The engine oil capacity for the 2018 Malibu with the 1.5-liter turbo is about 4.5 quarts with a filter (roughly 4.3 liters).
Oil capacity can vary slightly based on whether the oil filter is replaced during the change and the exact engine variant. In routine service, technicians typically fill to around 4.5 quarts when installing a new filter; if the filter is not replaced, the total could be closer to 4.2 quarts. Always confirm with the owner's manual or the hood sticker that accompanies the vehicle.
Capacity details
These figures are representative for a standard oil-change procedure with a fresh filter installed.
- 4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) of engine oil when replacing the oil filter.
- About 4.2 quarts (4.0 liters) if the filter is not replaced.
Note that small variances can occur due to production tolerances; the exact amount may differ by engine build and climate. Always verify against the vehicle's manual.
Oil type and maintenance guidelines
Most 2018 Malibu 1.5L engines are designed to use Dexos1 Gen 2 certified oils, typically in a viscosity such as 0W-20. The manual or the Chevrolet service page will confirm the exact specification for your vehicle, particularly if you live in extreme temperatures or have warranty considerations.
Maintenance notes
When performing an oil change, use the proper filter and the recommended oil viscosity. After pouring in the oil, run the engine briefly, then recheck the level with the dipstick and top off if needed to reach the full mark.
Always follow the vehicle-specific maintenance schedule in the owner's manual to avoid under- or overfilling, and consider having a professional service verify the oil level if you're unsure.
Oil-change how-to (overview)
For DIY enthusiasts, here are the general steps involved in an oil change. The steps below assume you're replacing the filter and using the standard capacity figures.
- Warm the engine and secure the car on a level surface.
- Place a drain pan beneath the oil pan and remove the drain plug to drain old oil.
- Remove and replace the oil filter with a new one.
- Reinstall the drain plug and tighten to spec.
- Pour in about 4.5 quarts of oil (with filter) and start the engine.
- Let it run briefly, then turn off and recheck the level; top off to the full mark as needed.
Always consult the owner's manual for torque specs and exact capacity, and recycle used oil properly.
Summary
The 2018 Chevy Malibu 1.5L turbo typically requires around 4.5 quarts of engine oil when performing a standard change with a new filter. If the filter isn’t replaced, the amount may be closer to 4.2 quarts. Verify exact capacity and viscosity in the owner’s manual or your vehicle’s service sticker, and follow the recommended maintenance schedule to maintain engine health.