Towing 2011 Malibu

[jmoon59]

I would like to hear from people towing 2011 Malibus. Have they had any transmission issues? How many miles have they towed?
I have heard GM issued a letter reccomending NOT to tow the Crize 4 down. I thought they had the same driveline.
Thanks,
Jerry

[docj]

We tow a 2009 Malibu 4 cylinder with 6-speed automatic which, I believe, is basically the same as the 2011 model. Despite the issue with the Cruze, GM did not change its position on towing the Malibu (at least through 2011). The 2012 Malibu is not towable 4-down. It is my understanding that the Malibu and Cruze do not have exactly the same transmissions. I believe one is the 6T40 and the other is the 6T45 and the difference has to do with the volume of transmission fluid. I've been told that having the larger volume prevents the overheating problem.

We've towed ours ~25,000 miles with no noticeable effect. In fact, some minor issues we had with the "new" 6-speed automatic have lessened as it accumulates mileage, both driving and being towed.

[Gary RVRoamer]

As far as I can tell (Remco Towing website), all the various 2011 Malibus are towable.

For the 2012 and 2013 model year, it depends on the engine and transmission package in the particular Malibu model. However, most appear to be designated as not towable without using a dolly.