As the fuel gauge on your Chevy Malibu nudges towards empty, the task of refueling becomes unavoidable. While it may seem like a simple task, opening the gas tank on a Malibu can be a bit tricky if you’re not familiar with the process. Fear not, for this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to ensure a seamless refueling experience.
Before embarking on this mission, familiarize yourself with the location of the fuel door. Typically, it’s situated on the rear quarter panel, either on the driver’s or passenger’s side. Locate the small, rectangular fuel door and gently press on it. You’ll feel a slight give as the door pops open, revealing the gas tank filler neck.
Now comes the crucial part: inserting the fuel nozzle into the filler neck. Align the nozzle with the opening and gently push it in. You may encounter a slight resistance as the nozzle engages with the fuel tank’s safety mechanism. Continue pushing until you hear a click, indicating that the nozzle has locked into place. This safety feature prevents fuel from spilling during refueling, ensuring a clean and efficient process.
Locating the Fuel Tank Door
| Vehicle | Fuel Tank Door Location |
|---|---|
| 2022 Chevy Malibu | Driver’s side, behind the rear wheel |
| 2021 Chevy Malibu | Driver’s side, behind the rear wheel |
| 2020 Chevy Malibu | Driver’s side, behind the rear wheel |
| 2019 Chevy Malibu | Driver’s side, behind the rear wheel |
| 2018 Chevy Malibu | Driver’s side, behind the rear wheel |
The fuel tank door on the Chevy Malibu is typically located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, behind the rear wheel. To locate the fuel tank door, follow these steps:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface.
- Exit the vehicle and walk to the driver’s side.
- Locate the small, square-shaped fuel tank door behind the rear wheel.
- Press the button or lever located near the fuel tank door to release the latch.
- Pull open the fuel tank door to access the fuel filler neck.
Inserting the Key
**Step 1: Locate the Fuel Door**
The fuel door on a Chevy Malibu is usually located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, adjacent to the rear wheel. Look for a small, rectangular door with a keyhole.
**Step 2: Insert the Key and Turn**
Take your vehicle’s key and insert it into the keyhole of the fuel door. Apply gentle pressure and turn the key clockwise approximately 45 degrees. This will release the fuel door latch, allowing it to swing open.
**Step 3: Lift the Fuel Door**
Once the latch is released, lift the fuel door upward to completely expose the fuel filler neck. You may need to pull the door open slightly before lifting it.
| Possible Issues | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Key does not fit or turn | Ensure you are using the correct key for your vehicle. Check if there are any foreign objects stuck in the keyhole. |
| Fuel door won’t open after turning the key | Try shaking the key gently while turning it. If that doesn’t work, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting steps. |
Opening the Fuel Tank Door
Locate the Fuel Tank Door Release
Most Chevy Malibus have a fuel tank door release located inside the vehicle. Look for a small lever or button, typically on the driver’s side near the floorboard or center console. It may be labeled “Fuel Door” or have a gas pump symbol.
Pull or Press the Fuel Tank Door Release
Once you’ve located the fuel tank door release, pull or press it to open the fuel tank door. Some models have a two-step release mechanism: pull once to release the latch and pull again to open the door. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your particular Malibu model.
Refuel
Once the fuel tank door is open, you can access the fuel filler neck. Insert the fuel nozzle and begin fueling. Ensure that the gas cap is securely tightened when finished.
Removing the Fuel Cap
1. Locate the fuel door.
The fuel door is usually located on the rear quarter panel of the vehicle. It is typically marked with a fuel pump symbol and may have a small release button.
2. Press the release button.
Press the release button to unlock the fuel door. The fuel door will pop open slightly.
3. Pull open the fuel door.
Pull the fuel door open all the way. You may need to use two hands to do this
4. Remove the fuel cap.
To remove the fuel cap, grasp the cap and turn it counterclockwise. The cap will unscrew and come off easily. Be careful not to drop the cap, as it can be difficult to retrieve if it falls into the fuel tank.
