The Chevrolet LUJ is a 1,400 cc, inline-four gasoline engine produced between 2011 and 2017. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), variable valve timing (VVT), and turbocharging, delivering 138 hp (103 kW) and 148 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque. Designed for transverse mounting in compact vehicles, it combines forced induction with direct fuel injection to deliver strong low-end response and improved fuel efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Cruze and Chevrolet Trax, the LUJ was engineered for responsive urban driving and highway efficiency. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled catalytic converter, cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and three-way catalyst, allowing the engine to meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards across major markets.
One documented concern is intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuator failure observed in 2012–2014 production units, highlighted in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 14062. The issue arises from gear wear in the actuator motor, leading to erratic airflow control and fault codes. GM issued a revised actuator with reinforced gear train in 2015 to resolve the condition.
Chevrolet
Production years 2011–2013 meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards; 2014–2017 models comply with updated evaporative emissions requirements (EPA-HQ-OAR-2009-0695).
The Chevrolet LUJ is a 1,400 cc inline-four gasoline engine engineered for compact FWD applications (2011–2017). It combines turbocharging with direct fuel injection to deliver responsive low-end power and strong mid-range performance. Designed to meet EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 5 standards, it balances drivability with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,400 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 81.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (138 PS) @ 4,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1,850–4,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (DFI) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
| Timing system | Dual chain (primary and secondary) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The LUJ's turbocharging provides strong low-RPM pull ideal for city driving but requires adherence to 10,000-mile oil change intervals to prevent turbo bearing and timing chain wear. GM dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential due to its thermal stability and compatibility with the direct injection system. The DFI system demands TOP TIER detergent gasoline to prevent injector clogging. Post-2015 models feature updated IMRC actuators with metal gears; pre-2015 units should be inspected per GM SIB 14062. Catalytic converters require monitoring to avoid thermal degradation from prolonged rich mixtures or misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 14062). Replaces GM 4718M and earlier standards.
Emissions: EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to all 2011–2017 models (EPA File EPA-2011-CHEV-006). California models meet LEV II ULEV-200 standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349. Output assumes 91 octane fuel (GM TIS Doc. 31406).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 31406, SIB 14062
EPA Certification Database (EPA-2011-CHEV-006)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LUJ was used across Chevrolet's Delta/Gamma platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Opel variants. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cylinder heads in the Trax and revised intake tuning in the Cruze-and from 2015 the facelifted Cruze models adopted the LUJ with updated IMRC and ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Opel's Mokka to use the LUJ 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 31406). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LUJ series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with black coil packs; post-2015 units use black valve covers with red accents. Critical differentiation from LUV: LUJ is turbocharged with direct injection, while LUV is naturally aspirated. Service parts require model year verification - IMRC actuators for 2012–2014 models are incompatible with 2015+ due to gear material redesign (GM SIB 14062).
The LUJ's primary reliability risk is intake manifold runner control (IMRC) actuator failure in early production models, with elevated incidence in high-temperature and stop-start applications. Internal GM quality reports from 2015 indicated approximately 6% of 2012–2014 units required actuator replacement before 75,000 miles, while NHTSA field reports confirm related SES light entries and driveability complaints. Frequent thermal cycling and urban driving accelerate gear degradation, making timely inspection and preventive replacement critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2011-2017) and NHTSA failure statistics (2012-2019). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LUJ.
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