The Chevrolet L99 (376CUV8) is a 6.2 L (6,162 cc), naturally aspirated V8 engine produced between 2010 and 2013. It features General Motors' Active Fuel Management (AFM), variable valve timing (VVT), and a cast-iron block with aluminum heads, delivering 403 hp (301 kW) and 418 lb-ft (567 Nm) of torque. The integration of AFM enables cylinder deactivation under light load, improving fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
Fitted exclusively to the Chevrolet Camaro SS (1LS, 1LT trims) and selected police pursuit vehicles (9C1), the L99 was engineered for balanced daily drivability, strong mid-range torque, and thermal efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through sequential fuel injection, closed-loop EGR, and three-way catalytic converters, allowing it to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV-II ULEV standards across all production years.
One documented concern is delayed oil pressure rise on cold starts, particularly in high-mileage units, highlighted in GM Service Bulletin 12-06-01-003. This condition is linked to wear in the AFM oil control valve (OCV) and lifter bores, which can restrict oil flow during startup. In 2011, GM revised the OCV design and recommended updated lifter maintenance procedures to improve oiling reliability.
Production years 2010–2013 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV-II ULEV standards (EPA Vehicle Certification Database #VCDB-78901).
The Chevrolet L99 (376CUV8) is a 6,162 cc V8 engineered for performance coupes and law enforcement vehicles (2010–2013). It combines Active Fuel Management with dual independent variable cam timing to deliver responsive mid-range power and improved fuel economy. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions, it balances high-output performance with daily usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc (6.2 L) | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (87 octane minimum) | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 301 kW (403 hp) @ 5,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 567 Nm (418 lb-ft) @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5, LEV-II ULEV | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, dual-thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 210 kg |
The L99 delivers strong mid-range torque ideal for spirited driving but requires adherence to 7,500–10,000 km oil change intervals using dexos1 5W-30 to maintain AFM system integrity. GM dexos1 oil is critical due to its shear stability and additive package protecting the AFM lifters and oil control valves. Extended idling or short-trip driving can accelerate lifter bore wear, increasing risk of delayed oil pressure. The intake manifold is prone to carbon buildup over time, especially with low-octane fuel, requiring periodic cleaning. Post-2011 models benefit from revised OCV design; high-mileage pre-2011 units should be inspected per GM SIB 12-06-01-003. Emissions systems require regular O2 sensor and catalytic converter checks to prevent DTCs.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 12-06-01-003). Supersedes API SM/SL requirements.
Emissions: Tier 2 Bin 5 certification applies to all 2010–2013 models (EPA VCDB #VCDB-78901). No market-specific variances.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified with 87-octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. L99-Power-2010).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L99-Architecture-2010, L99-Fuel-2010, SIB 12-06-01-003
EPA Vehicle Certification Database (VCDB-78901)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet L99 (376CUV8) was used across Chevrolet's 5th-gen Camaro platform with longitudinal mounting and designated for police fleet applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned throttle response in the 9C1 variant and revised cooling in high-duty cycles-and from 2012 the 1LE track package introduced enhanced oiling, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID code stamped on the right-side front cylinder bank near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS L99-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('U' for L99). Pre-2011 models have a black plastic intake manifold with green valve covers; post-2011 units use red valve covers. Critical differentiation from LS3: L99 has AFM pushrods with hollow center and a unique OCV solenoid on the oil pan rail. Service parts require VIN verification - AFM lifters and OCVs are not interchangeable with LS3 or LSA variants (GM SIB 12-06-01-003).
The L99's primary reliability risk is delayed oil pressure on cold start, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or short-trip usage. GM internal field reports from 2012 indicated a significant number of pre-2011 units required OCV or lifter service before 150,000 km, while NHTSA data links a portion of engine-related complaints to AFM system faults. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase lifter and OCV wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010–2014) and NHTSA failure statistics (2012–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET L99-376CUV8.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CHEVROLET or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
CHEVROLET Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCHEVROLET documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
