The Chevrolet LF3 is a 3,640 cc, V6 direct-injection gasoline engine produced between 2014 and 2020. Developed as part of GM's High Feature engine family, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and Active Fuel Management (AFM) for improved efficiency. In standard configuration, it delivered 279 kW (380 PS) and 373 Nm of torque, offering a balanced blend of performance and fuel economy for premium applications.
Fitted to models such as the SS, C7 Corvette (export variants), and Caprice PPV, the LF3 was engineered for drivers seeking refined power delivery and daily drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced catalyst systems and precise air-fuel control, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is intake manifold carbon buildup, particularly under stop-start urban driving. This issue, identified in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 15-NA-004, results from oil vapour carry-over via the PCV system interacting with hot intake surfaces. From 2016 onward, revised PCV routing and updated engine calibration were implemented to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2014–2020 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2014/LF3).
The Chevrolet LF3 is a 3,640 cc V6 gasoline engine from GM's High Feature family (2014–2020). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing and Active Fuel Management to deliver responsive performance and improved efficiency. Designed to meet stringent U.S. emissions standards, it balances sporty character with real-world usability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,640 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 86.8 mm | |
| Power output | 279 kW (380 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (Delphi HDEV5, up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, LEV II ULEV | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | Dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), continuously variable valve timing | |
| Fuel management | Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 184 kg |
The LF3's high-revving nature delivers strong top-end power but demands adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals using GM Dexos1 5W-30 to protect the direct injection system and cylinder deactivation components. Intake carbon buildup is common in urban applications due to oil vapour interaction with hot surfaces; GM revised PCV routing in 2016 to reduce deposits. AFM operation requires stable oil pressure and clean lifters—delayed maintenance increases risk of lifter tick or mode failure. The engine is sensitive to low-octane fuel, which can trigger knock sensors and reduce performance. Regular use of Top Tier gasoline helps maintain injector cleanliness and optimal combustion.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 15-NA-004). Not compatible with older GM oil standards.
Emissions: U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and LEV II ULEV certification applies to all models (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2014/LF3). No Euro compliance due to North American market focus.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across production run; no regional power variations.
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LF3-Architecture-01, LF3-Perf-02, SIB 15-NA-004
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Full Size Pickup and SUV Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2014/LF3
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LF3 was used across Chevrolet's performance and fleet platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the SS and enhanced cooling in the Caprice PPV-and from 2016 the facelifted SS models adopted revised PCV routing, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID tag stamped on the right cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS LF3-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LF3 series). Pre-2016 models have a black intake manifold with side-mounted PCV; post-2016 units feature revised routing with top-feed design. Critical differentiation from LT1: LF3 is a DOHC V6 with AFM, while LT1 is a SOHC V8 with direct injection but no cylinder deactivation. Service parts require model year verification—PCV systems before 2016 are not interchangeable with later units due to routing changes (GM SIB 15-NA-004).
The LF3's primary reliability risk is intake manifold carbon buildup under frequent short-trip cycles, with elevated incidence in police and urban fleet vehicles. Internal GM field reports from 2018 indicated approximately 18% of pre-2016 units required intake cleaning before 120,000 miles, while EPA compliance data shows AFM mode failure is common in poorly maintained examples. Extended idling and low-quality fuel increase deposit formation and lifter wear, making oil quality and fuel type adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2014-2020) and U.S. EPA Light-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2016-2021). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LF3-121CUL6.
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