The GM L82 is a 6,162 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VVT), and an overhead valve (OHV) pushrod design. In standard form for the Chevrolet Camaro SS, it delivered 339 kW (455 PS) and 617 Nm of torque, providing strong, linear power delivery characteristic of large-displacement American V8s.
Fitted primarily to the sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro SS and select Cadillac CTS-V models, the L82 was engineered for drivers seeking a blend of high performance, a muscular exhaust note, and daily drivability. Emissions compliance for North American markets was achieved through precise direct injection and VVT, meeting Tier 3 Bin 125 standards.
One documented concern is excessive oil consumption in early production units (2014-2015), highlighted in GM Service Bulletin #15-NA-102. This was often linked to piston ring design and PCV system calibration. GM introduced revised piston rings and updated engine control module (ECM) calibrations starting in the 2016 model year to mitigate the issue.
Production years 2014–2023 meet EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards for the US market (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-1234-2014).
The GM L82 is a 6,162 cc V8 petrol engine engineered for performance coupes and sedans (2014-2023). It combines direct fuel injection with variable valve timing to deliver broad, accessible torque and high-revving power. Designed to meet stringent EPA Tier 3 emissions standards, it balances exhilarating performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | V8, OHV, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 339 kW (455 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 617 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | Dexos1 Gen 2 (SAE 5W-30) | |
| Dry weight | 202 kg |
The large displacement and OHV design provide effortless torque for acceleration but demand premium unleaded fuel (91+ AKI) for optimal performance and to prevent knock. Dexos1 Gen 2 oil is critical for protecting the direct injection system and variable valve timing components. Early engines (2014-2015) require monitoring for oil consumption; post-2016 models with revised rings are more robust. The engine's size can make certain repairs, like spark plug replacement on the driver's side bank, labor-intensive. Regular replacement of the air filter and adherence to the severe service maintenance schedule is recommended for track or spirited driving.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 2 specification (GM Service Bulletin #15-NA-102). ACEA or API standards alone are insufficient.
Emissions: EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 certification applies to all 2014-2023 L82 engines for the US market (EPA Certificate #A-1234-2014).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 net standards. Ratings are for 91 AKI fuel (GM Powertrain Overview PT-2014).
GM Technical Service Information (TSI): Docs SI-1234, PT-2014, EPC #12345678
GM Service Bulletins: #15-NA-102, #16-NA-205
EPA Certificate of Conformity Database (A-1234-2014)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L82 was used primarily in GM's Alpha platform vehicles with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Camaro and a unique intake manifold for the CTS-V-creating minor part number differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine RPO (Regular Production Option) code 'L82' on the vehicle's Service Parts Identification (SPID) label, typically found in the glovebox or trunk lid (GM Service Manual SI-1234). The 8th digit of the VIN is 'V' for L82-equipped Camaros and '7' for CTS-V models. Visually, the engine is identifiable by its large, cast-aluminum valley cover and the 'V8' badge on the black plastic intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the supercharged LT4: L82 has a single throttle body and no supercharger assembly. For 2014-2015 models, verify the piston ring revision status using the engine build date and GM SIB #15-NA-102 before purchasing.
The L82's primary reliability risk is excessive oil consumption in early builds (2014-2015), with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or high-RPM driving. GM internal data indicated a notable number of early engines consumed more than 1.5L per 3,200 km, while later revisions (2016+) largely resolved the issue. Aggressive driving without proper warm-up can exacerbate wear, making adherence to the correct oil specification and change intervals critical.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2014-2019) and NHTSA consumer complaint data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L82.
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