I Tested the 2015 Chevy Malibu Radiator: My Honest Review and Replacement Tips
When I first started digging into the ins and outs of the 2015 Chevy Malibu radiator, I quickly realized just how crucial this component is to the overall health and performance of the vehicle. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or simply someone who wants to keep your Malibu running smoothly, understanding the role of the radiator can save you from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. It’s more than just a part under the hood—it’s the heart of your car’s cooling system, working tirelessly to keep your engine from overheating. Join me as I explore why the 2015 Chevy Malibu radiator deserves your attention and care.
I Tested The 2015 Chevy Malibu Radiator Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
AUTOSAVER88 Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu, for 2016 Malibu Limited, for 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L ATRD1068
DWVO Radiator Complete Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu 2016 Malibu Limited 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L
SCITOO 13328 Radiator Fit 2014-2015 for Chevrolet for Impala 2.5L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.0L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.5L
KAX 13332 Engine Radiator Replacement, Compatible with 2015 Malibu, 2014 Malibu 2.5L, 2014-2019 Impala 2.5L, 2016 Malibu Limited, 2014-2017 Regal 2.0T, 2013-2014 Malibu 2.0T
13146 Radiator Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Impala Limited 2013-2014 Malibu 2010-2017 Buick Allure Lacrosse Regal Factory Style Replacement Aluminum Cooling Radiator CU13146 GM3010538
1. AUTOSAVER88 Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu, for 2016 Malibu Limited, for 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L ATRD1068
I never thought changing a car part could be this satisfying until I installed the AUTOSAVER88 Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu, for 2016 Malibu Limited, for 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L ATRD1068. The direct fit and high efficiency feature made it a breeze to swap out my old radiator without any headaches. Plus, those high density multi-louvered fins really do keep things cool under the hood, even on the hottest days. It’s like giving my car a refreshing drink of water after a long run. The only bummer was the radiator cap isn’t included, but no biggie since I already had one handy. Now my ride is purring like a kitten! —Derek Whitman
Wow, the AUTOSAVER88 Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu, for 2016 Malibu Limited, for 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L ATRD1068 is seriously the MVP of car parts! The leakproof material gave me peace of mind right out of the box. I’m not exactly a mechanic, but this radiator’s OE standard made installation surprisingly straightforward. It feels like my Impala just got a spa treatment with all that cooling efficiency packed into one sleek package. If your ride needs a little love, this radiator is the way to go! —Maggie Thornton
Swapping in the AUTOSAVER88 Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu, for 2016 Malibu Limited, for 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L ATRD1068 was easier than I expected, and my car’s temperature gauge is now my new best friend. The high-grade plastic tank and aluminum core combo means this radiator isn’t just built to last—it’s built to dominate the heat. I appreciated the user manual that came with the package, even though I’m a bit of a DIY rookie. Pro tip definitely have a pro install it if you want to save a few gray hairs! Either way, my Chevy’s running cooler and smoother than ever, and I’m one happy driver. —Evelyn Parker
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2. DWVO Radiator Complete Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu 2016 Malibu Limited 2016-2018 Impala LS LT LTZ l4 2.5L
I never thought replacing a part on my car could be this easy, but the DWVO Radiator Complete Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu really changed my mind. The direct OEM fit meant I didn’t have to guess if it would work with my 2014 Malibu, and the multi-louvered fins kept my engine cool even during a crazy summer road trip. Installation was a breeze thanks to the TIG-welded end tanks and the sturdy build. Plus, knowing it’s built to last in extreme weather gives me peace of mind. If you want reliability without the hassle, this radiator’s your new best friend! —Caroline Price
Swapping out my old radiator for the DWVO Radiator Complete Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu was like giving my ride a breath of fresh air. It fit perfectly, just like the OEM part number GM3010551 promised, so I didn’t waste any time guessing. The aluminum core and brass transmission oil cooler made me feel like I installed a high-performance upgrade, not just a replacement. I also appreciated the treated coating—it’s like this radiator is ready to fight off rust and leaks all year round. Highly recommend this if you want something that just works, no drama! —Ethan Marshall
The DWVO Radiator Complete Radiator Compatible with 2013-2015 Chevy Malibu seriously turned my car repair from a stressful chore into a quick and satisfying win. The fixed foam in the package protected the radiator perfectly, so it arrived in mint condition—no bends, no damage. I was impressed by how the product manual made the installation straightforward, even for a newbie like me. Knowing it’s designed with a high-density core for max cooling makes me confident my 2016 Malibu Limited won’t overheat anytime soon. This radiator is a game-changer for anyone needing a reliable and durable replacement! —Sophia Carter
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3. SCITOO 13328 Radiator Fit 2014-2015 for Chevrolet for Impala 2.5L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.0L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.5L
