2018 Chevrolet Malibu: Tire Size, Pressure & Specs

Quick answer

• OEM Tire Size: P205/65R16, P225/55R17, 245/45R18, 245/40R19
• Recommended Cold Tire Pressure: 35 PSI (Front & Rear). Always confirm with the sticker on your driver's door jamb.
• Bolt Pattern: 5x115 mm (5x4.53 in)
• Wheel Size: 16" to 19" diameter, 7.5" to 8.5" width.
• Load Index/Speed Rating: 95H to 98V, depending on trim and tire size.
• Spare Tire Size: T125/80R16 (Compact Spare)
• TPMS Frequency: 315 MHz or 433 MHz (system-dependent, verify before replacing sensors)

Tire Sizes by Trim

The 2018 Malibu was available with several tire and wheel packages depending on the trim level. Using a tire size other than the original can affect ride quality, speedometer accuracy, and the function of stability control systems. Always use the size specified for your trim or an approved alternative.

Recommended Replacement Tires

Choosing the right replacement tire depends on your budget, driving style, and climate. The Malibu is a comfortable family sedan, so touring and all-season tires are the most popular choices.

• Premium Touring (Best): If you're looking for a quiet, comfortable ride with excellent all-season grip and long tread life, consider the Michelin Defender2 or the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife. These tires are at the top of their class and deliver premium performance that complements the Malibu's smooth ride.

• Mid-Tier All-Season (Better): For a fantastic balance of performance, value, and longevity, the General AltiMAX RT45 is a standout option. It provides reliable traction in wet and dry conditions, a comfortable ride, and is backed by a strong warranty, making it one of the most popular replacement tires on the market.

• Performance All-Season (Upgrade for LT/Premier): If your Malibu has the larger 18" or 19" wheels and you want to enhance its handling capabilities without sacrificing all-season usability, look at the Continental ExtremeContact DWS 06 Plus. This tire offers sharper steering response and better grip in spirited driving.

When to Inflate to Max Load PSI

This section applies only to heavy-duty trucks carrying or towing maximum loads, not the Chevrolet Malibu. For a passenger sedan like the Malibu, you should never inflate the tires to the maximum pressure listed on the tire's sidewall for daily driving. This "max load" pressure is for seating the tire bead during installation or for specific, heavy-load situations on commercial vehicles.

Always inflate your Malibu's tires to the recommended cold tire pressure of 35 PSI, as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information placard located on the driver's side door jamb. This ensures optimal ride comfort, handling stability, and tread life.

Lug Nut Torque & Pattern

Correctly torquing your lug nuts is critical for safety. Over-tightening can warp the brake rotors and damage the wheel, while under-tightening can cause the wheel to become loose.

• Lug Nut Torque Spec: 100 lb-ft (135 Nm)
• Lug Nut Socket Size: 19mm

When installing a wheel, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure the wheel is seated evenly against the hub. For a 5-lug pattern like the Malibu's, tighten the nuts in a sequence that crisscrosses the wheel (e.g., top, bottom-left, top-right, bottom-right, top-left). Always use a calibrated torque wrench for final tightening.

Common Tire Issues for This Vehicle

• Premature Edge Wear: The 2018 Malibu can be sensitive to alignment issues, which often manifest as rapid wear on the inner or outer shoulder of the tires. We recommend a four-wheel alignment check with every new set of tires or at the first sign of uneven wear.

• TPMS Sensor Faults: The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors in the wheels have internal batteries that typically last 5–8 years. When a battery fails, it will trigger a "Service TPMS" warning light. It's important to note that GM used both 315 MHz and 433 MHz sensors for this model year. Consult a tire technician to ensure the correct frequency is used for replacement. A relearn procedure is required after sensor replacement.

• Vibrations from Wheel Bends: The LT and Premier trims with larger 18" and 19" wheels have lower-profile tires, which offer less protection against potholes. A hard impact can easily cause a slight bend in the aluminum alloy wheel, leading to a persistent vibration that can be mistaken for a tire balance issue.

Need new tires? Find a trusted shop on Repairius.