Inserting the Fuel Nozzle
Step 1: Locate the Fuel Door Release
Find the fuel door release lever or button inside the vehicle, typically near the driver’s seat. It may be labeled “Fuel” or have a picture of a gas pump.
Step 2: Open the Fuel Door
Pull or push the fuel door release lever or button to unlock and open the fuel door.
Step 3: Identify the Filler Neck
Once the fuel door is open, locate the filler neck, which is the opening where you insert the gas pump nozzle.
Step 4: Remove the Gas Cap
Unscrew or lift the gas cap to expose the filler neck.
Step 5: Insert the Nozzle and Fuel Up
Align the gas pump nozzle with the filler neck and insert it firmly. Squeeze the trigger on the nozzle to begin fueling. Hold the nozzle in place until the tank is full or the pump automatically shuts off.
| Tip |
|---|
| To prevent overfilling, pay attention to the pump’s automatic shut-off feature or the clicking sound it makes when the tank is full. |
Step 6: Replace the Gas Cap
Once the tank is full, remove the nozzle and replace the gas cap securely. Tighten it by hand until it clicks or is snug.
Step 7: Close the Fuel Door
Push or pull the fuel door shut until it latches properly. Ensure it is fully closed to prevent fuel leaks or fumes from entering the vehicle.
Dispensing Fuel
1. Position your vehicle at the fuel pump.
2. Turn off the engine and set the parking brake.
3. Exit the vehicle and approach the gas tank.
4. Locate the fuel filler door on the rear quarter panel of the vehicle.
5. Pull the fuel filler door open.
6. Insert the fuel nozzle into the fuel filler neck. Ensure that the nozzle is fully inserted and that the fuel inlet is unobstructed. If the nozzle clicks off prematurely, remove it and reinsert it. Repeat this process until the nozzle locks into place and allows fuel to flow smoothly.
| Fuel Type | Recommended Octane |
|---|---|
| Regular Unleaded Gasoline | 87 |
| Mid-Grade Unleaded Gasoline | 89 |
| Premium Unleaded Gasoline | 91 or higher |
7. Squeeze the trigger on the fuel nozzle to begin dispensing fuel.
8. Once the desired amount of fuel has been dispensed, release the trigger and remove the nozzle from the fuel filler neck.
9. Close the fuel filler door.
10. Return to the driver’s seat and start the engine.
Replacing the Fuel Cap
Replacing the fuel cap on a Chevy Malibu is a simple and straightforward task that can be completed in a few minutes. Follow these steps to ensure a proper seal and prevent any fuel leaks:
- Locate the fuel cap, usually on the rear quarter panel of the vehicle.
- Apply pressure to the small tab on the side of the cap and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it.
- Remove the cap and inspect it for any damage or debris.
- If the cap is damaged, replace it with a new one of the same size and type.
- Clean the fuel filler neck and the threads on the cap with a clean cloth.
- Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or fuel cap lubricant to the threads of the new cap.
- Screw the cap back onto the fuel filler neck and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place.
Fuel Cap Tightening Torques Model Year Tightening Torque (ft-lb) 2013-2023 Malibu 15 - Check the fuel cap for leaks by running the vehicle for a few minutes and observing if any fuel is leaking from the filler neck.
Closing the Fuel Tank Door
Once you have refueled your Chevy Malibu, it is important to close the fuel tank door properly to prevent fuel vapors from escaping. To close the fuel tank door, simply insert the nozzle into the fuel inlet and press down until it clicks into place. Then, remove the nozzle and firmly push the fuel tank door closed.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Closing the Fuel Tank Door:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Insert the fuel nozzle into the fuel inlet. |
| 2 | Press down on the nozzle until it clicks into place. |
| 3 | Remove the nozzle. |
| 4 | Firmly push the fuel tank door closed. |
If the fuel tank door does not close properly, you may hear a rattling noise or smell fuel vapors. In this case, try closing the door again, making sure that it is fully closed. If the problem persists, you should consult with a mechanic to have the fuel tank door repaired or replaced.
