2013–2015 8th generation (Epsilon II)
2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu Fluid Types and Capacities
Which transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid the 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu takes, with capacities and the specifications each one has to meet. Transmission: DEXRON VI. 6T40 (2.5L/eAssist): drain-and-fill ~4.3 qt, total fill ~9.5 qt, level set at side check plug. 6T70 (2.0T): drain-and-fill ~5–6 qt. Severe service change at 45,000 mi. Coolant: Dex-Cool (orange, pre-mixed available). First change 5 years/150,000 mi.
Last verified
2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu fluid guide
Check your manual| System | Fluid type & capacity |
|---|---|
| Coolant | Dex-Cool (orange, pre-mixed available). First change 5 years/150,000 mi |
| Transmission | DEXRON VI. 6T40 (2.5L/eAssist): drain-and-fill ~4.3 qt, total fill ~9.5 qt, level set at side check plug. 6T70 (2.0T): drain-and-fill ~5–6 qt. Severe service change at 45,000 mi |
| Brake fluid | DOT 3 brake fluid (verify the reservoir cap marking) |
| Power steering | None (electric power steering) |
Plain washer fluid; no special spec
Which Chevrolet Malibu model years does this cover?
These fluids specifications apply to every Chevrolet Malibu built from 2013 through 2015 — the 8th generation (Epsilon II), mid-size sedan (also sold to fleets as the 2016 'malibu limited'). Nothing in this specification changes between those model years. Pick your year for the engines it offered, what changed that year, and the problems recorded against it.
What changed during the 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu
- 2013Generation launch, Eco eAssist arrived first (early 2012 on sale), then 2.5L and 2.0T. Electric parking brake and (optional) MyLink debut.
- 2014Quick refresh after criticism: new front fascia, reshaped seats/center console for rear knee room, stop-start added to the 2.5L (new dual-battery setup), 2.5L economy up to 25/36. 18-in tire size changed to 225/50R18. Eco eAssist's final year.
- 2015Carryover; last retail year, the 8th gen continued for fleets only as the 2016 'Malibu Limited'.
2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu fluids: common questions
What transmission fluid does a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu take?
- DEXRON VI. 6T40 (2.5L/eAssist): drain-and-fill ~4.3 qt, total fill ~9.5 qt, level set at side check plug. 6T70 (2.0T): drain-and-fill ~5–6 qt. Severe service change at 45,000 mi. Transmission fluid specifications are not interchangeable. Friction modifiers differ between them, and the wrong fluid causes shudder long before it causes failure.
What coolant does a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu use?
- Dex-Cool (orange, pre-mixed available). First change 5 years/150,000 mi.
What brake fluid does a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu take?
- DOT 3 brake fluid (verify the reservoir cap marking).
Sources
- AMSOIL product lookup, 2013 Malibu 2.5L (LCV/LKW) and 2.4L LUK capacities
- Justia Recalls, 13V-173 Generator Control Module (2013 Malibu Eco)
- RepairPal, recall 14V-247 loss of power brake assist
- AutoZone, 2014 Malibu battery fitment (Group 48/H6 + AGM stop-start)
- O'Reilly, Group 401 auxiliary battery (AUX12) for 2014 Malibu
- TireSize.com, Malibu OE tire sizes by year and trim
- TirePressure.org, 2014 Malibu placard pressures
- WiperBladesUSA, 2014 Malibu 24/19-in blades
- Wikipedia, Chevrolet Malibu 8th generation powertrains (LKW/LTG/LUK)
- fueleconomy.gov, 2014 Malibu EPA ratings
- Walmart/ACDelco, A3174C engine air filter 2013–2015 Malibu