OEM 2003 Chevrolet Malibu Oil Pan

2003 Chevrolet Malibu Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to replace the oil pan on 2003 Chevrolet Malibu?

  A: The procedure starts by disconnecting the negative Battery Cable then raising the vehicle. Open the crankcase drain first then disconnect the right front tire and wheel followed by the right front fender liner. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor harness from the right suspension support before removing the right front Ball Joint and its cotter pin and nut away from the Control Arm. First disconnect the closeout panel beneath while taking out the A/C Compressor bolts to position the compressor aside. Disconnecting the engine-to-transmission brace completes this step. The oil level sensor requires disconnection along with remover of the retainers that secure the Brake Line to the frame. Start by removing transmission mount nuts and bolts before loosening left side cradle bolts and taking out cradle bolts from right front and rear engine areas. First remove the Starter and proceed to remove all bolts from the Oil Pan sides before extracting the Oil Pan along with its gasket. Clean all surfaces on the Oil Pan flanges, Oil Pan rail, front cover and rear main bearing cap before installing the threaded holes. To start installation put a new gasket in place then apply sealant (GM P/N 1052080 or equivalent) on the Oil Pan Gasket tabs when working with the rear main bearing cap. Use 25 nm torque (18 ft. Lbs.) to tighten the Oil Pan bolts and use 50 nm torque (37 ft. Lbs.) to tighten the Oil Pan side bolts. After installing the Starter, you should reinstall the flywheel inspection cover and attach the A/C Compressor to the engine. Reposition the right-side frame bolts to 191 nm (141 ft. Lbs.) before proceeding to install transmission mount bolts and nuts at 130 nm (96 ft. Lbs.). Reinstall the right side Ball Joint afterward connect the right front abs wheel speed sensor harness and ensure the Brake Line retainers remain attached to the frame. The engine support bracket must be reinstalled at three points combining the transmission with the right front fender liner and right front tire and wheel assembly. Rereplace the lower closeout panel then lower your vehicle and complete crankcase filling before reconnecting the negative Battery Cable.