Quick answer: Replace Serpentine Belt on a 2016–2025 Chevrolet Malibu is rated Advanced and takes about 1 hour. You'll need 8 tools for this job, and parts cost about $40. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
Parts You Need
The options below are alternatives for the same part — you only need to buy one. Pick the one that matches your year and engine.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Serpentine Belt (ACDelco 12664598) Optional |
12664598 |
$45.00 |
|
| Serpentine Belt (Gates K050685) |
K050685 |
$40.00 |
|
| Belt Tensioner (GM 12627119 / Gates 39375) Optional |
12627119 |
— |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Compare the options above and order the one that matches your vehicle — you only need one.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Prepare (15mm, tight access!)
The 2016–2025 Chevrolet Malibu LT (1.5T LFV) serpentine belt replacement: tensioner GM 12627119 / Gates 39375. You'll need: new serpentine belt, 15mm socket (tensioner), jack + stands, basic hand tools. The 15mm SOCKET (not the RAM's 3/8' ratchet) and the TIGHT TRANSVERSE access (jack/stands required) are the Malibu's distinctions. The 1.5T's transverse layout means the belt is on the side — tight. You may need to remove the wheel and splash shield for access. Photograph the routing. Note: this guide is the 1.5T — the 2.0T and 2.5L are different. The transverse tightness is the job's difficulty.
2
Jack Up, Remove Wheel/Shield
Remove the wheel and splash shield for access — the 1.5T's transverse belt is on the side, not the front. Locate the tensioner (15mm). The wheel-off access is the Malibu's procedure — don't attempt from above only.
3
Relieve Tension (15mm!)
Put the 15mm socket on the tensioner. Rotate to relieve tension. The 1.5T's tensioner uses a 15mm hex — not the 3/8' square drive. Slowly release. Remove the old belt. Inspect the tensioner (GM 12627119 / Gates 39375 if replacing).
4
Install New Belt
Install the new belt following your routing photo. The 1.5T's routing must be exact. Verify the part by VIN. The wheel-off access gives you the room — use it. Don't twist the belt in the tight space.
5
Replace Tensioner (if needed)
If replacing the tensioner: install the new GM 12627119 / Gates 39375. The 1.5T's tensioner is the wear item. Torque to spec (service data). The tight transverse location makes the tensioner swap fiddly — but it's the complete job.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I torque the tensioner to the service-data spec — I've seen a loose tensioner walk, and on the 1.5T the belt takes the accessories with it.
6
Reinstall, Verify, Done
Reinstall the splash shield and wheel. Lower the vehicle. Start the engine — verify the belt tracks (no squeal). The 15mm tensioner (not 3/8'), the GM 12627119 / Gates 39375, the tight transverse access (wheel/shield removal), and the photographed routing are the 2016-2025 Malibu LT 1.5T's defining specs. If it squeals, recheck the routing. This guide is the 1.5T — the 2.0T/2.5L are different. The transverse tightness (vs the RAM's open front) is the key contrast.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I start it and watch the belt track — if it squeals, I've learned to recheck the routing against the photo before assuming the tensioner is bad.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Incorrect belt routing
- • Not releasing tensioner properly
- • Forgetting to reconnect components after replacement
