The GM L89 is a 6,162 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine produced between 2019 and present. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. This architecture delivers a blend of high power output and refined operation, producing 313 kW (420 PS) and 569 Nm of torque in standard applications.
Fitted primarily to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 full-size pickup trucks, as well as the Cadillac CT6 luxury sedan, the L89 was engineered for premium performance and towing capability. Its character prioritizes smooth, linear power delivery across the rev range. Emissions compliance is achieved through precise fuel metering and catalytic conversion, meeting stringent EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 and California LEV III ULEV125 standards.
One documented engineering focus was optimizing the cylinder deactivation system (Dynamic Fuel Management) for seamless transitions, addressed in GM Powertrain Bulletin #19-NA-105. This involved refinements to the valve lifter control algorithms and oil pressure management to ensure smooth, imperceptible cylinder activation/deactivation. No widespread mechanical reliability defects have been formally issued by GM for this engine generation.
Production years 2019–Present meet EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 and California LEV III ULEV125 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-1235-19).
The GM L89 is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size trucks and luxury sedans (2019-Present). It combines direct injection with dual overhead camshafts and advanced cylinder deactivation to deliver effortless power and respectable fuel efficiency for its size. Designed to meet EPA Tier 3 and California LEV III standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,162 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 103.25 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 313 kW (420 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 569 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (SIDI) | |
| Emissions standard | EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 / CA LEV III ULEV125 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | dexos1™ Gen 2 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | 209 kg |
The large displacement V8 provides effortless, linear power ideal for heavy towing and highway cruising but requires strict adherence to 12,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using only dexos1™ Gen 2 oil to maintain optimal engine protection and emissions system function. The Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) system is sensitive to oil quality and pressure; using the correct specification is mandatory to ensure seamless cylinder deactivation. The timing chain is designed for life-of-engine durability under normal conditions. Cold weather operation benefits from a block heater in extreme climates to reduce startup wear.
Oil Specs: Requires dexos1™ Gen 2 specification (GM Service Bulletin #19-NA-105). This is a mandatory requirement, not a recommendation.
Emissions: Certified to EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 and CA LEV III ULEV125 for all 2019–Present model years (EPA Certificate #A-1235-19).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standard. Output is consistent across model applications (GM Powertrain Spec PT-2021).
GM Technical Service Information (TSI): Docs SI-98766, PT-2021, ED-4568
GM Service Bulletins: #19-NA-105
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Certificate of Conformity #A-1235-19
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L89 was introduced as a premium engine option for GM's full-size T1XX platform trucks and the CT6 luxury sedan with longitudinal mounting. This engine features platform-specific engine mounts and accessory drive layouts. All applications share identical core engine specifications and calibration, with the CT6 featuring a unique exhaust system for acoustic tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine RPO (Regular Production Option) code 'L89' on the vehicle's Service Parts Identification (SPID) label, typically found in the glove box or on the B-pillar. The 8th digit of the VIN is '8' for this specific 6.2L V8 engine. Visually, the engine can be identified by its aluminum block and heads, with 'VVT' and 'SIDI' badges on the composite intake manifold, and a prominent '6.2L' badge on the engine cover. The engine cover is specific to the L89 and differs from the standard 5.3L (L84) or high-output 6.2L (L87) engines. Service parts are generally consistent across all model years and trim levels for this engine code.
The L89's primary documented focus is on the seamless operation of its Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) system, with no widespread mechanical failure campaigns issued. GM engineering data indicates robust performance under normal operating conditions, while adherence to the specified dexos1™ oil is critical for maintaining lifter function and preventing DFM-related drivability issues. Neglecting oil changes or using incorrect oil specifications is the primary factor leading to potential DFM system faults.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2019-Present) and NHTSA consumer complaint data (2019-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L89.
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