Understanding the precise lifting locations on your 2018 Malibu LT is crucial for safe and effective vehicle maintenance utilizing a two-post lift system.
Overview of the Vehicle
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu LT represents a mid-size sedan known for its comfortable ride, fuel efficiency, and modern features. It’s a unibody construction vehicle, meaning it lacks a traditional frame, which significantly impacts where and how it should be lifted. The Malibu LT’s weight distribution is fairly balanced, but concentrated around the engine compartment and front suspension.
When preparing to lift this vehicle, it’s vital to recognize that the sheet metal isn’t designed to bear the entire load. Lifting must occur at reinforced points – specifically the designated subframe locations. Ignoring these points can lead to crushing, bending, or deformation of the vehicle’s body panels, potentially causing structural damage and compromising safety. Proper lifting technique ensures both the vehicle and personnel remain secure during maintenance procedures.
Importance of Correct Lifting
Correctly lifting a 2018 Malibu LT isn’t merely about getting the vehicle off the ground; it’s about preserving its structural integrity and ensuring technician safety. Improper lifting can cause significant damage to the vehicle’s undercarriage, including bent or crushed body panels, compromised suspension components, and even damage to the fuel or brake lines.
Furthermore, an unstable lift presents a serious hazard to anyone working near or under the vehicle. Utilizing incorrect lifting points can lead to unexpected slippage or a complete fall, resulting in severe injury or even fatality. Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended lifting points, and employing appropriate lift pads, is paramount for a secure and damage-free lifting process. Prioritizing safety and proper technique is non-negotiable.
Safety Precautions
Before lifting a 2018 Malibu LT, a thorough safety inspection is essential. Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect against debris and potential hazards. Ensure the lifting area is clear of obstructions and personnel. Verify the two-post lift is in good working order, with a valid inspection certificate.
Never exceed the lift’s rated capacity. Confirm the vehicle’s weight is within the lift’s specifications. During the lifting process, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle’s path. Once lifted, always use jack stands as secondary support, positioned securely under designated frame points. Never work under a vehicle supported solely by a lift. Regular inspection of lift pads for wear and tear is also crucial for maintaining a secure lift.
Locating Lifting Points on the 2018 Malibu LT
Identifying the correct lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT is paramount for a secure and damage-free lift, utilizing the vehicle’s reinforced structures.
Front Lifting Points
The front lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT are strategically positioned on the front subframe rails. These areas are specifically reinforced to withstand the weight of the vehicle during lifting procedures. Locating these points requires careful inspection beneath the front of the vehicle. They are typically found just behind the front bumper, aligned with the structural members of the subframe.
It’s essential to avoid lifting on suspension components or any part of the body that isn’t explicitly designed for lifting. Incorrect placement can lead to damage to the vehicle’s undercarriage or compromise its structural integrity. Always double-check the positioning before initiating the lift, ensuring the lift pads are securely seated on the designated lifting points. Proper engagement is vital for a stable and safe lifting process.
Specific Locations ⎼ Front Subframe
Precisely identifying the front subframe lifting points involves locating the reinforced metal sections running longitudinally beneath the engine compartment. These are typically rectangular or square pads welded onto the subframe rails. On the 2018 Malibu LT, these points are situated approximately 12-18 inches rearward from the foremost point of the front bumper, and roughly 6-8 inches inward from the outer edges of the vehicle’s body.
Look for clearly defined, flat surfaces designed to accommodate the lift pads. These areas will often exhibit a slightly different texture or finish compared to the surrounding metal. Confirm the points are symmetrical on both sides of the vehicle to ensure balanced lifting. Avoid any areas showing signs of rust, damage, or previous modification, as these may compromise lifting safety.
Accessing Front Lifting Points
Gaining access to the front subframe lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT generally requires minimal obstruction removal. Standard ride height allows direct access with most two-post lifts. However, lower-profile vehicles might necessitate a slightly higher lift approach. Ensure sufficient clearance around the lifting points before engaging the lift arms.
Inspect the area for any underbody panels or components that could interfere with pad placement. If present, carefully reposition or temporarily remove these obstructions. Utilize a bright work light to clearly visualize the lifting points and confirm proper pad alignment. Double-check that no wiring harnesses or brake lines are positioned near the lifting zones to prevent accidental damage during the lifting process.
Rear Lifting Points
Locating the rear lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT is essential for balanced and secure lifting. These points are reinforced sections of the rear subframe, designed to withstand the vehicle’s weight during elevation. Accessing these points is typically straightforward, though some underbody components may require brief inspection.
Confirm the area around the rear subframe is clear of any exhaust components or suspension lines that could be damaged during lifting. Proper positioning of the lift pads is vital to avoid stressing the vehicle’s body. A visual inspection with a work light will help ensure accurate pad placement on the designated lifting points, promoting a stable and safe lifting procedure.
