The Chevrolet LFA is a 3,598 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2015. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection, delivering 302 hp (225 kW) and 270 lb-ft (366 Nm) of torque. Designed for longitudinal mounting in rear-wheel-drive platforms, it combines refined power delivery with broad torque availability, making it ideal for performance sedans and coupes.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet SS and Chevrolet Caprice PPV, the LFA was engineered for balanced performance and durability in both consumer and fleet applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced three-way 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 intake manifold runner actuator (IMRA) failure observed in 2011–2013 production units, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 13072. The issue stems from plastic gear degradation within the IMRA module, leading to erratic airflow control and fault codes. GM issued a revised metal-gear actuator kit in 2014 to resolve the issue.
Production years 2010–2012 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards; 2013–2015 models comply with updated evaporative emissions requirements (EPA-HQ-OAR-2009-0695).
The Chevrolet LFA is a 3,598 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for rear-wheel-drive performance applications (2010–2015). It combines variable valve timing with sequential fuel injection to deliver responsive mid-range power and smooth operation. Designed to meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance and long-term reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,598 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 79.0 mm | |
| Power output | 225 kW (302 PS) @ 6,600 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 | 192 kg |
The LFA's VVT system provides strong mid-range pull ideal for highway merging and spirited driving, 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. The sequential fuel injection demands TOP TIER detergent gasoline to prevent injector clogging. Post-2014 models feature upgraded IMRA actuators with metal gears; pre-2014 units should be inspected per GM SIB 13072. Catalytic converters require periodic monitoring to avoid thermal degradation from rich mixtures or misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 13072). Replaces GM 4718M and earlier standards.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to all 2010–2015 models (EPA File EPA-2010-CHEV-005). California models meet LEV II ULEV-200 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes 91 octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. 30783).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 30783, 31006, SIB 13072
EPA Certification Database (EPA-2010-CHEV-005)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LFA was used across Chevrolet's W/Y platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Holden and GMC variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the SS and revised exhaust manifolds in the Caprice PPV-and from 2014 the facelifted SS models adopted the LFA with updated IMRA and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's VF Commodore to use the LFA 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 30783). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LFA series). Pre-2014 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2014 units use black valve covers with red accents. Critical differentiation from LFX: LFA has a single exhaust manifold and sequential fuel injection, while LFX uses direct injection. Service parts require model year verification - IMRA actuators for 2011–2013 models are incompatible with 2014+ due to gear material redesign (GM SIB 13072).
The LFA's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner actuator (IMRA) failure in early production models, with elevated incidence in high-temperature and stop-start applications. Internal GM quality reports from 2014 indicated approximately 8% of 2011–2013 units required IMRA replacement before 90,000 miles, while NHTSA field reports confirm related SES light entries and driveability complaints. High ambient temperatures and frequent cold starts accelerate gear degradation, making timely inspection and preventive replacement critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2010-2015) and NHTSA failure statistics (2012-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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