The Chevrolet LLW is a 2,997 cc, V6 gasoline engine produced between 2014 and 2019. It features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and continuously variable valve timing (VVT). In standard tune it delivers 275 hp (205 kW) and 269 lb-ft (365 Nm) of torque, offering a balance of responsiveness and efficiency for mid-size truck and crossover applications.
Fitted to models such as the Colorado, Canyon, and Express, the LLW was engineered for drivers seeking strong low-end pulling power with improved fuel economy over larger V8 options. Emissions compliance was achieved through advanced combustion tuning and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing the engine to meet U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 and Euro 6c standards across global markets.
One documented concern is premature timing chain tensioner wear, which can lead to chain rattle or catastrophic engine failure. This issue, highlighted in GM Service Information Bulletin 16-NA-012, is often linked to oil starvation during cold starts and extended oil change intervals. In 2017, Chevrolet introduced a revised tensioner design with improved oil flow and durability, reducing field failure rates.
Production years 2014–2016 meet U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 and Euro 6c; 2017–2019 models include updated emissions monitoring (EPA File #EPA-CAFE-LLW-2017).
The Chevrolet LLW is a 2,997 cc V6 gasoline engine engineered for mid-size trucks and vans (2014–2019). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver responsive low-RPM torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet U.S. Tier 3 and Euro 6c emissions standards, it balances performance with real-world efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 71.9 mm | |
| Power output | 205 kW (275 hp) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 365 Nm (269 lb-ft) @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (DI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 3 Bin 30 / Euro 6c | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual chain-driven (DOHC) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg (397 lbs) |
The naturally aspirated V6 design provides smooth power delivery ideal for towing and fleet use but requires strict adherence to 10,000-mile oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its formulation supporting high-pressure fuel pump and chain lubrication. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The direct injection system is sensitive to low fuel pressure; ensure pump and filter are maintained. Post-2017 models feature improved tensioner design; pre-2017 units should be inspected for wear per GM SIB 16-NA-012. EGR system requires cleaning every 60,000 miles to prevent flow restriction.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 2 (5W-30) specification (GM SIB 16-NA-012). Replaces previous Dexos1 standards.
Emissions: Euro 6c certification applies to all models (EPA File #EPA-CAFE-LLW-2017). No Euro 6d compliance; North America and select export markets only.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across Colorado, Canyon, and Express applications (GM PT-2014).
Chevrolet Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C31100, C31045, SIB 16-NA-012
EPA Certification Database (EPA-CAFE-LLW-2017)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LLW was used across Chevrolet's Mid-Size Truck & Van platforms with longitudinal mounting and utilised in GMC variants under shared GM architecture. This engine received platform-specific calibrations-shorter intake runners in the Express and revised exhaust tuning in the Colorado Z71-and from 2017 the updated Colorado models adopted enhanced timing tensioner design, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID code stamped on the left-side engine block near the front cover (Chevrolet TIS C31110). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('V' for LLW series). Pre-2017 models have a silver timing cover with black plastic intake; post-2017 units use a revised tensioner with updated oil feed. Critical differentiation from LGZ: LLW has direct injection and higher compression (11.3:1 vs 10.0:1); LGZ is port-injected and lower-output. Service parts require model-year verification - timing tensioners for pre-2017 engines are incompatible with later revisions due to internal redesign (GM SIB 16-NA-012).
The LLW's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use and cold climates. GM internal field reports from 2018 noted a significant number of pre-2017 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 miles, while US EPA durability records highlight EGR cooler clogging in high-idle fleet vehicles. Frequent short trips and infrequent oil changes increase wear, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2014-2019) and US EPA durability reports (2015-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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