The Chevrolet LSF is a 3,564 cc, V6 direct-injection gasoline engine produced between 2010 and 2016. 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 207 kW (282 PS) and 347 Nm of torque, offering a balance of performance and fuel economy for mid-size and full-size applications.
Fitted to models such as the Malibu, Impala, and Holden VF Commodore, the LSF 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 15-NA-006, 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.
Chevrolet
Production years 2010–2016 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2010/LSF).
The Chevrolet LSF is a 3,564 cc V6 gasoline engine from GM's High Feature family (2010–2016). 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 | 207 kW (282 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 347 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 | 178 kg |
The LSF'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 15-NA-006). 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/LSF). 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 LSF-Architecture-01, LSF-Perf-02, SIB 15-NA-006
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Light-Duty Vehicle Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2010/LSF
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LSF was used across Chevrolet's mid-size and full-size sedan platforms with transverse mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-tuned intake manifolds in the Malibu and enhanced cooling in the Impala-and from 2013 the facelifted Malibu 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 LSF-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LSF 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: LSF is a DOHC V6 with AFM, while LFX has higher power output and different calibration. Service parts require model year verification—intake manifolds before 2013 are not interchangeable with later units due to port changes (GM SIB 15-NA-006).
The LSF's primary reliability risk is intake manifold carbon buildup under frequent short-trip cycles, with elevated incidence in fleet and urban vehicles. Internal GM field reports from 2017 indicated approximately 16% of pre-2013 units required intake cleaning before 110,000 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 (2010-2016) and U.S. EPA Light-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2012-2018). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LSF.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CHEVROLET or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
CHEVROLET Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCHEVROLET documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
