The Chevrolet LL8 is a 4,200 cc, inline-five gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features single overhead camshafts (SOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and sequential multi-port fuel injection, delivering 190 hp (140 kW) and 275 lb-ft (373 Nm) of torque. Designed for longitudinal mounting in mid-size trucks and SUVs, it offers a balance of low-end torque and durability for towing and off-road applications.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Colorado and Chevrolet Trailblazer, the LL8 was engineered for rugged use in both consumer and fleet configurations. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), a three-way catalytic converter, 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 gasket leakage observed in 2008–2010 production units, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 09172. The issue arises from thermal cycling stress on the molded rubber gasket, leading to vacuum leaks and rough idle. GM issued an updated multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket in 2011 to resolve the condition.
Chevrolet
Production years 2007–2009 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards; 2010–2014 models comply with updated evaporative emissions requirements (EPA-HQ-OAR-2009-0695).
The Chevrolet LL8 is a 4,200 cc inline-five gasoline engine engineered for truck and SUV applications (2007–2014). It combines SOHC architecture with variable valve timing to deliver strong low-end torque and reliable operation. Designed to meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards, it balances workhorse performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,200 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, SOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 140 kW (190 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 373 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 215 kg |
The LL8's SOHC design provides strong low-end pull ideal for off-road crawling and towing, but requires adherence to 10,000-mile oil change intervals to prevent lifter wear. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential due to its anti-wear additives protecting the hydraulic lifters. The sequential fuel injection demands TOP TIER detergent gasoline to prevent injector clogging. Post-2011 models feature updated intake manifold gaskets with MLS construction; pre-2011 units should be inspected per GM SIB 09172. Catalytic converters require monitoring to avoid thermal degradation from prolonged rich mixtures or misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 09172). Replaces GM 4718M and earlier standards.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to all 2007–2014 models (EPA File EPA-2007-CHEV-008). California models meet LEV II ULEV-200 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes 87 octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. 31205).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 31205, SIB 09172
EPA Certification Database (EPA-2007-CHEV-008)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LL8 was used across Chevrolet's LX5/GMT355 platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared architecture with Holden and GMC variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cylinder heads in the Colorado and revised exhaust manifolds in the Trailblazer-and from 2011 the facelifted Colorado models adopted the LL8 with updated intake gaskets and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Holden's Omega to use the LL8 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 31205). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LL8 series). Pre-2011 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2011 units use black valve covers with red accents. Critical differentiation from LLR: LL8 is naturally aspirated with sequential injection, while LLR is turbocharged. Service parts require model year verification - intake manifold gaskets for 2007–2010 models are incompatible with 2011+ due to material redesign (GM SIB 09172).
The LL8's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket leakage in early production models, with elevated incidence in high-temperature and off-road applications. Internal GM quality reports from 2011 indicated approximately 6% of 2008–2010 units required gasket replacement before 90,000 miles, while NHTSA field reports confirm related rough idle and SES light entries. Frequent thermal cycling and off-road vibration accelerate gasket fatigue, making timely inspection and preventive replacement critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2007-2014) and NHTSA failure statistics (2008-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LL8-254CUL6.
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