2017 Chevy Malibu LT Oil Type, Capacity, Change Interval & Oil Change Cost Guide

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The 2017 Chevy Malibu LT is a modern midsize sedan designed for fuel efficiency, smooth driving, and reliable daily performance. It comes mainly with a 1.5L turbocharged engine, and in some trims a 2.0L turbo engine. Both require the correct engine oil to maintain performance and prevent premature wear.

Because these engines use turbocharging technology, proper oil selection and timely oil changes are critical for engine longevity, turbo protection, and fuel efficiency.

1.5L / 2.0L Turbo
5W-30 Full Synthetic
4.2 – 5.0 Quarts
Turbocharged Engine
GM Dexos Approved

2017 Chevy Malibu LT Engine Oil Type

The recommended oil type for 2017 Chevy Malibu LT depends on engine configuration:

  • 1.5L Turbo Engine: SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil
  • 2.0L Turbo Engine: SAE 5W-30 full synthetic oil (Dexos approved)

GM strongly recommends using Dexos-approved full synthetic oil to ensure proper turbo lubrication, heat resistance, and long-term engine protection.

Best Overall Choice: SAE 5W-30 full synthetic Dexos1 Gen 3 oil is the factory-recommended option for all 2017 Malibu LT engines.

2017 Chevy Malibu LT Oil Capacity

Oil capacity depends on engine type, but most Malibu LT models require approximately 4.2 to 5.0 quarts including filter.

Engine
Oil Type
Oil Capacity
1.5L Turbo I4
5W-30 Full Synthetic (Dexos)
4.2 Quarts
2.0L Turbo I4
5W-30 Full Synthetic (Dexos)
5.0 Quarts

Best Oil for 2017 Chevy Malibu LT

Using high-quality synthetic oil helps protect the turbocharger and improve engine life.

  • Mobil 1 Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-30
  • Castrol EDGE 5W-30 Full Synthetic
  • Pennzoil Platinum 5W-30 Dexos1
  • Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic 5W-30
  • ACDelco Dexos1 Gen 3 Oil

2017 Chevy Malibu Oil Change Interval

Oil change intervals vary depending on driving conditions and oil quality.

Driving Condition
Oil Change Interval
Normal Driving
5,000 – 7,500 miles
City / Stop & Go Traffic
3,000 – 5,000 miles
Turbo Heavy Load
3,000 – 4,500 miles
Synthetic Oil Use
Up to 7,500 miles

2017 Chevy Malibu LT Oil Change Cost

Oil change cost depends on oil brand, filter quality, and service center.

  • Engine Oil Cost: ₹2,500 – ₹6,000
  • Oil Filter: ₹500 – ₹1,200
  • Labor Cost: ₹800 – ₹2,000
  • Total Estimated Cost: ₹3,500 – ₹9,000

How to Change Oil in 2017 Chevy Malibu LT

Step 1: Warm engine for 2–3 minutes.
Step 2: Drain old engine oil completely.
Step 3: Replace oil filter (ACDelco recommended).
Step 4: Reinstall drain plug securely.
Step 5: Refill with correct 5W-30 Dexos oil.
Step 6: Check oil level and inspect for leaks.

Common 2017 Chevy Malibu Engine Problems

  • Turbo oil degradation due to long intervals
  • Carbon buildup in intake valves
  • Oil consumption in high mileage engines
  • Coolant leaks in some models
  • Rough idle or misfire issues

Frequently Asked Questions

What oil does 2017 Chevy Malibu LT use?

It uses SAE 5W-30 full synthetic Dexos-approved engine oil.

How much oil does it take?

It takes 4.2 to 5.0 quarts depending on engine type.

Can I use 0W-20 oil?

No, 5W-30 is recommended for proper turbo protection.

How often should oil be changed?

Every 3,000–7,500 miles depending on driving conditions.

Final Thoughts

The 2017 Chevy Malibu LT performs best when maintained with correct Dexos-approved synthetic oil and timely oil changes. Proper lubrication is especially important for turbocharged engines to ensure long-term reliability and efficiency.

Quick Summary

  • Oil Type: 5W-30 Full Synthetic (Dexos)
  • Capacity: 4.2 – 5.0 Quarts
  • Change Interval: 3,000 – 7,500 miles
  • Best Oil: Dexos1 Gen 3 Approved Oil
  • Key Tip: Avoid long oil intervals in turbo engines