2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic Oil Type & Capacity
The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic oil type depends on the engine: the LS, 2.2 F takes 5W-30 (5.0 quarts with filter); the LS, 3.5 N takes 5W-30 (4.0 quarts with filter); the LT takes 5W-30 (4.0 quarts with filter), per the factory service manual.
Factory-spec answer
It depends on the engine:
- LS, 2.2 F: 5W-30, 5.0 quarts with filter
- LS, 3.5 N: 5W-30, 4.0 quarts with filter
- LT: 5W-30, 4.0 quarts with filter
Oil capacity by engine
| Engine | Oil Type (viscosity) | Capacity w/ Filter | Capacity w/o Filter | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LS, 2.2 F — 2.2L Eng | API - SAE 5W-30 | 5.00 QTS. | — | Use oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M. For areas of extreme cold, where temperatures fall below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), it is recommended a SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or a SAE 10W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. |
| LS, 3.5 N — 3.5L Eng | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.00 QTS. | — | Use oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M. For areas of extreme cold, where temperatures fall below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), it is recommended a SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or a SAE 10W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. |
| LT — 3.5L Eng | API - SAE 5W-30 | 4.00 QTS. | — | Use oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M. For areas of extreme cold, where temperatures fall below -20Deg.F (-29Deg.C), it is recommended a SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or a SAE 10W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. |
Buy the right oil
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More specs & repair guides for your Malibu Classic
2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic factory service manualAll fluid capacities (transmission, coolant, brakes)Powered by factory manual data from our partner site AllOEMManuals.com.
Coolant capacity
7.5 quarts (7.09 L) — 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL and clean, drinkable water. After refill, the level must be checked. Add enough engine coolant so that the fluid is within the proper operating range.
Frequently asked questions
What type of oil does a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic take?
It depends on the engine: LS, 2.2 F uses 5W-30; LS, 3.5 N uses 5W-30; LT uses 5W-30.
How much oil does a 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic take?
Capacity depends on the engine: LS, 2.2 F holds 5.0 quarts with filter; LS, 3.5 N holds 4.0 quarts with filter; LT holds 4.0 quarts with filter.
Can I use synthetic oil in my 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic?
Yes. 5W-30 is widely available as a full synthetic, and synthetic is safe (often recommended) for the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Classic. What matters most is matching the factory viscosity and specification, then changing the oil and filter on schedule.