2021 Chevrolet Malibu

Maintenance & specsVERIFIED Jun 15, 2026
Engine Oil
0W-20
Full Synthetic
OEM spec · dexos1 Gen 3Buy oil
Capacity
4.2qt
with filter
3.8 qt without filter
Oil Filter
PF64
ACDelco (OEM)
OEM spec: dexos1 Gen 3

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic with a total capacity of 4.2 quarts (filter included). You’ll need a 15mm socket for the drain plug, torqued to 25 Nm. The OEM oil filter is the ACDelco PF64, with 2 compatible alternatives listed below. Note: this vehicle has 2 active recalls — check the recalls section below. Below you’ll find complete maintenance specs, fluid capacities, parts, and links to buy what you need.

⚑ QUICK DIY TIPS FOR THE 2021 CHEVROLET MALIBU
  • Torque your drain plug to 25 Nm (18 ft-lbs) to avoid leaks or stripped threads.
  • Using the OEM filter (ACDelco PF64) is recommended for warranty compliance.
  • Always use 0W-20 Full Synthetic as specified by Chevrolet — using the wrong viscosity can void your powertrain warranty.
  • Check the maintenance schedule below for your next service interval.
01

Oil & Filter

OilBuy
Viscosity0W-20
Oil typeFull Synthetic
Capacity (with filter)4.2 qt
Capacity (w/o filter)3.8 qt
OEM specdexos1 Gen 3
Filter Options
Wix57082
Buy
ACDelcoPF64OEM
Buy
Mobil 1M1-110A
Buy
Spin-on oil filter
Drain Bolt & Hardware
Socket size15 mm
ThreadM14x1.5
Torque spec25 Nm
GasketRubber gasket
9th gen (1.5L turbo I4)
02

Fluid Specifications

Transmission FluidBuy
TypeDexron VI
Capacity4 qt
Change interval60,000 mi
Brake FluidBuy
DOT typeDOT 3
Change interval45,000 mi
CoolantBuy
TypeDex-Cool
ColorOrange
Capacity7.5 qt
Change interval120,000 mi
03

Parts & Specifications

Spark Plugs
TypeIridium
Gap0.040
Quantity4
Change interval100,000 mi
ACDelco41-110OEM
Buy
NGKIX Iridium
Buy
Battery
Group size48
CCA615
ACDelco48AGMOEM
Buy
DieHard48-3
Buy
Tires
Size215/55R17
Front pressure33 PSI
Rear pressure33 PSI
Air Filter
ACDelcoA3181COEM
Buy
K&N33-5083
Buy
FramCA11858
Buy
Cabin Air Filter
ACDelcoCF1179COEM
Buy
FramCF10374
Buy
Brake Pads
ACDelco171-1074OEMfront
Buy
WagnerQC1367front
Buy
Wiper Blades
Bosch26Adriver, 26"
Buy
Rain-X26-1driver, 26"
Buy
Bosch18Apassenger, 18"
Buy
Rain-X18-1passenger, 18"
Buy
04

Maintenance Schedule

≈ every 6 months
  • Change Engine Oil & Filter
05

Torque Specifications

lug nut
100ft-lb·135.6Nm
spark plug
14mm thread, aluminum head
18ft-lb·24.4Nm
06

Safety Recalls

2
07

Technical Service Bulletins

488

Estimated Current Value

Original MSRP
$30,000
Private Party
$13,680–$15,120
Dealer Retail
$15,840–$18,000
Trade-In
$12,240–$13,680
Depreciation
52%

Estimated values assume average condition and mileage for vehicle age.

Source: estimated

Save by doing it yourself
A shop typically charges $70–$140 for this service. Buy the parts and save.
Shop oil & filters ↗
08

Tools & Supplies

Oil Drain Pan
Catch the old oil cleanly
Shop on Amazon
Funnel
Spill-free refill
Shop on Amazon
15mm Socket
For the drain plug
Shop on Amazon
0W-20 Oil
4.2+ quarts
Shop on Amazon
Shop parts for the Chevrolet Malibu
Find oil, filters, and maintenance parts for the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu on Amazon.
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Step-by-step guide
Detailed walkthrough with tips for first-timers.
Read guide
How often to change oil
Intervals, severe service, and what your car needs.
Read guide
Synthetic vs. conventional
Which oil type is right for your engine and budget.
Read guide
Other 2021 Chevrolet models
Other Chevrolet Malibu years
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