2018 Chevrolet Malibu Fluid Type Specs
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Quick reference
| Fluid | Type/Spec | Capacity (approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | SAE 5W-30, dexos1 Gen2 (or newer) | 5.0 quarts |
| Engine Coolant | DEX-COOL Antifreeze/Coolant, OAT | 7.9 quarts |
| Transmission Fluid | DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid | 8.9 – 9.2 quarts |
| Brake Fluid | DOT 3 or DOT 4 | Varies |
| Power Steering Fluid | Electric Power Steering (No serviceable fluid) | N/A |
| Washer Fluid | Pre-mixed Windshield Washer Fluid | 1 gallon |
Engine Oil
For your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, the factory-recommended engine oil is an SAE 5W-30 viscosity grade. More importantly, it must meet the GM dexos1 Gen2 specification or a newer generation (e.g., dexos1 Gen3). The dexos1 specification is General Motors' proprietary engine oil standard designed to protect GM engines from issues like Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI), especially prevalent in turbocharged direct-injection engines like those found in many Malibus.
Never use an engine oil that does not carry the official dexos1 Gen2 (or newer) certification, even if it has the correct viscosity. Look for the official dexos1 logo on the oil bottle. Using non-dexos1 oil can lead to premature engine wear and may void your powertrain warranty.
The typical oil change interval for the 2018 Malibu, as indicated by the Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system, can range from 7,500 to 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, it's always best to follow the OLM system in your vehicle, as it takes into account various factors like driving style, engine temperature, and ambient conditions to determine the optimal service interval.
Engine Coolant
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu uses DEX-COOL Antifreeze/Coolant. This is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolant, typically orange or red in color, designed for extended-life applications. It's crucial to only use DEX-COOL or an officially licensed equivalent. Using conventional green or yellow coolants, which are typically Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) or Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT), can lead to chemical incompatibilities and severe damage to your cooling system components, including corrosion, gasket degradation, and premature water pump failure. Mixing coolant types is a common pitfall that can result in costly repairs.
The cooling system capacity for your Malibu is approximately 7.9 quarts. The recommended service interval for DEX-COOL is typically 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, regular inspection for leaks and maintaining the correct fluid level is always recommended.
Transmission Fluid
Your 2018 Chevrolet Malibu's automatic transmission requires DEXRON VI Automatic Transmission Fluid. This is a synthetic blend fluid specifically formulated for GM transmissions to provide superior shift quality, wear protection, and fuel efficiency. Never use older DEXRON specifications (like DEXRON III) or
More specs for the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2018 Chevrolet Malibu Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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