The 2018 Chevy Malibu is a reliable, efficient vehicle that offers a smooth driving experience. To ensure your Malibu continues to perform at its best, it’s essential to maintain a regular oil change schedule. Regular oil changes help protect your engine, improve fuel efficiency, and prolong the life of your vehicle. In this guide, we will discuss the necessary steps to perform an oil change on your 2018 Chevy Malibu, the best type of oil to use, and tips for maintaining engine health.
Recommended Oil Type for 2018 Chevy Malibu
Chevrolet recommends using 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil for the 2018 Malibu. Synthetic oil offers superior protection, particularly in extreme temperatures, and helps reduce engine wear. Full synthetic oil is engineered to provide better performance and lubrication, especially during cold starts and high-stress conditions.
Some benefits of using full synthetic oil include:
- Better Protection Against Engine Wear: Synthetic oil helps reduce friction and wear between engine parts, especially in extreme driving conditions.
- Cleaner Engine: Full synthetic oil resists the formation of sludge and deposits, keeping your engine clean for a longer period.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: By reducing friction, synthetic oil allows your engine to run more efficiently, improving gas mileage.
Oil Change Intervals for the 2018 Chevy Malibu
Chevy recommends changing the oil in your 2018 Malibu every 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tow heavy loads, or drive in extreme weather conditions, you may need to change your oil more frequently, ideally every 5,000 miles.
Modern vehicles like the 2018 Malibu are equipped with an Oil Life Monitoring System, which tracks your driving habits and alerts you when it’s time to change the oil. Keeping an eye on this system is a great way to ensure you don’t go too long between oil changes.
DIY Oil Change for the 2018 Chevy Malibu
Performing an oil change on your 2018 Chevy Malibu is a simple task that can save you money and help you become more familiar with your vehicle. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it yourself.
Materials Needed:
- 5 quarts of 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil
- New oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- Wrench or socket set
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Car jack and jack stands
Steps to Perform a DIY Oil Change:
- Raise the Vehicle: Safely lift your Malibu using a car jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Drain the Old Oil: Place the oil drain pan under the oil drain plug. Use a wrench to remove the plug and let the oil drain completely.
- Remove and Replace the Oil Filter: Use the oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter. Before installing the new filter, apply a small amount of fresh oil to the rubber gasket for a proper seal.
- Add Fresh Oil: Insert a funnel into the oil filler neck and pour in the recommended 5 quarts of 5W-30 full synthetic oil.
- Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a minute. Check for leaks around the oil filter and drain plug.
- Reset the Oil Life Monitoring System: After completing the oil change, reset the oil life monitor via the vehicle’s dashboard settings.
Cost of a DIY Oil Change
The cost of a DIY oil change on your 2018 Chevy Malibu typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the brand of oil and filter used.
Professional Oil Change Services for 2018 Chevy Malibu
If you prefer to leave the oil change to the professionals, visiting a certified Chevy service center is a great option. A typical oil change at a professional shop can cost between $60 and $100, depending on the type of oil used and any additional services offered, such as tire rotation or inspection.
Professional services ensure that the job is done right, and many shops offer perks like free fluid top-offs or multi-point inspections.
Why Regular Oil Changes are Crucial
Regular oil changes are one of the most important things you can do to keep your Chevy Malibu running smoothly. They prevent engine damage, improve fuel economy, and ensure that your car continues to perform well. Here are a few reasons why timely oil changes are essential:
- Improves Engine Longevity: Clean oil reduces friction and wear, helping your engine last longer.
- Prevents Sludge Build-Up: Fresh oil helps prevent sludge and debris from clogging your engine’s components.
- Enhances Fuel Efficiency: Clean oil reduces engine drag, improving your car’s fuel efficiency.
How to Choose the Right Oil for Your 2018 Chevy Malibu
Using the right oil is crucial for engine health. While Chevrolet recommends 5W-30 full synthetic motor oil, you should also consider high-quality brands that offer reliable protection, such as:
- Mobil 1 Full Synthetic: Known for excellent wear protection and long-lasting performance.
- Valvoline Full Synthetic: Offers great protection under extreme driving conditions.
- Castrol EDGE Full Synthetic: Helps keep your engine clean and enhances fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
Whether you choose to perform an oil change on your own or visit a professional service center, keeping up with regular oil changes is crucial to maintaining the performance and longevity of your 2018 Chevy Malibu. Using the recommended 5W-30 full synthetic oil and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil change intervals will ensure that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.