2018 Chevrolet Malibu Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is a staple of the midsize sedan segment, renowned for its smooth ride, comfortable cabin, and fuel-efficient powertrain options. Whether you are driving the 1.5L turbocharged engine, the robust 2.0L turbo, or the highly efficient hybrid model, understanding your vehicle's gearing can help you optimize your driving habits and diagnose potential drivetrain issues. As a front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle, the Malibu utilizes a transaxle system that combines the transmission and the differential into a single unit.

Here is your comprehensive powertrain specifications guide to the 2018 Chevrolet Malibu transmission and final drive (axle) gear ratios.

Transmission gear ratios

The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu features two primary conventional automatic transmissions depending on the engine choice, as well as an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) for the Hybrid model. The 1.5L engine is paired with the GM 6-speed automatic (6T40), while the premium 2.0L engine receives the advanced GM 9-speed automatic (9T50).

6-Speed Automatic (6T40) - 1.5L Turbo

9-Speed Automatic (9T50) - 2.0L Turbo

(Note: The 2018 Malibu Hybrid utilizes a Voltec two-motor drive unit rather than traditional stepped gears, providing infinite variable ratios to maximize battery and engine efficiency.)

Available axle ratios

Because the 2018 Malibu is front-wheel drive, it does not have a traditional rear axle. Instead, it utilizes a "final drive ratio" integrated into the transaxle. The final drive ratio acts the exact same way a rear axle ratio does in a rear-wheel-drive car or truck.

While trucks often offer a wide variety of ratios (like 3.31, 3.55, 3.73, 4.10, or 4.30), the Malibu’s ratios are strictly tied to the engine and transmission pairing to balance power delivery and fuel economy.

How to identify your axle ratio

If you need to replace your transaxle or want to know exactly how your 2018 Malibu left the factory, you can identify your final drive gear ratio by checking the vehicle's Regular Production Option (RPO) codes.

For General Motors vehicles, this information is located on the Service Parts Identification (SPID) sticker. On the 2018 Malibu, this sticker is typically located inside the glovebox or on the driver's side door jamb. Look for a three-digit code starting with "F" (such as FQ3 or FQ4). If the sticker is missing, faded, or unreadable, you can use a GM-specific VIN decoder online or provide your VIN to a local Chevrolet dealership parts department. Unlike trucks that may have an axle tag bolted directly to the differential cover, FWD transaxles rely almost entirely on these RPO codes or casting numbers stamped directly into the transmission bell housing.

Towing vs MPG impact

While the Chevrolet Malibu is a passenger sedan and not designed for heavy-duty towing (GM rates the 2018 Malibu with a maximum towing capacity of just 1,000 lbs), the principles of gear ratios remain the same.

A numerically lower ratio (such as the 3.08 in the Premier trim) is referred to as a "tall" gear. This allows the engine to run at lower RPMs at highway speeds, which significantly improves your fuel economy (MPG). Conversely, a numerically higher ratio (like a 3.23) is a "short" gear. Short gears multiply engine torque more effectively, making it easier to get the vehicle moving from a dead stop. In trucks, higher ratios (like 3.73 or 4.10) are specifically chosen for towing heavy trailers. For the Malibu, the 3.23 ratio provides the smaller 1.5L engine the off-the-line mechanical advantage it needs without sacrificing too much highway fuel efficiency.

Common issues

The 2018 Malibu drivetrain is generally reliable, but as mileage increases, some components can begin to show wear.

• Transaxle Whine: A faint whining noise during acceleration or deceleration can indicate premature wear on the final drive ring and pinion gears within the transaxle.
• Carrier Bearing Wear: The differential carrier bearings inside the transaxle can wear out, leading to a low-pitched rumble or humming noise that gets louder as vehicle speed increases.
• Fluid Degradation: The 6T40 and 9T50 transmissions require clean, specific synthetic fluids (Dexron VI / HP). Neglecting fluid changes can lead to harsh shifting, valve body blockages, and accelerated wear on the internal clutches.

If you suspect your gear ratios are off, or if you are hearing unusual noises coming from the front wheels or transmission area, it is crucial to have a professional diagnose the vehicle before catastrophic failure occurs.

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