Specific Locations ⎼ Rear Subframe
The designated rear lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT’s subframe are located on either side, positioned towards the rear of the vehicle, just ahead of the rear wheels. These are reinforced metal sections specifically engineered to handle lifting forces. Look for clearly defined, flat surfaces designed for secure contact with lift pads.
These points are typically found along the longitudinal members of the subframe, offering a stable base for elevation. Ensure the lift pads align perfectly with these reinforced areas to prevent any potential damage to the surrounding body panels or undercarriage components. Precise identification is key for a safe and balanced lift.
Accessing Rear Lifting Points
Gaining access to the rear lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT is generally straightforward, requiring minimal obstruction removal. Typically, no underbody panels need to be detached for clear access. However, ensure sufficient clearance around the designated areas by visually inspecting for any wiring harnesses or brake lines that might interfere with lift pad placement.
A low-profile floor jack can be helpful for initial positioning and confirming the lift points before fully committing to the two-post lift. Use a bright work light to illuminate the area, ensuring accurate pad alignment. Prioritize a clean and unobstructed approach to prevent accidental damage during the lifting process.
Using a Two-Post Lift with the 2018 Malibu LT
Proper two-post lift utilization demands careful arm placement and pad adapter selection for the 2018 Malibu LT, ensuring vehicle stability.
Lift Arm Placement
Strategic lift arm positioning is paramount when elevating a 2018 Malibu LT on a two-post lift. Incorrect placement can lead to vehicle instability or, worse, damage to the body or undercarriage. Prioritize contacting reinforced structural areas designed to withstand lifting forces. Avoid contact with plastic components, exhaust systems, or fuel lines.
For the front, extend the lift arms to engage the designated front subframe lifting points. Ensure the arms are symmetrical and evenly distribute the weight. At the rear, similarly position the arms to contact the rear subframe lifting points, maintaining symmetry. Regularly inspect arm alignment throughout the lifting process.
Always double-check that the lift pads are fully seated against the vehicle’s lifting points before commencing the lift. This minimizes the risk of slippage and ensures a secure lift. Remember, a stable lift is a safe lift, protecting both the vehicle and personnel.
Optimal Arm Positioning ⎼ Front
When positioning lift arms for the front of a 2018 Malibu LT, focus on the front subframe rails. These are specifically engineered to handle the stresses of lifting. Extend the arms outwards, aiming for a balanced contact point along the subframe’s reinforced sections. Avoid positioning the arms too far forward or backward, as this can compromise stability.
Ensure the lift pads are aligned with the subframe’s structural supports, preventing contact with any suspension components or body panels. A symmetrical setup is crucial; equal weight distribution minimizes the risk of uneven lifting and potential damage. Verify that both arms are engaging the subframe securely before initiating the lift.
Regularly inspect the arm placement as the vehicle rises, confirming consistent contact and stability. Slight adjustments may be necessary to maintain optimal positioning throughout the lifting process.
Optimal Arm Positioning ⏤ Rear
For the rear of the 2018 Malibu LT, prioritize contact with the rear subframe rails. Similar to the front, these areas are designed to withstand lifting forces. Extend the lift arms to achieve a balanced and secure grip on the subframe, avoiding any contact with the exhaust system, fuel lines, or suspension components.
Precise alignment is key; ensure the lift pads are centered on the reinforced sections of the rear subframe. Uneven positioning can lead to instability and potential damage to the vehicle’s undercarriage. Maintain symmetry between both arms to distribute the weight evenly during the lifting process.
Continuously monitor the arm placement as the vehicle ascends, making minor adjustments as needed to guarantee consistent and stable contact.
Lift Pad Adapters
Utilizing the correct lift pad adapters is paramount when working with the 2018 Malibu LT. The vehicle’s subframe design necessitates adapters to ensure proper contact and prevent damage. Rubber or polyurethane adapters are highly recommended, as they provide a cushioning effect and enhance grip.
Avoid using metal-to-metal contact whenever possible, as this can mar the finish or even compromise the structural integrity of the lifting points. Consider adapters with a broad, flat surface area to distribute the load effectively. Regularly inspect adapters for wear and tear, replacing them as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Properly sized adapters will conform to the contours of the subframe, maximizing stability and minimizing the risk of slippage during lifting operations.
Recommended Adapter Types
For the 2018 Malibu LT, several adapter types are particularly well-suited for use with a two-post lift. High-density rubber adapters, often featuring a universal cup design, provide excellent grip and conform well to the subframe’s shape. Polyurethane adapters offer increased durability and load capacity, ideal for frequent lifting.
Pencil-style adapters can be beneficial for accessing recessed lifting points, though careful alignment is crucial. Avoid excessively large or bulky adapters that may interfere with other vehicle components. Adapters with a textured surface enhance friction, reducing the chance of slippage.
