2024 Chevrolet Malibu Oil Capacity & Filter

The 2024 Chevrolet Malibu takes 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) of SAE 0W-20 engine oil.

Quick Answer

• Oil Capacity: 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters)
• Recommended Oil Weight: SAE 0W-20
• Oil Specification: Dexos1 Gen3 or API SP
• OEM Oil Filter: Consult dealer (Part numbers may vary by specific engine components and build dates. It's best to verify with your VIN).
• Aftermarket Oil Filter Cross-References:
  • Fram: PH12060
  • Mobil 1: M1-113A
  • Wix: 57060

Capacity by Engine Option

For the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu, only one engine option is available:

Oil Change Interval

Chevrolet recommends adhering to the vehicle's Oil Life Monitoring (OLM) system for oil change intervals. This system dynamically calculates oil life based on driving conditions.

• Normal Duty: Typically, the OLM will recommend an oil change every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. However, it can extend up to 10,000 miles under ideal conditions.
• Severe Duty: If your driving involves frequent short trips, extreme temperatures, heavy towing (though not typical for a Malibu), or dusty conditions, the OLM will trigger an oil change sooner, sometimes as low as 3,000-5,000 miles. Always follow the OLM and change your oil when the "CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON" message appears.

Drain Plug Torque

The oil drain plug for the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu should be torqued to 18 lb-ft (24 Nm). Always use a new drain plug gasket or crush washer to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks. Consult dealer for specific crush washer recommendations.

How to Change the Oil

1. Warm Up Engine: Drive the car for a few minutes to get the oil to operating temperature, ensuring it flows easily.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Always use appropriate safety measures.
3. Locate Drain Plug: Place a suitable drain pan beneath the oil pan. Remove the drain plug with the correct size wrench.
4. Drain Oil: Allow all the old oil to drain completely. This can take 10-15 minutes.
5. Replace Drain Plug: Install a new crush washer on the drain plug and reinsert it, tightening to 18 lb-ft (24 Nm).
6. Remove Oil Filter: Locate the oil filter (usually on the front of the engine). Use an oil filter wrench to remove it. Be prepared for some residual oil to spill.
7. Prepare New Filter: Apply a thin film of new engine oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
8. Install New Filter: Hand-tighten the new oil filter until it seats, then turn an additional 3/4 to 1 full turn. Do not overtighten.
9. Add New Oil: Lower the vehicle. Remove the oil filler cap and carefully pour in 4.2 quarts of SAE 0W-20 Dexos1 Gen3 / API SP engine oil.
10. Check Level: Start the engine and let it run for a minute to circulate the new oil. Turn off the engine, wait a few minutes, and then check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, but do not overfill.
11. Reset Oil Life Monitor: Follow the procedures in your owner's manual to reset the Oil Life Monitoring system.

Common Issues / Tips

• Oil Life Monitor (OLM): Trust the OLM. It's designed to optimize oil change intervals based on your actual driving conditions, helping to prevent premature wear and unnecessary oil changes.
• Correct Oil Specification: The 1.5L turbocharged engine in the Malibu is designed to use specific oil. Using the incorrect oil weight or specification can lead to problems like Low-Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI) and reduced engine life, especially in direct-injected turbocharged engines.
• Filter Location: The oil filter on the 1.5L engine is typically easily accessible from beneath the vehicle, making oil changes relatively straightforward.
• Engine Noise: Piston slap or other unusual engine noises, while sometimes present in some GM engines, can be exacerbated by incorrect oil or low oil levels. Always maintain proper oil levels with the recommended oil.

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