The Chevrolet LFX is a 3,564 cc, V6 direct-injection gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2017. 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 213 kW (290 PS) and 353 Nm of torque, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy for mid-size and full-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Impala, Caprice PPV, and Holden Commodore VF, the LFX was engineered for drivers seeking smooth 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 14-NA-008, results from oil vapour carry-over via the PCV system interacting with hot intake surfaces. From 2013 onward, revised intake port design and updated engine calibration were implemented to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2010–2017 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2010/LFX).
The Chevrolet LFX is a 3,564 cc V6 gasoline engine from GM's High Feature family (2010–2017). 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 everyday usability with strong mid-range power.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,564 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 3,200 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 | 180 kg |
The LFX's broad torque curve delivers strong mid-range pull ideal for highway merging and light towing but demands adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals using GM Dexos1 5W-30 to protect the direct injection system and AFM components. Intake carbon buildup is common in urban applications due to oil vapour interaction with hot surfaces; GM revised port geometry in 2013 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 14-NA-008). 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/2010/LFX). 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 LFX-Architecture-01, LFX-Perf-02, SIB 14-NA-008
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Light-Duty Vehicle Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2010/LFX
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LFX was used across Chevrolet's full-size sedan and fleet platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Impala and enhanced cooling in the Caprice PPV-and from 2013 the facelifted Impala models adopted revised intake port design, 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 LFX-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LFX series). Pre-2013 models have a black intake manifold with side-mounted PCV; post-2013 units feature revised port geometry with updated cover. Critical differentiation from LFX: LFX is a DOHC V6 with AFM, while 3.6L Pentastar (Chrysler) uses SOHC with variable lift. Service parts require model year verification—intake manifolds before 2013 are not interchangeable with later units due to port changes (GM SIB 14-NA-008).
The LFX'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 2016 indicated approximately 15% of pre-2013 units required intake cleaning before 100,000 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 (2010-2017) and U.S. EPA Light-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2012-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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