaligned belt, or a failing tensioner/pulley bearing. The noise may be more prominent during cold starts or when turning the steering wheel.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing on the Belt: Visually inspect the belt. If you see cracks, missing ribs, fraying edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt's surface, it's time for a replacement.
• Loss of Power Steering: If your power steering suddenly becomes heavy or difficult to turn, it could indicate the serpentine belt has slipped or broken.
• Overheating Engine: A broken serpentine belt will stop the water pump from circulating coolant, leading to engine overheating.
• Battery Warning Light: Since the alternator is driven by the serpentine belt, a warning light on your dashboard could signal a belt issue.
• A/C Not Working: If the air conditioning compressor isn't spinning, your A/C won't blow cold air.
• Wobbling or Misaligned Pulleys: Inspect the pulleys while the engine is off. Any significant wobble or misalignment in the tensioner or idler pulleys can indicate a failing bearing.
• Noises from the Tensioner/Pulleys: Grinding, squealing, or clunking noises coming directly from the tensioner or idler pulleys are strong indicators that they need replacement.

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