How many kilometers should the Malibu's spark plugs be replaced under normal conditions?
2 Answers
The Malibu's spark plugs should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers under normal conditions, but they should also be checked and replaced based on actual usage. The general lifespan of spark plugs is between 30,000 to 60,000 kilometers, and the replacement cycle is directly related to the material. The Malibu has a length of 4933mm, a width of 1854mm, a height of 1473mm, and a wheelbase of 2829mm. The Malibu is equipped with two engines: one is a 1.3-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a maximum horsepower of 165ps and a maximum torque of 240nm; the other is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with a maximum horsepower of 241ps and a maximum torque of 350nm. The front suspension of the Malibu uses a MacPherson independent suspension, and the rear suspension uses a multi-link independent suspension.
I've been driving for many years, including a Chevrolet Malibu, and the ideal time to replace spark plugs is usually between 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. The manual recommends a range of 60,000 to 120,000 kilometers, but in actual driving conditions, if you frequently drive on highways or in congested city traffic, the wear on spark plugs can vary. It's best to be conservative—check them every 60,000 kilometers and replace them by 80,000 kilometers. Worn-out spark plugs can lead to insufficient ignition, slower engine starts, sluggish acceleration, and even increased fuel consumption, with an extra liter per 100 kilometers not being uncommon. Platinum or iridium spark plugs last longer, but you should regularly check the electrode gap to avoid damaging the ignition coil. Safety comes first—don't skimp on this. Follow the dealership's recommendations during the warranty period for peace of mind, cost savings, and extended engine life. I've seen friends delay replacements and end up spending thousands more on repairs—totally not worth it.
