The spare tire on a 2013 Malibu is typically stored in the trunk under the floor panel in a recessed wheel well. Some trims use a tire-inflator kit instead of a spare, so you may not find a donut in the trunk. Check your owner's manual or the trunk area to confirm which setup your vehicle has.
Accessing the spare (if your model has one)
To locate and retrieve the spare, follow these steps. Always work on a flat, level surface and set the parking brake for safety.
- Open the trunk and lift the carpeting or floor panel to reveal the spare well.
- Remove any covering or fastener securing the spare wheel and spare equipment.
- Unfasten the retaining bolt or wing nut holding the spare in place and lift the spare tire from the well.
- If the tire is mounted on the vehicle, loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the car if you need to remove the wheel entirely.
- Use the jack and lug wrench stored with the spare to change the tire, following the owner’s manual for the proper jacking points.
After you’ve completed the tire change, re-secure the spare and tools, and replace the floor panel and trunk mat.
Spare tire options by trim and configuration
Not all 2013 Malibu models include a spare tire. Some configurations use a tire-sealant inflator kit instead of a spare tire, which is typically stored in the trunk. Use the inflator kit only for temporary repairs and drive to a tire shop as soon as possible, following the kit’s instructions.
- Spare donut (compact spare) in the trunk floor well
- Tire-sealant inflator kit in the trunk (no spare tire)
To determine which setup your specific Malibu has, check the spare area in the trunk, inspect the contents of the kit bag if present, or consult the owner's manual or a Chevrolet dealer for confirmation.
Summary
In most 2013 Chevy Malibu models, the spare tire sits under the trunk floor in a wheel well and is secured with a retaining bolt. Some trims instead carry a tire-inflator kit and no spare wheel. Always verify your exact configuration in the owner's manual and follow proper safety steps if you need to change a tire.