Consider adapters specifically designed for unibody vehicles, as these are engineered to distribute weight evenly and minimize stress on the chassis.
Ensuring Secure Pad Contact
Prior to lifting, meticulously inspect the contact surface between the lift pad adapters and the Malibu LT’s designated lifting points. Verify that the adapters are fully seated and making solid, even contact with the subframe. Any gaps or uneven pressure can lead to instability or potential damage.
Confirm the adapters aren’t compressing excessively or tilting during initial lift. A slight amount of compression is normal, but significant deformation indicates an improper fit or insufficient load capacity. Double-check adapter placement after the initial lift and before reaching full height.
Regularly inspect adapters for wear and tear, replacing them if cracks, tears, or significant compression are observed. Secure contact is paramount for a safe lifting operation.
Lifting Procedure ⏤ Step-by-Step
Begin with a thorough pre-lift inspection, slowly raise the vehicle, and constantly monitor stability before achieving the desired working height safely.
Pre-Lift Inspection
Before initiating any lifting procedure on your 2018 Malibu LT, a comprehensive pre-lift inspection is absolutely paramount for ensuring both vehicle integrity and operator safety. Begin by visually inspecting the designated lifting points – both front and rear subframe locations – for any signs of damage, corrosion, or previous deformation. Confirm that the lifting points are clean and free from debris that could compromise the secure engagement of the lift pads.
Next, carefully examine the vehicle’s undercarriage for any loose components, fluid leaks, or hanging parts that might interfere with the lifting process or pose a hazard during elevation. Verify that the parking brake is firmly engaged and that the transmission is in Park (for automatic transmissions) or Neutral (for manual transmissions). Finally, ensure the surrounding work area is clear of personnel and obstructions, creating a safe zone for the lifting operation. A meticulous pre-lift inspection minimizes risks and sets the stage for a successful lift.
Initial Lift and Safety Checks
Commence the lifting process slowly and deliberately, observing the vehicle’s reaction as it begins to rise. During the initial stages of the lift, frequently pause to visually inspect the engagement of the lift pads with the designated lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT’s subframes. Confirm that the pads maintain solid contact and are positioned correctly, preventing any slippage or uneven weight distribution.
As the vehicle ascends, conduct a thorough safety check, verifying the stability of the lift arms and the security of all locking mechanisms. Listen for any unusual noises – creaks, groans, or pops – that could indicate stress or potential failure. Ensure that safety stands are readily accessible and positioned strategically to provide supplemental support if needed. Never work under a vehicle supported solely by a lift; always utilize safety stands.
Final Lift Height and Support
Once the 2018 Malibu LT reaches the desired working height, carefully lower the vehicle onto a securely positioned set of jack stands. These stands should be placed under reinforced areas of the vehicle’s frame or designated support points, never directly under suspension components or body panels. Confirm the jack stands are rated for the vehicle’s weight and are locked into a stable position.
Before commencing any work, give the vehicle a final stability check. Gently attempt to rock the Malibu LT in various directions to ensure it’s firmly supported by both the lift and the jack stands. This verification step is paramount for safety. Maintain sufficient clearance between the vehicle and the lift carriage to allow for comfortable working space, but avoid excessive height that could compromise stability.
Potential Issues and Solutions
Addressing challenges like difficult access or uneven lifting requires careful pad adjustment and re-evaluation of lifting point placement for stability.
Difficulty Accessing Lifting Points
Sometimes, accessing the designated lifting points on the 2018 Malibu LT can present challenges due to undercarriage components or limited space. Obstructions like exhaust piping or suspension elements may partially block direct access to the reinforced subframe areas. If this occurs, avoid forcing lift arms into position, as this could cause damage to the vehicle or lift equipment.
Consider utilizing lift pad adapters with varying heights and profiles to navigate around these obstacles. Gently maneuvering the vehicle on the lift platform can also create additional clearance. If access remains severely restricted, double-check the identified lifting points against the vehicle’s service manual to confirm their precise location. Prioritize safety and avoid improvising lifting points, as this could compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity.
Uneven Lifting
Experiencing uneven lifting with the 2018 Malibu LT can indicate improper lift arm placement or variations in vehicle weight distribution. This situation poses a safety risk and can potentially damage the vehicle’s body or suspension. Immediately lower the vehicle and reassess the lift arm positions, ensuring they are correctly aligned with the designated lifting points on both sides.
Verify that the lift pads are making solid contact with the reinforced subframe areas and are of equal height. Slight adjustments to arm positioning, combined with the use of appropriate lift pad adapters, can often resolve minor imbalances. If uneven lifting persists, carefully inspect the vehicle for any pre-existing damage or modifications that might contribute to the issue. Never continue lifting if instability is detected.
