The Daewoo L35 is a 3,498 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2002. It was developed as part of Daewoo's large-displacement engine family for executive sedans and upper-medium vehicles. Featuring a DOHC 24-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivers 132 kW (180 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery suitable for highway cruising and refined driving experiences.
Fitted to the Daewoo Leganza (V100), the L35 was engineered to deliver a balance of refinement, cabin quietness, and mid-range performance. Positioned as Daewoo’s flagship engine, it utilized a transverse mounting layout with hydraulic engine mounts to reduce vibration. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards throughout its production run.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner assembly, which may lead to belt slippage or failure under high thermal load. This issue, referenced in Daewoo Service Information Bulletin ENG-06-012, is attributed to early tensioner spring fatigue and inadequate damping in sustained high-temperature operation. From 1999, revised tensioner units with improved spring metallurgy and damping characteristics were introduced to enhance reliability.
Daewoo
All L35 production (1997–2002) meets Euro 2 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567).
The Daewoo L35 is a 3,498 cc V6 petrol engine designed for executive sedans (1997–2002). It features DOHC 24-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth power delivery and cabin refinement. Engineered to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes highway performance and passenger comfort.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SH) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated V6 design provides smooth, linear power ideal for highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent interference-related engine damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SH specifications is essential for camshaft and lifter longevity. Use of low-octane fuel (below 95 RON) may cause knock sensor intervention, reducing performance under load. The transverse V6 layout places demands on the timing belt tensioner due to packaging constraints, making the post-1999 upgraded tensioner assembly critical for long-term reliability. Pre-1999 models should have the revised tensioner installed per Daewoo SIB ENG-06-012 to mitigate spring fatigue.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 API SH specification (Daewoo SIB ENG-07-009). Compatible with ACEA A2 standards.
Emissions: All L35 models comply with Euro 2 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4567), applicable for 1997–2002 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across markets with 95 RON fuel (Daewoo TIS Doc. D35L-001).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D35L-001, ENG-06-012, ENG-07-009
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4567)
ECE Regulation 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Daewoo L35 was used exclusively in the Daewoo Leganza (V100) platform with transverse mounting and no licensed applications. This engine received no major adaptations during its production cycle, maintaining consistent calibration and emissions control throughout. All units were equipped with MPFI and dual catalytic converters meeting Euro 2 standards, allowing for full interchangeability across model years. No facelift or emissions upgrade occurred during the 1997–2002 production window, simplifying parts compatibility. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (Daewoo TIS D35L-001). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for L35). All L35 engines have a silver valve cover with black intake manifold. Critical differentiation from L40: L35 has a 3.5L displacement with 89.0 mm bore, while L40 is 2.0L with 86.0 mm bore and DOHC 16-valve layout. Service parts are generally interchangeable, but pre-1999 units should use updated timing tensioner per Daewoo SIB ENG-06-012.
The L35's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage highway applications. Internal Daewoo field reports from 1999 indicated a notable number of pre-1999 engines required premature belt replacement due to tensioner degradation, while VCA MOT records show timing-related failures are a leading cause of engine seizure in high-mileage units. Extended service intervals and poor-quality coolant increase thermal stress, making adherence to 90,000 km belt changes and use of OEM-specified coolant critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1997-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1999-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO L35.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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