How often should the spark plugs be replaced on a Malibu XL?
2 Answers
The spark plugs on a Malibu XL should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers. Methods to determine if the spark plugs are damaged: Remove the spark plugs and observe them. The condition of the spark plugs can be judged based on their appearance and color. Normal spark plugs have an insulator skirt and electrodes that appear gray-white, gray-yellow, or light brown. A properly functioning spark plug has a reddish-brown insulator skirt, an electrode gap between 0.8-0.9mm, and no signs of electrode burn. If the spark plugs are contaminated with oil or deposits but are not damaged, they can continue to be used after cleaning off the oil and deposits. If the spark plugs are severely damaged, showing signs such as blistering at the top, black streaks, cracks, or melted electrodes, the cause of the damage should be identified. After troubleshooting, replace the spark plugs with new ones. Additionally, if the spark plugs appear black as if smoked, it indicates that the wrong heat range was selected or that the air-fuel mixture is too rich, with oil seeping up.
Regarding the spark plug replacement for the Chevrolet Malibu XL, as an owner who has driven it for over five years, according to the user manual and 4S dealership recommendations, the optimal replacement interval for spark plugs is approximately every 96,000 kilometers. I personally replaced them with a brand-new set at 100,000 kilometers. Before the replacement, the car occasionally had slight hesitation during startup, and fuel consumption increased by about 0.5 liters/100km. After the replacement, ignition feels much smoother, and the engine sound has become noticeably lighter. If you frequently drive in congested urban areas, such as stop-and-go traffic during rush hours, wear and tear will accelerate, so I recommend checking them earlier at around 80,000 kilometers. Regular replacement not only saves fuel costs but also prevents mid-journey breakdowns. Always use the OEM-recommended model—don’t compromise with cheap, low-quality parts to maintain stable vehicle performance. I always pay attention to this detail during routine maintenance—a small investment for great peace of mind.
