The Chevrolet LDC is a 2,997 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential fuel injection. Designed for use in mid-size and full-size vehicles, it delivers 260 hp (191 kW) and 270 lb-ft (366 Nm) of torque, providing strong acceleration and towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Impala, Chevrolet Camaro (base model), and Chevrolet SS, the LDC was engineered for balanced performance and refinement in everyday driving. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced catalytic converters and closed-loop fuel control, allowing the engine to meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards across major markets.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in certain 2011–2012 production runs, highlighted in General Motors Service Bulletin 12145. The issue was traced to a lubrication deficiency in the upper valvetrain under extended idle conditions. GM issued revised camshaft and lifter kits in 2013, which resolved the issue in later production units.
Production years 2010–2012 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards; 2013–2015 models comply with updated evaporative emissions requirements (EPA Doc. EPA-HQ-OAR-2009-0695).
The Chevrolet LDC is a 2,997 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for full-size sedans and performance coupes (2010–2015). It combines dual overhead camshafts with variable valve timing to deliver responsive mid-range power and smooth operation. Designed to meet EPA and Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with fuel efficiency and regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 71.9 mm | |
| Power output | 191 kW (260 PS) @ 6,700 rpm | |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 5,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The LDC's VVT system provides strong mid-range pull ideal for highway merging and towing, but requires strict adherence to 10,000-mile oil change intervals to prevent camshaft wear. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential due to its shear stability and anti-wear additives protecting the hydraulic lifters. Extended idling should be avoided to maintain oil pressure in the upper valvetrain. The sequential fuel injection demands TOP TIER detergent gasoline to prevent injector clogging. Post-2013 models feature upgraded camshafts and lifters; pre-2013 units should be inspected per GM SIB 12145. Catalytic converters require periodic monitoring to avoid thermal degradation from rich mixtures.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 12145). Replaces GM 4718M and earlier standards.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to all 2010–2015 models (EPA File EPA-2010-CHEV-004). California models meet LEV II ULEV-200 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes 91 octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. 30782).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 30782, 31004, SIB 12145
EPA Certification Database (EPA-2010-CHEV-004)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LDC was used across Chevrolet's W/Y platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with GMC and Holden variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Impala and revised exhaust manifolds in the SS-and from 2013 the facelifted Camaro models adopted the LDC with dual exhaust and performance tuning, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's VF Commodore to use the LDC with minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID tag on the passenger side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS 30782). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LDC series). Pre-2013 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2013 units use black valve covers with red accents. Critical differentiation from LFX: LDC has a single exhaust manifold and sequential fuel injection, while LFX uses direct injection. Service parts require model year verification - camshaft kits for 2011–2012 models are incompatible with 2013+ due to lifter redesign (GM SIB 12145).
The LDC's primary reliability risk is camshaft wear in early production models, with elevated incidence in fleet and high-idle applications. Internal GM quality reports from 2013 indicated approximately 7% of 2011–2012 units required camshaft replacement before 100,000 miles, while NHTSA field reports confirm related valve train noise as a frequent service entry. Extended idling and delayed oil changes increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2010-2015) and NHTSA failure statistics (2012-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LDC.
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