The Chevrolet L61 is a 2,200 cc, inline-four gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2011. It belongs to GM's Ecotec engine family, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI). In standard applications, it produces 103 kW (138 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and fuel efficiency for compact vehicle platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Cobalt, HHR, and Pontiac G5, the L61 was engineered for urban commuting and highway efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop fuel control, allowing it to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards in select California-spec variants. Its lightweight aluminum construction contributes to improved vehicle weight distribution.
One documented concern is intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuator failure, which can disrupt airflow and cause performance issues. This issue, referenced in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 09-06-04-007, is attributed to plastic gear wear within the actuator mechanism. GM addressed this with a revised actuator design incorporating reinforced nylon gears in 2009 production.
Production years 2007–2008 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; 2009–2011 California-spec models comply with PZEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA-LD-2008-CHEV-5C).
The Chevrolet L61 is a 2,200 cc inline-four gasoline engine engineered for compact front-wheel-drive platforms (2007–2011). It combines variable valve timing with sequential fuel injection to deliver responsive city driving and stable highway cruising. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 and PZEV standards, it balances emissions compliance with everyday usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,200 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (138 PS) | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5, PZEV (CA-spec) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual overhead camshaft with timing chain | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The L61 provides adequate low-end torque for city driving but requires regular maintenance to prevent IMRC and ignition coil failures. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential to maintain valve train and VVT system longevity. Extended oil intervals or stop-start driving can accelerate wear in the IMRC actuator gears. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected if rattling occurs at startup. Post-2009 models feature updated IMRC actuators; pre-2009 units should follow GM SIB 09-06-04-007 for inspection and replacement. Oxygen sensor degradation is common beyond 120,000 km, affecting fuel trim and emissions.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 09-06-04-007). Replaces GM Standard GM6094M.
Emissions: PZEV certification applies to California-spec 2009–2011 models only (EPA Certificate #EPA-LD-2008-CHEV-5C). Non-CA models meet Tier 2 Bin 5.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes regular unleaded fuel (87 octane) and factory calibration (GM PT-2007-61).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 2007-L61-ARCH, 2007-L61-FUEL, SIB 09-06-04-007
EPA Light-Duty Engine Certification Database (EPA-LD-2008-CHEV-5C)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet L61 was used across Chevrolet's Delta platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Pontiac and Saturn variants. This engine received model-specific calibrations—lower torque tune in the Cobalt sedan versus higher-flow intake in the HHR Panel Cruiser—and from 2009 the updated IMRC actuator created interchange limits. Partnerships allowed shared Ecotec architecture across Opel and Holden compact models. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID stamp on the passenger-side rear of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (GM TIS 2007-L61-ID). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('2' for L61). Pre-2009 models have a black IMRC actuator with ribbed housing; post-2009 units use a revised grey actuator with reinforced internals. Critical differentiation from LK5: L61 features DOHC and VVT; LK5 is SOHC without variable timing. Service parts require model-year verification—IMRC actuators for 2007–2008 models are not interchangeable with post-2009 designs due to gear train updates (GM SIB 09-06-04-007).
The L61's primary reliability risk is IMRC actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. GM internal reports from 2010 indicated a significant share of pre-2009 engines required actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while EPA field data links a portion of OBD-II emissions faults to oxygen sensor degradation in high-mileage units. Frequent short trips and delayed maintenance increase actuator and coil stress, making inspection intervals and fluid quality critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2007-2011) and U.S. EPA field reliability data (2009-2013). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET L61.
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