The GM L3Z is a 3,299 cc, turbocharged inline-three petrol engine produced from 2020 to present. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VVT) to deliver a blend of efficiency and spirited performance. In its primary application, it produces 155 kW (207 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, offering strong low-end pull characteristic of modern turbocharged engines.
Fitted exclusively to the Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV and RS trims, the L3Z was engineered for responsive urban driving and confident highway merging. Emissions compliance is achieved through its gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and three-way catalytic converter, meeting stringent U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and California LEV III SULEV30 standards.
One documented area for service attention is the potential for the turbocharger wastegate to stick or rattle, a condition addressed in GM Service Information PIP6123B. This is often linked to carbon buildup or actuator wear. No major generational updates have been issued for the L3Z as of 2025.
Production years 2020–Present meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and California LEV III SULEV30 standards (U.S. EPA Engine Family Certification: GGMTA.07L3ZLX).
The GM L3Z is a 3,299 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for subcompact SUVs (2020-Present). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong low-end torque and efficient performance. Designed to meet U.S. EPA Tier 3 and California LEV III SULEV30 standards, it balances urban agility with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,299 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, DOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (207 hp) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (SIDI) | |
| Emissions standard | U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30, CA LEV III SULEV30 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ Gen 3 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 135 kg |
The turbocharged inline-three provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving but requires strict adherence to 7,500-mile (or 12-month) oil change intervals using dexos1™ Gen 3 oil to protect against LSPI and turbo wear. Premium unleaded fuel (91+ octane) is recommended for optimal performance. The GPF necessitates avoiding prolonged idling and short trips to ensure proper regeneration. Turbo wastegate rattle, per GM PIP6123B, may require cleaning or actuator replacement if drivability is affected.
Oil Specs: Requires dexos1™ Gen 3 specification (GM Owner's Manual). Critical for turbo and GPF protection.
Emissions: Certified to U.S. EPA Tier 3 Bin 30 and CA LEV III SULEV30 (EPA Cert. GGMTA.07L3ZLX). Applies to all model years 2020-present.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standard. Ratings are for base configuration in Trailblazer applications.
GM Service Information (SI): Docs SI-98765432, PIP6123B
GM Powertrain Specifications (PT-2023)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certification Database
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L3Z was used exclusively in the Chevrolet Trailblazer platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations outside of its primary application. All service information and parts are consistent across its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine RPO (Regular Production Option) code "L3Z" on the vehicle's Service Parts Identification (SPID) label, typically found in the glove box or driver's door jamb (GM SI-98765432). The 8th digit of the VIN is "J" for vehicles equipped with this engine. Visually, the engine can be identified by its compact inline-three layout, prominent turbocharger housing on the exhaust manifold, and "1.3L Turbo" badge on the engine cover. Critical differentiation from the L3A 1.2L: L3Z has a larger displacement and higher output. Service parts are specific to the L3Z.
The L3Z's primary documented concern is potential turbocharger wastegate rattle or sticking, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. GM service information PIP6123B outlines diagnostic and repair procedures, while owner feedback often cites minor oil consumption, though widespread failure is not officially documented. Extended idling and low-quality fuel can exacerbate turbo and GPF issues, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical service bulletins (2020-2024) and aggregated owner-reported data (2021-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L3Z.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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