2022 Chevrolet Malibu Transmission Fluid & Service Guide

Keeping the transmission in your 2022 Chevrolet Malibu shifting smoothly requires using the exact OEM fluid spec and adhering to the manufacturer’s service schedule. For the 2022 model year, Chevrolet offered two distinct powertrain configurations for the Malibu, meaning your vehicle will have one of two entirely different transmissions: a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) paired with the 1.5L engine, or a 9-speed automatic transmission paired with the 2.0L engine.

Below is your comprehensive ASE-certified guide to servicing the transmission on a 2022 Chevrolet Malibu.

Quick answer

Here are the essential transmission specifications for the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu:

• Transmission Make/Model: GM VT40 CVT (1.5L engine) or GM 9T50 9-speed automatic (2.0L engine).
• OEM Fluid Spec:
  • 1.5L CVT: GM DEXRON® CVT Fluid.
  • 2.0L 9-speed: GM DEXRON®-VI or DEXRON® ULV (verify your specific RPO code via the owner's manual or dealer).
• Drain & Fill Capacity:
  • CVT: Approximately 5.3 quarts.
  • 9-speed: Approximately 4.5 to 5.0 quarts.
• Full Overhaul Capacity:
  • CVT: Roughly 9.0 quarts.
  • 9-speed: Roughly 9.5 quarts.
• Filter OEM Part Number: Both transmissions feature an internal filter that is not typically serviced during a standard fluid change. Verify exact part numbers with your dealer or service manual if performing a complete teardown.
• Recommended Service Interval: 45,000 miles for severe duty / 90,000 miles for normal duty.

Fluid type explained

Using the correct fluid in your 2022 Malibu is absolutely critical. The 1.5L models utilize a GM CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This unit requires GM DEXRON® CVT Fluid. CVT fluid is specially formulated with friction modifiers designed to allow the internal steel belt to grip the pulleys without slipping. Using standard automatic transmission fluid in a CVT will cause catastrophic belt slippage and permanent damage.

For the 2.0L models equipped with the 9T50 9-speed automatic transmission, GM specifies a high-quality automatic transmission fluid. Depending on the exact build date and factory fill, this is typically DEXRON®-VI or DEXRON® ULV (Ultra-Low Viscosity). ULV fluids are designed to improve fuel economy by reducing parasitic drag inside the transmission. Never mix CVT fluid with traditional ATF, and always verify your exact fluid requirement using the VIN at a GM parts counter.

Service procedure

When servicing the transmission on a 2022 Malibu, the standard procedure is a drain and fill.

For the CVT and the 9-speed automatic, there is a drain plug located on the bottom of the transmission pan/case, and a level-check plug used to ensure the proper amount of fluid is in the unit. Because the filter is located deep inside the transmission case (requiring case splitting to replace), a standard service does not include a filter replacement.

1. Elevate the vehicle level on a lift.
2. Remove the drain plug and allow the old fluid to drain into a catch pan. Measure the amount that comes out to give yourself a baseline.
3. Reinstall the drain plug.
4. Add new fluid through the fill port on top of the transmission.
5. Start the engine, run the gear selector through all positions (P-R-N-D-L), and allow the transmission fluid to reach the specified checking temperature (usually between 160°F and 200°F, verifiable via a scan tool).
6. Remove the fluid level check plug. Fluid should just trickle out. If it pours out, let it drain until it trickles. If nothing comes out, add more fluid until it does.

We generally advise against forced-pressure "flush" machines, as they can dislodge debris and push it into sensitive valve body solenoids. A simple drain and fill is the safest and most effective maintenance method.

Service interval

Modern transmission fluids are durable, but they are not "lifetime" fluids. GM’s maintenance schedule dictates intervals based on how you drive your Malibu:

• Severe Duty (Every 45,000 miles): You fall into this category if you drive in heavy stop-and-go city traffic, operate the vehicle in mountainous or hilly terrain, frequently drive in extreme heat (over 90°F), or use the vehicle for commercial purposes (like ridesharing).
• Normal Duty (Every 90,000 miles): If your driving consists mostly of steady highway cruising in temperate climates without heavy loads, you can follow the normal interval.

Given the cost of modern transmission replacement, we strongly recommend following the 45,000-mile severe duty schedule for optimal longevity.

Common transmission problems

The 2022 Malibu is generally reliable, but its transmissions can exhibit a few known behaviors:

• CVT "Rubber Band" Effect (1.5L): Drivers new to CVTs often complain of a slight delay in acceleration followed by a surge, often called the rubber band effect. This is a normal characteristic of the CVT, though degraded fluid can make it feel much worse.
• 9-Speed Harsh Shifting (2.0L): The 9T50 transmission may occasionally exhibit a harsh 1-2 or 2-3 shift, particularly when the fluid is cold. If this persists when warm, it may require a Transmission Control Module (TCM) software update from the dealer, or a fluid replacement to clean the valve body solenoids.
• Torque Converter Shudder: Though less common in the newer 9-speeds and CVTs compared to GM's older 6-speed units, degraded fluid can cause a slight vibration or "shudder" at cruising speeds. Changing the fluid at the severe duty interval usually prevents this.

Maintaining your Malibu's transmission with regular fluid changes is the best insurance policy against premature failure. If you need professional assistance checking your fluid level or performing a drain and fill, find a trusted shop on Repairius.