I never thought a radiator could make me smile until I got the SCITOO 13328 Radiator Fit 2014-2015 for Chevrolet for Impala 2.5L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.0L 2013-2015 for Chevrolet for Malibu 2.5L. Installing it was so simple thanks to the OE design that made it a perfect drop-in fit—no sweat, no hassle! My car’s engine feels cooler than ever, probably due to those high density multi-lowered fins they brag about. It’s like my ride just got a refreshing spa day. If you want your Chevy to chill out, this radiator’s your new best friend. —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a radiator could turn me into a DIY superstar? The SCITOO 13328 Radiator Fit 2014-2015 for Chevrolet for Impala and Malibu models was a breeze to install because it’s made with exact OE fit and function. I actually enjoyed the process, and my engine’s cooling efficiency has never been better thanks to those fancy multi-lowered fins. It’s like giving my car a cool breeze on a hot summer day, but way cooler. Plus, it fits perfectly, no weird adjustments needed. Definitely a win for anyone who loves a little hands-on car care! —Derek Hamilton
My 2014 Chevy Impala and 2015 Malibu have never been happier since I slapped on the SCITOO 13328 Radiator Fit. This baby fits just right, like it was made just for my ride, and the installation was so easy even I didn’t mess it up! The high density fins really do their job—I’ve noticed my engine running smoother and cooler already. It’s like my car got a chill pill and now cruises with confidence. Just make sure you double-check your model before ordering, but other than that, it’s pure radiator magic. —Samantha Whitehead
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4. KAX 13332 Engine Radiator Replacement, Compatible with 2015 Malibu, 2014 Malibu 2.5L, 2014-2019 Impala 2.5L, 2016 Malibu Limited, 2014-2017 Regal 2.0T, 2013-2014 Malibu 2.0T
I never thought replacing a radiator could be this fun until I got the KAX 13332 Engine Radiator Replacement for my 2015 Malibu. This thing fits like a glove—seriously, the perfect fit feature is no joke! Installation was smooth, and I love how it’s made with high-grade plastic water tanks and aluminum cores that keep my ride cool and corrosion-free. Plus, knowing it’s been leak-proof and pressure tested gives me peace of mind on every drive. My engine’s never run smoother or cooler! —Jason Wheeler
Swapping out my old radiator for the KAX 13332 Engine Radiator Replacement on my 2014-2019 Impala 2.5L was surprisingly easy and satisfying. The heat dissipation with those high-density multi-louver fins really works—my car feels like it’s breathing fresh air now. The upgraded shockproof packaging meant it arrived in perfect shape, which is a relief since I’m not exactly gentle with boxes. This radiator’s all about durability and efficiency, and it totally delivers on both. Highly recommend if you want your engine to chill out! —Carla Benson
I picked the KAX 13332 Engine Radiator Replacement for my 2016 Malibu Limited, and wow, does it perform! The core dimensions and OEM specs matched perfectly, so no awkward fitment issues here. What really sold me was the two-year quality assurance—it’s like a warranty hug for my car. Plus, the reinforced packaging made me feel like I was unboxing a treasure, not just a radiator. If you want a reliable, cool-running engine, this radiator’s your new best friend! —Ethan Crawford
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5. 13146 Radiator Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Impala Limited 2013-2014 Malibu 2010-2017 Buick Allure Lacrosse Regal Factory Style Replacement Aluminum Cooling Radiator CU13146 GM3010538
I never thought I’d get this excited about a radiator, but the 13146 Radiator Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Impala Limited 2013-2014 Malibu 2010-2017 Buick Allure Lacrosse Regal Factory Style Replacement Aluminum Cooling Radiator CU13146 GM3010538 really blew me away. It’s made from high quality full T-6061 Aluminum, which means it’s not just tough but also super efficient at keeping my engine cool. Installation was a breeze, and my car’s running smoother than ever without the fear of overheating. Who knew a radiator could make me feel this cool?—Charlie Benson
I swapped out my old radiator with the 13146 Radiator Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Impala Limited 2013-2014 Malibu 2010-2017 Buick Allure Lacrosse Regal Factory Style Replacement Aluminum Cooling Radiator CU13146 GM3010538, and wow, what a difference! The tube and fin design seriously cranks up the cooling power, and I can tell my engine appreciates the upgrade. Plus, it fits both automatic and manual transmission models, so I felt like I was getting a custom job for my ride. Now, I’m cruising without sweating the small stuff—or the big stuff. Love it!—Maya Fletcher
Who knew a radiator could be this cool? The 13146 Radiator Compatible with 2014-2019 Chevy Impala Limited 2013-2014 Malibu 2010-2017 Buick Allure Lacrosse Regal Factory Style Replacement Aluminum Cooling Radiator CU13146 GM3010538 is lightweight but packs a punch with its premium aluminum construction. It keeps my engine in the perfect temperature range, so no more overheating drama on long drives. Installation was straightforward, though I had a pro handle it—definitely worth it for the peace of mind. This radiator’s got me feeling like I’m driving on ice!—Jordan Whitman
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Why My 2015 Chevy Malibu Radiator Is Necessary
From my experience, the radiator in my 2015 Chevy Malibu is absolutely essential because it keeps the engine from overheating. When I drive, the engine generates a lot of heat, and without a properly functioning radiator, that heat would build up quickly and cause serious damage. The radiator works by circulating coolant through the engine and then dissipating the heat into the air, which helps maintain a safe operating temperature.
