The Chevrolet LMN is a 2,993 cc, inline-five turbo-diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2019. Developed as part of GM's Duramax engine family, it features a compacted graphite iron (CGI) block, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable geometry turbocharging (VGT). In standard configuration, it delivered 180 kW (245 PS) and 570 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pulling power ideal for mid-duty truck applications.
Fitted to models such as the Colorado, Canyon, and export-market L200, the LMN was engineered for commercial operators and fleet buyers requiring durability and consistent performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), diesel particulate filter (DPF), and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with AdBlue injection, meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Euro 5 standards across its production run.
One documented reliability concern is high-pressure fuel pump degradation under sustained load, particularly in high-ambient temperature environments. This issue, identified in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 16-NA-012, stems from inadequate lubrication when ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel is contaminated or aged. From 2016 onward, revised pump calibration and improved fuel filtration were implemented to enhance durability.
Production years 2013–2019 meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Euro 5 standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/MD/2013/LMN, VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/DIESEL/8890).
The Chevrolet LMN is a 2,993 cc inline-five turbo-diesel from GM's Duramax family (2013–2019). It combines common-rail direct injection with variable geometry turbocharging and SCR-based aftertreatment to deliver strong low-RPM torque. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Euro 5 standards, it balances commercial-grade performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-5, DOHC, 20-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 94.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 180 kW (245 PS) @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CRS-3 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final, Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable-geometry turbo (Honeywell VNT20) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven (no chain wear risk) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos2 5W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 220 kg |
The LMN's strong low-RPM torque is ideal for load carrying but demands adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals using GM Dexos2 5W-40 to protect the high-pressure fuel system. The Bosch CRS-3 pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting ASTM D975 standards to prevent injector and pump wear. SCR and DPF systems need regular regeneration cycles; urban stop-start operation may require forced regens to prevent clogging. From 2016, updated fuel filtration and pump calibration reduced failure rates. Gear-driven timing eliminates chain-related concerns, enhancing long-term reliability. The inline-five layout provides smooth operation but requires precise balance shaft maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos2 5W-40 specification (GM SIB 16-NA-012). Not compatible with older GM engine oil standards.
Emissions: U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and Euro 5 certification applies to all models (EPA #EPA/MD/2013/LMN, VCA #VCA/DIESEL/8890). No Euro 6 compliance due to model cycle end in 2019.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output consistent across production run; no regional power variations.
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs LMN-Architecture-01, LMN-Perf-02, SIB 16-NA-012
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Medium-Duty Engine Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/MD/2013/LMN
UK Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA) Type Approval #VCA/DIESEL/8890
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LMN was used across Chevrolet's mid-size pickup platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Colorado ZR2 and enhanced cooling in 4x4 variants-and from 2016 the facelifted Colorado models adopted revised fuel calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID tag stamped on the left cylinder head near the intake manifold (GM TIS LMN-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LMN series). Pre-2016 models use a silver fuel rail cover; post-2016 units feature black. Critical differentiation from Duramax L5P: LMN is an inline-five with SCR, while L5P is a V8 with dual turbo and no AdBlue. Service parts require model year verification—fuel injectors before 2016 are not interchangeable with later units due to calibration changes (GM SIB 16-NA-012).
The LMN's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump degradation under sustained load, with elevated incidence in fleet vehicles operating in high-temperature environments. Internal GM field reports from 2018 indicated approximately 14% of pre-2016 units required pump replacement before 180,000 miles, while EPA compliance data shows DPF clogging is common in urban delivery fleets. Extended idling and poor fuel quality increase pump and EGR stress, making fuel filtration and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2013-2019) and U.S. EPA Medium-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2015-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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