2020 Chevrolet Malibu Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu offered two primary transmission options, a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and a 9-speed automatic, depending on the engine and trim level.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

This transmission was paired with the 1.5L Turbo engine.

9-Speed Automatic Transmission

This transmission was exclusively paired with the 2.0L Turbo engine, available on the Premier trim.

Available axle ratios

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu, being a front-wheel-drive vehicle, does not have a traditional "rear axle" in the same sense as a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicle. Instead, it utilizes a transaxle, which integrates the transmission and the final drive (differential) into a single unit. The final drive ratio is the equivalent of an axle ratio in this setup and is a crucial part of how the vehicle's power is delivered to the wheels.

How to identify your axle ratio

For the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu, identifying your final drive ratio (the equivalent of an axle ratio) is straightforward, as it's typically tied to the engine and transmission combination. The easiest way to confirm is by checking your vehicle's Regular Production Option (RPO) codes.

GM RPO Sticker: Locate the RPO sticker, typically found on the inside of the glove compartment door or on the spare tire cover in the trunk. This sticker lists a series of three-character codes. Look for a code that starts with "F" or "G" related to the final drive. For the 2020 Malibu, the codes for the final drive ratios are generally: F84 for the 3.17 ratio (with the 1.5L engine) and FW2 for the 2.89 ratio (with the 2.0L engine).

VIN Decoder: Many online VIN decoders can also provide your vehicle's specific build information, including the final drive ratio, by simply entering your Vehicle Identification Number.

Towing vs MPG impact

In a front-wheel-drive vehicle like the Malibu, the final drive ratio directly impacts the balance between acceleration, fuel economy, and to a lesser extent, the ability to move a load (like passengers and cargo, as the Malibu is not designed for significant towing).

• Higher Numerical Ratio (e.g., 3.17): A numerically higher final drive ratio means the engine will spin at a higher RPM for a given road speed. This generally results in quicker acceleration from a standstill, and can make the vehicle feel more responsive. While not directly related to traditional towing in the Malibu's case, it provides more "leverage" for moving the vehicle and its contents. However, this comes at the cost of slightly reduced fuel economy, especially at highway speeds, as the engine is working harder.

• Lower Numerical Ratio (e.g., 2.89): A numerically lower final drive ratio means the engine will spin at a lower RPM for a given road speed. This typically translates to better fuel economy, especially during highway cruising, as the engine is operating more efficiently. Conversely, it may result in slightly slower acceleration from a stop as the engine has less leverage. For the Malibu, this setup is geared more towards efficient highway travel.

For the 2020 Malibu, both available ratios are chosen to provide a balanced driving experience for their respective engine configurations, with the 2.89 ratio of the 2.0L Turbo aiming for efficiency given its higher power output, and the 3.17 ratio of the 1.5L Turbo providing good responsiveness for its engine size.

Common issues

For a front-wheel-drive transaxle like those found in the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu, common issues are less about traditional "axle whine" (which is more common in solid rear axles) and more related to the integrated differential within the transaxle.

• Differential Bearing Noise: Over time, the bearings within the differential can wear, leading to a whining or humming noise that changes with vehicle speed. This usually indicates the need for transaxle service or replacement.
• CVT belt/chain wear (1.5L Turbo): While not directly an axle ratio issue, the CVT itself, which integrates the final drive, can experience wear of its internal belt or chain, leading to slipping, hesitation, or unusual noises. This directly impacts how power is transferred to the wheels.
• Fluid Degradation: Neglecting transaxle fluid changes can lead to premature wear of internal components, including the differential gears and bearings, eventually causing noise or operational problems.

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