The Chevrolet LUK is a 1,796 cc, inline-four gasoline engine produced between 2009 and 2014. It was developed as part of General Motors' Family 1 engine series, featuring dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake cam. It delivered 85 kW (116 PS) and 165 Nm of torque, providing reliable performance for compact Chevrolet models.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Aveo (T300) and Chevrolet Spark (M300), the LUK engine was engineered for urban commuting and fuel-efficient daily driving. Its design prioritized low maintenance costs and ease of repair, making it suitable for entry-level vehicle applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, meeting Euro 5 standards across European markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing chain tensioner, noted in GM Service Bulletin 14-NAT-023. This issue arises due to inadequate oil flow during cold starts, leading to increased chain noise and potential timing misalignment. In 2012, revised tensioner components were introduced to improve durability and reduce field failures.
Chevrolet
Production years 2009–2011 meet Euro 5 standards; 2012–2014 models maintain Euro 5 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Chevrolet LUK is a 1,796 cc inline-four gasoline engine engineered for compact passenger vehicles (2009–2014). It combines multi-point fuel injection with intake-side variable valve timing to deliver responsive city driving characteristics. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances affordability, fuel economy, and serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,796 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 80.5 mm × 88.2 mm | |
| Power output | 85 kW (116 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 165 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven (front-mounted, tensioner-prone) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 118 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides smooth throttle response ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent timing chain wear. GM Dexos1 5W-30 oil is essential due to its formulation supporting the front-mounted chain tensioner system. Extended idling and short-trip driving increase carbon buildup on intake valves, necessitating periodic cleaning. The MPFI system is robust but sensitive to low-quality fuel, which can lead to injector coking. Post-2012 models feature updated tensioner hardware; pre-2012 units should be inspected per GM SIB 14-NAT-023. Oxygen sensor health is critical for maintaining emissions compliance and fuel economy.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 14-NAT-023). Supersedes API SM/ILSAC GF-4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Applies to European-market vehicles only.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Rated output achieved using 95 RON fuel (GM TIS Doc. C2010).
Chevrolet Technical Information System (TIS): Docs C1796, C2010, SIB 14-NAT-023
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LUK was used across Chevrolet's T300/M300 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the Spark and enhanced cooling in the Aveo-and from 2012, revised tensioner components were implemented across both models, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Chevrolet TIS C1800). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LUK series). Pre-2012 models have silver valve covers with ribbed texture; post-2012 units use black valve covers. Critical differentiation from LUJ: LUK has a 1.8L displacement with MPFI, while LUJ is a 1.4L turbocharged GDI engine. Service parts require production date verification - timing tensioners for engines before 06/2012 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (GM SIB 14-NAT-023).
The LUK's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. GM internal field reports from 2013 indicated a notable share of pre-2012 engines exhibiting chain rattle before 100,000 km, while VCA data links a portion of emissions-related failures to oxygen sensor degradation in high-mileage vehicles. Cold-start cycles and extended idling increase chain stress, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2010-2014) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2014-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LUK.
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CHEVROLET Official Site
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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
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