How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator on a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu

Which Chevrolet Malibu model years does this cover?

These oil life reset 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'.

How do you reset the oil life on a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu?

5 steps, using only the controls in the car, the full sequence is above.

Do you need a scan tool to reset the oil light on a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu?

No. The procedure above uses the vehicle's own controls. A scan tool is only necessary if the reset does not take, which usually points at a different fault.

Why won't the oil light reset on a 2013–2015 Chevrolet Malibu?

Almost always a timing problem in the sequence, a step held too briefly, or the ignition in the wrong position. Repeat it exactly, with the engine off and the key in accessory rather than run, unless the steps say otherwise. Base cars without the full DIC use the same stalk buttons with fewer menus. Reset only after an actual oil change, the Oil Life System is a wear algorithm, not a sensor.