The Chevrolet LF1 is a 3,564 cc, naturally aspirated V6 gasoline engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and direct fuel injection, delivering refined performance and smooth power delivery. In standard tuning it produces 213 kW (290 PS) with 353 Nm of torque, primarily used in full-size sedans and police applications.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Impala (10th gen), Holden Commodore VF, and Cadillac XTS, the LF1 was engineered for comfort-oriented driving with strong mid-range response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV II standards depending on regional calibration.
One documented concern is intake manifold carbon buildup due to oil vapor ingress from the crankcase ventilation system, noted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin #PIIP0382. This issue stems from inadequate separation of oil mist in the PCV system, particularly under sustained highway operation. From 2015 onward, revised baffling and updated PCV routing were implemented across production lines.
Production years 2012–2014 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; 2015–2019 models comply with LEV II standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Chevrolet LF1 is a 3,564 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for large front-wheel-drive platforms (2012–2019). It combines direct injection with continuously variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and reduced emissions. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV II standards, it balances refinement with performance for premium applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (RON 91 min) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 85.6 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV II | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Closed-loop liquid cooling | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (interference design) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 189 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides linear throttle response but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals to prevent intake carbon buildup. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential due to its detergency properties critical for the direct injection system. Extended highway use without periodic high-load operation can accelerate carbon accumulation on intake valves. The engine's sensitivity to low-octane fuel requires RON 91 minimum to prevent knock sensor activation and reduced power. Post-2015 models feature revised PCV routing; pre-2015 units should be inspected per GM SIB PIIP0382. Catalytic converter longevity depends on maintaining proper air-fuel ratio and avoiding prolonged rich conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB PIIP0382). Substitution with ILSAC GF-5 or ACEA A1/B1 not recommended.
Emissions: U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to North American models (2012–2014); LEV II certification applies to later variants (2015–2019) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires fuel with RON 91 or higher (GM TIS Doc. 413-ENG-24).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 413-TEC-11, 413-FUE-16, PIIP0382
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LF1 was used across Chevrolet's Omega platform with transverse mounting and shared with Holden and Cadillac in Australian and North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake runners in the Impala and acoustic tuning in the XTS-and from 2015 the facelifted Commodore VF adopted revised PCV routing and valve cover baffling, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Commodore SS to use the LF1 with performance calibration. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front passenger-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS 413-ID-21). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LF1 series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black plastic cam covers; post-2015 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LFX: LF1 has a smaller bore (94.0 mm vs 96.0 mm) and uses a different intake manifold design. Service parts require production date verification - PCV valves for engines before 08/2014 are incompatible with later units due to internal baffle redesign (GM SIB PIIP0382).
The LF1's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup on early builds, with elevated incidence in long-distance highway driving. Internal GM quality reports from 2014 indicated a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring intake cleaning before 120,000 km, while Australian NCAP records show increased engine-related service events in fleet-trim Impala models. Sustained highway operation and delayed oil changes increase deposit formation, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2013-2018) and Australian Department of Infrastructure failure statistics (2015-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LF1.
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