Parts for your Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu Struts
Buy Chevrolet Malibu struts online and match them to your car with the fitment table on every listing. We carry 18 strut options covering 2000-2016 Malibu models, priced from $36.98 to $308.95. You can choose bare struts or loaded assemblies with the spring and mount, from Monroe, KYB, Moog, Detroit Axle, TRQ and FCS Automotive.
Year
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Malibu strut fitment by generation
The Malibu changed platforms several times between 2000 and 2016, so the generation matters first. The 2000-2003 car, the 2004-2007 car, the 2008-2012 car, the 2013-2015 car and the 2016 redesign all carry their own strut applications. Treat 2004 and 2013 as transition years and confirm with your VIN.
The 2004-2007 Malibu Maxx hatchback does not share struts with the sedan, and some listings exclude Maxx models outright. On most Malibu sedans the front uses struts and the rear uses separate shocks, so check the position on each listing. Then confirm driver or passenger side, trim such as LT, LTZ or Premier, and any suspension package noted in the fitment table.
Signs your Malibu struts are worn
A strut that is leaking shows an oily, dusty film on the body, which means the damper seal has failed. Weak struts also let the car bounce or float after bumps, lean more in corners and nose-dive under hard braking. Cupped or uneven front tire wear can follow.
Knocking or clunking over bumps is a common Malibu complaint, but it does not always come from the strut itself. A worn upper strut mount or bearing can make the same noise, as can tired sway bar links. Check those before you decide what to order, and replace the mount with the strut if it is worn.
Loaded assembly or bare strut
A bare strut is the lower-cost part, but you must transfer the original coil spring and upper mount. That job needs a proper spring compressor, because the spring is under heavy load. A loaded assembly, such as the Monroe or Moog strut and coil spring units listed here, arrives with spring and mount installed and bolts in as one piece.
Replace front struts in pairs so both sides damp the same. Some listings are sold as a set, like the Detroit Axle front pair, while others are single corners. While the suspension is apart, inspect the sway bar links, bump stops and dust boots. Support the car on jack stands, and get a wheel alignment after any front strut replacement.
More about struts
Read our struts buying guide for how the part works and what to look for in any vehicle.
Malibu questions
Does the Chevy Malibu have struts in the rear?
On most Malibu sedans in these years the front uses struts and the rear uses separate shock absorbers. Our catalog does list a rear strut and coil spring assembly for some applications, so check the position and the fitment table for your exact year and body.
Do Malibu Maxx struts fit the Malibu sedan?
Do not assume they do. The 2004-2007 Maxx hatchback has different body and suspension applications from the sedan, and some strut listings exclude Maxx models. Confirm your body style and VIN against the fitment table before you order.
Should I replace both front struts on my Malibu?
Yes, replacing both front struts together is the standard advice so damping stays balanced side to side. Check whether a listing is a single corner or a pair, and plan for a wheel alignment once the new struts are installed.