Replacing Oil Pan Gasket: 1999 Malibu Maintenance Guide

The oil pan gasket on a 1999 Malibu seals the oil pan to the bottom of the engine. The oil pan is a metal container that holds the engine oil, which lubricates the engine's many moving parts. Over time, the gasket can wear out and start leaking oil. To replace the oil pan gasket, you will need to drain the oil, remove the oil pan and gasket, and then add a new gasket and new engine oil. The oil pan gasket replacement cost for a 1999 Chevrolet Malibu ranges from $734.86 to $932.35.

Check for oil leaks and damage

When replacing an oil pan gasket, it is important to check the oil pan for leaks and damage. This is because oil pan gaskets can collect grease from many leaking parts, so it is important to verify that the oil pan gasket is leaking directly and not just collecting oil from a different leak.

To check for leaks, you can put a piece of cardboard under the car to see where the oil is dripping from. However, the oil may not be dripping while the car is stationary, so you may need to clean the engine and oil pan with a special degreaser and then rinse down the undercarriage to make sure there is no oil showing. Once some oil appears, you can trace its trail back to the highest point to find the leak.

If these steps don’t help you find the source of the leak, a mechanic may be able to use pressure testing or UV light to find the cause.

It is also important to check the oil pan for damage. If road debris has caused damage to the oil pan gasket, then the oil pan may also be damaged. Oil pans can crack and leak if they sustain impact damage from an accident or road debris. This is more likely if the oil pan is cast aluminium than if it is stamped steel.

Remove the engine oil pan and gasket

To remove the engine oil pan and gasket on a 1999 Malibu, follow these steps:

First, drain the oil from the engine. This is a necessary first step to access and remove the oil pan and gasket. Next, locate and remove the oil pan bolts. There should be around 15 bolts, but the exact number may vary depending on the model of your Malibu. With the bolts removed, you can now carefully take off the oil pan. It may be necessary to gently pry it loose, especially if there is old sealant still adhering it to the engine block. Be careful not to damage the oil pan or the surrounding components during this process.

Once the oil pan is removed, you will have access to the old gasket. Use a scraper or similar tool to carefully remove any remaining gasket material and sealant from the engine block and the oil pan. Ensure that the mating surfaces on both the engine block and the oil pan are clean and free of debris before installing the new gasket.

It is important to note that this process may vary depending on the specific model of your 1999 Malibu. Some models may require additional steps, such as removing the front subframe or jacking up the engine to access the oil pan bolts. Always refer to a reliable repair manual or seek advice from a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any steps in this process.

Remove oil and filter

To remove the oil and filter from your 1999 Malibu, you will need to locate the oil drain plug and the oil filter. The oil drain plug is typically located at the bottom of the oil pan, which is at the bottom of the engine. The oil filter is usually mounted on the engine block itself. Once you have located these, place a drain pan or container underneath the drain plug to catch the oil as it drains.

Before removing the drain plug, make sure the engine is turned off and allow it to cool down for at least 15 minutes. This is important because hot oil can cause severe burns. You may also want to wear gloves and protective eyewear for this step. Using the correct size wrench or socket, loosen and remove the oil drain plug. Allow the oil to drain completely, which may take several minutes. Once drained, replace the drain plug and tighten it securely, but be careful not to overtighten it, as this can damage the plug and oil pan threads.

Next, locate the oil filter. It is usually mounted on the engine block and can be identified by its cylindrical or canister-like shape. Place a drain pan or container underneath the oil filter to catch any remaining oil. Using an oil filter wrench or a strap wrench, loosen and remove the oil filter. Be prepared for a small amount of oil to spill out as the filter is removed. After removing the old filter, wipe the mounting surface on the engine block with a clean cloth to remove any residual oil or debris.

Now, you can install the new oil filter. Before installing, apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter. This will help create a better seal and make removal easier during the next oil change. Thread the new oil filter onto the mounting base by hand, making sure not to overtighten it. You can refer to your vehicle's service manual for the correct torque specification if needed.

Once the new oil filter is installed, you can proceed to refill the engine with new oil. Add oil according to your vehicle's specification and oil change interval. Typically, you will need to add between 4 and 6 quarts of oil, but always refer to your owner's manual for the exact amount. Check the oil level with the dipstick to ensure it is at the correct level.

After adding new oil, start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes. Check the area around the oil drain plug and filter for any signs of leaks. Also, check the oil level again with the dipstick and top it off if necessary. Finally, check and reset your oil change interval monitor if your vehicle has one.