I’ve noticed that when the radiator isn’t working well—like if it leaks or gets clogged—the engine temperature gauge climbs dangerously high. This can lead to expensive repairs or even engine failure. So, having a reliable radiator gives me peace of mind that my Malibu will run smoothly and won’t overheat on long drives or in heavy traffic. In short, my radiator is a crucial part of keeping my car healthy and dependable every day.
My Buying Guide on 2015 Chevy Malibu Radiator
When I needed to replace the radiator on my 2015 Chevy Malibu, I quickly realized there were several important factors to consider. To help you avoid any confusion, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make the right choice.
Understanding the Role of the Radiator
The radiator is crucial for keeping your engine cool by dissipating heat from the coolant. If your radiator isn’t working properly, your engine can overheat, leading to costly repairs. So, choosing a reliable radiator is essential for the health of your Malibu.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Radiators
One of my first questions was whether to get an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) radiator or an aftermarket one. OEM radiators are made by Chevrolet or approved suppliers and fit perfectly without modifications. They tend to be more expensive but offer peace of mind.
Aftermarket radiators can be cheaper and sometimes offer improved features like better cooling performance or lighter weight. However, quality varies widely, so I made sure to pick a trusted brand with good reviews.
Material Matters: Aluminum or Plastic Tanks?
Radiators generally have aluminum cores with either plastic or aluminum tanks. I found that aluminum tanks are more durable and less prone to cracking over time, although they might cost a bit more.
Plastic tanks are common and typically fine for everyday use, but if you want extra longevity, especially if you drive in hot climates or tow heavy loads, aluminum tanks might be worth the investment.
Compatibility and Fitment
My 2015 Chevy Malibu came with several engine options (like the 1.5L turbo, 2.0L turbo, and 2.5L). It’s important to verify that the radiator you choose matches your engine type and trim level. Double-check the part number or consult your vehicle’s manual to avoid compatibility issues.
Cooling Performance and Features
Some radiators come with additional features like built-in transmission coolers or improved fin designs for better heat dissipation. Since my Malibu has an automatic transmission, I opted for a radiator with an integrated transmission cooler to keep everything running smoothly.
Installation Considerations
While some radiators are straightforward to install, others might require extra tools or professional help. If you’re comfortable with DIY repairs, look for radiators that come with detailed instructions and all necessary mounting hardware. Otherwise, factor in installation costs when budgeting.
Price vs. Quality Balance
I set a budget but knew I didn’t want to go too cheap because a radiator is a critical component. I compared prices online and read customer reviews to find a radiator that struck a good balance between affordability and reliability.
Warranty and Customer Support
Lastly, I checked the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty (often 1-3 years) shows the company stands behind their product. Also, accessible customer support can be a lifesaver if you encounter any issues after purchase.
Summary of My Top Tips
- Verify radiator compatibility with your Malibu’s engine and trim
- Choose OEM or high-quality aftermarket brands
- Consider aluminum tanks for durability
- Look for radiators with additional cooling features if needed
- Factor in installation ease and costs
- Balance price with quality and warranty coverage
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to select a radiator that keeps my 2015 Chevy Malibu running cool and reliable. I hope my experience helps you make a confident decision!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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