What Size Bulbs Does a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Use?
Correct headlight, fog light, and tail light bulb sizes. Sourced from OEM catalog data.
Installation Difficulty
Moderate (Dust covers often present)
Est. Replacement Cost
$15 - $40 (Halogen) / $30+ (LED)
What Lighting System Does the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Have?
The 2017 Chevrolet Malibu features an extensive lighting system with 13 bulb positions. It uses halogen technology with a single 9005 LED dual-filament bulb handling both low and high beams. The Malibu has been available from 1997 to 2018, and the 2017 model falls in the late-generation years.
Can You Put LED Bulbs in a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?
Upgrading the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu to LED headlights is straightforward since it uses a single 9005 LED dual-filament bulb for both low and high beams. You only need one pair of LED bulbs to upgrade both functions. Look for a 9005 LED LED kit that specifically supports dual-filament operation to ensure both beams work correctly. For the fog lights, a LED Fog Light LED bulb provides a clean white output that pairs well with LED headlights.
How to Replace Bulbs on a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu
The 9005 bulb uses a push-and-twist L-shaped bayonet lock. To remove the old bulb, disconnect the wiring harness first, then twist the bulb counter-clockwise and pull it out. On the 2017 Malibu, you will likely encounter rubber dust covers behind the headlight housing. These pull off by hand or unscrew depending on the design. Allow about 15 to 20 minutes per side. When installing the new bulb, avoid touching the glass with bare fingers. Skin oils create hot spots that shorten bulb life. Wear clean gloves or handle the bulb by its plastic base only. The fog lights are accessed from underneath the front bumper. You may need to remove a few plastic clips or screws from the fender liner to reach the LED Fog Light fog light socket.
Full Upgrade Bundle
Upgrade All 13 Positions at Once
2017 Chevrolet Malibu Complete Bulb Size Chart
| Position | Bulb Size | Shop |
|---|---|---|
Low Beam | 9005 LED | Buy 9005 LED |
High Beam | 9005 LED | Buy 9005 LED |
Fog Light | LED Fog Light | Buy LED Fog Light |
Brake Light | LED Bulb | Buy LED Bulb |
Side Marker | 194 LED | Buy 194 LED |
Turn Signal Front | 7444NA LED | Buy 7444NA LED |
Turn Signal Rear | 7443 LED | Buy 7443 LED |
Reverse Light | 921 | Buy 921 |
Dome Light | 2825 | Buy 2825 |
License Plate | 2825 | Buy 2825 |
Map Light | 2825 | Buy 2825 |
Parking Light | 7444NA | Buy 7444NA |
Trunk Light | 175 | Buy 175 |
Want to upgrade everything at once?
Shop Complete LED Kit for 2017 Chevrolet MalibuHow Long Do 2017 Chevrolet Malibu Headlight Bulbs Last?
Standard halogen headlights on the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu have an expected lifespan of 500 to 1,000 hours, which works out to roughly 2 to 3 years of normal use. Signs of a failing halogen bulb include noticeably dimmer output, a yellowish tint compared to the other headlight, or intermittent flickering. At 9 years old, the original bulbs on your Malibu are likely overdue for replacement. Even if they still illuminate, reduced brightness significantly impacts nighttime safety. When one headlight burns out, replace both sides at the same time. Bulbs from the same batch age at similar rates, and mismatched brightness is distracting to oncoming drivers.
What Bulbs Are Compatible with the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu?
The 9005 low beam bulb on the 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is cross-compatible with HB3 bulbs. These share the same physical base and electrical connection, so they will fit the socket. However, 9005 is the recommended size because it is optimized for the wattage and beam pattern designed into your headlight housing. Using the wrong bulb size can cause improper beam patterns that reduce your visibility and blind other drivers. It can also cause overheating inside the headlight housing, potentially warping the plastic lens or reflector. Always verify the bulb number before purchasing.
2017 Chevrolet Malibu Headlight FAQ
Did Chevrolet Malibu Bulb Sizes Change Over the Years?
Over its production run from 1997 to 2018, the Chevrolet Malibu has seen bulb size changes in the Low Beam, High Beam and Fog Light positions. The 2017 model uses the newer bulb specification introduced around 2016. Always verify the exact bulb size for your specific 2017 model year using the chart above, as using the wrong size can result in poor fitment or reduced light output.
Other Malibu Years
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Other Vehicles That Use 9005 LED Bulbs
These vehicles from other makes also use a 9005 LED low beam bulb: