2020 Chevrolet Malibu Fluid Specifications: The Complete Reference Guide

As an ASE-certified master technician, I cannot stress enough the importance of using the correct factory-specified fluids in modern vehicles. The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is a prime example of engineering that relies on highly specific chemical formulations to keep its powertrain running smoothly and efficiently. Whether your Malibu is equipped with the 1.5L turbocharged engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or the 2.0L turbocharged engine paired with the 9-speed automatic, precision is key.

Using the wrong fluid—like pouring universal ATF into a CVT or mixing coolant types—can lead to catastrophic failures and void your warranty. To help you maintain your vehicle to factory standards, I have compiled this complete fluid specification sheet for the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu.

Quick reference

Fluid	Type/Spec	Capacity
Engine Oil (1.5L Turbo)	0W-20 (GM dexos1™ Gen 2/Gen 3, API SP)	4.2 quarts (4.0 L) with filter
Engine Oil (2.0L Turbo)	5W-30 (GM dexos1™ Gen 2/Gen 3, API SP)	5.0 quarts (4.7 L) with filter
Engine Coolant	Dex-Cool® (OAT, Orange) GM Spec 6277M	1.5L: ~7.4 qts / 2.0L: ~8.5 qts
Transmission Fluid (1.5L CVT)	ACDelco CVT Fluid (GM Part 19336063)	~4.5 qts (drain/refill)
Transmission Fluid (2.0L 9-spd)	ACDelco DEXRON®-VI ATF	~4.5 qts (drain/refill)
Brake Fluid	DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid	Verify in owner's manual (Max line)
Power Steering Fluid	Electric Power Steering (EPS)	N/A (No fluid required)
Windshield Washer Fluid	Optikleen® or standard washer fluid	~1 gallon
Transfer Case / Differential	N/A (Front-Wheel Drive only)	N/A
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)	N/A (Gasoline only)	N/A

Note: Capacities are approximate. Always verify the fluid level on the dipstick or overflow tank after refilling, and refer to OEM service information for exact fill procedures.

Engine Oil

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu relies entirely on GM's proprietary dexos1™ specification. At the time of manufacturing, GM specified dexos1 Gen 2. However, GM has since upgraded this spec to dexos1™ Gen 3 (backward compatible).

• 1.5L Turbo (LFV): Requires 0W-20 dexos1 Gen 3 full synthetic.
• 2.0L Turbo (LTG): Requires 5W-30 dexos1 Gen 3 full synthetic.

Intervals & Pitfalls: Relying strictly on the Oil Life Monitor (OLM) is generally safe, but under severe driving conditions (short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy traffic), I recommend changing the oil every 5,000 miles. Never use heavy conventional oils or fluids that lack the dexos1 approval logo. The turbocharged nature of these engines makes them highly susceptible to Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI). The dexos1 Gen 3 and API SP standards contain specific additive packages designed to prevent LSPI and protect the turbocharger bearings from coking.

Engine Coolant

Both engine options require GM's factory fill Dex-Cool® coolant, which is an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) antifreeze. It is easily identifiable by its distinct orange color and meets GM Spec 6277M.

Intervals & Pitfalls: Dex-Cool is rated for 5 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first. When topping off or flushing the system, always use a 50/50 mix of Dex-Cool and clean, drinkable water (preferably distilled). The ultimate pitfall: Never mix Dex-Cool with traditional green Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) coolant or universal Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants. Mixing OAT with other coolant types can cause the chemicals to react, forming a thick, muddy sludge that will clog your heater core, radiator, and engine water jackets, leading to severe overheating and engine death.

Transmission Fluid

This is where Malibu owners need to pay very close attention, as the two engine options have completely different transmissions with completely different fluid requirements.

• 1.5L Engine (CVT): Uses a continuously variable transmission. You must use ACDelco CVT Fluid (GM Part #19336063).
• 2.0L Engine (9-Speed Automatic): Uses a traditional stepped-gear automatic transmission. You must use DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.

Intervals & Pitfalls: Under normal conditions, transmission fluid services are often stated for higher mileage (up to 97,500 miles for the CVT under severe duty, or 45,000 miles for the 9-speed under severe duty). However, as a master tech, I recommend drain-and-fill services every 40,000 to 50,000 miles to maximize the lifespan of the transmission. Never use "Universal" ATF. Putting Dexron-VI in the CVT will cause immediate belt slippage and destroy the transmission. Conversely, putting CVT fluid in the 9-speed will ruin the clutch packs. Always verify your transmission type before buying fluid.

Brake Fluid

The braking system requires standard DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (or equivalent GM brake fluid).

Intervals & Pitfalls: Brake fluid is highly hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air over time. This moisture lowers the fluid's boiling point, which can lead to brake fade during heavy use, and rusts internal ABS components from the inside out. GM recommends replacing the brake fluid every 3 years. When adding fluid, always use a freshly opened, sealed bottle. Never substitute DOT 5 (silicone-based) fluid, as it is strictly incompatible with DOT 3 and DOT 4 ABS systems and will cause system-wide seal failure.

Power Steering Fluid

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu uses an Electric Power Steering (EPS) rack. This means there is an electric motor assisting your steering inputs rather than a traditional hydraulic pump. No power steering fluid is required or present on this vehicle.

Windshield Washer Fluid

You can use GM's Optikleen® or any high-quality, commercially available windshield washer fluid.

Intervals & Pitfalls: In regions where temperatures drop below freezing, ensure you use a washer fluid rated for winter temperatures (usually containing methanol). Using summer bug-wash in the winter will freeze in the reservoir, potentially cracking the plastic tank and destroying the washer pump.

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Proper fluid maintenance is the absolute lifeblood of your 2020 Chevrolet Malibu. By adhering strictly to these factory specifications, you can ensure thousands of miles of trouble-free driving. If you're not comfortable performing these services yourself, don't risk it. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.