Releasing the Fuel Tank Door
To release the fuel tank door on a Chevy Malibu, follow these steps:
- Locate the fuel tank door release lever. It is usually located on the floor of the driver’s side footwell, near the door sill.
- Pull the lever to release the fuel tank door.
- The fuel tank door will pop open slightly.
- Gently lift the fuel tank door until it is fully open.
- Insert the fuel nozzle into the fuel tank filler neck.
- Squeeze the trigger on the fuel nozzle to start fueling the vehicle.
- Once the vehicle is fueled, remove the fuel nozzle from the fuel tank filler neck.
- Close the fuel tank door by pushing it down until it clicks into place.
Additional Tips
- If the fuel tank door is frozen shut, you can use a hair dryer to warm it up and loosen the ice.
- If the fuel tank door release lever is broken, you can use a screwdriver or other tool to pry the fuel tank door open.
- Be careful not to spill fuel when refueling your vehicle.
Fuel Tank Release Lever Not Working
If your Chevy Malibu’s fuel tank release lever isn’t working, it could be due to a few different issues. First, check if the lever is obstructed by any objects or debris. If it’s clear, try pressing the lever harder or jiggling it back and forth. If that doesn’t work, the lever may be damaged and need to be replaced.
Fuel Tank Cap Stuck
If your Chevy Malibu’s fuel tank cap is stuck, it could be due to rust, corrosion, or debris. Try using a lubricant like WD-40 to loosen the cap. If that doesn’t work, you may need to use a pair of pliers to gently twist the cap off.
Fuel Tank Door Not Opening
If your Chevy Malibu’s fuel tank door is not opening, it could be due to a few different issues. First, check if the door is obstructed by any objects or debris. If it’s clear, try pressing the door harder or jiggling it back and forth. If that doesn’t work, the door may be damaged and need to be replaced.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fuel Pump Not Working
If your Chevy Malibu’s fuel pump is not working, it could be due to a few different issues. First, check the fuel pump fuse to see if it has blown. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one. If the fuse is not blown, the fuel pump may be damaged and need to be replaced. Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting a fuel pump issue:
- Listen for a buzzing noise coming from the fuel tank. This noise indicates that the fuel pump is working.
- Check the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. The fuel pressure should be between 40 and 60 psi.
- Inspect the fuel lines and fuel filter for any leaks or blockages.
- If you have access to a scan tool, check for any trouble codes related to the fuel pump.
Possible Cause Solution Blown fuel pump fuse Replace the fuse Damaged fuel pump Replace the fuel pump Clogged fuel filter Replace the fuel filter Leaking fuel line Repair or replace the fuel line Faulty fuel pump control module Replace the fuel pump control module How To Open A Chevy Malibu Gas Tank
To open the gas tank on a Chevy Malibu, you will need to locate the fuel door release lever inside the vehicle. This lever is usually located on the floorboard near the driver’s seat. Once you have found the lever, pull it up to release the fuel door.
Once the fuel door is released, you can open it by pulling it open. The gas cap will be located inside the fuel door.
To remove the gas cap, turn it counterclockwise. Once the gas cap is removed, you can insert the fuel nozzle into the fuel tank and begin refueling your vehicle.
People Also Ask About How To Open A Chevy Malibu Gas Tank
How do I open the gas tank on a Chevy Malibu with a key?
There is no keyhole on the Chevy Malibu gas tank. The gas tank is opened using a lever inside the vehicle.
Why is my Chevy Malibu gas tank stuck?
The Chevy Malibu gas tank may be stuck due to a frozen fuel door release lever or a faulty gas cap.
How do I reset the gas tank on a Chevy Malibu?
There is no need to reset the gas tank on a Chevy Malibu.