Add new engine oil and filter

Now that you've replaced the oil pan gasket, it's time to add new engine oil and a filter. This process will ensure your engine has enough lubrication to function properly and safely. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Park Your Vehicle and Prepare:

• Park your 1999 Malibu on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• If necessary, raise the front of the vehicle using a ramp or jack, and support it with jack stands. Always prioritize safety and use wheel chocks to prevent accidental movement.
• Put on safety gear, such as safety glasses and work gloves, if desired.
• Crawl under the vehicle and locate the engine's oil pan and oil drain plug. The oil pan is typically located under the car, attached to the bottom of the engine. The oil drain plug is usually a long bolt head at the bottom of the pan.

Drain the Old Oil:

• Position an approved oil catch pan or a suitable container under the drain plug to collect the old oil. Ensure the container is large enough to hold the volume of oil expected to drain.
• Loosen the drain plug using the appropriate tool, such as a box-end wrench or a socket wrench. Remove the plug carefully, allowing the oil to drain into the catch pan. Be cautious as the oil may be hot.
• Let the oil drain completely. This may take several minutes.
• Wipe the oil pan threads and oil drain plug with a clean rag.
• Inspect the condition of the oil pan, drain plug, and gasket. Replace any parts if there are concerns about their condition.
• Reinstall the oil drain plug and tighten it with the correct tool to the manufacturer's specified torque.

Remove and Replace the Oil Filter:

• Locate the oil filter. It is usually a softball-sized or cylindrical component attached to the engine.
• Position the oil catch pan under the oil filter to catch any residual oil inside the filter.
• Loosen the oil filter using an oil filter wrench or your hand if possible. Allow the oil to drain from the filter.
• Remove the old oil filter completely. Ensure that the filter gasket comes off with the filter. If it's still attached to the engine mounting plate, remove it and any remaining residue.
• Take the new oil filter and apply a light coating of new oil on the gasket. This will help create a proper seal.
• Install the new oil filter onto the engine by turning it in a clockwise direction, usually by hand. Tighten it according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically until it's snug.

Add New Engine Oil:

• Reinstall the undertray and lower the vehicle back to the ground if it was raised.
• Open the hood and locate the oil fill cap, typically marked with an oil can symbol.
• Remove the oil fill cap and use a funnel to add the correct type and amount of engine oil. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended grade, specification, and volume.
• Replace the oil fill cap securely.

Final Checks:

• Start the engine and let it run for at least 30 seconds at idle.
• Inspect underneath the vehicle for any oil leaks, especially around the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are visible, shut off the engine immediately and address the leaks.
• Shut off the engine and allow it to rest for about 30 seconds to let the oil settle.
• Carefully inspect the area beneath the vehicle again for any signs of oil leakage.
• Lower the vehicle to level ground, if it was raised.
• Check the engine oil level using the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary, following the manufacturer's recommendations.

By following these steps, you will successfully add new engine oil and a filter to your 1999 Malibu, ensuring optimal performance and protection for your engine.

Check for any oil leaks

After you've replaced the oil pan gasket on your 1999 Malibu, you'll want to check for any oil leaks. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Investigate the Leak

Place a white plastic plate or some newspaper under the car to catch any leaking fluid. Engine oil is typically amber in colour, thin and slippery, with a strong chemical odour. However, older engine oil tends to be darker, ranging from dark brown to black, and may have a gritty or gunky texture. If the fluid is pink, it's likely transmission fluid. If it's green or orange, it's probably coolant or antifreeze. Clear or yellowish fluid could be brake fluid.

Step 2: Check Your Oil Level

Use the engine's dipstick to check your oil level. If your oil level is low and the fluid you've collected matches the description of engine oil, you likely have a leaking oil pan or a degraded engine gasket.

Step 3: Inspect the Engine

Turn off the engine and shine a bright light into the engine area. If oil is splattered everywhere, it could be a slow leak related to the engine's gaskets. Now, turn the engine on. If oil starts spraying, it's probably seeping past a worn crankshaft or seal. This type of leak will only be apparent when the engine is running.

Step 4: Check for External Signs of a Leak

Look for dark puddles under your car where it's been parked. Oil leaks can also manifest as smoke from the engine, a flickering dashboard oil light, engine overheating, or the smell of burning oil. These signs indicate a problem that requires immediate attention, as prolonged oil leaks can lead to serious engine damage.

Frequently asked questions