OK guys and gals I have determined the solution for the no spare tire TL2 Malibu problem. LT1 has a compact spare tire and jack kit under the trunk floor which I used for sizing. Here's the most cost effective resolution:
1. Order a 16" OEM spare compact wheel from your Chevy dealer. Part no 22969708. Price $137.75. Its a 16" rim made in Korea. The dealer checked the clearance of this rim on both front and back axles and it clears both brake calipers.
2. Go to tire rack and order the Kumho compact spare tire in size T125/80R16 for $67.88 plus shipping.
3. Have the tire mounted and balanced at your local tire dealer for $20.00
4. Buy a used jack kit from an Impala or old Malibu for $50 or less.
5. Remove the stupid air pump with goop and the styrofoam holder for it from the trunk floor by unscrewing the big plastic wing bolt.
6. Place your new compact spare in the well face up on top of the mat that's in the well. Screw back on the wing bolt and make the rim tight. Replace the floor panel.
7. Put the jack kit in a bag as it wont fit easily in the well with the wheel without rattling. It doesnt take up much room in the trunk.
If you want to make this easy u can buy the whole kit including the jack from the chevy dealer for like $450. My cost was $230 and accomplishes the same thing.
1. Order a 16" OEM spare compact wheel from your Chevy dealer. Part no 22969708. Price $137.75. Its a 16" rim made in Korea. The dealer checked the clearance of this rim on both front and back axles and it clears both brake calipers.
2. Go to tire rack and order the Kumho compact spare tire in size T125/80R16 for $67.88 plus shipping.
3. Have the tire mounted and balanced at your local tire dealer for $20.00
4. Buy a used jack kit from an Impala or old Malibu for $50 or less.
5. Remove the stupid air pump with goop and the styrofoam holder for it from the trunk floor by unscrewing the big plastic wing bolt.
6. Place your new compact spare in the well face up on top of the mat that's in the well. Screw back on the wing bolt and make the rim tight. Replace the floor panel.
7. Put the jack kit in a bag as it wont fit easily in the well with the wheel without rattling. It doesnt take up much room in the trunk.
If you want to make this easy u can buy the whole kit including the jack from the chevy dealer for like $450. My cost was $230 and accomplishes the same thing.