Vehicle Damage Prevention
Protecting your 2018 Malibu LT from damage during lifting requires meticulous attention to detail. Always utilize appropriate lift pad adapters to distribute the lifting force evenly and prevent crushing or deformation of the vehicle’s subframe. Avoid direct contact between the lift arms and any plastic components or body panels.
Prior to lifting, thoroughly inspect the designated lifting points for any signs of corrosion or weakness. Never exceed the vehicle’s maximum lifting capacity, and always ensure the lift is properly stabilized before commencing work. Regularly inspect lift pads for wear and tear, replacing them as needed. Careful planning and adherence to safety protocols are paramount in preventing costly repairs.
Alternative Lifting Methods (Not Recommended)
Employing jack points or frame rail lifting on the 2018 Malibu LT is strongly discouraged due to potential structural damage and safety risks.
Jack Point Usage ⎼ Why Avoid?
Utilizing the factory-designated jack points for a full vehicle lift with a two-post lift is fundamentally unsafe and ill-advised for the 2018 Malibu LT. These points are reinforced for vertical lifting with a floor jack during tire changes, not for the sustained, distributed load of a two-post lift. The Malibu LT’s unibody construction relies on specific reinforced areas designed for lifting, and the jack points simply aren’t among them.
Attempting to lift the vehicle solely from these points can cause significant damage to the pinch welds, rocker panels, and potentially the underlying floor pan. This damage compromises the structural integrity of the vehicle and can lead to costly repairs. Furthermore, the concentrated load can cause the vehicle to shift or even slip off the lift arms, creating a dangerous situation for both the vehicle and personnel. Always prioritize the designated subframe lifting points for a secure and stable lift.
Frame Rail Lifting ⎼ Risks Involved
While the 2018 Malibu LT doesn’t possess traditional, robust frame rails like a body-on-frame vehicle, attempting to lift directly from areas near what could be considered frame sections presents substantial risks. The Malibu LT utilizes a unibody construction, meaning the structural integrity relies on the interconnectedness of various components. Lifting from points not specifically engineered for load distribution can severely compromise this integrity.
Direct contact with unreinforced sections of the unibody can cause bending, crushing, or even tearing of the metal. This is particularly true if lift pads aren’t perfectly aligned or if excessive force is applied. The potential for damage extends beyond the immediate lifting point, potentially affecting alignment, suspension components, and overall vehicle safety. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended lifting points – the reinforced subframe areas – to avoid catastrophic structural failure.
Tools and Equipment Required
Essential tools include a two-post lift meeting safety standards, appropriate lift pad adapters, safety glasses, and work gloves for a secure lifting process.
Two-Post Lift Specifications
When selecting a two-post lift for servicing a 2018 Malibu LT, several key specifications must be considered to ensure both safety and operational efficiency. A lift with a minimum capacity of 9,000 lbs is recommended, providing ample headroom for the vehicle’s weight – approximately 3,300-3,600 lbs depending on trim level. The lift should feature adjustable carriage and arm configurations to accommodate the Malibu LT’s wheelbase of 108.3 inches and track width.
Crucially, the lift’s arms must have a reach sufficient to access the designated lifting points without undue stress or strain. A lift with a minimum rise of 72 inches is advisable, allowing sufficient under-vehicle clearance for most maintenance procedures. Furthermore, ensure the lift meets or exceeds relevant safety standards, such as those set by the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI). Regular inspection and certification of the lift are paramount for continued safe operation. Prioritize lifts with robust locking mechanisms and overload protection systems.
Utilizing appropriate lift pad adapters is essential when raising a 2018 Malibu LT on a two-post lift. The vehicle’s rocker panels are not designed to withstand direct contact with standard lift pads, potentially causing damage. Rubber or polyurethane adapters, specifically designed for unibody vehicles, are highly recommended. These adapters distribute the lifting force over a wider area, minimizing the risk of deformation or crushing.
Consider adapters with a concave or cradle shape to better conform to the Malibu LT’s rocker panel contours. Ensure the adapters are securely fastened to the lift arms and are in good condition, free from cracks or excessive wear. Regularly inspect adapters for damage and replace them as needed. Avoid using universal adapters that lack a precise fit, as they may compromise vehicle stability and safety. Proper adapter selection is a critical component of a safe lifting procedure.
Safety Glasses and Gloves
Prioritizing personal protective equipment (PPE) is paramount during any vehicle lifting procedure, including working with a 2018 Malibu LT. Always wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from potential debris, such as rust flakes, dirt, or accidental spray from tools. These particles can cause serious eye irritation or injury.
Furthermore, wearing work gloves provides essential hand protection against sharp edges, pinch points, and potential contact with hydraulic fluids or other contaminants. Gloves also enhance grip and reduce the risk of cuts or abrasions. Ensure gloves fit properly and do not impede dexterity. Inspect gloves for tears or damage before each use. A commitment to PPE demonstrates a dedication to a safe working environment and minimizes the risk of personal injury during the lifting process.