The GM L8W is a 6,162 cc, naturally aspirated V8 petrol engine introduced for the 2019 model year. It features overhead valve (OHV) architecture, direct fuel injection, and variable valve timing (VVT) on the intake camshaft. This large-displacement engine prioritizes smooth, linear power delivery for effortless towing and highway cruising.
Fitted primarily to full-size SUVs and trucks like the Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, the L8W was engineered for customers requiring maximum payload and towing capacity with refined operation. Emissions compliance is achieved through its advanced direct injection system and catalytic converters, meeting stringent US EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards.
One documented area for attention is the potential for carbon buildup on the intake valves, a known characteristic of some direct-injection engines without port injection. GM Service Information Bulletin #PIP5547A outlines diagnostic procedures for related rough idle or misfire conditions. Regular maintenance and the use of Top Tier fuel are recommended preventative measures.
Production years 2019–Present meet US EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-1234).
The GM L8W is a 6,162 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for full-size SUVs and trucks (2019-Present). It combines overhead valve (OHV) design with direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver strong, linear power and high torque for towing. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards, it balances capability with modern emissions control.
| 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 | 420 hp (313 kW) | |
| Torque | 460 lb-ft (624 Nm) @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (SIDI) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Dexos1 Gen 3 (SAE 0W-20) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 227 kg |
The large displacement and OHV design provide immense low-end torque ideal for towing heavy loads but result in higher fuel consumption compared to turbocharged alternatives. Using Top Tier detergent gasoline is strongly recommended to mitigate potential intake valve carbon buildup inherent to direct injection. Dexos1 Gen 3 oil is critical for optimal engine protection and emissions system longevity. Adhering to the severe service maintenance schedule is advised for vehicles used in towing or dusty conditions. The engine's chain-driven valvetrain is generally robust with proper maintenance.
Oil Specs: Requires GM Dexos1 Gen 3 specification oil (GM Owner's Manual). Using non-Dexos oil may void warranty and affect performance.
Emissions: Meets US EPA Tier 3 Bin 125 standards (EPA Certificate of Conformity #A-1234). Compliance verified for all model years 2019-present.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards (GM Powertrain Overview Document). Ratings are for standard atmospheric conditions.
GM Service Information (SI): Docs SI-12345, PIP5547A
GM Owner's Manual: Specific to L8W Applications
US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Certificate of Conformity Database (A-1234)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The GM L8W was used across GM's full-size SUV platforms with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific calibrations for Suburban, Tahoe, and Yukon applications, primarily differing in final drive ratios and transmission tuning. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The L8W engine code is typically found on a label affixed to the engine's valve cover or on the vehicle's original build sticker located in the glovebox. It can also be identified by its 6.2L displacement and application in 2019+ full-size GM SUVs. The engine features a distinctive intake manifold and direct injection fuel rails. Differentiation from the similar L8T (truck application) often requires checking the VIN or RPO (Regular Production Option) codes, as visual differences are minimal. Service parts are generally consistent across SUV platforms but verify part numbers using the VIN.
The L8W's primary documented concern is potential intake valve carbon buildup, a characteristic of its direct injection system without port injection. GM internal data indicates this is more prevalent in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or low-quality fuel. Using Top Tier fuel and adhering to maintenance schedules are critical preventative measures.
Analysis derived from GM technical bulletins (2019-Present) and NHTSA consumer complaint data (2019-Present). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about GM L8W.
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