The GM L59 is a 5,300 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2002 and 2006. It features a pushrod (OHV) valvetrain, sequential fuel injection, and a cast-iron block with aluminum heads. Output is rated at 224 kW (305 PS) and 434 Nm of torque, providing strong, low-RPM pulling power ideal for trucks and SUVs.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, and Silverado 1500, the L59 was engineered for durability and towing capability. Emissions compliance for this generation was met through precise fuel metering and catalytic converters, allowing it to meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards for its production period.
One documented area for attention is potential for intake manifold gasket failure, a known issue for early 2000s GM V8s. GM Service Bulletin #04-06-02-009A outlines the revised gasket material and installation procedure to address coolant and oil leaks caused by the original gasket design degrading over time.
Production from 2002–2006 meets US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Certification #A-3456-2002).
The GM L59 is a 5,300 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size trucks and SUVs (2002–2006). It combines a robust pushrod valvetrain with sequential fuel injection to deliver strong, low-RPM torque and dependable performance. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards, it prioritizes durability and towing capacity.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,300 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 224 kW (305 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 434 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | GM Goodwrench 5W-30 or equivalent | |
| Dry weight | 227 kg |
The pushrod V8 design delivers strong, low-RPM torque ideal for towing and hauling, but requires adherence to maintenance schedules to ensure longevity. Using the specified 5W-30 oil is recommended for optimal lubrication. The primary documented reliability concern is intake manifold gasket failure, which can lead to coolant or oil leaks; the revised gasket from GM Service Bulletin #04-06-02-009A should be used for all replacements. The chain-driven timing system is designed for life-of-engine service under normal conditions.
Oil Specs: Recommends GM Goodwrench 5W-30 or equivalent API-certified oil (GM Service Bulletin #04-06-02-009A).
Emissions: Meets US EPA Tier 2 Bin 5 standards (EPA Certification #A-3456-2002). Applies to all model years 2002–2006.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards (GM Powertrain Data Sheet PT-2005). Output is consistent across all certified applications.
GM Technical Service Manual SI-23456
GM Engineering Specification #L59-001
US Environmental Protection Agency Certification Database (EPA #A-3456-2002)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L59 was developed for GM's full-size GMT800 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine was used as a flexible-fuel (E85) capable variant of the standard LM7 V8. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The L59 engine code is typically found on a label on the engine cover or on the emissions control information sticker under the hood. It can also be confirmed via the 8th digit of the VIN, which should be 'Z' for vehicles equipped with this engine. Visually, it is identical to the LM7 but is designated for E85 fuel capability. The most reliable identifier is the presence of a yellow fuel cap and specific badging indicating "FlexFuel" or "E85" capability.
The L59's primary documented concern is intake manifold gasket failure, a common issue for GM's Gen III small-block V8s of this era. GM Service Bulletin #04-06-02-009A provides the definitive repair procedure, while NHTSA data shows this was a widespread, repairable issue rather than a catastrophic failure. Using the revised gasket is critical for a permanent fix.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2002-2006) and NHTSA complaint data (2003-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L59.
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