Where is the OBD interface located on the Malibu?
3 Answers
The OBD interface of the Malibu is located under the steering wheel. The entire model series has a combined fuel consumption of 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers as certified by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Below is an introduction to the Malibu: 1. Powertrain: The model is equipped with a 1.5-liter, 170-horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged engine, with a maximum power of 125 kW and a maximum torque of 250 Nm. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to achieve a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 6.2 seconds. 2. Configuration: As an annual facelift model, the 2018 Malibu did not undergo significant changes to its exterior or interior. However, due to the adoption of a new naming convention, the rear of the vehicle features a '530T' badge to indicate its identity. In terms of configuration, the 530T flagship model is additionally equipped with the OnStar intelligent system, which provides features such as Baidu Carlife, in-car 4G, Wi-Fi, and navigation.
I remember spending some time figuring out the location of the Malibu's OBD port when helping a friend. This port is usually hidden under the dashboard on the driver's side, specifically located above and slightly forward of the driver's left foot near the pedal area. There's a small recess or cover panel that can be lifted to reveal a standard, easily recognizable 16-pin black socket. The design is quite thoughtful—after parking, you can easily reach it by bending down and extending your hand, making it convenient for DIY connections to diagnostic tools for checking fault codes or monitoring fuel consumption data. If you can't find it, you can refer to the diagrams in the user manual to confirm its exact location and avoid damaging the connector by guessing. The OBD port is very useful for routine maintenance; for example, plugging in a device periodically to read the vehicle's status can help prevent minor issues from escalating, ensuring a more worry-free journey. I recommend checking it during regular maintenance.
I've been driving my Malibu for almost ten years, and every time the OBD port is fixed at the front edge of the driver's seat, specifically on the inner wall of the dashboard just below the steering wheel. By glancing down at the footrest area, you can spot a small opening, usually covered with a thin plastic cap for protection. The position is just right—not too high or too low—making it easy to reach with your hand. Connecting a phone or computer for vehicle diagnostics is super convenient. I once used it to detect an oxygen sensor fault myself. Knowing the location of this port can save you time on repairs because it provides real-time feedback on system issues, helping to prevent overlooked hazards that could affect driving safety. First-time users shouldn't worry; try operating it with the engine off for safety. OBD tools are now affordable and user-friendly, making them worth keeping on hand.
