The Daewoo LX6 (91CUL4) is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1991 and 1997. It was developed during Daewoo's early partnership with General Motors and used in the company's first generation of compact sedans. Featuring a SOHC 8-valve configuration and multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), it delivered 60 kW (82 PS) with 125 Nm of torque, providing dependable performance for urban and light-duty applications.
Fitted to models such as the Daewoo LeMans, Racer, and Cielo, the LX6 was engineered for affordability, mechanical simplicity, and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and oxygen feedback control, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards across its production run. Its cast-iron block and aluminium head contributed to durability and straightforward serviceability in front-wheel-drive transverse installations.
One documented service concern involves distributor cap arcing observed in certain 1993–1995 production batches, highlighted in Daewoo Service Bulletin ENG-94-007. The issue was attributed to moisture ingress and high-voltage tracking in humid climates. In response, Daewoo revised the distributor housing sealing process and upgraded the rotor material from mid-1995 onwards, improving ignition reliability in later builds.
Daewoo
All production years 1991–1997 meet Euro 1 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
The Daewoo LX6 (91CUL4) is a 1,498 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans (1991–1997). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver dependable everyday performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it balances simplicity, fuel economy, and ease of serviceability for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, SOHC, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 79.0 mm × 76.6 mm | |
| Power output | 60 kW (82 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (API SH/CF) | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The SOHC MPFI design provides smooth, predictable power delivery ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent valve damage. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting API SH/CF standards is recommended to ensure adequate camshaft and lifter lubrication. Fuel quality is critical—low-octane or contaminated petrol can trigger knock sensor activity and reduce efficiency. Post-1995 models benefit from revised distributor sealing; earlier units should be inspected for carbon tracking. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded fuel only and is sensitive to oil burning or rich mixtures.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 meeting API SH/CF (Daewoo Owner's Manual Rev. 2.0). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all LX6 models (1991–1997) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5683).
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output consistent across fuel grades 95 RON and above (Daewoo TIS Doc. D15201).
Daewoo Technical Information System (TIS): Docs D15201, ENG-91-005, ENG-94-007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5683)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Daewoo LX6 (91CUL4) was used across Daewoo's LeMans/Cielo platforms with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Opel small-engine variants in European markets. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the LeMans and revised ECU tuning in the Racer-and from 1995 the facelifted Cielo models adopted updated emissions hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front lower edge of the cylinder block near the transmission bellhousing (Daewoo TIS D15201). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('L' for LX6). Pre-1995 models have ribbed silver valve covers; post-1995 units use smooth black valve covers. Critical differentiation from B15S: LX6 has single camshaft (SOHC) with exposed rocker cover, while B15S uses similar architecture but with revised ECU and intake. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for LeMans models are shorter than those for Cielo due to accessory drive differences (Daewoo SIB ENG-91-005).
The LX6's primary reliability risk is distributor cap arcing in early production models, with elevated incidence in high-mileage urban use. Internal Daewoo quality reports from 1994 indicated a significant number of pre-1995 engines showing ignition misfires before 80,000 km, while VCA data links timing belt neglect to valve train damage in over 30% of engine seizure cases. Short-trip driving and delayed maintenance increase moisture retention and belt fatigue, making service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Daewoo technical bulletins (1991-1997) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1992-2000). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about DAEWOO LX6.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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