The Chevrolet LA1 is a 1,364 cc, inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine produced between 2019 and 2024. It features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and continuously variable valve timing (CVVT), delivering 107 kW (144 PS) and 200 Nm of torque. Its compact design and lightweight construction support improved fuel efficiency and responsive low-end performance for small front-wheel-drive platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Trax (third generation) and Trailblazer (first generation), the LA1 was engineered for urban driving and light-duty use, emphasizing fuel economy and smooth drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and integrated exhaust manifold, allowing Euro 6 and EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 certification depending on market and model year.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 19-NA-015. This issue arises from carbon buildup and thermal stress on the vacuum-operated actuator mechanism. From 2022, revised actuator hardware and updated calibration were implemented to improve reliability.
Production years 2019–2021 meet EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2022–2024 models meet full Euro 6d and EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Chevrolet LA1 is a 1,364 cc inline-three turbocharged gasoline engine engineered for subcompact and compact SUVs (2019–2024). It combines direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger and dual overhead camshafts to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and efficient city driving. Designed to meet stringent emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,364 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (Unleaded, 87 AKI min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 107 kW (144 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,800–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2019–2021); Euro 6d (2022–2024); EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | IHI single-scroll turbo with vacuum-actuated wastegate | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The low-inertia turbo provides strong low-RPM response ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using dexos1 Gen 2 oil to prevent turbo bearing wear and carbon buildup. SAE 0W-20 viscosity is critical for optimal fuel economy and hydraulic lifter performance. Extended idling or short-trip driving increases intake valve carbon deposits due to lack of high-load cleaning cycles. The HDEV5 fuel pump demands TOP TIER gasoline to prevent injector clogging. Post-2022 models feature revised wastegate actuators; pre-2022 units should be inspected per GM SIB 19-NA-015. Catalytic converter longevity depends on consistent warm-up cycles and avoiding fuel dilution.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 Gen 2 (0W-20) specification (GM SIB 19-NA-015). Not compatible with older dexos1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP applies to 2019–2021 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Full Euro 6d compliance verified for 2022–2024 builds.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires 87 AKI or higher fuel (GM TIS Doc. A31500).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A31055, A31122, SIB 19-NA-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Tier 3 Vehicle Emissions Standards
The Chevrolet LA1 was used across Chevrolet's BU11 platform with transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Trax and revised engine mounts in the Trailblazer-and from 2022 the facelifted Trailblazer RS adopted updated ECU calibration and turbo hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front passenger-side cylinder block near the starter motor (GM TIS A31200). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('G' for LA1). Pre-2022 models have silver valve covers with black plastic timing covers; post-2022 units use dark grey valve covers. Critical differentiation from other inline-3 engines: LA1 uses a front-mounted timing chain with IHI turbo (IHI logo visible); competitors use timing belts or different turbo suppliers. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators before 06/2021 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (GM SIB 19-NA-015).
The LA1's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in urban environments with frequent short trips. Internal GM field reports from 2021 indicated a notable share of pre-2022 engines requiring actuator replacement before 80,000 km, while EPA emissions data shows increased NOx levels in high-mileage units with degraded actuators. Short-trip driving and infrequent oil changes increase carbon accumulation and thermal stress, making maintenance and driving pattern awareness critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2019-2023) and U.S. EPA emissions compliance data (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LA1.
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