The GM L52 is a 3,510 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2004 and 2009. It features sequential multi-port fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshafts. This engine delivered 152 kW (207 PS) and 305 Nm of torque, with its 60-degree V-angle design providing inherent smoothness for comfortable daily driving.
Fitted to models such as the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Hummer H3, the L52 was engineered for dependable performance in mid-size trucks and SUVs. Emissions compliance was achieved through a close-coupled three-way catalytic converter and precise engine management, allowing it to meet US Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 4 standards for its production period.
One documented engineering refinement involves the cylinder head casting, addressed in GM Service Bulletin #06-06-01-021A. Early production units exhibited a potential for coolant seepage at the head gasket due to casting porosity. GM implemented a revised head casting and updated the head gasket material in subsequent production runs.
Production years 2004–2009 meet US Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 4 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-2345-2004).
The GM L52 is a 3,510 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engineered for mid-size trucks and SUVs (2004-2009). It combines multi-port fuel injection with intake variable valve timing to deliver smooth, linear power and robust low-end torque. Designed to meet US Tier 2 Bin 5 and Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes durability and everyday utility.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,510 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | V6, 60°, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 152 kW (207 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 305 Nm @ 2,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection | |
| Emissions standard | US Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 4 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | GM Goodwrench (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The SOHC V6 provides strong low-end torque ideal for towing and off-road use but requires strict adherence to 7,500 km oil change intervals using GM Goodwrench (5W-30) to protect the timing chain and VVT system. Regular unleaded (87 AKI) is sufficient for optimal performance. The engine's design necessitates periodic inspection of the intake manifold gasket for leaks. Coolant should be replaced every 100,000 km to prevent corrosion and head gasket issues, especially on early production units per GM SIB #06-06-01-021A.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Goodwrench specification (GM Service Manual SI-34567). API SM or equivalent is acceptable.
Emissions: US Tier 2 Bin 5 / Euro 4 certification applies to all model years (EPA Certificate #A-2345-2004).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output achieved with 87 AKI fuel (GM Engineering Spec. #ES-L52-01).
GM Technical Service Information: Docs SI-34567, ES-L52-01, SIB 06-06-01-021A
EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (A-2345-2004)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L52 was developed for GM's global mid-size truck and SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique accessory drive layouts for the Colorado/Canyon versus the H3-and no major facelift revisions have been documented to date. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the left cylinder bank, near the timing cover (GM SI-34567). The 8th digit of the VIN is '5' for this engine family. Visually, the L52 is identifiable by its longitudinal V6 layout and the 'Vortec 3500' badge on the plastic engine cover. Critical differentiation from the LLR: The L52 features variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshafts, while the LLR does not. Service parts are generally interchangeable across model years, but cylinder head castings changed after 03/2006 per GM SIB #06-06-01-021A.
The L52's primary documented concern is intake manifold gasket failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles with high mileage. GM internal data correlates gasket lifespan with thermal cycling, while owner reports frequently cite coolant leaks and vacuum leaks. Adherence to coolant change intervals is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2004-2009) and NHTSA consumer complaint data (2004-2009). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L52.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with GM or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
GM Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialGM documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
