How To Remove Front Cover 2018 Malibu Lt
Do you have a 2018 Malibu Lt and need to remove the front cover? If so, you’re in luck! Removing the front cover of a 2018 Malibu Lt is a relatively easy process that can be completed in just a few minutes. In this article, we will walk you through the steps on how to remove the front cover of your 2018 Malibu Lt.
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Locate the screws. There are four screws that need to be removed in order to detach the front cover. To begin with, you must locate these screws. The two screws are located on the top of the front cover, while the other two screws are located on the bottom of the cover. They have a black color and a 7mm head.
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Remove the screws. Once you have located the screws, you must remove them using a 7mm socket wrench. Be sure to apply gentle pressure when turning the wrench to avoid stripping the screws. Once all four screws have been removed, you can proceed to the next step.
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Detach the front cover. Now that the screws have been removed, you can detach the front cover from the rest of the vehicle. To do this, simply pull the front cover straight towards you until it is completely detached. Be sure to support the cover with your other hand so that it does not fall and cause damage. Once the front cover has been detached, you can now access the components that are located behind it.
Gathering Necessary Tools
Before embarking on the front cover removal process of your 2018 Malibu LT, meticulously assemble the following essential tools:
1. Screwdriver Set:
Procure a set of screwdrivers encompassing a range of sizes and types. This comprehensive arsenal will empower you to tackle various screws encountered during the disassembly process.
2. Trim Removal Tools:
Invest in a dedicated set of trim removal tools. These specialized instruments are meticulously engineered to swiftly and safely detach trim pieces without causing damage or scratches. Alternatively, if such tools are not readily available, a flat-head screwdriver can be cautiously employed for this task. However, utmost care must be exercised to prevent marring the interior.
3. Socket Wrench or Impact Driver:
Acquire a socket wrench or impact driver equipped with an appropriate socket size to loosen or remove bolts securing the front cover.
4. Pry Bar or Crowbar:
Obtain a pry bar or crowbar for prying apart stubborn components or dislodging clips. Exercise prudence when utilizing these tools to avoid unnecessary damage to components or adjacent surfaces.
5. Optional But Recommended: Cover Removal Tool:
Consider procuring a dedicated cover removal tool. This specialized tool is designed to facilitate the removal of automotive covers, offering enhanced leverage and minimizing the risk of damage.
Locating the Front Cover Latches
The front cover latches on a 2018 Malibu LT are positioned on the underside of the front cover itself. To gain access to these latches, you will first need to lift the hood of your Malibu using the hood release lever located inside the cabin on the driver’s side.
Once the hood is open, you can locate the front cover latches by looking directly beneath the front cover assembly. There will be two latches present, one on the driver’s side and the other on the passenger’s side. Each latch has a release lever that must be engaged in order to release the front cover.
The release levers on the latches are spring-loaded and require some force to move. To release a latch, simply insert a flathead screwdriver or other suitable tool into the slot on the release lever and pry it outward. Once you hear a click, the latch will be disengaged and you can proceed to the next latch on the opposite side of the front cover.
Disconnecting the Battery (Optional)
Disconnecting the battery is an optional step, but it’s recommended for safety. To do this:
- Locate the battery, which is usually in the engine bay.
- Disconnect the negative terminal by loosening the bolt using a wrench or socket set.
- Carefully lift the terminal off the battery and tuck it away to prevent accidental contact.
- Repeat the process for the positive terminal.
7. Removing the Grille
Removing the grille is a bit more involved, but it’s necessary to access the front cover mounting bolts. Follow these steps:
- Locate the grille clips on the top and bottom of the grille.
- Use a flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool to gently pry the clips open and release the grille.
- Carefully lift the grille straight up and out of the bumper assembly.
- Set the grille aside in a safe place.
Table: Front Grille Clips
| Location | Type |
|—|—|
| Top | Push-type clips |
| Bottom | Screw-type clips |
If your Malibu has a front camera, you may need to disconnect the wiring harness before removing the grille. To do this, locate the harness connector and gently squeeze the tabs on the sides to release the connection.
