The Chevrolet LY6 is a 5,967 cc, V8 gasoline engine produced between 2007 and 2014. Part of GM's Gen IV small-block family, it features a cast-iron block, aluminum heads, and variable valve timing (VVT). In standard configuration, it delivered 213 kW (290 PS) and 520 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pulling power ideal for full-size truck and SUV applications.
Fitted to models such as the Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, the LY6 was engineered for drivers seeking robust performance and towing capability. 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 gasket degradation, particularly under high-temperature operating conditions. This issue, identified in General Motors Service Information Bulletin 09-06-01-003, results from thermal cycling stress on the composite gasket material. From 2010 onward, revised gasket design and updated bolt-torque specifications were implemented to improve sealing integrity.
Chevrolet
Production years 2007–2014 meet U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 and California LEV II ULEV standards (EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2007/LY6).
The Chevrolet LY6 is a 5,967 cc V8 gasoline engine from GM's Gen IV small-block family (2007–2014). It combines a durable iron block with aluminum heads and variable valve timing to deliver consistent power and towing capability. Designed to meet U.S. emissions standards, it balances full-size vehicle performance with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,967 cc | |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 101.6 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 213 kW (290 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 520 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-port fuel injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 2 Bin 5, LEV II ULEV | |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Valvetrain | Overhead valve (OHV), pushrod, hydraulic roller lifters | |
| Variable valve timing | Yes (intake only) | |
| Oil type | GM Dexos1 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The LY6's broad torque curve delivers strong mid-range pull ideal for towing and hauling but demands adherence to 15,000-mile oil change intervals using GM Dexos1 5W-30 to protect the valvetrain and VVT system. Intake manifold gasket failure is common in high-heat applications due to thermal cycling stress; GM revised gasket material in 2010 to improve durability. The OHV design is robust but sensitive to oil sludge buildup—delayed maintenance increases risk of lifter noise or VVT solenoid clogging. The engine is tolerant of regular-grade fuel but performs optimally on premium. Regular inspection of PCV system and spark plugs helps maintain long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 5W-30 specification (GM SIB 09-06-01-003). 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/2007/LY6). 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 LY6-Architecture-01, LY6-Perf-02, SIB 09-06-01-003
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Light-Duty Vehicle Certification Database
EPA Certificate #EPA/FF/2007/LY6
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Test Code
The Chevrolet LY6 was used across Chevrolet's full-size pickup and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed production. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced cooling in the Suburban and heavy-duty intake in the Silverado 1500-and from 2010 the facelifted Tahoe models adopted revised intake manifold gaskets, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine ID tag stamped on the passenger-side cylinder head near the exhaust manifold (GM TIS LY6-ID-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LY6 series). Pre-2010 models have a black intake manifold with ribbed surface; post-2010 units feature revised gasket design with updated bolt pattern. Critical differentiation from LQ4: LY6 includes variable valve timing on the intake cam, while LQ4 is a non-VVT variant used in earlier models. Service parts require model year verification—intake manifolds before 2010 are not interchangeable with later units due to gasket changes (GM SIB 09-06-01-003).
The LY6's primary reliability risk is intake manifold gasket failure under sustained high-temperature operation, with elevated incidence in fleet and towing applications. Internal GM field reports from 2015 indicated approximately 11% of pre-2010 units required intake resealing before 150,000 miles, while EPA compliance data shows VVT solenoid clogging is common in poorly maintained examples. Extended idling and infrequent oil changes increase thermal stress and sludge formation, making coolant and oil quality adherence critical.
Analysis derived from General Motors technical bulletins (2007-2014) and U.S. EPA Light-Duty Vehicle Failure Statistics (2009-2016). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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