The thermostat in a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu is housed inside the thermostat housing on the engine, typically at the front of the engine bay on the passenger side where the upper radiator hose connects. This is true for the common 2.4L Ecotec and the 2.0L turbo setups used in 2013 Malibus.
In 2013 Malibu models, the thermostat is part of the water outlet housing. Access is easiest with the hood up and some components out of the way, and replacement generally involves handling the housing and hose connections rather than the thermostat cartridge alone. The location is similar across the two main engine options for that year, though the exact orientation may vary slightly depending on engine layout and accessories.
Where to look in the engine bay
Use these guidelines to confirm the thermostat housing location and prepare for inspection or replacement. The Malibu uses a transverse engine layout, so the housing is toward the front of the engine bay on the passenger side, connected to the upper radiator hose.
Before starting the search, ensure the engine is cool and the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
- Identify the upper radiator hose entering the engine from the front of the vehicle.
- Follow that hose to the plastic or metal water outlet housing attached to the engine block or cylinder head.
- Open the housing to access the thermostat, which sits inside the outlet assembly rather than as a separate cartridge in most cases.
- Note that some models require removing the air intake duct or other components to gain access to the housing.
- Inspect for signs of coolant leakage around the housing, hose clamps, and seals, which can indicate a failing thermostat or gasket.
Accessing the thermostat housing may require removing the air intake, throttle body, or other nearby components in order to reach the fasteners and the housing itself. If in doubt, consult the vehicle’s service manual or a professional mechanic.
Following these steps will help you locate and inspect the thermostat housing safely and effectively in a 2013 Malibu.
If you need to replace the thermostat
Replacement procedures can vary slightly by engine option, but the general process is similar. Many Malibu models use a thermostat inside the water outlet housing, so replacement often means replacing the entire housing assembly along with the thermostat and gasket. Here are the typical steps to follow:
- Let the engine cool completely and disconnect the negative battery cable for safety.
- Drain some coolant from the system to a level below the thermostat housing to avoid spills when you disconnect hoses.
- Loosen and remove the hose clamps on the upper radiator hose and any heater core hoses connected to the housing.
- Unbolt and remove the thermostat housing from the engine. Be prepared for some coolant to spill.
- Replace the thermostat (and, if recommended, the entire water outlet housing and gasket). Install new seals as specified by the service manual.
- Reinstall the housing and hoses, tighten all fasteners to the specified torque, and refill the coolant to the correct level.
- Run the engine with the heater on high and check for leaks once the system reaches operating temperature; top off coolant if needed.
Note: Some replacement kits are sold as water outlet assemblies that include the thermostat, gasket, and housing. Using the full assembly can simplify installation and ensure a proper seal.
Replacing the thermostat or the water outlet housing should restore proper temperature regulation if overheating or erratic temperature behavior triggered the issue. If you notice persistent problems after replacement, double-check coolant flow, air pockets, and sensor readings.
Common signs the thermostat may be failing
Be aware of symptoms that suggest a faulty thermostat, so you know when to inspect or replace it. These indicators are not exclusive to thermostat failure but are common causes to check in the Malibu’s cooling system.
- Engine overheating or running hotter than normal
- Thermostat stuck open causing the engine to run cold and poor heater performance
- Erratic temperature gauge readings or fluctuating dash temperature
- Coolant leaks around the thermostat housing or hoses
- Excessive or unusual coolant consumption without leaks elsewhere
If you observe any of these signs, a cooling system inspection focusing on the thermostat housing and associated hoses is warranted.
Summary
For a 2013 Malibu, the thermostat is located inside the water outlet housing at the front of the engine on the passenger side, where the upper radiator hose attaches. Access may require removing nearby intake components, and replacement often involves the housing assembly rather than a standalone thermostat cartridge. Always work with a cool engine, use proper coolant handling, and consult the service manual or a professional if there is any doubt about procedure.