[LTZ-Z-Z]

Apparently I have the low end LTZ (I think LTZ came in two sub trims) LTZ 1LT and LTZ 2LT (I think). I don't have a sunroof, and other refinements. Part of the 2LT trim are 19" rims that I like better than the 18" ones I have (see photo). My question is, can I swap out the 18s for the 19s?

 

[DrivenDaily]

That's kinda humorous.

On the 2008-2012, the one on the left with 5 spokes and 18" is what came on the 2LT, and the one on the right with 10 spokes and 18" is came on the LTZ.

As a matter of fact, my first 2011 LTZ came with the machined alloy 10-spoke wheels. When I bought a used 2011 LTZ to replace it, it came with chromed alloy 10-spoke wheels.

It's all a matter of taste, and if you prefer one over the other, get what you want.

 

[SilverSport]

two things to consider...the 19" tires are more expensive than the 18" tires and some have complained that the ride is more harsh (if that's important to you) with the 19" option...

Good luck with your choice

Bill

 

[LTZ-Z-Z]

Thanks. So....I can assume the 18" on the right can be swapped with the 19" on the left?

 

[campb292]

You can, with different tires of course. I checked the ordering guide to make sure those are the OE designs and they are. I was confused at first because in my gen9 the 5 spoke wheel is the one on the lowest trim L and LS. If you currently have the 235/50R18 tires you'd have to move to a 235/45R19 or 245/45R19 tire to keep circumference equal or as close as possible. I'd also consider the really nice balance of the 18" wheel with 235/50R18 tire.

 

[LTZ-Z-Z]

Thank you

 

[cp-the-nerd]

You're a bit confused on your trim levels. There's LS, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, 1LTZ, and 2LTZ. The 19 inch wheels were available on the highest LTZ trim with the 2.0T engine.

You are better off with the 18 inch wheels. You posted elsewhere looking to improve performance of your 2.5L, but using a larger, heavier wheel will have the opposite effect. If you really want different wheels, look for lightweight forged 18s in a design you like.

 

[dwgun310]

I have a 2014 Malibu LTZ 2T Red Jewel Tintcoat with 245 40 19 that I bought November 2021. I have always wondered why the rims are chipped around the edges but never thought about it. Last week I found out a rim was cracked and wouldn't hold air. The tire guy said the wheels chip like that because of a combination of curbs, potholes and those low profile 40's. The 12 junk guys all said we don't get many 19's. For a little over $400 plus core I was only able to find a matching reconditioned wheel online.
Stick with the 18's.

 

[repairman54]

Super low-profile tires look cool on show cars but for a daily driver no bueno.
Especially if you're not on glass smooth warm climate roads.

 

[Malo83]

Stick with the 18's, you can go aftermarket like I did and have a nice set of wheels, this is my wifes 08 LTZ, she loves it.