The oil filter location on a 2015 Malibu depends on the engine option. If your car uses the 2.5L four‑cylinder, expect a traditional spin‑on filter mounted on the front lower part of the engine. If you have the 2.0L turbo, the filter is cartridge‑style and tucked under the engine, closer to the firewall. Confirm your exact configuration by checking the VIN or the owner’s manual.
Engine variants and filter placements
2.5L four‑cylinder
For the 2.5L engine, the oil filter is a spin‑on canister located on the front lower side of the engine block, near the oil pan. It is accessible from underneath the vehicle and typically requires a standard oil filter wrench to loosen and remove.
2.0L turbo
For the 2.0L turbo, the oil filter is cartridge‑style housed under the engine, toward the rear near the firewall. Access usually requires you to remove a splash shield or maneuver around nearby components to reach the filter housing, where the cartridge is replaced rather than a traditional canister filter.
What you’ll need to perform the change
Before you begin, assemble the tools and supplies listed below so you can complete the change safely and efficiently.
- New oil filter compatible with your engine (GM/ACDelco or equivalent)
- Correct engine oil type and capacity as specified in the owner’s manual
- Oil drain pan to catch used oil
- Wrench set and/or filter wrench appropriate for the filter type
- Jack and stands or ramps to safely elevate the vehicle
- Rags, gloves, and a container for disposing of used oil
- New O‑ring for cartridge housings (if applicable) and oil for lubrication
Having these items on hand helps ensure a clean, safe, and efficient oil filter change.
Step-by-step guidance for replacing the oil filter
Below are general steps to replace the oil filter. Engine layout varies by model, so consult your manual for exact torque specs and any model‑specific steps.
- Warm up the engine briefly, then park on level ground and engage the parking brake. If possible, raise the front of the car for easier access.
- If required, remove the front splash shield to expose the filter area and surrounding components.
- Place the oil drain pan beneath the filter area to catch any oil that spills during removal.
- Identify the correct oil filter type for your engine: spin‑on for the 2.5L or cartridge in the housing for the 2.0L turbo.
- Loosen and remove the old filter with the appropriate tool, allowing oil to drain completely into the pan.
- Prepare the new filter: if it’s a cartridge, replace the cartridge and reseal the housing with a new O‑ring; lubricate any new O‑ring with a small amount of fresh oil.
- Install the new filter and ensure it is snug but not over‑tight (follow the filter manufacturer’s torque guidelines).
- Replace the drain plug if you drained the oil, then refill the engine with the recommended amount and type of oil.
- Start the engine and run for a minute or two, then check for leaks and verify the oil level, topping up as needed.
- Dispose of used oil and the old filter in accordance with local regulations.
After replacement, verify there are no leaks and that the oil level is correct before resuming normal driving.
Summary
For a 2015 Malibu, the oil filter location depends on the engine: the 2.5L I4 uses a front‑lower spin‑on filter, while the 2.0L turbo uses a cartridge filter tucked under the engine near the firewall. Always confirm the engine type via the VIN or owner’s manual, then follow the applicable steps and tool requirements to replace the filter safely and correctly. Regular oil changes help keep the Malibu running smoothly.