Unclipping the Fender Lining Clips
To unclip the fender lining clips, you will need a plastic pry tool or a flathead screwdriver with electrical tape on the end to prevent scratching the paint or plastic.
Locate the clips along the front edge of the fender lining, where it meets the bumper. The clips are usually black or gray and have a small tab that you can pry up with the tool.
Detailed Steps for Unclipping Fender Lining Clips:
- Identify Clip Location: Locate the clips along the front edge of the fender lining, where it meets the bumper.
- Insert Pry Tool: Insert the plastic pry tool or flathead screwdriver with electrical tape into the small gap between the clip and the fender lining.
- Pry Up Tab: Gently pry up the tab on the clip by applying force to the pry tool upwards.
- Release Clip: As the tab is lifted, the clip will release from the fender lining.
- Repeat Process: Repeat this process for all the clips along the front edge of the fender lining.
Once all the clips are unclipped, you can gently pull the fender lining away from the bumper to access the front cover.
Removing the Front Cover
To remove the front cover of a 2018 Malibu LT vehicle, follow these steps:
- Open the hood.
- Locate the two plastic clips on the bottom edge of the front cover, near the grille.
- Squeeze the clips inwards and pull the front cover towards you to detach it from the grille.
- Lift the front cover upwards and pull it out to remove it completely.
- Repeat this process for the other side of the front cover.
- Unplug the electrical connectors from the fog lights and the turn signal lights.
- Remove the three bolts that hold the front bumper cover to the front frame.
- Remove the four bolts that hold the front bumper cover to the fenders.
- Pull the front bumper cover straight forward to remove it.
- Unclip the grille from the front bumper cover.
- Remove the four bolts that hold the front cover to the bumper support.
- Pull the front cover straight forward to remove it.
Additional Notes
When pulling the front cover out, be careful not to damage the wires or connectors.
If you are removing the front cover to replace it with a new one, be sure to transfer the following components from the old cover to the new one:
- Grille
- Fog lights
- Turn signal lights
Inspecting and Cleaning the Front Cover
Regular inspection and cleaning of the front cover can help extend its lifespan and prevent the need for costly repairs. Here’s a detailed guide on how to inspect and clean the front cover of a 2018 Malibu LT model:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 |
Wash the exterior thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Use a mild soap and water solution and avoid using abrasive materials. |
| 2 |
Inspect the front cover for any visible damage, such as cracks, scratches, or dents. Also, check for any loose or missing bolts. |
| 3 |
Check the alignment of the front cover. Make sure it is securely fastened and properly aligned with the rest of the car’s exterior. |
| 4 |
If you notice any damage or misalignment, it is recommended to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for professional repairs. |
| 5 |
For minor scratches or blemishes, you can use a polishing compound and a soft cloth to restore the finish. |
| 6 |
Apply a thin coat of wax to the front cover to protect it from the elements and enhance its shine. |
| 7 |
Allow the wax to dry completely before touching or washing the front cover. |
| 8 |
Inspect and clean the front cover regularly, especially after exposure to extreme weather conditions. |
| 9 |
Avoid applying excessive force when cleaning the front cover, as it can damage the material or finish. |
| 10 |
If the front cover is severely damaged or beyond repair, it is crucial to replace it promptly to maintain the structural integrity and appearance of your vehicle. Consult a qualified mechanic or an authorized dealer for professional replacement and installation. |
How to Remove the Front Cover of a 2018 Malibu LT
Removing the front cover of a 2018 Malibu LT is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s a guide to help you out:
- Open the hood of your Malibu LT.
- Locate the two plastic clips at the top of the front cover, near the grille.
- Use a flat-head screwdriver or a trim removal tool to gently pry the clips out of their slots.
- Once the clips are released, lift the front cover up and off of the vehicle.
- Disconnect any electrical connectors or hoses that are attached to the front cover.
- Remove the front cover completely from the vehicle.
People Also Ask
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