The Chevrolet LBM is a 3,640 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2016. It features a 60-degree V6 configuration with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential fuel injection. Designed for balanced performance and efficiency, it delivers 217 kW (294 PS) and 366 Nm of torque, commonly used in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive platforms.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Impala, Caprice PPV, and Holden Commodore (VF), the LBM was engineered for fleet, police, and performance-oriented applications. It provides strong mid-range throttle response and smooth operation, meeting Tier 2 Bin 5 emissions standards through advanced EGR management and three-way catalytic conversion.
One documented concern is intake manifold runner binding, identified in General Motors Service Bulletin #13245. This issue arises from wear in the actuator linkage, leading to improper airflow control and reduced engine performance. Later production revisions improved linkage durability, and field updates are recommended for high-mileage units.
Production years 2010–2013 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards; 2014–2016 models comply with Bin 3 in California-certified variants (EPA VIN-Based Certification Database #EPA/CARB/2014/CHEV/IMPALA).
The Chevrolet LBM is a 3,640 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for full-size sedans and law enforcement vehicles (2010–2016). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range power and smooth idle quality. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 2 emissions standards, it balances fleet durability with consumer-grade refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,640 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 87.0 mm | |
| Power output | 217 kW (294 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 (2010–2013), Bin 3 (2014–2016 CA) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual timing chains (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 186 kg |
The LBM's DOHC V6 design delivers strong mid-range performance ideal for police pursuit and highway cruising but requires adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to maintain timing chain and VVT actuator longevity. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential for proper hydraulic lifter and phaser operation. Extended idling in fleet applications increases carbon buildup on intake runners. The intake manifold runner control system is prone to mechanical binding; inspection per GM SIB 13245 is recommended at 80,000 km. California-compliant models feature enhanced catalyst monitoring and require OEM-grade OBD-II diagnostics for calibration.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 13245). Replaces GM Standard GMW16450.
Emissions: Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to 2010–2013 models (EPA #EPA/CARB/2014/CHEV/IMPALA). Bin 3 compliance for 2014–2016 California-spec vehicles only.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output varies slightly with climate and fuel octane (GM TIS Doc. 3640V6-01).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 3640V6-01, 3640V6-02, SIB 13245
EPA Vehicle Certification Database (EPA/CARB/2014/CHEV/IMPALA)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LBM was used across Chevrolet's W-platform and Holden VF platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Holden for Australian and Middle East markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-integrated oil cooler fittings in the Caprice PPV and revised intake manifolds in California-spec models-and from 2014, the facelifted Impala adopted updated emissions calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID code stamped on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS 3640V6-01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LBM series). Pre-2014 models have silver intake manifolds with black valve covers; post-2014 units use dark grey manifolds. Critical differentiation from LLT: LBM has DOHC with 24 valves and timing chain covers without external belt-driven accessories. Service parts require model-year verification—California-spec intake manifolds are not compatible with federal models due to runner control calibration (GM SIB 13245).
The LBM's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner binding, with elevated incidence in high-idle fleet applications. GM internal field reports from 2015 indicated over 15% of Caprice PPV units required runner actuator service before 100,000 km, while EPA emissions data shows increased OBD-II fault rates in urban patrol vehicles. Extended idling and thermal cycling accelerate linkage wear, making proactive inspection and lubrication critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2012–2016) and U.S. EPA emissions failure statistics (2014–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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