The Chevrolet LY5 is a 4,807 cc, naturally aspirated V8 gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2014. It features overhead valve (OHV) pushrod architecture with sequential fuel injection, delivering strong low-end torque and smooth power delivery. In standard tuning it produces 235 kW (320 PS) with 440 Nm of torque, primarily used in full-size trucks, SUVs, and vans.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Silverado (GMT900), Tahoe, and Suburban, the LY5 was engineered for dependable performance in towing and utility applications. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop fuel control, meeting U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 standards depending on regional calibration.
One documented concern is intake manifold gasket failure due to thermal cycling and material fatigue, noted in General Motors Service Bulletin #07-06-01-004. This issue stems from the composite two-piece intake design, which can develop cracks and leaks under sustained temperature variation. From 2009 onward, revised gasket materials and updated torque procedures were implemented across production lines.
Chevrolet
Production years 2007–2009 meet U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5; 2010–2014 models comply with LEV II standards (EPA Certification #EPA/ENG/7895).
The Chevrolet LY5 is a 4,807 cc V8 gasoline engine engineered for full-size platforms (2007–2014). It combines pushrod valvetrain architecture with sequential fuel injection to deliver robust low-RPM torque and operational simplicity. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances durability with drivability for work and passenger applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,807 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline (RON 87 min) | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 99.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 235 kW (320 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 / LEV II | |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Closed-loop liquid cooling | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Single-row roller chain (non-interference) | |
| Oil type | GM Standard Oil 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 208 kg |
The OHV pushrod design provides mechanical simplicity and strong low-RPM torque ideal for towing, but requires adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to prevent lifter wear and intake gasket degradation. GM Standard Oil 5W-30 is recommended due to its additive package supporting hydraulic lifters and pushrod lubrication. Extended operation in stop-start conditions or high ambient temperatures increases stress on the composite intake manifold. The engine's tolerance for lower-octane fuel (RON 87) makes it suitable for global markets, though sustained detonation can accelerate gasket failure. Post-2009 models feature revised intake gasket materials; pre-2009 units should be inspected per GM SIB 07-06-01-004. Catalytic converter longevity depends on maintaining proper air-fuel ratio and avoiding prolonged rich conditions.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Standard Oil 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 07-06-01-004). Substitution with ILSAC GF-4 acceptable if meeting GM6094M.
Emissions: U.S. Tier 2 Bin 5 applies to North American models (2007–2009); LEV II certification applies to later variants (2010–2014) (EPA Certification #EPA/ENG/7895).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full output requires fuel with RON 87 or higher (GM TIS Doc. 404-ENG-14).
General Motors Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 404-TEC-08, 404-FUE-11, SIB 07-06-01-004
EPA Engine Certification Database (EPA/ENG/7895)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Chevrolet LY5 was used across Chevrolet's GMT900 platform with longitudinal mounting and shared with GMC and Cadillac in North American markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the Silverado HD and tuned exhaust manifolds in the Tahoe-and from 2010 the facelifted Suburban adopted revised intake gaskets and updated PCM calibration, creating interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Cadillac's Escalade to use the LY5 with luxury tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front passenger-side cylinder block near the cylinder head (GM TIS 404-ID-10). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('T' for LY5 series). Pre-2009 models have orange valve covers with ribbed finish; post-2009 units use dark red valve covers. Critical differentiation from LQ4: LY5 has variable valve timing and uses a composite intake manifold, while LQ4 lacks VVT and uses cast aluminum intake. Service parts require production date verification - intake gaskets for engines before 06/2009 are incompatible with later units due to material redesign (GM SIB 07-06-01-004).
The LY5's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-temperature climates. Internal GM quality reports from 2008 indicated a significant share of pre-2009 engines requiring intake replacement before 150,000 km, while U.S. NHTSA records show increased engine-related service events in fleet-trim Silverado models. Sustained thermal cycling and delayed maintenance increase crack formation, making coolant quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2007-2014) and U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration failure statistics (2008-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CHEVROLET LY5.
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